Cornmarket Street - Image 1
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Cornmarket Street

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Oxford's vibrant heart, blending historic charm with bustling shops and lively street performers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
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Cornmarket Street - Image 1

Cornmarket Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Oxford's vibrant heart, blending historic charm with bustling shops and lively street performers.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A lively hub with diverse shops and street performers, perfect for exploring Oxford's energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Explore Hidden Shops

Don't miss the Crafter's Emporium for unique handmade gifts and souvenirs!

🎶 Enjoy Street Music

The street often features talented buskers, adding a lively soundtrack to your stroll.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crafter's Emporium

Crafter's Emporium

Cornmarket Street

A vibrant marketplace showcasing local artisans' handmade crafts, jewelry, pottery, and more.

hmv Oxford

hmv Oxford

Cornmarket Street

Iconic music and entertainment store, a landmark for pop culture enthusiasts.

Street Performers

Street Performers

Cornmarket Street

Lively atmosphere with talented musicians and entertainers adding to the street's charm.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Oxford's Heart

Cornmarket Street is a bustling hub in Oxford, often crowded with shoppers and students. Plan your visit to avoid peak hours, especially on weekends. Consider using public transport as parking can be challenging.

Discovering Local Gems

Beyond the main shops, Cornmarket Street is a gateway to charming side streets and unique boutiques like the Crafter's Emporium. Keep an eye out for street performers and pop-up markets for an authentic experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, street performers
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas season
Why
Festive decorations and markets
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Christmas has arrived in Oxford ❄️✨🤍 Surely its not a coincidence that C.S. Lewis came here before he wrote Narnia?! #oxmas #snowday #magdalencollege #harrypotterchristmas #oxfordunistudent #studymotivaton #oxforduniversity #christmas2024 #christmasathogwarts
@rosie_ie05
720.9K likes • 3.8M views

🛍️ Explore Hidden Shops

Don't miss the Crafter's Emporium for unique handmade gifts and souvenirs! Instagram+1

🎶 Enjoy Street Music

The street often features talented buskers, adding a lively soundtrack to your stroll. Instagram

The most serene place ✨ #oxford #oxforduniversity #hiddengems #PlacesToVisit
@.catchmeifyouhan
188.8K likes • 1M views
We’re hiring! Check our website for more information (hmv.com/careers) #hmv #oxford #cornmarketstreet
hmv_oxford
103 likes • 2.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Central

Cornmarket Street is easily accessible on foot and connects to many Oxford attractions. TikTok

💰 Carry Cash for Markets

If you visit the markets, especially in Cork, cash is often preferred. Instagram

How beautiful is the new shop! Come and take a look at our brand new store on Cornmarket street. Still lots of shuffling around to do but the hard work from all parts of our Crafters Emporium team are paying off 🩷 #oxford #crafting #handmade #gifts #tourism #candles #photography #art #jewllery #pottery #soap #mug #highstreet
oxoncraftersemporium
105 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Explore Hidden Shops

Don't miss the Crafter's Emporium for unique handmade gifts and souvenirs! Instagram+1

🎶 Enjoy Street Music

The street often features talented buskers, adding a lively soundtrack to your stroll. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkable & Central

Cornmarket Street is easily accessible on foot and connects to many Oxford attractions. TikTok

💰 Carry Cash for Markets

If you visit the markets, especially in Cork, cash is often preferred. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cornmarket Street is a vibrant and central shopping destination in Oxford, praised for its lively atmosphere, diverse retail options, and frequent street performers. Visitors appreciate the convenience and the unique finds at places like the Crafter's Emporium. However, the crowds, especially on weekends, can be overwhelming for some.

What People Like

Bustling atmosphere
Diverse shops
Street performers

What People Dislike

Crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cornmarket Street is a primary thoroughfare in Oxford city center and is easily accessible by foot from most central locations. Numerous bus routes stop along or near Cornmarket Street, making it a convenient hub for public transport. If driving, be aware that parking in the city center can be limited and expensive; park-and-ride services are a good alternative. TikTok

Yes, large sections of Cornmarket Street are pedestrianized or have limited vehicle access, making it very walkable and pleasant for shoppers and visitors. TikTok

The main Oxford Bus Station is a short walk away, and numerous bus stops are located directly on Cornmarket Street, serving various local and regional routes. Oxford train station is also within walking distance, approximately 15-20 minutes. TikTok

On-street parking is very limited. The closest multi-story car parks include the Westgate Shopping Centre car park and the St. Giles' car park. Many visitors opt for the park-and-ride services to avoid city center traffic and parking hassles. TikTok

