Strolling round the University buildings in Oxford lags behind enjoying a cuppa or a pint, according to a guide of things to do while on holiday in England.

Writers for the latest Rough Guide to England, which is used by thousands of tourists from around the world, have placed a visit to Oxford at a lowly number 30 in the list of must-sees in England.

The lure of the city's dreaming spires attracts about eight million tourists every year.

But a visit to Christ Church College or the Sheldonian Theatre is down the list of things to do behind stopping for afternoon tea, visiting a pub for a pint and climbing Blackpool Tower.

Oxford City Councillor Maureen Christian, responsible for tourism, said: "Oxford is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

"The fact that we are inundated by visitors all through the year, not only in the summer, shows most people think we are much higher than that."

The seventh edition of the Rough Guide to England is expected to sell thousands of copies worldwide, and is translated into German, Spanish, Czech, Italian, Polish and Russian.

While placing Oxford at number 30, the guide adds: "The famous old university boasts a wealth of beautiful old buildings; many associated with former alumni."

The guide lists the main colleges and the city centre, but neglects to provide information on Cowley Road, Headington or Jericho.

It also tells tourists that most visitors think of academic institutions and honey-coloured stone buildings set in ivy-clad quadrangles.

"Much of this is accurate enough but although the university dominates central Oxford both physically and mentally, the wider city has an entirely different character."

The list of things to do is topped by a visit to seaside town Southwold, but a trip to Oxford is recommended higher than varsity rival Cambridge, in 35th place.

A spokesman for Oxford City Council said: "The city is visited by nearly eight million tourists a year who enjoy our walking tours around the City, our parks, the fantastic array of shops, restaurants and cultural life."

Some of the city's most historic buildings are to be bathed in light this year. Lights illuminating St Michael at Northgate Church are already switched on and will be followed by St Magdalen Church, Exeter College Chapel and Wesley Memorial Chapel.