Oxford, England is a fantastic place for an immersive English language trip. Nicknamed the city of dreaming spires due to its strikingly beautiful architecture, it is one of the most picturesque cities in the country. But it’s not just about how it looks, it’s also about how it feels.
Here’s why a visit to Oxford will take your English language skills to the next level.
Where is Oxford in England?
Oxford in England is situated in the central south of the country, in the county of Oxfordshire. Rather unusually it has two rivers running through it; the River Thames and the River Cherwell. The city is extremely well connected and is just an hour away from London on the train.
Why Learn English in Oxford
Reason 1: World-class University Atmosphere
The city is perhaps best known for being the home of the prestigious University of Oxford. And while the exact date the university was built remains a little vague, teaching here dates back to 1096, making it the oldest university in the English speaking world.
It is made up of 43 separate college buildings that are uniquely scattered throughout the city. So you will literally be rubbing shoulders with the academia as you stroll around.
Surrounded with such a love and deep respect for education, you can’t fail to be inspired to up your game when it comes to your language learning journey.
Reason 2: Rich Literary and Linguistic History
The city of Oxford has a rich and diverse literary heritage that stretches back more than a millennium and provides a really fun way to immerse yourself in the language.
Lewis Carrol wrote Alice's Adventures in Wonderland whilst teaching at the University of Oxford. J.R.R. Tolkien penned the first of the two Lord of Rings books at Pembrokeshire College. While the imagination of fellow Oxford student C.S Lewis, for fantastical scenes in the Chronicles of Narnia, grew out of the very streets of the city.
All of these are phenomenal works of English literature to delve into on a language trip to Oxford.
Reason 3: Stunning Architecture
Walking through the city of Oxford, England is like strolling through history. The craftsmanship of the architecture is so inspirational and powerful that you just become truly immersed in the city.
Many of the University of Oxford colleges are open for the general public to visit and at every turn there’s something captivating. Which makes it all the easier to focus on being in the moment as you walk and talk in English with your Oxford homestay host.
Reason 4: Green Spaces and Scenic Beauty
But the beauty of Oxford isn’t just in the buildings, there’s a bounty of gorgeous green spaces too. When learning through language immersion, taking a break in nature can give you a literal breather from the intensive learning without stepping too far out of it.
The serene environments of Christ Church Meadows and Oxford Botanic Gardens are both top choices for a spot of relaxation. Either alone or with an Oxford language exchange partner.
Reason 5: The Oxford Accent and Local Culture
The Oxford accent is modern RP (Received Pronunciation). Which is a standard, non-regional accent of British English. Therefore learning Oxford English as a second language is a popular choice because it is easier to understand than other UK accents.
Hence diving into local Oxford culture in person is naturally a really effective way to perfect your pronunciation with a distinguished and sophisticated charm.
So if advancing Oxford English as a second language is something on your agenda for the year ahead, there’s no better place to practice it than in the city of Oxford itself.
Simply register with Lingoo for free here today and get started on finding your dream English homestay hosts in Oxford right away.