Welcome back to our City Spotlight series! This month we’re discussing Oxford vs Cambridge, which are fairly small and pretty locations that are easy to walk or cycle around. Both cities have an amazing culture and prestigious universities, but which city would you choose?

Oxford is the bigger and livelier of the two famous university cities. Latest results show that the University of Oxford has been crowned first in the Complete University Guide's League Table for 2023. But there is so much more to see and do here! Check out Oxford's beautiful scenery, jump on a punt down the river, visit Harcourt Arboretum or the Radcliffe Camera. Harry Potter fans can explore the magic that lives in Oxford, through the countless shops and historic buildings used for filming.

Oxford is a buzzing cosmopolitan city with a growing hi-tech community. Many businesses are located in the city centre, surrounding residential areas or the Science and Business Parks. The world’s biggest travel company TripAdvisor has their stunning HQ office here, offering a range of tech and digital opportunities for applicants in the area. Both software agencies Oxford Computer Consultants and Global Initiative have a strong presence across the city, with varied graduate to senior roles. If you’re looking to go hybrid, then take a look at Nominet's opportunities to work between home and Oxford's Science Park.

Oxford may be packed full of history, museums and university colleges but don't let this make you think it's a city to sleep on. The city is a fantastic hub for arts and culture, with a lively nightlife. Students love a night out at The Bridge and The Cellar nightclubs, or visit the Duke Of Cambridge bar nearby!

Throughout the academic year, the city hosts a range of events suited for every occasion and interest. The University of Oxford holds tech conferences that are open to everyone. OxTech Fest is a two-day virtual event dedicated to celebrating and developing the technology industry in Oxfordshire. 2021 was a great success, so look out for a save the date from Oxford Brookes University! Oxford and London have great transport links, with a train journey taking less than an hour, so don't hesitate to take a look at events held in the capital too! Take a look at last month’s City Spotlight to see what London has to offer!

Cambridge is a small and welcoming city, you can see why it is a popular getaway spot for many! From punting on the River Cam, to a picnic in the park, or a walking tour, Cambridge is full of entertainment and picturesque places to explore. Grab a bicycle to fit right in with the locals. The city is home to a single university, the University of Cambridge, renowned for its leading teaching, research and collegiate system.

Cambridge is a tech hotspot, thanks to the influence of Cambridge University's Science Park Initiative. As a result, major companies Apple, Microsoft and Amazon have set up research labs to attract applicants from the university. Alternatively, you can join HexagonFab as a Graduate Software Engineer for a natural route into development of medicine of the future. Digital Agency GetBusy have a range of roles available, from DevOps Engineer, Support, Software Development and Social Media too!

In Cambridge, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to bars and pubs. Take a walk down Regent Street and Downing Street to find a stream of bustling bars and clubs. By contrast, take a stroll through nature, along The Cambridge Backs for a pretty walk with views of the cities famous monuments, including King’s College and the Mathematical Bridge. Explore Cambridge market for hidden gems. Stalls are full of incredible food from across the globe, fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade bakes, vintage goodies and more.

Cambridge Tech Week celebrates innovation and collaboration to connect Cambridge’s technology hub to the world. This weeklong event will be packed full of inspiring talks and networking events. Register your interest now for 2023 dates!

Whichever way you look at it, Oxford and Cambridge have a lot in common as beautiful, historical cities with a great student community – so the age-old question is which one would you choose?

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