Cornmarket Street is generally flat and wide, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some of the smaller side streets or older shop entrances might have steps. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cornmarket Street is a public street and does not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere. TikTok

Entry to the shops themselves is free. You only pay for any purchases you make. Instagram+1

Most shops on Cornmarket Street operate standard retail hours, typically from around 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Some may have slightly shorter hours on Sundays. Instagram

Yes, Cornmarket Street and its surrounding areas often host markets, especially during festive seasons like Christmas. Keep an eye out for pop-up stalls and craft fairs. Instagram+1

No, the Crafter's Emporium is a retail space, and there is no admission fee to enter and browse the crafts. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Cornmarket Street offers a mix of high street brands, independent boutiques, and specialty stores. You'll find fashion retailers, electronics stores like hmv, and unique craft shops such as the Crafter's Emporium. Instagram+1

The Crafter's Emporium is an excellent place for unique, handmade souvenirs crafted by local artists. Instagram+1

Yes, Cornmarket Street and the surrounding areas are packed with dining options, from cafes and pubs to restaurants offering various cuisines. The Westgate Shopping Centre also has a large food court. TikTok

It's a lively and busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours and weekends. You'll often find street performers adding to the vibrant energy. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The Crafter's Emporium is a dedicated space for local artisans selling handmade items like jewelry, pottery, and candles. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography & Sights

Capture the bustling street life, the historic architecture, and the vibrant displays of shops like the Crafter's Emporium. Street performers also make for dynamic photo subjects. TikTokInstagram

Cornmarket Street is in the heart of Oxford, close to iconic landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, Carfax Tower, and the historic university colleges. TikTok+1

It can be challenging to get clear shots without people due to the street's popularity. Visiting during off-peak hours or being patient can help. TikTok

The mix of historic and modern architecture, the constant flow of people, and the colorful shopfronts create a dynamic and visually engaging environment. TikTok

Yes, you can generally take photos of street performers, but it's always polite to ask for permission or offer a small tip if you're focusing on them. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cornmarket Street offers a lively environment for families. The wide, pedestrian-friendly sections make it easy to navigate with strollers. Kids will enjoy the street performers and the variety of shops, especially those with colorful displays. The Crafter's Emporium can be a fun place to discover unique toys or handmade items. Instagram+1

For a break, numerous cafes and eateries along the street offer kid-friendly options. Consider a visit to the nearby Covered Market for more food stalls and a different shopping vibe. The central location also makes it easy to combine a stroll down Cornmarket Street with visits to other family-friendly Oxford attractions. TikTok

🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters

Cornmarket Street is a shopper's paradise, featuring a mix of popular high street brands and unique independent stores. For those seeking distinctive finds, the Crafter's Emporium is a must-visit, offering a curated selection of handmade goods from local artisans. Instagram+1

While not strictly a 'bargain' street in the discount sense, the variety ensures something for every taste and budget. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or special promotions. The proximity to other shopping areas like the Westgate Centre and the Covered Market means you can spend a full day exploring Oxford's retail offerings. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Cornmarket Street

Cornmarket Street is one of Oxford's most vital arteries, a bustling thoroughfare that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern retail. It's a place where students, tourists, and locals converge, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. The street is known for its diverse range of shops, from well-known high street brands to unique independent stores, making it a prime destination for shopping enthusiasts. TikTok+1

Beyond the commercial aspect, Cornmarket Street is a lively stage for street performers, adding a unique cultural layer to the visitor experience. Musicians, artists, and entertainers often gather here, providing impromptu performances that delight passersby. This vibrant street life, combined with the backdrop of Oxford's stunning architecture, makes Cornmarket Street a captivating place to explore. TikTokInstagram

For those seeking authentic local crafts, the Crafter's Emporium is a must-visit. This collective space showcases the work of numerous local artisans, offering everything from handmade jewelry and pottery to candles and art. It's a fantastic spot to find unique souvenirs and gifts that truly represent the creativity of the region. Instagram+1

Navigating Oxford's Shopping Scene

Cornmarket Street serves as a central hub for Oxford's shopping experience. It connects to other key shopping areas, including the modern Westgate Shopping Centre and the historic Covered Market. While Cornmarket offers a mix of high street and independent retailers, exploring the nearby streets can reveal even more hidden gems and specialized boutiques. TikTok

For a truly local shopping experience, the Crafter's Emporium on Cornmarket Street is highly recommended. It’s a testament to the thriving artisan community in Oxford, offering a curated selection of handmade goods. This contrasts with the more mainstream offerings found on the main street, providing a more personal and unique shopping opportunity. Instagram+1

When visiting, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, though the weekend buzz, complete with street performers, has its own appeal. TikTok+1

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