Oxford University Press Bookshop
Discover the historic Oxford University Press Bookshop, a tranquil literary haven on Oxford’s High Street showcasing centuries of academic publishing heritage.
Located at 116-117 High Street in Oxford, the Oxford University Press Bookshop was a historic and quiet haven for book lovers, showcasing over 65,000 titles across four floors. Established in 1872, it was one of Oxford’s oldest booksellers, offering a vast range of academic and general interest books before its permanent closure in 2020.
A brief summary to Oxford University Press Bookshop
- 116-117 High St, Oxford, OX1 4BZ, GB
- +441865242913
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Though the physical bookshop is permanently closed, explore Oxford University Press’s extensive online catalogue for academic and general interest books.
- Visit the Oxford University Press Museum on Great Clarendon Street for a curated experience of the Press’s printing history and legacy.
- Pair your visit with a walk along Oxford’s High Street to appreciate the historic architecture and nearby iconic bookstores like Blackwell’s.
- Check for special exhibitions or events hosted by Oxford University Press to engage with their latest scholarly work and publications.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Oxford University Press Bookshop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Oxford University Press Bookshop
A Legacy of Scholarly Publishing
The Oxford University Press Bookshop was a cornerstone of Oxford’s literary and academic culture, operating at 116-117 High Street since 1872. As the retail arm of Oxford University Press, the world’s largest university press, the shop embodied centuries of Oxford’s publishing heritage. Oxford University Press itself dates back to the 15th century, with its first book printed in 1478 and formal printing rights granted in 1586. The bookshop served as a tangible connection between the university’s scholarly output and the public, offering an extensive selection of academic and general books.A Quiet Haven Amid Oxford’s Bustle
Unlike the bustling and iconic Blackwell’s bookstore nearby, the OUP Bookshop was known for its tranquil atmosphere. Spread over four floors, including a capacious basement, it housed more than 65,000 titles, making it a comprehensive showcase of Oxford University Press’s publications. The shop was a favored spot for students, academics, and visitors seeking a quieter, contemplative environment to explore books ranging from humanities and sciences to literature and reference works.Architectural and Cultural Context
Situated on Oxford’s historic High Street, the bookshop was part of the city’s rich architectural tapestry, blending seamlessly with the traditional Oxford streetscape. Its modest exterior belied the extensive collection within, reflecting the Press’s reputation for scholarly rigor rather than commercial flashiness. The location itself was symbolic, positioned in the heart of a city renowned for its academic excellence and literary tradition.The End of an Era and Continuing Influence
In March 2020, the Oxford University Press Bookshop closed permanently, a closure accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and changing retail landscapes. This marked the end of a significant chapter in Oxford’s book-selling history. Although the physical shop is no longer open, Oxford University Press continues its mission through its extensive online presence and other global operations, maintaining its role as a leading academic publisher.Beyond the Bookshop: Oxford University Press Today
Oxford University Press remains a vital institution in global publishing, governed by the University of Oxford and producing scholarly works, dictionaries, and educational materials worldwide. The Press’s legacy includes landmark publications such as the Oxford English Dictionary and the Oxford Almanack. The former bookshop was a physical embodiment of this legacy, connecting readers directly to the Press’s vast intellectual resources.Visiting and Experiencing the Legacy
While the bookshop itself is closed, visitors to Oxford can explore the broader heritage of Oxford University Press through its museum on Great Clarendon Street, which offers insights into the history of printing, the Press’s role in academic publishing, and displays of historic printing presses and publications. The museum requires advance booking and provides a deeper understanding of the Press’s enduring impact on literature and scholarship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brasenose College
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Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
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Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
2.1
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Great Jewry Marker
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The painted room
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Tom Tower
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Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Oxford Tours UK
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Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
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Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
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Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Clarendon Building
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An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bridge of Sighs
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An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
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Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Martyrs' Memorial
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A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Preservation Trust
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Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
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Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oxford Blue
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Innovative vegan pub in Oxford offering creative pizzas, hearty small plates, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all food lovers.
Sandy's Piano Bar
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Experience Oxford’s vibrant live piano music scene with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting at Sandy's Piano Bar.
The Bear Inn, Oxford
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Historic Oxford pub famed for its cozy atmosphere and extraordinary collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets from around the world.
Sanders of Oxford
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Discover centuries of authentic antique prints and maps in Oxford’s historic 16th-century Salutation House at Sanders of Oxford.
Oxford Souvenirs
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Historic Oxford Covered Market: Over 50 independent shops and eateries under one iconic roof since 1774.
The Covered Market
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Discover Oxford’s historic Covered Market: a vibrant arcade of independent shops, fresh produce, and unique local crafts beneath an iconic 18th-century roof.
Oriel College
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Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
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Historic heart of Oxford University with soaring Gothic spire, rich academic legacy, and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
Museum of Oxford
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Discover Oxford’s rich social history through interactive exhibits and community stories in the heart of historic Oxford Town Hall.
Oxford Town Hall
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Discover Oxford Town Hall, a historic venue combining stunning architecture with diverse cultural events in the heart of Oxford.
Christ Church Picture Gallery
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Discover a world-class collection of Old Master drawings and paintings in a serene modernist gallery within historic Christ Church College, Oxford.
Radcliffe Camera
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A breathtaking 18th-century circular library crowned by a majestic dome, embodying Oxford’s academic spirit and architectural elegance.
Exeter College
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Discover centuries of academic tradition and stunning Gothic architecture at Exeter College, Oxford’s historic and tranquil university gem.
Jesus College
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Historic Oxford college blending timeless tradition with modern charm in the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
Corpus Christi College
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Discover Corpus Christi College, Oxford’s intimate Renaissance college with iconic architecture, serene gardens, and a rich scholarly heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
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Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
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Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
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Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Vaults & Garden
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Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
OLD TOM PUB
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Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
No.1 Ship Street
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Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
ASK Italian - Oxford
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Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
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Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Turtle Bay Oxford
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Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
The Alice
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Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Thaikhun
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Red Lion Oxford
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Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
The White Rabbit
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A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Côte Oxford
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Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
Bbuona
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Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Varsity Shop
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Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
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Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Goodies Oxford
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Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Space Store Oxford
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Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Soctopus
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Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
The Crafters Emporium
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Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
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Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Anthropologie
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A beautifully styled boutique on Oxford’s High Street, offering women’s fashion, accessories, and unique home décor in a relaxed, bohemian-chic atmosphere.
Objects of Use
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Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Oxford Gifts
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Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
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Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
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Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Cool Britannia
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Broad Canvas
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Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
The Oxford Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Oxford
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The House
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The Varsity Club
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St Aldates
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Hanks Bar
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White Horse
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A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
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The Royal Blenheim
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King's Arms, Oxford
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Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
The Grapes
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Cow & Creek
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Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
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OXO BAR
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The Alchemist Oxford
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The Lighthouse
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
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Fever Oxford
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Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
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Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
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Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
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Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
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The Venue, Bucks
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Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
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A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
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Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
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Reading Lola Lo
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Q Club
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Gun Street Garden
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Diligence
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
