Our journey begins with Oxfordshire's most impressive medieval buildings - castles and ruins that still inspire awe and fascination today.

Oxford Castle & Prison is undoubtedly one of the region's most recognizable attractions. Dating back to the 11th century, this massive fortress offers visitors an unforgettable experience. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5, the site impresses not only with its architecture, but also with interactive exhibitions and stories from guides dressed in historical costumes. A climb up the castle tower offers a beautiful panoramic view of Oxford, while the former prison cells are a reminder of the darker pages of the site's history. This is an ideal place for families with children who want to combine learning with fun.

Another fascinating site is Wallingford Castle, whose ruins are a testament to England's turbulent history. Although only fragments of the walls remain from its former power, the site, with a rating of 4.4, still attracts lovers of history and beautiful landscapes. A walk around the castle grounds allows you to imagine its former glory, and informative plaques help you understand the importance of the site in medieval England. It's a great place for a family picnic and learning about history in the great outdoors.

Less well-known, but equally fascinating, are the ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote. This site, rated 4.7, impresses with its picturesque location on the Windrush River. The ruins of a 15th-century manor house and a preserved medieval dovecote create a romantic setting, ideal for photography and contemplation. Admission is free, making it an attractive option for families looking for budget attractions.

Last but not least on this part of our trip is Uffington Castle. Dating back to the Iron Age, this prehistoric stronghold offers not only a fascinating glimpse of ancient defense systems, but also breathtaking views of the surrounding area. With a rating of 4.7, the site combines historical and natural values, providing the perfect place for a family outing combined with a picnic and the discovery of the secrets of the past.

In this part of our trip, we will focus on the less defensible but equally fascinating relics of medieval times in Oxfordshire, which represent both sacred and secular architecture.

We'll begin with Godstow Abbey, the picturesque ruins of a Benedictine monastery founded in 1133. The site, rated 4.4, exudes tranquility and medieval spirit. The abbey ruins, located on the banks of the Thames River, provide the perfect backdrop for contemplating and learning about monastic life in medieval England. It's also the perfect place for a family picnic and stroll, where children can let their imagination run wild as they imagine the lives of medieval nuns.

Another highlight is Tom Tower, the impressive bell tower of Christ Church in Oxford, designed by famous architect Christopher Wren. With a rating of 4.7, this 17th-century tower, though slightly later than the Middle Ages, fits perfectly into Oxford's medieval landscape. The tower is home to the Great Tom, a bell that tolls 101 strokes every day at 9:05 pm, symbolizing the original number of college students. It is not only an architectural monument, but also a living tradition that fascinates adults and children alike.

The Great House in Burford, on the other hand, is an example of secular architecture from the late 17th century, but its history goes deep into the Middle Ages. Rated 4.6, this private home, though not available for tours inside, is stunning in its facade and garden. It is an excellent example of the evolution of residential architecture from the Middle Ages to the Georgian period.

Last, but not least, a fascinating site in this section is Trendell's Folly in Abingdon. This is a 19th-century reconstruction of the ruins of a medieval abbey, created as a romantic addition to the garden. Although not an authentic medieval monument, with a rating of 4.5, it is an interesting example of the fascination with the Middle Ages in later eras. It's an ideal place to discuss with children how the Middle Ages were perceived and romanticized in different periods of history.

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on medieval architecture and its later interpretations. By comparing them, you can see how the styles and functions of buildings have changed over the centuries, from austere, functional monastic structures to the more ornate and representative buildings of later eras.

In the final part of our tour of Oxfordshire's medieval relics, we will focus on the region's oldest and most mysterious monuments - stone circles and ancient structures that have fascinated archaeologists and tourists for centuries.

Rollright Stones is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing sites in Oxfordshire. This Neolithic and early medieval stone circle complex, rated 4.6, consists of three main features: King's Men (stone circle), King Stone (single stone) and Whispering Knights (dolmen). An aura of mystery and legend surrounds the site, making it fascinating for visitors of all ages. Easy access and a small entrance fee (£2 per adult) make it an ideal place for a family trip combined with learning about prehistory and the early Middle Ages.

Another fascinating site is Wayland's Smithy, a Neolithic chambered tomb dating to around 3600 BC. Although it dates from well before the Middle Ages, the site was known and surrounded by legends in medieval times. With a rating of 4.7, Wayland's Smithy offers visitors not only the chance to see an impressive prehistoric structure, but also beautiful views of the surrounding area. Admission is free, making it an attractive option for families.

Uffington Castle, despite its name, is actually a prehistoric Iron Age stronghold. However, its strategic importance remained throughout the Middle Ages. With a rating of 4.7, the site offers not only a fascinating glimpse of defense systems thousands of years old, but also spectacular views of the surrounding area, including the famous White Horse of Uffington. It's the perfect place for a family picnic combined with learning about history and enjoying the landscape.

Last, but equally fascinating, is Devil's Quoits, a stone circle dating to the Neolithic or early Bronze Age period. Although not as well preserved as Rollright Stones, with a rating of 4.3 it is still an interesting point on the region's map of prehistoric monuments. The site is less well known to tourists, which could be an asset for those looking for quieter, less crowded attractions.

Comparing these ancient monuments, one can see how construction and ceremonial practices have changed over thousands of years. From simple stone circles to more complex burial and defensive structures, each of these sites tells a unique story about our ancestors and their beliefs.

All in all, Oxfordshire offers a remarkable journey through thousands of years of history, from the Neolithic to the late Middle Ages. Each of the described sites has its own unique character and historical significance, offering visitors the opportunity to touch history and feel the spirit of the old days. Whether you're a history lover or looking for educational activities for the whole family, Oxfordshire's medieval relics are sure to provide an unforgettable and inspiring experience.