A number of Oxford University colleges could offer visitors an alternative to hotels this December.

Lily Smith, from accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com, said the colleges open to non-students this Christmas season are "considerably" cheaper than hotels in many cases.

She said: "It’s now possible to stay at a number of Cambridge and Oxford colleges this December.

"The good news is you don’t have to be a student to stay in them and many are considerably cheaper than staying in a hotel in these ancient cities."

In Oxford, rooms at Brasenose College, established in 1509, are available from £90 a night.

Ms Smith said its "college quarters are packed with the glory and beauty of over 500 years of history".

New College, meanwhile, dating back to 1379, has cloisters and a quad "full of character," according to Ms Smith.

She said: "Inexpensive ensuite rooms in Bodicote House are available from just £70 a night.

"For lovers of Victorian Gothic, Oxford’s Mansfield College is perfect. The main building was designed by architect Basil Champneys and built between 1887 and 1889.

"The accommodation is on the main college site and ensuite rooms are available from £105 a night this December, with breakfast included."

Ms Smith added: "It doesn’t take an educated guess to realise that university accommodation is likely to get very booked up for the Christmas period."

People can use UniversityRooms.com to choose from singles and doubles with ensuite facilities.