phespirit.notes:   Oxford

1 St. Hugh's College

However did Phespirit end up studying physics here?  Pure drift.

While studying A-level maths, physics and chemistry (long sums are far less hassle than long essays) Phespirit's physics teacher advised him that he could probably get into Oxford or Cambridge.

The deputy headmaster observed that St. Hugh's College, Oxford, was accepting its first ever intake of men so Phespirit might have a better chance of getting in (so much for meritocracy).

So Phespirit got an interview, took a test and was offered a place, dependent on him getting two 'E' grades at A-level.

He scored three 'A' grades, just in case, and the rest is history.
One year later he was out on his arse.

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2 North Parade

Significant if only for having The Gardener's Arms pub, plus one or two shops of convenient closeness to St. Hugh's College.

WARNING: Morris Men are known to gather here.

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3 Plantation Road

Although Phespirit only lasted one year at Oxford, his friends held on a little longer, with two or three even managing to complete the full distance and actually pick up degrees.

Those in for the long haul rented a house at 7 Plantation Road, so it was to here that Phespirit would come calling unannounced and spend the night kipping down on the musty sofa in the cellar.

Fondly remembered, despite the sofa.

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4 The Kings Arms

The K.A. is the quintessential student pub in town.

Not by any stretch of the imagination is it the best pub around yet somehow it enjoys this iconic status. Most mysterious.

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5 The Covered Market

Without any of its university history and architecture Oxford would still retain a good measure of charm thanks to places such as the Covered Market in the High Street.

It is the ultimate English experience in provisions shopping.

Here one can find everything for the connoisseur of fine sausages, specialist cheeses, delicatessen, seafoods, cakes, teas, coffees, fruits and vegetables.

Middle England does not get much more exotic than this.

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6 Christ Church Meadow

A world apart from the hustle and bustle of town and gown .....

..... is a country retreat in the city.

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