Cheltenham Day 6 - Oxford

Such a good day - but not necessarily as we’d planned.
Having figured out to use the National Rail app & Britrail pass, I searched out our best route to Oxford, took a screen shot of it and felt quite smut about my IT skills. Problem was, the train we were supposed to catch was cancelled.
OK plan B. Fortunately there were lots of helpful staff in the station who suggested a good but longer route.
Oxford is charming as the pics show. Loved watching the “punting” along the Cherwell River - propelling the boat from the back using a paddle - hilarious as some were more experienced than others. Delighted to see girls “punting” tourists about.

We had a good long chat with a young student at Trinity College. Turns out if you « qualify » which is onerous based on A level grades & other criteria, the government gives £9,000 for tuition plus £4000 for accommodations that you have to pay back when you graduate. There are 3 sessions per year - allowing lots of time in between for students to work and pay back their expenses. Classes don’t resume until mid Oct, so unfortunately all was quiet.

Coming back our train was delayed about 20 minutes - seems someone was on the track - they didn’t give details - and the police had been called.
All in all a very worthwhile “adventure.”

I’ve successfully activated our Britrail pass for tomorrow so we’re off to Bath. Jamie has been there and loved it - curious to check it out.Read more