The appeal of Oxford lies not only in its beautiful architecture and the history of its University - one of the oldest in Europe - but also in the surrounding countryside. This features some of the most charming villages in England as well as the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. This guide includes walks which explore the fascinating heart of the city with its historic colleges. The villages, country houses and landmarks of the region are covered by motoring tours and a comprehensive gazetteer linked to a road map.