Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford Including New College

Oxford , United Kingdom

Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford Including New College

Active

(909 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Muggles welcome! Go inside New College and the Bodleian Library on a magical adventure into the medieval buildings of Oxford University. With a fun Oxford student guide, complete with a quiz, the odd prop, and terrible jokes and puns! Suitable for devout Harry Potter fans, along with those publicly unwilling to admit their devotion, and those with no prior interest but looking for a fun way to explore! The tour includes other famous books such as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, the Hobbit, and Lord of the Rings - along with the history of Oxford University.

Available options

2022/23

What's included

Professional guide

Detailed itinerary

Not quite Flourish and Blotts but as close as a muggle bookshop can be. Blackwells is the dream of every Ravenclaw, holding approximately holding 250,000 volumes, which translates to 3 miles of books! This is even more impressive knowing that their first store measured only 12 feet square, and held just 700 used books.
Don't forget to have a look at the roof of the building from a distance. Don't worry the stone figure you'll see on top isn't someone petrified. It is a statue by Antony Gormley; one of a series of sculptures called “Another Time II”.

Stop 2

One of the largest libraries in England and home to archaic medieval books on spells and wizards!

Learn about how magic or occult sciences were studied at Oxford! These were not seen as completely separate from science until the end of the seventeenth century, so alchemy and astrology were researched here until then.

Despite the name, it is one of the oldest Colleges at Oxford, built-in 1379. With its medieval cloisters and beautiful spaces it is easy to see why they decided to film multiple scenes for Harry Potter here!

Stop 5

A truly iconic Oxford landmark! Learn about the underground passages students take and the rules librarians enforce. Not quite as intensely as Madam Pince though.

Externally covered. The Radcliffe Camera is not accessible to visitors without a Library pass or a student pass

An iconic door hidden to the side would be inspirational for another famous children's writer, CS Lewis for his famous Chronicles Of Narnia. Hear how he and Tolkien would meet weekly and take inspiration from the Oxford landscape

Externally covered. The group will not enter the church but the church can be visited for free before or after the tour.

This dramatic site is not only one of the oldest parts of the University, but it was also used in various scenes when filming of Harry Potter was taking place in Oxford. Instantly recognisable as a Harry Potter site, with one of the best examples of medieval architecture in England.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

140 reviews

5★

114

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

769 reviews

5★

665

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

During peak season (June–August), access to the Divinity School is extremely limited due to frequent closures and high demand, and may not be included in the tour. While some companies may claim otherwise, we prefer to be honest upfront rather than risk disappointment on the day.

Meeting point

Please ensure you are there 15 minute before the tour is set to start, and you can be check-in at the Oxford Tourist Information building. If this is not open for any reason, please wait outside.

Important notes

Please be at 5 Broad Street 10 minutes before the start of the tour. There are other tours leaving at the same time, at the same place; please ensure you are on the Harry Potter Tour provided by Footprints Tours. We cannot take responsibility if you do not check with the guide.

If you do not do these two things, it is likely you will miss this fantastic experience, which will cause great sadness for both parties!

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.