Oxford Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour by Alumni™

Oxford , United Kingdom

Oxford Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour by Alumni™

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(95 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a 90-minute walking tour through the magical world of Harry Potter, right here in Oxford. Led by a University of Oxford alumnus or current student, this tour is perfect for fans who want to follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters.

You’ll visit the bookshop where J.K. Rowling first presented her books, see where Emma Watson not only acted but also studied, and pass by familiar faces like Nearly Headless Nick. You'll recognise the arches and gothic pinnacles seen in the films — some around the famous Divinity School, others hidden in plain sight throughout the city.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to New College, one of Oxford’s most beautiful colleges, where you’ll find the very tree under which Draco Malfoy was turned into a ferret. From quiet cloisters to scenes straight out of the wizarding world, this is a must for anyone who’s ever dreamed of Hogwarts.

Available options

Spanish tour

English tour

Mandarin tour

What's included

Learn about J.K Rowling’s relationship with Oxford

Oxford University Student or Graduate Guide

Discover how many other films have used Oxford as their setting

Learn about key cast members who were brought up in the city

Entry to New College

Learn about the Oxford locations of the Harry Potter films

Detailed itinerary

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.

Learn about the connections the movie industry has to the University of Oxford and which actors have grown up in the city. You may be surprised quite how many iconic scenes and Hollywood actors have connections here!

Stop 3

Get an introduction to the University of Oxford, and understand how closely linked Harry Potter is to both the university and the city as a whole

Stop 4

Outside a library with a long history, see the likely inspiration for Nearly Headless Nick, everyone’s favourite ghost! Also hear about the scenes shot inside and around the Bodleian, both for Harry Potter and other Hollywood films.

A site which has featured in multiple famous movies, the Radcliffe Square is surrounded by historic buildings and is very much at the heart of the city.

Enter New College, one of the most iconic film sites for the Harry Potter films. A certain ferret gymnastics display took place in the cloisters here!

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

38 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

57 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 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.

##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.