Travel & Stay
Getting to Oxford…
We will be providing transport for all guests between the wedding ceremony in Oxford and reception at Notley Abbey. More details will be provided when we send out the formal wedding invitations. NOTE: Please be aware that guests traveling from the US, as well as some other countries, will need an electronic travel authorization for travel. The application may be found online, costs £10, and takes up to a few days for approval.
Taxi
A1 Taxis: +44 (0)1865 248 000
001 Taxis: +44 (0)1865 240 000
Pryors (Executive Cars / Airport Transfers): +44 (0)1235 812 345
Car
Parking is limited within Oxford. The city encourages a ‘Park & Ride’ system, with car parks located mainly on the outskirts and scheduled buses to bring you into the city centre. We discourage driving around Oxford—it’s much quicker and easier to walk!
Notley has a small number of parking spaces—check back here later for details.
Plane
Oxford is approximately:
48 miles / 1 hour drive from London Heathrow Airport
85 miles / 1hr 50 mins drive from London Gatwick Airport
65 miles / 1hr 20 mins drive from Birmingham Airport
Train
There are direct trains available from London Paddington (Central London) to Oxford departing every 30 mins with a journey time of 50 mins.
Oxford Station brings you into the centre of Oxford with The University Church of St Mary the Virgin a short 10 min taxi ride away. Notley Abbey is approximately a 40 min drive from Oxford station.
Staying in Oxford…
Most events during our wedding weekend will be held at venues within Oxford’s historic city centre. Below we have listed some suggestions for hotels within walking distance, to suit a range of tastes and budgets. Alternatively, there are a variety of options offered by private hosts on Airbnb and VRBO.
For the best hotel rates, book via the hotel websites directly or use Booking.com.
Beaumont Street
Oxford
OX1 2LN
+ 44 (0) 344 879 9132
24 St Michael's Street Oxford OX1 2EB
+ 44 (0) 1865 244 622
Use discount code VANH20 to get 20% off rates on the hotel website.
15 Paradise Street Oxford OX1 1LD
+44 (0) 1865 306900
Greyfriars Court
Paradise Square
Oxford
OX1 1BE
+ 44 (0) 1865 244 622
1-5 Broad Street Oxford OX1 3AG
+44 (0) 1865 950 666
Suggested Activities
Oxford itself offers so much to do within walking distance of the city centre, and even more a short drive or train ride away. Here are some of our suggestions.
Walking Tours
There are a variety of tours of the historic centre on offer - here are just some of our suggestions!
Woodstock and Blenheim Palace
Just a short drive or bus ride away from Oxford, the charming village of Woodstock sits right on the edge of the Cotswolds. Blenheim Palace is right next door, with tours of the rooms and grounds available.
Punting
Punting is a classic Oxford pastime, particularly in the summer. Be advised, it’s harder than it looks!
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, a region of rolling hills just to the west of Oxford, has been famous since Roman times for its natural beauty. A number of historic villages are reachable by train or bus from the Oxford station, including Burford, Charlbury, and Moreton-in-Marsh. The area also offers excellent hiking.
Open Top Bus Tour
See Oxford from a hop-on, hop-off bus. The tour takes you past the most iconic landmarks with live commentary, it’s a fun and easy way to explore.
A Walk & a Pub Lunch
A classic Oxford experience. A scenic walk through Port Meadow with a riverside pub lunch at either The Perch or The Trout - both have stunning views and a cozy English Pub atmosphere
The Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is Oxford’s world-famous museum of art and archaeology. Entry is free!
Gee’s Restaurant & Bar
A Mediterranean restaurant housed in a Victorian conservatory - chic & rustic. They serve great cocktails too!
The King’s Arms
One of Oxford’s most iconic pubs, dating back to 1607. Located near the Bodleian Library, Known for its cozy atmosphere, great selection of ales, and hearty pub food.
The Turf Tavern
A hidden gem tucked away down a narrow alley near the Oxford city walls. With famous visitors (like Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking), it’s known for its historic charm, great selection of ales, and has a great beer garden.
The White Rabbit
A laid-back pub in the heart of Oxford with craft beers and delicious, freshly made pizzas. Tucked away just off Gloucester Green.
The Covered Market
The Covered Market is a vibrant, historic market in the heart of Oxford, dating back to 1774. Home to independent shops, cafés, and artisan stalls, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite, browse unique gifts, or enjoy fresh local produce.
Blackwell Book Shop
Blackwell’s is Oxford’s legendary bookstore, founded in 1879 and home to one of the largest collections of books in the UK. Make sure you check out the famous Norrington Room, which holds miles of bookshelves underground.
Sanders of Oxford
A historic print and map shop located on Oxford’s High Street. It’s a treasure trove for collectors and history lovers.