We will be on our way to London in just over 3 weeks. One of the things we plan to do is make a day trip to Oxford. I was last there nearly 18 years ago on my honeymoon. Before that, I was fortunate enough to spend 6 weeks there on a summer abroad program in college. In fact, that was nearly 20 years ago! It has been so long since I have been there, however, I am at a loss as to what highlights I should definitely see - here are my thoughts:
Magdalen College - I never got in while there University College - it is closed to the public, but I phoned the bursar, and he said he'd let us in given that I was with the SMU-in-Oxford program 20 years ago - and I want to show my kid where I stayed while there. The Bodleian The Camera
If you want a real celebratory SPLURGE, go to Le Manior Aux Quat' Saisons just outside of Oxford. It is one of the few Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK( has had two Michelin stars for 14 years),and is wonderful-- i.e., Zagat Guide gave it 29 out of a possible 30 rating for 2002. I remember reading that the Queen Mum had lunch here a couple of years ago. But they also let the plebeians come...I went once for lunch and honest-to-Pete,saying to heck with being embarrassed and acting very plebeian, I took a picture of my dessert because it was so unbelievable. The chef is Raymond Blanc,and the restaurant is part of the deluxe deluxe inn that he runs. Definitely need to book in advance...lemanoir@blanc.co.uk
Blanc also operates much more low key brasseries, one of which is also in Oxford:
Le Petit Blanc, 71-72 Walton Street, Oxford 0X2 6AG, England Tel 01865 510999
Wow! What a place - a fantasy visit. The hotel looks beautiful and the menu is also fabulous. I also looked at some of the menu items for the brasserie - more in line with our budget and the kids' taste - and I think we just might have to check that out. Thanks, Sally.
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