Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Oxford & England's history will be brought alive on this private guided walking tour of the city and university traditions. Storytelling about student life, college traditions, Henry VIII, Bloody Mary, CS Lewis, Tolkien & even Harry Potter!
You may request any special interests for the tour eg sciences or arts or writers in Oxford etc. We generally always include entrance into at least one Harry Potter film site on this tour too (where and when possible).
Requests for a tour in your foreign language must be received at least 48 hours notice & are therefore also subject to whether a bilingual guide happens to be available or not. Requests for a tour in a foreign language also have a marginal additional cost to book.
Includes entry fees inside one or more colleges or the Divinity school at the Bodleian.
Available options
Uni private English
Uni private
Italian private group
MINIMUM 48 HOURS NOTICE TO BOOK!
Spanish private group tour
Spanish private tour: MINIMUM 48 HOURS NOTICE TO BOOK!
Dutch private group tour
MINIMUM 48 HOURS NOTICE TO BOOK!
French private group tour
MINIMUM 48 HOURS NOTICE TO BOOK!
What's included
If you book at least 2 days ahead & request a foreign language tour, sometimes this is possible.
Entry worth £3 max per person is paid by the guide to enter at least one venue
Please see EXCLUSIONS section below for any dates with limited college entry eg graduations, Xmas
This tour includes entry to one college but option to pay for extra entry fees of extra colleges too
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will introduce this venue but please note that the Bodleian library never permit guides to take tours inside the library.
2
Which college we will see inside will vary from day to day, depending on what is open but generally we see inside one to two colleges and we pass by and introduce many other colleges too
3
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Exeter has a £3 entry fee.
4
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Wadham has a £3 entry fee, if you enter with the guide. It's otherwise free entry without a guide.
5
Stop 5
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Balliol has a £3 entry fee. If we visit inside this college, we usually spend about 20 minutes here.
6
Stop 6
This famous landmark is always featured on our tours
7
Stop 7
We always introduce this famous Oxford sight.
8
Stop 8
This is one of multiple famous sights which we will introduce on the route. This venue is never open to visit inside.
9
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
This college is not open to public.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Sometimes we visit inside this college. It is free entry, when open.
11
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
This college is not open to the public.
12
We often stop by this famous pub- this is where Bill Clinton never inhaled....
13
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Occasionally we visit this tour but at additional cost to pay on the day as this college costs £8 per person to enter
14
Stop 14
Pass by
This is one of multiple colleges which we will introduce on the route. There are 38 colleges at Oxford university and which colleges we may visit inside varies from one day to the next, depending on which colleges may be open.
Trinity has a £3 entry fee.
15
We often visit inside this church. It's free entry.
16
We always introduce the Saxon Tower and the church here from outside.
What's not included
Christmas notice: colleges are usually all closed from approx Dec 21 to Jan 2nd
GRADUATION DATES: we cannot always guarantee entry inside any colleges or venues
2025 Graduation dates, there may be few or no colleges open includes....
May 16 + 17 + 31, July 19 + 29, Aug 1 + 2 + 9, Sep 26 + 27, Nov 7+ 8+9+14 +15 of 2025
Tours are only offered in foreign languages, if adequate advance notice 2 days ahead & at £250 cost!
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
UK
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
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Tripadvisor
4.8
10 reviews
5★
9
4★
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3★
1
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Average duration 90-120 minutes and tour to cater to your special interests (let us know on the day or in advance).
Tours are in English but where possible and with at least 24 hours notice, we may be able to provide a tour in a foreign language.
Please note that as the university colleges are private institutions, we can't always guarantee entry to colleges but it is very rare that we cannot get entry into at least 1 or 2 colleges on the tour. Please take note of any advertised university graduation dates mentioned below, as those dates can have less options of colleges to visit.
Meeting point
Meet your guide wearing red lanyard. Meeting next to our black sign, OUTSIDE Oxford Tourist info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS. This is also next to the Oxfam shop which has a green sign above its shop.
