Oxford is without a doubt one of England’s most beautiful cities. Its architecture and surrounding country landscapes have been the inspiration to famous writers including J. R. R. Tolkien and C.S Lewis.

Its appeal doesn’t stop at its old-world charm and prestigious university. The city has a magical feel, and it’s not just because of its connection to Harry Potter. Don’t be one of the fools who visits the UK and starts and ends their trip in London.

If you’re planning a trip to Oxford to see what all the fuss is about, you’ll of course need a place to stay. Where you stay can either add to or take away from the experience, but how to pick?

Stress less, my friend. I’ve got your back.

Thankfully the days of having to choose between a crowded hostel and an overpriced hotel are over. It’s 2021 and staying in private rentals is where it’s at. Booking through Airbnb makes it easy to find the kind of place you want by using the filters to find properties that suit your preference and budget.

I’ve streamlined the process of choosing and put together the top 15 Airbnbs in Oxford, taking into account different budgets and travel styles.

Quick Answer: These are the Top 4 Airbnbs in Oxford

Overall Best Value Airbnb in Oxford
Bright & charming 1 bed Townhouse in Jericho
Overall Best Value Airbnb in Oxford

Bright & charming 1 bed Townhouse in Jericho

  • > $$
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Private Courtyard
  • > Awesome location in Jericho
Best Budget Airbnb in Oxford
Large double room in lovely home close to Oxford
Best Budget Airbnb in Oxford

Large double room in lovely home close to Oxford

  • > $
  • > 2 Guests
  • > King Sized Bed
  • > Budget-friendly
Best Airbnb for Couples in Oxford
Beautiful, socially distanced garden cabin
Best Airbnb for Couples in Oxford

Beautiful, socially distanced garden cabin

  • > $$
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Outdoor decking
  • > Country feel in the city
Best Airbnb for Families in Oxford
Oxford Barn Conversion
Best Airbnb for Families in Oxford

Oxford Barn Conversion

  • > $$
  • > 5 Guests
  • > Brize Norton
  • > Huge lawn for children to play on

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    What to Expect from Airbnbs in Oxford

    The majority of Airbnbs in Oxford are residential townhouses and flats, you can either choose between a private room or the entire rental unit. The properties are hosted by locals, although there are some which are professionally managed by agencies.

    In most Oxford Airbnbs, you can expect all the amenities you would have at home, such as quick Wi-Fi, heating, a kitchen, and bathroom facilities. Of course, if there’s anything particular you need, you can filter your search.

    One thing that is basically guaranteed is that you’ll be in a great location within walking distance of a classic English pub. 

    Before you dive into the best Airbnbs in Oxford, let’s take a look at the types of accommodation you could rent.

    Types of Airbnbs in Oxford

    Staying in a Cottage in Oxford

    Townhouses 

    In the UK, the name townhouse was originally given to the city residence of people who lived in the countryside. These days it refers to most homes across the city and suburbs.

    Oxford is an impressive example of Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian architecture and many townhouses are great examples of these styles. A townhouse tends to be a bit more spacious than your typical flat making it a popular choice for families or groups.  A perk of staying in a townhouse is that you’ll usually have your own garden or terrace area. 

    Flats 

    A flat, or apartment, is a self-contained home in a shared building, and they are a very common and popular kind of home in the center of Oxford. They are usually one or two-bedroom spaces with all the amenities a couple or small group would need for a comfortable stay. If you’re lucky your rental might have access to shared outdoor spaces with other residents. 

    You can usually rent an entire apartment or if you’re travelling on a budget, you can rent a private room in a shared apartment. This is the ideal accommodation option for those travelling on a budget.

    Oxford Street London

    Private Rooms 

    A private room in a shared home is a great choice for those who want to have a space of their own without renting an entire place. These kinds of rooms are popular choices for solo travelers and couples. They are often the most affordable option on Airbnb making it a good choice if you prefer to save your cash for other things.

