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Holywell Street

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming, historic lane in Oxford, known for its pastel-colored houses, proximity to New College, and delightful eateries.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Holywell Street - Image 1

Holywell Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, historic lane in Oxford, known for its pastel-colored houses, proximity to New College, and delightful eateries.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Holywell Street is a pastel coloured dream street with plenty of pretty buildings and some great restaurants."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Holywell Street has historic cobblestones, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll. :athletic_shoe:

🍣 Sushi Night at Edamame

Don't miss Thursday sushi nights at Edamame for fresh, affordable sashimi. Arrive early or expect queues! :sushi:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New College's Gateway

New College's Gateway

Adjacent to New College

Walk past the impressive facade of New College, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that sets the tone for Holywell Street.

Edamame's Culinary Gem

Edamame's Culinary Gem

Tucked away off Holywell Street

Discover this tiny, family-run spot famous for its fresh sushi and affordable Thursday night specials. A local favorite!

The Alternative Tuck Shop

The Alternative Tuck Shop

On Holywell Street

A popular student haunt offering delicious lunch options. Grab a bite and soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic street.

Pastel-Colored Dream

Pastel-Colored Dream

The length of Holywell Street

Admire the charming pastel-colored houses that line this picturesque street, creating a vibrant and inviting ambiance.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cobblestones

Holywell Street's charm lies in its historic, uneven cobblestones. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring this picturesque lane without discomfort. Be prepared for a truly immersive, old-world experience.

Timing is Everything

While Holywell Street is charming year-round, visiting during off-peak hours or seasons can enhance your experience. Avoid midday crowds to truly soak in the atmosphere and capture stunning photos without many people in the background.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Early evenings
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Exploring Oxford with the Oxford University & City Tour, booked via @fever_uk 🤍 Oxford is a city steeped in history, tradition, and academic excellence. Home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, it’s a place where medieval architecture meets vibrant student life. Walking through its storied streets feels like stepping into a living museum, and this tour offered the perfe...
@great.britain7557
40.5K likes • 249K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Holywell Street has historic cobblestones, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll. :athletic_shoe:

🍣 Sushi Night at Edamame

Don't miss Thursday sushi nights at Edamame for fresh, affordable sashimi. Arrive early or expect queues! :sushi:

📍Oxford England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿. Si vas a visitar Oxford, no te puedes perder de ver la majestuosa Iglesia universitaria de Santa Maria la Virgen. sube los 500 escalones , para que disfrutes la mejor vista de la ciudad y sus calles empedradas. #creatorsearchinsights #fyp #tiktoktravel #england #oxford
@cjofscotland
38.3K likes • 190.2K views
#OxfordEats is back, and this week we are heading to one of Oxford’s best-kept foodie secrets: Edamame 🍣 Tucked away just off Holywell Street, this tiny family-run spot is famous for its Thursday sushi nights 🥢 Fresh sashimi at prices that will not break the bank. Seating is very limited, so expect queues (worth it, I promise!)… Could this be the best sushi in Oxford? 👀 📍 Holywell St, Oxford ...
mdphdintraining
0 likes • 570 views

📸 Capture the Charm

This street is incredibly photogenic, especially with its pastel buildings. Allow time for photos! :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore New College

The street runs alongside New College. Pop in to admire its stunning architecture and grounds. :college_cap:

"yürümeyi en çok şurada seviyorum" dediğiniz bir yer var mı? ben Oxford'da bu reels'teki Holywell caddesinde yürümeyi çok seviyorum 💜 What is your favourate place to walk? I love walking down Holywell street in Oxford (it is the street you see in this reels) 💜 #oxford #walking #yürüyüş #reels #reelsinstagram #street #sokak #love #manzara #photography #instagood #magic #wonderful_places #art #bea...
adesperada
144 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Holywell Street has historic cobblestones, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll. :athletic_shoe:

🍣 Sushi Night at Edamame

Don't miss Thursday sushi nights at Edamame for fresh, affordable sashimi. Arrive early or expect queues! :sushi:

📸 Capture the Charm

This street is incredibly photogenic, especially with its pastel buildings. Allow time for photos! :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore New College

The street runs alongside New College. Pop in to admire its stunning architecture and grounds. :college_cap:

👻 Secret Turf Tavern Access

Look for a secret passageway off Holywell Street leading to the historic Turf Tavern. :ghost:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Holywell Street for its picturesque charm and historic atmosphere, often describing it as a 'dream street' with beautiful pastel buildings. The proximity to New College and the availability of unique eateries like Edamame are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the cobblestones challenging for walking, and the limited seating at popular food spots can lead to queues.

What People Like

Picturesque pastel buildings
Historic charm
Proximity to New College

What People Dislike

Cobblestone walking
Food queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Holywell Street is easily accessible on foot from Oxford city center. It's a short walk from Radcliffe Square and Broad Street. If arriving by train, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from Oxford train station. Many visitors find it a pleasant part of their Oxford walking tour. TikTok

Holywell Street is approximately a 15-20 minute walk from Oxford train station. You can also take a local bus or a taxi if you prefer not to walk. TikTok

Driving directly onto Holywell Street can be restricted, and parking in central Oxford is limited and often expensive. It's generally recommended to park in a city center car park and walk, or utilize public transport. Reddit

Yes, Holywell Street is often included in guided walking tours of Oxford, as it passes by significant landmarks like New College and offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past. TikTok

