Introduction
00:00:00Historic Rivalry Oxford and Cambridge are historic British cities with a legendary rivalry, home to the nation's two oldest universities. Thousands of students compete for a place at these prestigious institutions every year.
University Lifestyle Visitors can experience the university lifestyle in either city, even if they don't study there. The video compares Oxford and Cambridge as tourist destinations without determining which is better for studying.
University History
00:00:52Oxford and Cambridge universities, both over 900 years old, are the centerpiece of their respective cities. Founded in 1096 A.D., Oxford is older than Cambridge (established in 1209 A.D.). The similarities between them stem from the historic dispute known as 'town and gown' that led to scholars fleeing Oxford to establish Cambridge.
Historic Colleges
00:02:05Exploring Cambridge Cambridge offers the opportunity to visit its historic colleges and grounds for a small fee. Visitors can take a punting trip along the River Cam, passing iconic sites and enchanting bridges. The university dominates the city's historic core, creating an immersive university atmosphere.
Comparing Oxford and Cambridge Oxford is more like a normal city where University life blends with public life seamlessly. It's suitable for longer stays due to its wealth of University landmarks. In contrast, Cambridge provides a better immersion into University Life but is smaller in size compared to Oxford.
History
00:03:08Oxford's rich history during the English Civil War, serving as King Charles the First's wartime capital and home to a medieval castle, former jailhouse, captivating churches, museums. Also features sites related to Inspector Morse and Harry Potter novels.
Beauty
00:04:02Beauty Cambridge is a must-visit city with impressive medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture. Its array of churches and tall university buildings earned it the nickname 'the city of dreaming spires.'
River Cam
00:04:35Explore the stunning views from atop the mound of medieval Cambridge Castle, peruse colorful shops and houses on Maudlin Street, and relax beside the beautiful River Cam. The river offers a calming atmosphere despite being in the heart of the city.
Oxford
00:05:38Discover the unmissable landmarks in Oxford, including the iconic Radcliffe Camera, Christchurch with its great quadrangle and historic Cathedral, Bodleian Library - the second largest library in the UK, and Ashmolean Museum known for housing the last Dodo bird ever seen in Europe.
Cambridge
00:06:30Exploring Cambridge: Discover the best activities in town, including hunting trips along the Cam and visiting iconic landmarks such as Great Saint Mary's Church, King's College, Trinity College, Round Church, and Bridge of Sighs.
Price
00:07:11The cost of attractions in Oxford and Cambridge depends on the type of trip you're planning. Both cities offer budget-friendly options for day trips or overnight stays, with a variety of hotels and hostels available. Traveling from London to either city is convenient, with high-speed trains departing frequently at varying prices.
Travel
00:08:22Travel to Oxford from London The most popular way to travel from London to Oxford is by the 'Oxford tube' coach service, offering return tickets for under 20 pounds with inbuilt flexibility. Both cities are pretty expensive compared to the UK as a whole, but value depends on what you're there to see.
Comparison of Oxford and Cambridge In terms of history, Oxford easily wins with its older University and more showcase. Cambridge stands out for its stunning Riverside scenery. For things to see and do, Oxford probably has more; however, if visiting on a budget, Cambridge is generally less expensive.