    The facilities like the kitchen and bathroom of these properties are usually shared with the other members of the house. In Oxford, many private rooms have their own desk space which can be ideal if you need to work or study during your trip. 

    Another perk of staying in a private room in a local home is you’ll have a host to give tips and tricks to best discover the region. 

    Why Stay in an Airbnb?

    Staying in an Airbnb is a travel choice that comes with a lot of benefits. Here’s a bunch of them.

    • Local Experience:  Tips from your host can give your trip a real advantage. Often it’s the difference between visiting a place and truly experiencing it. Look out for Airbnb properties with a Superhost rating, these hosts are the ones who have been proven to go out of their way to make sure their guests have the best stay possible.
    • Affordability: A stay in a quality Airbnb usually works out a whole lot cheaper than a stay in a nice hotel room. If you want to cook instead of eating out all the time, you can choose a place with a kitchen. Choices like these make a big difference when you’re travelling. Who doesn’t want their cash to go further?
    • Unique Properties: Why stay somewhere boring when there are so many unique accommodation options these days? You can filter properties on Airbnb and search for unique properties including treehouses, tiny houses, boats, campervans, and more. 
    • Privacy: Whether it’s the privacy of a private room, an entire home, or a secluded cabin in the woods, you can find the privacy you want on Airbnb. Many Airbnbs have private entrances and self-check-in too to keep interaction with hosts at a minimum. 
    • Staying Long-Term: Long term stays on Airbnb are often rewarded with hosts setting up discounts for those who want to hang around for longer. This is a great addition for slow travel enthusiasts and digital nomads who want to stay longer in each place and/or work online.
    • Safety: Airbnb carefully checks every host that signs up to their platform. There is customer service available 24/7, so if any issues arise, they’ve got you covered.
    • Last-Minute Booking: Ever been in the pickle where you realise last minute that you don’t have a place to stay? On Airbnb, you can filter properties to show who is still accepting guests last minute. Problem solved. 
    • Airbnb Experiences: It’s not just a place to find accommodation. Airbnb also offers experiences which are organised activities with a local touch. I’ll go into this later in the article and share the Airbnb Experiences on offer in and around Oxford. 

    Best 15 Airbnbs in Oxford

    Now, you know the types of accommodation available to you, let’s jump into all of the best Airbnbs in Oxford for every type of traveler!

    Best Overall Airbnb in Oxford | Charming Townhouse in Jericho

    Bright & charming 1 bed Townhouse in Jericho
    • $$
    • Private courtyard
    • 2 Guests
    • Awesome location in Jericho

    This one-bedroom Victorian townhouse captures the style of the Jericho neighborhood with eclectic and stylish decor. Inside has a tasteful color palette of green, white, and blonde wood. It’s got a modern kitchen and open living space. A big highlight of this place is the private courtyard which connects to the open living space with french doors. 

    This is a great Oxford Airbnb for a couple or solo traveler. You’ll be surrounded by the Victorian, Georgian, and colorful architecture this conservation area is known for and just a few steps away from the fun. 

    It is also within walking distance of some of the best bars, cafes, and restaurants of Jericho and the River Thames. You can also get to Oxford city centre within minutes.

    Best Budget Airbnb in Oxford | Large Double Room in Lovely Home

    Large double room in lovely home close to Oxford
    • $
    • King-sized bed
    • 2 Guests
    • Budget-friendly

    A budget room doesn’t need to be a dump, and this large private room with a shared bathroom is proof of that. It’s in a gorgeous and comfortable home only 10 minutes by bus from the city center of Oxford. The room has a king-sized bed, and you’ll have a separate bathroom and access to the shared living room, dining room, and garden. 

    You won’t have full access to the kitchen, but you’ll be able to use it to make yourself some breaky before heading off to explore Oxford. The neighborhood itself is peaceful and charming and there’s a country-style pub and restaurants within walking distance. 

    If you’re looking to save some coins, check out hostels in Oxford!

    Budget Tip: Dorms in Oxford start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!

