How to stay in an Oxford or Cambridge college this September – and visit historic attractions free

Aug. 29, 2024 - PRLog -- While many universities are welcoming 'freshers' and returning students this September, Oxford and Cambridge terms don't start until mid-October. That means inexpensive accommodation is still available in historic colleges in both cities until at least the end of next month.

Better still, September coincides with both Oxford and Cambridge's memorable Open Door events, when many of the cities' most important colleges and other famous buildings are open to the public for free.

Lily Smith, a travel expert from the specialist accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com, says: 'Oxford and Cambridge, colloquially known as "Oxbridge", may be fierce rivals when it comes to events such as the Boat Race, but they are united in offering free access to many of their most celebrated buildings during September.

'In Cambridge, many famous landmarks are open from 6-15 September in association with Heritage Open Days, while Oxford's Open Doors events take place on 14-15 September.

'Oxford Preservation Trust has run Oxford Open Doors since 2008. Last year, 25,000 people visited 125 venues. From historic colleges such as Magdalen, Christ Church and St John's to the Oxford Oratory and the Oxford Union, many famous and important university buildings open their doors, offering guided tours and the chance to explore. Away from university life, more unusual places open during the weekend include Rawley Road fire station, an old railway swing bridge and the amazing "Painted Room" with its original Elizabethan wall paintings.

'Cambridge, meanwhile, is working with Heritage Open Days for over a week of special events. People can visit historic university libraries such as the Wren Library in Trinity College and the Parker Library in Corpus Christi. There are also tours of the Centre for Computing History (where people can get to grips with 1980s' PCs) and even Cambridge United football team's ground at Cledara Abbey Stadium.

'Of course, computer boffins, football fans and history buffs alike can also stay in many ancient university buildings to enjoy a backstage pass to Oxford and Cambridge's colleges. It will save money and, best of all, they are open to non-students.

'It doesn't take an educated guess to realise that university accommodation is likely to get very booked up for the Open Doors events. Using the innovative service UniversityRooms.com, visitors can choose from singles and doubles with ensuite facilities, on a B&B or self-catering basis. For more information and to book your stay in Cambridge this September, see: https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/cambridge/home/ For information on staying in Oxford, see https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/oxford/home/