Looking for a fabulous weekend getaway filled with shopping, stunning sights, and a touch of history? We recently explored Bicester and Oxford, and it was the perfect mix of modern indulgence and historic charm. Here’s how we made the most of our trip, with tips to help you plan yours!

 First Stop: Bicester Village

We kicked off our weekend at Bicester Village, a shopper’s paradise that’s perfect for finding luxury brands at outlet prices. As it was Black Friday, the deals were incredible—but here’s my top tip: arrive early.

By 3 p.m., the crowds were intense, and queues for big-name stores like Gucci and Prada were stretching out the doors. If you’re planning a visit, get there in the morning to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.

Pro tip: Dress comfortably, carry a crossbody bag, and stay hydrated—you’ll need the stamina!

The Heyford: Our Stay in Bicester - Instagram Reel

After shopping till we dropped, we headed to The Heyford, a boutique hotel in Bicester that combines charm with fun. The rooms are beautifully decorated, blending modern comfort with timeless elegance.

What We Loved:

Bowling alley: Yes, you read that right! A quirky addition that’s great for an evening activity.

Seasonal igloo pods: Perfect for dining under twinkling lights with a festive vibe. It’s such a unique way to enjoy your evening meal—check out my Instagram reel for a peek at this magical setup.

Onward to Oxford

The next morning, we made the short journey to Oxford (about 20 minutes by car). We parked at the Westgate Oxford Shopping Centre, which was super convenient.

Why We Loved Westgate:

Great high-street shops: A mix of everything you need, from Zara to John Lewis.

Rooftop restaurants: The rooftop dining area is a must-visit. Options include The Alchemist (known for its theatrical cocktails) and other fantastic spots like Dirty Bones, Sticks’n’Sushi, and Pizza Pilgrims.

Checking In: The Store Hotel, Oxford - Instagram Reel

From Westgate, it was just a 10-minute walk to The Store Hotel, even with suitcases and a pram in tow. After dropping off our shopping at the car, we strolled over and were greeted with:

A warm welcome drink: The perfect start to our stay.

A cheeky room upgrade: Perks of the travel business, but the hotel’s standard rooms are just as impressive.

The Store Hotel is in a prime location, making it easy to explore the city’s highlights.

Exploring Oxford

Oxford is steeped in history, and even though this trip was more relaxed, we’re already planning a return to dive deeper into its attractions.

What’s Nearby:

Christ Church: One of the city’s most famous colleges, known for its stunning architecture and connection to Harry Potter.

The University of Oxford: The oldest university in the English-speaking world. Even a stroll around the colleges is breathtaking.

Historic pubs: We sipped a festive drink at one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, full of charm and stories.

Christmas Markets & Festive Vibes

Since it was the holiday season, we couldn’t resist a visit to the Christmas markets. The festive stalls, mulled wine, and twinkling lights added so much magic to our trip. It’s a must if you’re visiting in November or December!

Parking in Oxford: Worth It?

Before visiting, I’d heard mixed reviews about parking in Oxford. Yes, it can be pricey, but the convenience of parking at Westgate was worth it. Once we were parked, everything was within walking distance, and we felt secure leaving the car there.

Packing Tips for Two Hotels

Since we stayed in two hotels, we made packing as easy as possible by organizing everything in advance. We packed one suitcase for our stay at The Heyford and another for The Store Hotel, which meant no rummaging through bags for the right outfits. If you prefer to travel light, suit carriers are also a great option to keep clothes wrinkle-free and save time on ironing. And, of course, I couldn’t do without my packing cubes—a go-to for keeping everything neat and sorted. Trust me, it made switching hotels a breeze!

Final Thoughts

Oxford exceeded all our expectations. From shopping at Bicester Village to exploring historic streets and enjoying festive markets, this trip had it all.
 

Want to know more? Check out my Instagram reels for behind-the-scenes tips on The Heyford, The Store Hotel, and our favorite spots in Oxford.

If you’re planning a getaway, this is one destination you don’t want to miss. Safe travels and happy exploring!