    Most Unique Airbnb in Oxford | Narrowboat on The Thames

    Narrowboat on The Thames Oxford
    • $$
    • 60ft Narrowboat
    • 6 Guests
    • Indoor Fireplace

    If you’re looking for a unique Airbnb in Oxford, this narrowboat on the River Thames is it. This property allows you to explore the region all without leaving your home. While the city of Oxford may be what is calling you to the area, with this accommodation you can also see the countryside and quaint towns from the canals. Staying here will feel worlds away from city life, but you are moored just walking distance from the city.

    Inside the set-up includes two double beds (one is a fold-out), a bunk bed, fireplace, a full kitchen, Wi-Fi, and CCTV. Feel free to bring your furry friends along, pets are welcome.

    Staying on the narrowboat is a unique experience in Oxford. However, you cannot move the boat, but the owner will move it every couple of days so you can explore more of the Thames if you want to. Approximately 15,000 people in the U.K choose to live on the canals in a narrowboat home like this, and you too can have the experience with this unique Oxford Airbnb.

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    Best Airbnb in Oxford for Parties | The Shark House

    The Shark House, Oxford, Central Headington – Sleeps 12 Guests, 4 Bathrooms
    • $$$
    • 1 bathroom per bedroom
    • 12 Guests
    • Shark sculpture on roof

    Why just visit a local landmark when you could stay in one? This Victorian-era cottage is an iconic home in Oxford due to the huge shark sculpture protruding from the roof. If you tell anyone in Oxford that you’re staying in The Shark House, they will have no trouble finding you. 

    This is a great Airbnb for large groups visiting the area. It’s a spacious home that easily sleeps 12 once you’ve set up the sofa in the living space. You can invite a few more mates to the party though, as the space allows you to host events with up to 25 people. There are four bedrooms and four bathrooms too, so you won’t have to argue about who gets to use the shower first.

    It’s located in New Headington just 1.5 miles from Oxford city center. The neighborhood is well connected with public transport to Oxford. Another perk – you and your mates are just a short walk from the pub. 

    Flat for Two in Oxford | Cosy Attic Flat in a Converted Pub

    Cosy attic flat in a converted pub.
    • $
    • Washing machine and dryer
    • 2 Guests
    • Independent flat in a former pub

    This former pub has now been converted into a family home with the attic as an entire rental unit. The space is well lit and decorated with colorful, quirky art. While it is a compact space, it’s an ideal spot for one person or a couple and would be appropriate for long-term stays with its fully equipped kitchen and laundry. If you want to squeeze another person in, there’s a futon in the living space. 

    The flat is located in a calm neighborhood, and you can stroll into central Oxford in 20 minutes or take public transport. Keep in mind it’s not a good choice for those with mobility issues as you need to climb two flights of stairs to reach the attic. 

    Great Oxford Airbnb for a Group | Chic Townhouse in Central Oxford

    Modern, Chic 3BR Townhouse in Central Oxford
    • $$
    • Stylishly renovated
    • 6 Guests
    • Beautiful landscaped garden

    This central Oxford home has been around since the 1750s, and it’s has been stylishly renovated into a townhouse with three big bedrooms. The modern kitchen has a coffee machine to start the day right and everything else you could want to cook up a storm. Heck, there’s even a rice cooker. The living room is decorated with kitschy British accessories, and the rest of the home is chic and comfortable, especially the zen garden. 

    There’s plenty of space for all guests to hang out together or separately if you prefer, making it a great spot for groups or families to stay. You can be in the historic center within minutes, just take a short walk over the Magdalen Bridge and you’ll be in the thick of it. 

    Best Airbnb for Families | Oxford Barn Conversion

    Oxford Barn Conversion
    • $$
    • Brize Norton
    • 5 Guests
    • Huge lawn for children to play on

    This is a great Oxford Airbnb for families, located in the quiet Cotswold neighborhood of Brize Norton with easy access to Oxford, Cheltenham and the Cotswold Wildlife Park. It’s a great home away from home for a family visiting Oxfordshire.

