"Oxford: England's Oldest Seat of... " a Oxford Travel Page by Tom_Fields

This town was, as its name implies, a fording place on the River Isis (known in London as the Thames). In the 12th century, scholars who had been expelled from the Sorbonne in Paris came across the English Channel and founded Oxford University.

During the English Civil War, the town backed the Parliamentarians, while the University supported the Royalists. Afterward, Oliver Cromwell served as chancellor from 1650-57. He prevented Oxford and Cambridge from being closed by the Puritans, who regarded the universities as dangerous to their beliefs.

Since then, Oxford has become more secular-minded and less involved in politics. It has produced many of Britain's foremost leaders, writers, scientists, and thinkers.

Be careful not to trespass on University property; many of the colleges do not allow visitors without permission.

Students here work extraordinarily hard. But they still find time for diversion. Oxford is not without nightlife.