Sometimes you just need a day away, a day to read your book in a cosy little coffee shop and wander around the shops without any kid interruptions. Bonus points when your husband gives you his credit card on “expenses” so you can enjoy yourself even more.
I took the car and headed to one of the park and ride sites just outside Oxford. First stop was CoffeeSmith. An extra hot oat latte felt essential on a chilly morning. I settled into a quiet corner, pulled out my book, Majestic by Whitley Strieber, and after a chapter or two I felt perfectly ready for my gentle little adventure in the city.
The sun was bright, but the air was still crisp and cold. Oxford looked especially beautiful in that soft winter light, honey coloured stone glowing against a pale blue sky. I know the city well, but it always feels comforting and familiar, like stepping into a place that holds a hundred small memories.
I wandered through the Natural History Museum, lingering over the giant skeletons and tiny creatures, then crossed into the Ashmolean Museum for a slower, quieter visit. I spent time in the Greek galleries and my favourite rooms, the Anglo Saxon and Egyptian collections, where you can lose track of time among ancient jewellery, delicate pottery and rows of beautifully preserved mummies.
From there I drifted into the Covered Market, tucked away in the heart of the city. It has changed so much in recent years and now feels full of life again. Independent coffee shops, vintage stalls, handmade crafts and the smell of fresh food fill the narrow aisles. It is the kind of place where you pop in for one thing and leave with three, and possibly a coffee in hand as well.
Later, I wandered over to the Westgate shopping centre, where all the familiar shops wait, along with newer favourites like Sephora and Søstrene Grene, which I still associate with trips to France. It felt indulgent and fun to browse with no agenda and no time pressure.
For lunch I chose a mozzarella and pesto toastie from Ole and Steen, warm, melty and exactly what I wanted on a cold day. I finished with a little wander into Pop Mart for some cheerful collectables, from Labubu to all sorts of other tiny characters that are impossible to resist.
By the end of the day I felt full in the best way, full of coffee, stories, beautiful places and small pleasures. A quiet day, just for me, and exactly what I needed.
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