    There are two bedrooms, one with two single beds that are well suited to families with kids. The home has plenty of open living spaces appropriate for play including a huge garden with a green lawn, and a games barn with table tennis, pool table and table football. The property has all the amenities you need including a washing machine and a living room with a smart TV.

    This barn conversion is in a rural location but has many cycling routes nearby. If you want to spend quality time with your family in a great location in the countryside, this would be the best Airbnb for you.

    Best Airbnb in Jericho, Oxford | Central Modern Home in Jericho

    Central modern Accommodation in Trendy Jericho
    • $$
    • Modern studio
    • 2 Guests
    • Great location in Jericho

    Jericho is one of Oxford’s coolest neighborhoods attracting a mixed crowd of students, locals, and travelers. The eclectic cafes are the place to be in the daylight hours, and the pubs and live music venues are where it’s at in the evenings. 

    This modern attic one bedroom apartment is right in the action. It’s opposite the renowned Oxford University Press and Freud’s Cocktail bar. 

    The studio apartment has a minimalistic design, although it’s set up with all the essentials including a separate bathroom, modern kitchen, dining table, and lounge chairs. 

    The large attic-style windows look out over Jericho Park. It’s a great Oxford Airbnb for a solo traveler or couple who wants a romantic getaway in central Oxford. 

    Best Private Room in Jericho, Oxford | Cool and Stylish Double Room

    Cool stylish double room – Jericho, Oxford
    • $
    • Stylish and light
    • 2 Guests
    • Great location in Jericho

    If you’re looking for an affordable and comfortable private room in the popular neighborhood of Jericho, this is a great shout. 

    The room is decorated with art collected from the owner’s international travels. It’s a brightly lit basement room in a calm and quiet home, and you’ll have access to a separate bathroom just outside the bedroom. 

    The host here serves a delicious continental breakfast. There’s no kitchen access, but lucky for any foodies it’s super close to Jericho’s best cafes, pubs, and restaurants. In a short stroll from your room, you can reach central Oxford and all the colleges, the canals, and the town center. 

    Great Private Room for Digital Nomads  | Sunny Loft Near City Centre

    Sunny loft close to City centre
    • $$
    • Dedicated workspace with a view
    • 2 Guests
    • Great location near the River Thames

    This loft space is a private room in a family home in a central area of Oxford. It is a great Oxford Airbnb for digital nomads. You have your own space with a private bathroom and work desk and are well-positioned to explore the city when you’re not on the clock. 

    Long-term stays are allowed by the host making it a great spot to stay for a while and get a feel for the city. 

    The desk space is an important feature for anyone working remotely, and this one has views out over the garden and the River Thames. You’ll have access to the whole house including the lovely garden that even has a trampoline. 

    The River Thames and its popular walking and running track are at your doorstep, as is an epic local pub to enjoy a beer at after knockoff.

    Best Airbnb near Cowley Road | Large Garden Studio in East Oxford

    Large Garden Studio in trendy East Oxford
    • $$
    • King-sized bed overlooking garden
    • 2 Guests
    • Close to Cowley Road

    Cowley Road is a colorful, quirky, and ethnically diverse neighborhood in East Oxford. It’s got vibrant street art murals and ethnic food shops and offers a contrast from the traditional spaces around Oxford College that the city tends to be better known for. 

    This Airbnb is just off the exciting Cowley Road in a residential street. It’s an independent studio with a king-sized bed and a killer shower. You access the studio via the host’s home, though your living space will be completely private. It’s a well-lit studio with views out over the garden. You’ll have a hammock just out the front to hang out in too!

    There’s no kitchen here, although there is a fridge and kettle for you to prepare and store some basics. Have no fear of going without, you’re well located to check out the best cafes and bars in the neighborhood.

    Most Romantic Airbnb in Oxford for a Couple | Beautiful Garden Cabin

    Beautiful, socially distanced garden cabin
    • $$
    • Outdoor decking
    • 2 Guests
    • Country feel in the city

    This garden cottage combines city and country living and is a great option for those wanting a peaceful getaway. Located in East Oxford, it’s just a small trip to the trendy Cowley Street or the beautiful country landscapes that surround Oxford. 

