A Day in Oxford

A few weeks ago, we took a day trip to Oxford. We have been meaning to go for awhile and very happy that we finally made it. Our day trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to a castle! Oxford Castle was built in 1071...really old. Up until 1996 it was used as a prison. I was inside- prison is not supposed to be pleasant but this was a creepy building. 

Oxford Castle is a large, partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the western side of central Oxford in Oxfordshire, England. Most of the original moated, wooden motte and bailey castle was replaced in stone in the 11th century and played an important role in the conflict of the Anarchy. In the 14th century the military value of the castle diminished and the site became used primarily for county administration and as a prison.

Most of the castle was destroyed in the English Civil War and by the 18th century the remaining buildings had become Oxford's local prison. A new prison complex was built on the site from 1785 onwards and expanded in 1876; this became HM Prison Oxford.

The prison closed in 1996 and was redeveloped as a hotel. The medieval remains of the castle, including the motte and St George's Tower and crypt, are Grade I listed buildings and a Scheduled Monument and can not be changed. (Wiki)

There were over 100 stairs up to the top of the tower.  The boys did great, but I was terrified for them. 

We then made a visit to The Story Museum. The kids had a lot of fun here.  The premise was 26 rooms built around famous stories. Treasure Island, Mary Poppins, The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, you know, the good ones.  They were able to dress up and step into each story. They spent at least 45 minutes in Treasure Island alone!

Our last stop of the day was Christ Church. 

Christ Church is a constituent college of the University of Oxford in England. The college is associated withChrist Church Cathedral, Oxford, which serves as the college chapel and whose dean is ex officio the college head. (wiki)

Such a beautiful place to visit. The boys held up pretty well as we led them through the hall and the cathedral- they even managed a few smiles for our pictures! 

Dinner anyone? I think this could fit the entire Bowers and Currier family for a holiday or two! 

The Great Hall (the dining hall) will look familiar to any fans of the Harry Potter films, which inspired the set of Hogwarts; dining hall. Actual scenes from the movie were filmed there, and on the grand stars leading to the Hall.

Oxford is a beautiful city and we didn't even cover half of it. We will have to go back and see the rest. 

It took Henry about 10 minutes to fall asleep once in the car around 6pm.  He also didn't wake up when we got home- straight to bed! 

This one on the other hand talked non-stop for the entire 50 minute ride home and proceeded to stay up an extra hour past his bedtime. He just didn't want his fun day to end!