Pitt Rivers Museum

This anthropological museum displays over 500,000 objects in Victorian glass cases organized by function rather than geography. Shrunken heads, musical instruments, and weapons from six continents create an eccentric cabinet of curiosities experience. It sits in Oxford's Summertown, close to the other main sights. It is not a headline attraction and most visitors walk past without knowing it exists, but for those with a specific interest it adds something the bigger sights cannot. Entry is free and 1-2 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: Low - specialist interest only Time needed: 1-2 hours Best for: explore the world's most unusual museum where Skip if: You're squeamish about human remains or prefer modern museum displays Cost: Free

You peer into dimly lit Victorian cases packed with masks, weapons, and ceremonial objects from every continent. The cramped displays create a treasure hunt atmosphere as you discover Nigerian bronzes next to Arctic kayaks and Polynesian fishhooks.

Accessibility: Ground floor accessible, upper galleries require stairs

This is not one of Oxford's essential stops, and that is part of what makes it worthwhile. If explore the world's most unusual museum where shrunken heads hang next to ancient musical instruments interests you, Pitt Rivers Museum delivers a more personal experience than the bigger attractions because you are not competing with crowds for space. Where University Parks gives you the postcard version of Oxford, Pitt Rivers Museum shows you something most visitors never see. Afternoon tends to work best here. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You're squeamish about human remains or prefer modern museum displays

• Bring a flashlight to read labels in dim lighting.
• Free object handling sessions on weekends.
• Connected to Natural History Museum - visit both together.

Insider tip: The totem pole near the entrance was carved by Haida artist Bill Reid and stands 15 meters tall

Photography permitted but dim lighting makes flash necessary in many areas