    The chalet-style entire cottage rental has a separate entrance via the garden gate and is self-contained with a kitchen and bathroom. There’s also free parking on the premises.

    There are two separate dining areas, one inside next to a bookshelf and the other overlooking the colorful garden on the deck. It’s the perfect spot to drink your morning tea or coffee and start the day, and is also a romantic and cozy setting for an Oxford getaway. 

    Top Airbnb in Oxford for a Solo Traveller | Double Room in Friendly House

    Double Room in Friendly House, Vaccinated host
    • $
    • Shared kitchen
    • 2 Guests
    • Social house with your own space

    This is a great Airbnb for a solo traveler who wants to connect with others but have the privacy of their own room. Several rooms in this house are rented out to other travelers, and the host is an Oxford local who loves to meet new people. 

    The room itself is brightly lit with a yellow theme and has a double bed, collapsible desk, and storage space for your things. You’ll have access to a shared bathroom and kitchen, and a big outdoor terrace.

    This Oxford Airbnb is located close by to the vibrant scene on Cowley Road, and you can catch a bus to the center of town in 15 minutes, or a 40-minute walk if you wanna stretch your legs. 

    Beautiful Country Cottage Airbnb in Oxford | Blenheim Cottage

    Blenheim Cottage Oxford Aga Hot Tub Pets Families
    • $$$
    • Jacuzzi
    • 6 Guests
    • Peaceful country cottage

    This gorgeous country cottage is only five miles outside of Oxford city centre in the quaint village of Noke. It’s the kind of quiet escape set up to accommodate groups of up to six. Bring your friends, kids, and pets, it’s a great Oxford Airbnb for all kinds of guests. 

    There’s a bunch of luxurious features that take this cottage to the next level, including a Jacuzzi hot tub, indoor fireplace, power showerhead, and the ‘fastest internet in the world’. Two bedrooms out of the three have a queen size bed and king size bed, the third room has a bunk bed. Just no fighting over the queen bed!

    The cottage is on a property with manicured gardens, and the farm itself is on the edge of a wetlands reserve for birds. It’s said this area was the inspiration for Lewis Carol’s Through the Looking Glass. Maybe you’ll leave this country getaway with inspiration for the next classic?

    Cottages and lodges are some of the best accommodation in Oxford.

    Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Oxford | The Press House

    The Press House – Stylish 2BDR British Design Home
    • $$$
    • Private terrace
    • 6 Guests
    • Great central location

    This townhouse is located in the middle of the city and is a short walk to all the attractions of Oxford and the train station. You’re close to the university colleges, the River Thames, museums, and the bars and restaurants in the central neighborhoods, including trendy Jericho. 

    This is an ideal Airbnb to spend the weekend in Oxford. You have a comfortable home to retreat to after a day exploring the city. There’s a big kitchen, work space, spacious living rooms, private terrace, and cozy bedrooms, plus the best things to do in Oxford are at your doorstep. It’s a great Oxford Airbnb for a group of six mates or a family. 

    Best Airbnb Experiences in Oxford 

    If you thought Airbnb was just a place to book accommodation, think again. They also offer Airbnb Experiences, which are trips organised by locals. They can be anything from food tasting, urban exploration, or workshops to explore your next favorite hobby.

    What you get with Airbnb Experiences is an intimate insight into what makes that area special, plus the chance to explore with someone who knows the area intimately. These experiences are usually a lot more intimate and often cheaper than a commercially organized tour. 

    You browse and book Airbnb Experiences through the Airbnb App or website just as you would with accommodation. All the details for your trip will be saved there too, so you’ll have access to all your information in the same place.

    Here are the top five Airbnb Experiences you can have in Oxford, and are well worth considering if you want to deep dive into the many stories of this historic city!

