Travel guide – oxford
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Overview
Having spawned the legendary Alice in Wonderland, Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and Harry Potter's Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Oxford is not only England's oldest centre for learning, but the home and inspiration of such famous authors as Lewis Carroll, C S Lewis, J R R Tolkien, and recently one of the key locations in the Harry Potter films. The city's dreaming spires house the famous Ashmolean Museum and the Museum of Modern Art, and whether lazing on one of the college quadrangles, punting down the river or exploring the city's ancient heritage, Oxford promises something for visitors of all ages.
Climate
England weather is very changeable and unpredictable, but generally summers are warm and winters are cold, and temperatures are milder than those on the continent. Temperatures do not usually drop below 32°F (0°C) in winter, and in summer they hardly reach 90°F (32°C). July and August are the warmest months, although they are also the wettest, while January and February is the coldest time of year. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but late winter/early spring (February to March) is the driest period. The Lake District is England's wettest region.
The basics
Getting Around
Regular buses operated by different companies link all parts of Oxford and surrounding towns and villages. The city centre is largely pedestrianised and most streets are one-way traffic, therefore a vehicle is something of a hindrance rather than a help. There are several park 'n ride car parks in the surrounding area, which are the best option for those arriving by car. Sightseeing is best accomplished by making use of a 'round the city' hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
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