A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Oxford vs. Lake District National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Lake District National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Oxford

Oxford is a collegiate, beautiful, and historic college town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Oxford and Lake District National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oxford than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oxford is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its food and hiking. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Also, Oxford is famous for Radcliffe Square.

Radcliffe Square

How is Oxford different from Lake District National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake District National Park and Oxford. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Oxford is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Oxford or Lake District National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lake District National Park. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Nightlife?

Oxford is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Oxford has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lake District National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Oxford is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Oxford has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Lake District National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Oxford and Lake District National Park are both great to visit as a couple.

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Students?

Oxford is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oxford is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Oxford or Lake District National Park a more walkable city?

Oxford is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Oxford is a very walkable destination. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Oxford Worth Visiting? and Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake District National Park or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Both Oxford and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Oxford. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Oxford. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oxford than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oxford that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Oxford for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Because Oxford is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Oxford, a popular college town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oxford and Lake District National Park, we can see that Oxford is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Oxford would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oxford than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Oxford Expensive? and Is Lake District National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Oxford or Lake District National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Oxford or Lake District National Park in the Summer?

Both Lake District National Park and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oxford is generally a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 17°C (63°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during summer. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oxford usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oxford or Lake District National Park in the Autumn?

Both Lake District National Park and Oxford during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Oxford in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Oxford is a little warmer than Lake District National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Oxford usually gets less rain in October than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Lake District National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Lake District National Park. Most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. Oxford can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Oxford is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oxford in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Oxford usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during winter. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Oxford usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oxford or Lake District National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Lake District National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

In April, Oxford is generally a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 9°C (48°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in April than Lake District National Park. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Oxford