6 Places to Learn Something New in Oxford

With spectacular Neo-Gothic architecture, featuring high arched ceilings and intricate carved stone, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History is an impressive free museum with a rich history. As a former scientific centre for the university, the building held many key debates on evolution, and its exhibits are now dedicated to the natural world, from dinosaur bones to gemstones.

The Ashmolean Museum was founded thanks to a donation of a cabinet of curiosities, and since then has continued to expand and add collections from across the world. Exhibitions include the spectacular Egyptian room with mummies and objects from ancient times, and the Sands Gallery which features an array of art and design from the 20th century.

Never shying away from challenging and sometimes controversial art, Modern Art Oxford is a lively gallery with a wide selection of changing exhibits. Set in a suitably modern building, with bright galleries full of Pop Art, avant-garde sculptures, and larger scale installations, it's the perfect place to get a new perspective on the world.

The oldest college in Oxford, St. Edmund Hall has buildings that date back to medieval times. Set around a quadrangle, with the 12th century church St Peter-in-the-East at its heart, you can take a tour and travel back in time to the very origins of Oxford as we know the city today.

The city's largest theatre is host to many touring musicals, family friendly shows, and large-scale productions. There's a varied calendar of events, from TED conferences, to ballet and stand-up comedy, and this pretty Art Deco venue has been nicely renovated with modern comforts.

The stage of the stylish Oxford Playhouse has played host to performances by some of Britain's most famous actors and continues to host a lively program of events. You'll find drama, comedy, and family shows, as well as productions by amateur theatre groups, and smaller poetry and studio shows.