Oxford County
Oxford County is creative, quirky and devoted to the environment. It’s the perfect place for cyclists and cheese lovers, as well as those who want to become more in tune with nature. There are also a variety of museums and historical sites to satisfy even the most inquisitive minds. From the Cheese Trail to the Annandale National Historic Site, you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained and wanting to come back a second time (and a third).
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Oxford County, scroll down or visit the region's tourism website.
Where is Oxford County?
Oxford County is found at the intersection of Highways 401 and 403.
Rail and Greyhound services are provided out of Woodstock and Ingersoll and Tillsonburg Airport is located directly in the county. You can also travel through Toronto’s Pearson Airport (YYZ) or Billy Bishop Airport (IATA: YTZ, ICAO: CYTZ). From Toronto, it’s about a 90 minute drive to Oxford by cab or bus.
Things to Know About Visiting Oxford County
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Oxford County, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the area.
Where to go for a hike
There are two trail loops to choose from in Chesney Wilderness Area Trail. In the autumn months, the dazzling foliage of the assorted trees enhance the scenic hike.
Where to snap a great Instagram pic
Head to Pittock Conservation Area to snap those special nature photographs waiting to be captured.
Where to see the holiday lights
Over 300 brilliant lights on full display during the annual Ingersoll's Festival of Lights make the holiday season even brighter.
Oxford County Neighbourhoods & Districts
Oxford County comprises several cities, towns and townships, each with something to appreciate and worth exploring.
City of Woodstock
Along with the One of a Kind Antique Store, Woodstock is known for its Woodstock Art Gallery, Upper Thames Brewing Company and Southside Park. The gallery features exhibits from famous local artists, and Upper Thames is Oxford County’s one and only brewery.
Town of Tillsonburg
Tillsonburg is home to the Station Arts Centre, Annandale Historic Site and Ontario’s widest main street, Broadway. It’s worth the trip for the Annandale Historic Site alone, and you can also check out the Tillsonburg Golf Course Trails or take a walk in the Participark.
Town of Ingersoll
Ingersoll is well known for its Cheese and Cultural Museum, but that’s far from its only attraction. It also has a creative arts centre, golf course and farmers market. Additionally, the town is home to Jakeman’s Maple Farm, which specializes in maple delicacies. And if you’re up for seeing some of Ontario’s wildlife, try out The Lawson Nature Reserve Trail, also known as The Lawson Tract.
Township of Norwich
Drive through Norwich’s beautiful farmland and stop by one of the township’s many museums.
Township of Zorra
Zorra is known for its festivals, including Garagefest and the dachshund-themed Wienerfest Dog Festival.
Township of South-West Oxford
Eco-friendly and forward thinking, visit the township of South-West Oxford to learn more about (and participate in) green tourism.
Township of Blandford-Blenheim
Blandford-Blenheim has a little of everything, including historical churches, schools and monuments.
Township of East Zorra-Tavistock
In East Zorra-Tavistock, have your pick of nature trails and parks, including Hickson Trail, Innerkip Park and Queen’s Park.
Things to Do in Oxford County
Oxford County is best known for its cycling and cheese trails, its unique shops and event spaces, and its friendly, local artisans. Two of its most popular cycling trails are Pittock and Wildwood Conservation Areas, both of which allow mountain biking, camping, fishing, swimming and paddleboarding. Its famous cheese trail is the Oxford County Cheese Trail, which is a self-guided tour consisting of two dozen cheese and dairy stops. From conversations with cheese makers to restaurant tastings, the cheese trail is an experience every traveler is sure to enjoy. And for more cheesy goodness, stop by the Ingersoll Cheese and Agricultural Museum, which features barns, a blacksmith shop and a replica cheese factory from the 1800s.
The shops and museums in Oxford are some of the most interesting in all of Canada. For instance, Oxford’s One of a Kind Antique Mall is the largest antique mall in the entire country, and the Station Arts Centre, erected in the 1800s, was once a train station. You can also stop by Stonecraft Folk, a popular concert space located inside of a farmhouse. And if you’re looking for more fun things to do, visit Snyder’s Family Farm for haunted houses and a corn maze, or stop by the Annandale National Historic Site to see Victorian design at its finest.
Some of Oxford’s most noteworthy attractions are courtesy of the residents themselves. Local artisans provide lessons in the art of building charcuterie boards, roasting coffee and crafting your own ganache. You can also learn to cut flowers, build tables and turn grain into beer, all while getting to know more about the county’s history and the friendly folks who live here.
Last updated: August 22, 2023