As a student at Oxford University, affiliated with one of its most grandiose colleges at that, I always crave a little spot of unprententious, ‘unkept’ nature when I emerge from hours of studying, locked up in one of the city’s “dreaming spires”. For the picturesque college quadrangles and awe-inspiring architecture hundreds of tourists visit Oxford every day, yet some of the city’s most precious treasures are located on the north and south outskirts of the city centre, and are invariably complemented by the soothing presence of cows.

Most tourists who visit Christ Church college turn left straight into the college gate. Instead, I recommend a wander down the long straight path on the right, towards Cherwell River. At the right time of the day, your steps can be set to the rhythmical mooing of the cows in Christ Church Meadow, and at certain times of the year, you will see a hundred glory-hungry students splashing their oars down the river in the annual intercollegiate boat race.

At the other end of the city, by the canal that meanders on the west side of the city centre, is Port Meadow, an even more peaceful and little discovered haven of swaying grass and the occasional cow pat. The flat expanse of land offers the ideal location for an escape from the stress of overcrowded colleges, as well as picnics or a much needed run after a full English breakfast. On the night of May Day every year, the more hippy (and cold-resistant) students hoard round a bonfire here, dancing and drinking their troubles away.

These two walking sites are some of my favourite places in this university town, not least because there is (inevitably) a pub at the end of every path.