The best way to explore Holywell Street is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the street is cobbled, and take your time to admire the architecture and discover hidden gems like Edamame and the Alternative Tuck Shop. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking down Holywell Street itself is free and open to the public. However, if you wish to enter New College, which borders the street, there may be an admission fee. Instagram

Holywell Street is a public street and is accessible at all times. Individual businesses and attractions along the street will have their own operating hours. Instagram

There are no entry fees to simply walk along Holywell Street. Access to specific colleges or establishments on the street may incur charges. Instagram

Yes, Holywell Street is accessible at night, offering a different, more atmospheric experience. However, businesses along the street will be closed. Instagram

While the street itself is generally flat, the historic cobblestones can make it challenging for wheelchairs. Some businesses may have accessible entrances, but it's advisable to check individually. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Holywell Street is a photographer's dream! Capture the pastel-colored houses, the historic architecture of New College, and the charming details of the street. The section near New College and the colorful facades are particularly popular. Instagram+1

Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best light for photography on Holywell Street, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in central Oxford, especially around historic buildings and colleges, due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to avoid flying drones here. Reddit

You can photograph the exterior of New College from Holywell Street. To photograph the interior, you would need to visit the college itself and adhere to their photography policies. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the street's charm and architecture. A standard prime lens is also excellent for detail shots and portraits. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Holywell Street boasts some great eateries. Edamame is famous for its sushi, and the Alternative Tuck Shop is a student favorite for lunch. The King's Arms pub is also nearby and popular with students. Instagram+1

Edamame is particularly known for its Thursday sushi nights. While they may have other offerings, it's best to check their specific opening hours, as seating is limited. Instagram

The Alternative Tuck Shop is known for serving delicious lunch options, often described as hearty and satisfying, catering well to students and visitors alike. Instagram

While specific menus can change, many Oxford eateries, including those on or near Holywell Street, are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff. Reddit

Yes, there's a 'secret' passageway from Holywell Street that leads to the historic Turf Tavern, a popular pub with a rich history. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Holywell Street offers a gentle introduction to Oxford's historic charm for families. The pastel-colored buildings are visually appealing to children, and the relatively flat (though cobbled) surface makes for an easier stroll. Instagram Consider a stop at The Alternative Tuck Shop for kid-friendly lunch options. Instagram While New College is beautiful, younger children might find a quick exterior view sufficient. The 'secret' passageway to the Turf Tavern can add a touch of adventure, though the pub itself is more adult-oriented.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

Holywell Street is ideal for solo explorers who enjoy leisurely walks and soaking in atmosphere. Its compact nature makes it easy to navigate, and the abundance of charming architecture provides constant visual interest. Instagram+1 Solo travelers can comfortably enjoy a meal at Edamame or The Alternative Tuck Shop, or simply wander and discover hidden corners. The street's connection to guided tours also offers an easy way to learn about its history if you prefer a structured experience. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Holywell Street incredibly rewarding. The vibrant pastel facades offer a unique color palette, contrasting beautifully with the historic stone buildings of nearby colleges. Instagram+1 The street provides excellent opportunities for capturing architectural details, street scenes, and atmospheric shots, especially during the golden hour. Instagram Look for interesting angles and compositions that incorporate the historic context of the university city. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians and residents while you shoot.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Stroll Through History

Holywell Street is one of Oxford's oldest thoroughfares, with a history stretching back to the 13th century. Its name likely derives from 'holy well,' referring to a spring that once flowed nearby. Walking its length feels like stepping back in time, with many buildings retaining their historic facades and character. Instagram The street is closely tied to the university's medieval past, offering a tangible connection to centuries of academic life and city development. Instagram

Key landmarks like New College, founded in 1379, stand proudly alongside Holywell Street, showcasing magnificent Gothic architecture. Instagram The street also holds cultural significance, with the Holywell Music Room being one of Oxford's oldest surviving concert venues, dating back to 1748. Instagram This blend of academic, architectural, and cultural history makes Holywell Street a fascinating place to explore for anyone interested in Oxford's rich heritage.

Culinary Delights on Holywell

Beyond its historical charm, Holywell Street is a surprising hub for unique culinary experiences. Edamame, a tiny, family-run Japanese restaurant, has gained a cult following for its incredibly fresh sushi, especially on its popular Thursday sushi nights. Instagram Be prepared for queues, as its intimate size means seating is limited, but reviewers consistently rave that it's worth the wait. Instagram

For a more casual, student-centric vibe, The Alternative Tuck Shop is a must-visit. It's often cited as one of Oxford's best spots for a satisfying lunch, offering hearty and delicious options. Instagram Nearby, the historic King's Arms pub is a classic Oxford establishment, frequently buzzing with students and locals alike, offering a traditional pub experience. Instagram These diverse food options add another layer of appeal to Holywell Street, making it a destination for both history buffs and foodies.

Photography Hotspots

Holywell Street is a photographer's paradise, offering a picturesque backdrop at every turn. The pastel-colored houses create a vibrant and charming streetscape, perfect for capturing colorful and cheerful shots. Instagram The proximity to New College provides opportunities to frame the street with stunning Gothic architecture, adding a sense of grandeur to your photos. Instagram

For the best photographic results, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The 'golden hour' light casts a warm glow on the buildings, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a magical atmosphere. Instagram Visiting during these times also helps you avoid the midday crowds, allowing for clearer shots and a more peaceful photography experience. Remember to look for unique details, architectural features, and the play of light and shadow to make your Holywell Street photos truly stand out. Instagram

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