"Fortis est veritas | Truth is strong"
About:
Oxford, England, established in the 8th century, grew important in the 12th century when Henry II banned English students from attending the University of Paris. This led to the creation of the University of Oxford. The city played a significant role in the English Civil War and the Industrial Revolution. Oxford's economy has since diversified, with education, publishing, and motor manufacturing among its leading industries. The city maintains its historical charm, attracting millions of tourists annually.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Oxford for a holiday is typically during the spring and summer months, from April to August. During this time, the weather is milder and more conducive for exploring the city's outdoor attractions such as parks, gardens, and riverside walks. Additionally, many cultural events and festivals take place during the summer, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant local scene. However, it is important to note that these months are also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Oxford, England on a holiday is typically during the peak tourist season, which falls between June and August. During these months, the city experiences its highest influx of visitors, leading to crowded attractions, long queues, and inflated prices for accommodations and activities. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers and higher humidity levels. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds and secure better deals may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Winter in Oxford, typically from December to February, is the coldest part of the year with temperatures often dropping to 1°C. It's also the wettest season, with an average rainfall of 70mm in December. The city experiences short daylight hours, with the sun rising around 8 am and setting as early as 4 pm. It's often overcast, with a high level of cloud cover. An average day for a visitor might involve bracing the chilly weather for indoor attractions like museums and libraries, or enjoying a hot beverage in a cozy café.
"Summer (June-August)"
In Oxford, England, the warmest part of the year typically falls between June and August, which is the summer season. During this period, average high temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 23°C (73°F), while the average lows hover around 11°C (52°F) to 13°C (55°F).
Rainfall during this time is relatively low with an average of 50-60mm per month. However, it's worth noting that British weather can be unpredictable and it's not uncommon for a sunny day to quickly turn into a rainy one.
Sunlight is abundant in Oxford's summer, with an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. This is the best time to enjoy the city's outdoor attractions as daylight can last up to 16 hours, particularly around the summer solstice in late June.
Humidity during summer is relatively moderate, typically around 60-70%, making the weather feel warm but not excessively hot.
Cloudiness varies, with some days being bright and clear while others can be partly cloudy. However, completely overcast days are less common in the summer months.
A typical summer day for a visitor in Oxford would start off slightly cool in the morning, warming up by midday to a comfortable, warm temperature. Afternoons might bring a brief rain shower, followed by a return to sunshine. The long daylight hours provide ample time to explore the city's historic sites and beautiful parks. The evenings are pleasantly cool, perfect for a leisurely walk along the River Thames or enjoying a meal at an outdoor café.
Language:
English is the primary language spoken in Oxford, England. However, due to its status as an international academic hub, a variety of languages can be heard, including Mandarin, Spanish, French, German, and Italian. The presence of international students and staff at the University of Oxford contributes to this linguistic diversity.