One of the most famous cities in the United Kingdom, Oxford has earned its prestigious place on the map predominantly for the University of Oxford’s global standing. This standing is very well earned, for it has given rise to a great many of the nation’s brightest creative talents, with the city itself inspiring a great many more who didn’t come to study here.
While the historic city has had to move with the times and embrace every new trend and technology that has swept the country, the classics remain a huge draw. From classic ways to enjoy long-beloved forms of entertainment to truly immersing yourself in fictional classics created here in Oxford, here are some ways to explore Oxford on your next visit.
Partaking in the Classic Forms of Entertainment
While film remains a prevalent form of entertainment to this day, much of the cinematic experience in the UK is dominated by a couple of major cinema chains. These brands offer an extensive, modern experience, but sometimes, it’s more fun to enjoy cinema as it was when it rose to prominence over a century ago. For this, it’s best to turn to Oxford’s oldest independent cinema.
Founded in 1911, community-owned since 2022, The Ultimate Picture Palace puts on a variety of films each day, from the newest releases to up-and-coming British productions, and even classics worthy of seeing on the big screen again. For example, on the day of writing, the slate was showing The Roses, Steve, and then the brutal Japanese thriller Battle Royale. From the outside of the building to your seat, while some modern conveniences are included, the Grade II listed building gives every sense that you’re watching a film in the classic era of cinema.
Of course, you don’t always have to go out in Oxford to enjoy some classics. Just as you can go online to explore the famed university campus with a virtual tour, you can turn to the internet to enjoy a classic form of entertainment. Popular for decades, fruit machines have taken to online platforms in the UK. Now, anyone can play classic slots in the UK, from Vegas Hot Spots to 777 Royal Wheel. The entertainment medium has been a hit across the UK and in Oxford venues for decades, and now, they can be spun online.
Following in the Footsteps of Literary Legends
As the home of the Inklings, Oxford has a grand legacy of helping budding authors to emerge. Of them all, however, two names stand out for their legendary status in fiction. Those two are, of course, J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Creators of the stories within the worlds of Middle-earth and Narnia, their time in Oxford is well documented and has enabled avid fans to create dedicated experiences.
The Inklings Walking Tour will take you across the city to all of their favourite spots, including many that remain almost unchanged to this day. The one hotspot that isn’t accessible just yet, however, is their famed favourite drinking hole, The Eagle and Child. Under new ownership, however, it is looking to open with a recreated Rabbit Room – which is where the Inklings would often meet. Still, much needs to be done to make this possible.
For a day or two of immersing yourself in the classics that have long prevailed across Oxford, on your visit to the city, consider these options as your way to connect to the grand entertainment of the past.