Important notes
• Please arrive 5 minutes early, before the start of your tour.
• Average duration 90-120 minutes and tour to cater to your special interests (let us know on the day or in advance).
• Tours are in English but where possible and with at least 24 hours notice, we may be able to provide a tour in a foreign language.
• IMPORTANT: any bookings of tours to start before 12.00, you need to book by 21.00 the night before. Afternoon start time tours, you can book a few hours notice only.
• Any requests to start tours before 12.30 start time, please note only a few colleges open before 1pm, so while we can still deliver a great tour at any time of the day, it's recommended to start tour in afternoon, to have more options to go inside colleges.
• Please note that as the university colleges are private institutions, we can't always guarantee entry to colleges but it is very rare that we cannot get entry into at least 1 or 2 colleges on the tour. Please take note of any advertised university graduation dates mentioned below, as those dates can have less options of colleges to visit.
GRADUATION DATES 2019:
Jan 19, March 2, March 9, May 4, May 11, July 13, July 23, July 26, July 27, Aug 2, Aug 3, Sep 14, Sep 27, Sep 28, Nov 1, Nov 2, Nov 9
About Oxford
Oxford is a historic university city renowned for its prestigious academic institutions and stunning architecture. With a rich history dating back to the 9th century, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
University of Oxford
One of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford is a must-visit for its historic colleges, libraries, and museums.
Historical/Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to £15 for guided tours
Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a stunning example of architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Historical/Cultural
1 to 2 hours
Free (some exhibitions may have a fee)
Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is the UK's oldest public museum, housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities from around the world.
Museum
1 to 3 hours
Free (some special exhibitions may have a fee)
Christ Church College
One of the most famous colleges at the University of Oxford, Christ Church College is known for its stunning architecture and historic significance.
Historical/Cultural
1 to 2 hours
£12 for a guided tour
Oxford Botanic Garden
The oldest botanic garden in the UK, Oxford Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Nature
1 to 2 hours
£7.50
Must-Try Local Dishes
Oxfordshire Sausages
Made from locally sourced pork and seasoned with herbs, these sausages are a staple of Oxfordshire cuisine.
Main Course
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Punting Lunch
A traditional Oxford experience, a punting lunch typically includes sandwiches, pastries, and drinks enjoyed while gliding along the River Cherwell.
Lunch
Various options available, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Oxfordshire Cheese
Locally produced cheeses, such as Cotswold cheese, are a must-try for cheese lovers.
Snack/Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.
Popular Activities
Punting on the River Cherwell
Cycling tours
Hiking in the Cotswolds
Visiting the Oxford Botanic Garden
Punting with a picnic
Enjoying a spa day
Guided tours of Oxford's colleges and museums
Attending theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with various events and festivals.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oxford is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- London Heathrow Airport • 60 miles (97 km)
- London Luton Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
By train
Oxford Railway Station
By bus
Oxford Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in Oxford is comprehensive and affordable, covering most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
North Oxford
Jericho
Cowley Road
Day trips
Blenheim Palace
8 miles (13 km) • Half day to full day
A stunning baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and offers beautiful gardens and parkland.
The Cotswolds
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
A picturesque region known for its charming villages, rolling hills, and historic sites, the Cotswolds offers a quintessential English countryside experience.
Stratford-upon-Avon
60 miles (97 km) • Full day
The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with historic sites, theaters, and beautiful gardens.
Festivals
Oxford Literary Festival • March
Oxfordshire Artweeks • May and June
Oxford Pride • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Bodleian Library and other historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Book guided tours of Oxford's colleges in advance, especially during peak season.
- Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting local markets and independent restaurants.
- Take a punting tour on the River Cherwell for a unique and relaxing experience.
- Use the park-and-ride facilities to avoid traffic and parking challenges in the city center.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
![[Value-Packed Chinese/English] Oxford and Cambridge Day Trip from London](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/eakltant51s4qbjtydew.jpg)