OXFORD - THE TOWN
Just like its sister city of Cambridge, Oxford is a mix of real city and ancient university…most of the city-centre is indistinguishable from the educational institutions. I think I prefer Cambridge, but Oxford isn’t without its charms…
CHRIST CHURCH COLLEGE
The richest & largest college in Oxford, founded by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey under the reign of King Henry VIII. The college buildings, the grounds, and the compact cathedral within are beautiful in their own right…but most people will be fascinated by their use as locations in the Harry Potter films! 
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON
Starting with Anne Hathaway’s Cottage on the outskirts & finishing up next to Shakespeare’s birthplace in the middle of the high street, Stratford is as picturesque a town as you’re likely to find in all of England. It takes the concept of quaint and turns it into an art form…
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL
The biggest surprise of the trip. St. Michael’s Cathedral in Coventry was destroyed during World War II, except for the outer walls and the spire. Now attached to a new Cathedral church of striking, modern design, the ruins form one of the most beautiful memorial gardens I have ever seen. It’s staggering in scope…and eerie in its quiet beauty.
COVENTRY EXTRAS
Next door to both old and new cathedrals, there can be found another ancient church, complete with gorgeous cemetery & church yard. Near by can also be found many intact Tudor-era buildings…including one that has been a pub continuously since the time of Henry VIII!
In the next entry…Salisbury & Stonehenge
