Oxford to Taunton train

Although Oxford is probably best known for its world-class university and the famous Bodleian library, there is much more to the city than just academia. On a sunny day, take a punt down the River Cherwell at the Cherwell Boathouse, but make sure to book in advance if you'd like a chauffeur.

If the weather is less favorable, visit the famous Oxford Covered Market, where you can wander through over 55 shops in the 18th-century building. Oxford is also home to several museums, including the famous Ashmolean Museum that has been around since 1683. The Ashmolean mainly showcases art and archaeology; however, if that's not your style, alternatives include the Museum of Natural History or the Museum of History and Science.

If you'd prefer to experience history first-hand, visit Oxford Castle, a building that has been in existence for over 1,000 years. Guided tours are available where you can hear stories of the castle's inhabitants and its fascinating history.

National Express and Megabus provide access to Oxford from London and other cities, while frequent train service is also available.

Taunton is the county town of Somerset, in the south of England. Its 1,000-year history gives it a diverse mix of the old and the new and guarantees that there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Take a walk through the newly-pedestrianized streets and take in the vastly diverse architecture that only an ancient town can offer, with the Perpendicular Gothic churches and many Georgian townhouses. Then, visit Taunton Castle for the Museum of Somerset and immerse yourself in the exciting history of the county.

If 21st-century pubs no longer excite you, head to the Tudor Tavern and take in the 16th-century exterior, with the interior said to date back to as early as the 14th century. Although not a tavern anymore, this bygone building is now a cafe, where visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy the humbling feeling inspired by buildings that have stood the test of time.

For a more modern experience of the town, visit one of Taunton's vast shopping centers, or take a walk down the high street to discover local and independent shops.

Taunton is easily accessible by public transport or by car. National Express buses run frequent services from many cities throughout the U.K., while Taunton Station provides rail access via the Great Western Railway.