Oxford University Press Bookshop
Historic Oxford University Press Bookshop on High Street, a scholarly haven with a vast collection, now closed but rich in academic legacy.
The Oxford University Press Bookshop, located at 116-117 High Street, Oxford, was a historic bookstore showcasing over 65,000 titles from the prestigious university press. Established in 1872, it offered a quieter alternative to nearby Blackwell’s, spanning four floors and including a spacious basement. Although permanently closed since 2020, it remains a significant landmark in Oxford’s literary heritage.
A brief summary to Oxford University Press Bookshop
- 116-117 High St, Oxford, OX1 4BZ, GB
- +441865242913
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Though the bookshop is permanently closed, explore Oxford’s other historic bookstores nearby for a similar atmosphere.
- Visit the Oxford University Press Museum on Great Clarendon Street to learn about the press’s printing history.
- Browse Oxford University Press’s extensive online catalogue for academic publications and digital resources.
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 Rooted in Academic Publishing
The Oxford University Press Bookshop was a venerable institution on Oxford’s High Street, with origins dating back to 1872. As the retail arm of Oxford University Press (OUP)—the world’s largest university press and a department of the University of Oxford—it represented a direct connection to centuries of academic scholarship and publishing excellence. OUP itself dates back to the 15th century, with its first book printed in 1478 and a legal printing charter granted in 1586, making the bookshop a modern continuation of this historic legacy.The Bookshop’s Unique Character and Offerings
Unlike the bustling and iconic Blackwell’s nearby, the OUP Bookshop was known for its quieter, more contemplative atmosphere. It housed an extensive collection of approximately 65,000 books across four floors, including a capacious basement. The shop specialized in academic and scholarly works published by OUP, ranging from dictionaries and reference materials to cutting-edge research publications. This made it a haven for students, academics, and visitors seeking authoritative texts.Architectural and Spatial Features
The bookshop occupied a modest yet charming building on Oxford’s historic High Street. While not as expansive or architecturally grand as some other Oxford bookstores, its four floors and large basement provided ample space for its vast collection. The layout encouraged browsing in a calm environment, contrasting with the more tourist-heavy shops nearby. This spatial arrangement reflected the bookshop’s role as both a retail space and a quiet academic resource.Closure and Continuing Significance
In March 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oxford University Press Bookshop permanently closed its doors. This closure marked the end of a long chapter in the city’s literary scene. Despite its closure, the shop remains an important part of Oxford’s cultural and academic history, symbolizing the university’s commitment to knowledge dissemination. The legacy of OUP continues through its publishing activities and its museum located elsewhere in Oxford.Oxford University Press Today
Oxford University Press continues to be a global leader in academic publishing, operating from its main offices on Walton Street in Oxford. The press is governed by a delegation of academics and maintains a rich tradition of scholarly excellence. While the physical bookshop is no longer open, OUP’s influence endures through its extensive catalogue and digital presence, serving scholars and readers worldwide.The Bookshop’s Place in Oxford’s Literary Landscape
Situated on the historic High Street, the OUP Bookshop was part of a vibrant literary neighborhood that includes other renowned bookstores and university landmarks. It offered a quieter, more scholarly alternative to the larger, more commercial shops, appealing to visitors who sought depth and academic rigor. Its presence contributed to Oxford’s reputation as a city of learning and literary heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brasenose College
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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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Oxford Tours UK
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Visit Oxford Tours
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Oxford Magic Walking tours
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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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Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
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Martyrs' Memorial
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Oxford Preservation Trust
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IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
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Unmissable attractions to see
Oxford Blue
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Sandy's Piano Bar
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The Bear Inn, Oxford
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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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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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Jesus College
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Corpus Christi College
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Essential places to dine
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
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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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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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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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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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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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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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Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
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Cool Britannia
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Broad Canvas
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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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The Three Goats Heads Pub
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The Royal Blenheim
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King's Arms, Oxford
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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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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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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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TWC
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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
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
