Oxford University Walking Tour by Alumni™ & Optional New College
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Walk through Oxford with someone who knows it from the inside. Our guides are Oxford students or graduates who combine personal experience with a deep knowledge of the city’s history and architecture. The 90-minute tour includes landmarks like the Sheldonian Theatre, Radcliffe Square, and the Bridge of Sighs.
The tour is entirely outdoors, focusing on Oxford’s streets, squares, and college exteriors. If selected when booking, AFTER THE WALKING TOUR ENDS, your experience can be enriched with a self-guided visit to New College, one of the university’s most historic and picturesque colleges.
You’ll pass through quiet college lanes and meadows where Lewis Carroll imagined Alice in Wonderland, C. S. Lewis envisioned the gateway to Narnia, and where Tolkien and J. K. Rowling studied, lived, and found inspiration. Along the way, you’ll admire the city’s striking mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
Available options
Spanish tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Mandarin tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
English tour with New College
New College access: The college self-guided visit takes place at the end of the tour. Access requires a short walk to the gate on Holywell St.<br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Mandarin tour with New College
New College access: The college self-guided visit takes place at the end of the tour. Access requires a short walk to the gate on Holywell St.<br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Spanish tour with New College
New College access: The college self-guided visit takes place at the end of the tour. Access requires a short walk to the gate on Holywell St.<br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
English tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
What's included
Exceptional access to interiors (WHEN ACCESSIBLE)
Oxford University Student or Graduate Guide
Learn about the Oxbridge application process from a student
Learn about Oxford history and anecdotes
Gain an insight into student life at an elite university
Enter New College (WHEN YOU BOOK THIS OPTION)
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet the guide OUTSIDE the address, not inside. The location is not part of our business. The meeting point is the RED PILLAR MAILBOX in front of 11 Broad Street.
Your guide wears a royal blue item of clothing with a heraldic shield—this may be a jacket, cap, beanie, scarf, or polo shirt.
2
Stop 2
Gain an overview of one of the oldest universities in the world while admiring the first of many architecturally grand buildings.
3
Stop 3
Take a look into some of the strange traditions that come with an old and prestigious university. From pranks to tortoises, student life certainly isn’t boring here!
4
Stop 4
Learn about the 13 busts visible atop the pillars, and get an insiders’ correction of a common misconception.
5
Hear about the intricacies of the Oxford graduation ceremony, and, if possible, take a look inside the Divinity School which was famously used in the Harry Potter films.
6
Stop 6
A library with a long history, find out about some of the treasures kept among the 12 million books here.
7
Stop 7
A dome that is famous for being one of the Oxford Dreaming Spires, and a Camera which has nothing to do with photography? Contradictions abound here, and your guide will make sure you don’t get lost in them!
8
Stop 8
All Souls is a very prestigious college which requires an incredibly stringent examination to be completed by all prospective students. Your guide can give you examples of past questions; how do you think you would fare?
9
The University Church is a great location to understand some of the tensions between so called ‘Town and Gown’, and of course is a stunning building to appreciate!
10
A controversial piece of university history, learn why there have been protests against honouring one of the main funders of the College.
11
One of the most famous sites in Oxford, there are many powerful figures associated with this college!
12
##IMPORTANT: This option is available only if selected at the time of booking.
Access times for New College – Spring/Summer 2025 (10th March to 14th October):
Open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Last entry at 4:30 pm. All visitors must leave the premises by 5:00 pm.
The self-guided visit to New College takes place at the end of the walking tour. Access involves a short walk to the entrance on Holywell Street.
Please keep these timings in mind when booking this option.
What's not included
Gratuities
Indoor access to structures unless booked in advance
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
86 reviews
5★
74
4★
5
3★
3
2★
1
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
237 reviews
5★
220
4★
7
3★
4
2★
2
1★
4
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
##IMPORTANT: Before booking New College, please note the following timings: Spring/Summer 2025 (10th March to 14th October): Open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm Last entry at 4:30 pm All visitors must leave the premises by 5:00 pm If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact us.
New College is generally 10 to 15 minutes away from the tour’s end point. Please keep this in mind before booking.
Wheelchair users are welcome on the tour. Please note that one small area is inaccessible, though it only accounts for a few minutes of the route. Some parts of New College may also be difficult to access. We advise caution due to uneven surfaces, curbs, and potential trip hazards. Please also be mindful of vehicles and bicycles, particularly in busy areas.
Not recommended for travellers who cannot complete a 90-minute walk
Meeting point
Important:
meet the guide OUTSIDE the address, not inside. The location is not part of our business. The meeting point is the RED PILLAR MAILBOX in front of 11 Broad Street.
Your guide wears a royal blue item of clothing with a heraldic shield—this may be a jacket, cap, beanie, scarf, or polo shirt.
Important notes
Please present your ticket to your guide at the red pillar box outside 11 Broad Street, Oxford. The guide will be wearing a blue uniform item, hat, or scarf with the Alumni Tours heraldic crest. We recommend arriving at least 5 minutes early to allow time to locate your guide and check in.
- Please present your booking confirmation at the gate of New College, stating that you have booked with "Alumni Tours".
##IMPORTANT: (the company cannot take responsibility for issues caused by not following these guidelines):
Late arrivals cannot be refunded. Once the tour starts, the guide cannot be contacted. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, unless otherwise agreed, especially for large groups.
Snacks and drinks are allowed, but not inside college buildings.
The walk lasts 90 minutes at a steady pace and includes uneven surfaces. Wheelchair users are welcome, but the tour is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
No scheduled toilet breaks. If you leave the group for an extended time, you may not be able to find them again upon your return. This is at the customer’s own risk.
Dress appropriately and wear suitable footwear. Bring water in warm weather.
Standard tours are conducted in English, but guides come from a cosmopolitan mix of students and alumni; please be prepared for a variety of accents.
Pets are not permitted inside colleges, except for guide dogs.
Complaints must be directed to management by phone or email. Please do not address complaints to the guide, as they are not authorized to handle them.
Follow the guide’s instructions and local safety rules. Inform your guide if unwell
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
Instant confirmation
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