    Top 5 Airbnb Experiences in Oxford 

    Oxford City Walking Tour with a Local

    Oxford city walking tour with a local
    • From $26 Per Person 
    • Up to 10 Guests 
    • 2.5 Hours 

    Your guide Tony is a local Oxford man with a real passion for his city. This tour will show off the main sites of Oxford providing engaging and insightful commentary on the history, architecture, and culture of the city. You’ll see inside an Oxford College, learn about Oxford’s literary greats including J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and Lewis Carrol, and even spot some Harry Potter locations. Along the way, you’ll weave through the most picturesque parks of the cities, including gardens, markets, and the river Thames. This is a great insight into Oxford and is highly recommended by over 300 people who have joined Tony on this Airbnb experience. 

    Oxford University Tour With Alumni

    Oxford University Tour With Alumni
    • From $14 per person 
    • Up to 10 People 
    • 2 hours 

    The reputation of Oxford University is something that really puts the city on the map. This tour is led by passionate alumni and aims to dive deep into the history in a way that goes beyond dry historical facts but shares the vibrant, diverse, and influential history of the institution. You’ll learn the stories behind the university, as well as the fictional ones the place has inspired, including Harry Potter, and Alice in Wonderland. The price of this experience is low, but it gets a five star from all guests so you can trust you’ll leave impressed with what you learn. 

    Foraging Walk

    Foraging Walk
    • 42
    • Up to 6 People 
    • 2.5 Hours

    This guided walk will take you through the mature woods of East Oxford’s Shotover Forest and show you how to identify, harvest, and use foraged plants with a sustainable approach. Your host Justine shares her passion and knowledge to teach you the importance of ecology to the local environment, plus give you a bunch of tips and tricks for you to continue on your journey of conscious foraging on your own. At the end of the experience, you’ll make a fire and enjoy a brew of tea made from your freshly picked plants. 

    Letterpress Printing Experience

    Letterpress Printing Experience
    • From $84 Per person 
    • Up to 3 Guests 
    • 3 hours

    This experience will teach you the art of letterpress printing. You’ll learn how to compose type, mix different inks and operate the press to create your own poster, cards, or even invitations to a special occasion. 

    This workshop is set up in a courtyard of art studios. It’s located just outside of Oxford, in a rural location near the historic village of Woodstock and the Blenheim Palace. 

    It’s a great chance to explore the rural areas surrounding Oxford and tap into your creative side. The experience is appropriate for anyone over the age of seven. Coffee and cake are included!

    Guided Tour of Oxford With An Actor

    Guided Tour of Oxford With An Actor
    • From $27 per person 
    • Up to 10 Guests 
    • 2 hours 

    In true British fashion, this experience starts and ends at a pub. Dive into the fantasy worlds that were inspired by the historically rich city of Oxford, led by a charismatic local actor. Your guide has a few opportunities to flex, as he will show you certain sites from movies such as Mary Queen of Scots and Harry Potter in which he played minor (but dramatic) roles.

    You’ll learn many little details and secrets at the city, many of which inspired the works of Oxford’s literary legends. This is the chance to dive deep into the stories, historical and fictional, that took place in Oxford. You’ll even see the door of Narnia. This tour is perfect for any history enthusiast or someone who likes to learn interesting and obscure facts about the places they travel to. You’re even invited to join your host for a beer at the pub after the tour. 

    Don’t Forget Your Oxford Travel Insurance

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

    They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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    Final Thoughts on Airbnbs in Oxford 

    Whether you want to wake up in your own entire apartment, in the home of a local, or a gorgeous garden cottage, there’s an Airbnb in Oxford suited to your trip. 

    Staying in an Airbnb gives you access to a whole bunch of local tips. If you’re keen to further that knowledge of Oxford and have a unique experience, check out the top Airbnb Experiences on offer in the area. 

    If you’re still not sure which Airbnb to choose, I recommend going for my overall favourite;Charming Townhouse in Jericho. Not only is it located in the thriving neighborhood of Jericho but it is just a short walk to the city center and it has all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, all at an affordable price.

    Do you have a favourite on my list? Let me know in the comments.


    And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!