June 12: Oxford (Exploring the City)

On day six we headed out on the coach and landed in the heart of Oxford. From here we were split up into two groups and started a walking tour of the city. Our guide led us down the street to one of the 39 college that makeup Oxford, and was able to secure us a spot to tour. It was the heart of exam time and not a peep was allowed on campus. We were led into the court yard where we saw students in their formal exam attire walking too and from testing. We admired the beauty and continued on into the dining hall. This room was straight out of a Harry Potter movie. Long tables running the length of the room with benches on each side. There were lamps at every spot and water glasses. There was a large organ in the back, adding to the unique beauty of the room. Once leaving the dining room, we walked to the chapel. Pews facing the center on each side, stained glass windows, and high arched ceilings. Every corner you looked the detail was amazing. After the tour of the campus we left and continued down the street, pointing out important buildings along the way. We eventually ended up at the library, and learned that this certain library has a copy of every book published in England. After this we shortly ended our tour and was left to explore on our own. Our group decided to walk and explore. We stopped in a pub to grab lunch, where I got the signature burger. After eating and drinking to our heart's desire, we then left and started making our way to the river. They were offering 30 minute boat rides, and the group decided to try it out. I stayed up on the bridge calling my family and just watching the people around me. After they finished we headed to "The Grand Café" and had tea. We each tried different kinds, they shared a tower of scones while I had a brownie and ice cream. By this time, it was time for us to head back to the coach. We walked back and loaded up. I loved Oxford more than I expected to. It is a bustling college town with shops and restaurants at every turn.