Oxford: City and University Tour, Including College Entry

History

Oxford, home to one of the world’s oldest universities, founded in the 11th century, is a city steeped in academic and cultural history. Its iconic “dreaming spires” have inspired generations of scholars, writers, and thinkers, making it a global center for learning and a backdrop for literary and cinematic works, from Harry Potter to Brideshead Revisited and Inspector Morse.

The University of Oxford’s collegiate system, unique alongside Cambridge, comprises over 30 colleges, each with its own history and traditions. Colleges like New College (1379) and Exeter College (1314) have educated famous alumni, including Dr. William Spooner, whose linguistic slips gave rise to “spoonerisms.” Oxford’s blend of medieval architecture, literary heritage, and modern fame makes it a captivating destination for history and pop culture enthusiasts.

Highlights

• Admire Oxford’s iconic “dreaming spires” and historic architecture
• Tour historic colleges like New College and Exeter with a university-educated guide
• Visit filming locations from Harry Potter, Brideshead Revisited, and Inspector Morse
• Learn about Oxford’s unique collegiate system and famous alumni
• See Hertford College’s Bridge of Sighs, a romantic architectural gem

Full Description

Embark on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour through the heart of Oxford, led by a university-educated guide with deep knowledge of the city and its prestigious university. Meet at the Oxford Walking Tour sign on Broad Street, outside Trinity College’s blue gates, and begin your journey through one of the world’s oldest academic centers. This wheelchair-accessible tour, available for private or small groups, offers an intimate exploration of Oxford’s historic colleges and landmarks.

Step inside iconic colleges like New College, founded in 1379 and featured in Harry Potter films, and Exeter College, established in 1314 and a favorite for its historic charm. Visit the University Library, a cornerstone of Oxford’s academic legacy, and learn about the unique collegiate system that defines Oxford and Cambridge. Your guide will share stories of famous alumni, including Dr. William Spooner, whose “spoonerisms” are celebrated in New College’s Dining Hall, and point out filming locations from Harry Potter, Brideshead Revisited, and Inspector Morse.

Marvel at Hertford College’s Bridge of Sighs, a 13th-century architectural gem, and hear how Oxford inspired literary classics and modern media. With insider facts and engaging narratives, this tour weaves together the city’s academic prestige, cultural influence, and cinematic fame. Note that college and library access may vary due to closures, with suitable alternatives provided, ensuring a rich and seamless experience.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, literature fans, and pop culture enthusiasts eager to explore Oxford’s academic and cinematic legacy. Led by a university-educated guide, it offers insider insights into the collegiate system, famous alumni, and filming locations, making it a perfect blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages and interests.

Wheelchair accessibility, a compact 1.5-hour duration, and the option for private or small groups ensure a personalized, inclusive experience. With entry to historic colleges and the University Library included, plus the chance to see iconic sites like the Bridge of Sighs, this tour offers exceptional value and a memorable dive into Oxford’s storied past and present.

What’s Included

• College admission (New College, Exeter, or suitable alternatives)
• University Library admission (subject to availability)
• Guided walking tour
• University-educated guide

Itinerary

• Meet at the Oxford Walking Tour sign on Broad Street, outside Trinity College
• Visit New College, a Harry Potter filming location
• Explore Exeter College and its historic architecture
• Stop at the University Library to learn about the collegiate system
• See Hertford College’s Bridge of Sighs
• Discover filming locations from Brideshead Revisited and Inspector Morse
• Conclude near the starting point on Broad Street

Pricing

From $37 per person

Meeting Point

Meet at the Oxford Walking Tour sign on Broad Street, outside the blue gates of Trinity College, OX1 3AS. Search “Oxford Walking Tours” on Google Maps for the exact location.

How to Get There

• By Foot: The meeting point is a 5-minute walk from Oxford’s city center or Carfax Tower via Broad Street.
• By Bus: Stagecoach or Oxford Bus Company routes (e.g., 1, 5, or S1) stop at High Street or Magdalen Street, a 2-minute walk to Broad Street.
• By Train: Oxford Railway Station is a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride to the meeting point.
• By Car: Park at Westgate Shopping Centre Car Park (OX1 1TR), a 7-minute walk to Broad Street; limited street parking is available.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets
• Weather-appropriate clothing (tour is mostly outdoors)
• Camera for photos of colleges and the Bridge of Sighs

Know Before You Go

• College and University Library access may be subject to closures; suitable alternative colleges will be visited if necessary.
• Private tour college admissions may incur extra/optional fees.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, with paved routes suitable for most mobility aids.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The “reserve now, pay later” option allows booking without upfront payment.
• The tour involves moderate walking on cobbled surfaces, with some steps in colleges.

Reviews

• Fantastic tour! Simon’s knowledge and stories were captivating. Highly recommend!
• Wonderful experience! Simon made Oxford’s history come alive. A must-do!
• Great tour! Sergei’s passion for Oxford was infectious. Loved the colleges!