Oxford: Harry Potter Tour Public New College Tour

Traveling to Oxford and hoping to step into the magical world of Harry Potter? This Harry Potter-themed tour at New College offers fans a chance to see some of the most iconic film locations while exploring the historic university city. It’s a great option if you’re keen on combining cinematic magic with Oxford’s stunning architecture, all at a reasonable price.

What truly stands out about this tour is the personalized experience provided by expert guides, the inside access to New College film sites, and the inclusion of entry fees in the price. However, it’s important to note that access to some film locations like the Divinity School or Christ Church College is not included, which might influence your plans if those sites are high on your list.

This tour is best suited for Harry Potter fans, history lovers, and those who want a guided glimpse into Oxford’s filmography without the crowds. If you’re after a detailed, value-packed experience with a friendly guide, this could be just what you’re looking for.

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Key Points

Exclusive access to New College filming locations, including the cloisters where Malfoy’s transformation took place.
Expert guides offer detailed insights and fun trivia to bring the Harry Potter universe alive.
Entry fees worth up to £12.50 included in the tour, adding great value.
Personalized experience with private group bookings, avoiding crowded tours.
Additional entry to the Divinity School available for a small fee (£2.50).
Limited access to some notable sites like Christ Church and the Bodleian’s medieval library, which are not part of this tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Harry Potter Tour at New College

Looking for more options in Oxford? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Introduction: What to Expect

Starting outside the Oxford tourist info centre, the tour begins with a friendly guide sporting a Hogwarts gown and/or a bright red “I Love Oxford” lanyard. From that moment, you’re welcomed into the world of Harry Potter as your guide, often someone with a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm, takes you through the filming locations at New College and shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.

The tour tends to run as a private experience for small groups—usually a minimum of four adults—meaning you’ll get a more tailored, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger group tours. This setup also allows for more interaction and personalized attention from the guide.

The ticket price of around $53 per person includes not just the guided experience but also entry to New College, a significant perk since the college’s own entry fee can be up to £12.50. If you wish to explore further, there’s an option to add self-guided access to the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library for just £2.50.

The Heart of the Tour: Filming Locations & Interesting Facts

The main highlight of this tour is a walk past New College’s cloisters, which served as a key filming location in the Harry Potter films. This is where scenes like Malfoy being transfigured into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire were shot. If you’re a fan of that particular moment, standing in the actual spot makes it all the more memorable.

The guide, often a knowledgeable Oxford local, shares tidbits about the filming process and the college’s real history. For instance, they might tell you about the college’s medieval architecture, the gardens, and how the film set designers creatively repurposed Oxford’s historic buildings for the movies.

On days when the cloisters are closed (for instance, during Christmas or graduation periods), the tour proceeds but skips that part. This flexibility helps ensure you still get a worthwhile experience, even if some filming locations aren’t accessible.

Exploring Oxford’s Historic Charm

While the focus is on Harry Potter, the tour also allows you to appreciate Oxford’s stunning medieval halls, gardens, and university architecture. Walking through these historic sites provides context for the college’s role in the films and the city’s scholarly atmosphere.

The guide is expected to share exciting facts about Oxford’s history and Harry Potter ties, making the experience both educational and fun. Reviewers mention that guides are seasoned storytellers, often adding humor and personal anecdotes, which help bring the locations to life.

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Access and Additional Opportunities

Entry to New College is included in the tour, often saving visitors around £12.50. The college itself is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, cloisters, and gardens that are worth exploring after the guided walk. For those interested in diving deeper into the Harry Potter filming sites, the option to add self-guided entry to the Divinity School at Bodleian Library for just £2.50 is available. The Divinity School is where some interior shots were filmed, but note that access inside the Bodleian’s medieval library is not included and requires separate tickets.

It’s worth noting that the tour does not include other popular sites like Christ Church College or the Bodleian’s main library. If those are on your must-see list, you’ll need separate tours or tickets.

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The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point & Duration

The tour begins near the Oxford Tourist Information Centre at 15 Broad Street, where your guide will be waiting with a black sign, dressed in Hogwarts gear or a bright red lanyard. Expect a tour that lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable and thorough experience without feeling rushed.

Group Size & Price

Since the tour is now offered mainly as a private experience, it’s ideal for small groups or private parties, enhancing personalization. The price of $53 includes the guided experience and college entry fees, which is good value considering the insider knowledge and access involved.

Timing & Closures

Be aware that certain dates, especially around Christmas or university graduations, might see some locations closed. The organizers always advise travelers beforehand about potential closures, and the tour will adapt accordingly, ensuring you still get a quality experience.

Cancellation & Flexibility

Travel plans can change, and this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You also have the option to book now and pay later, providing some flexibility to fit your schedule.

The Experience of Other Travelers

Reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, often mentioning specific guides like “a true Oxford wizard” who makes the stories come alive. Many appreciate the good value for money, noting that including entry fees makes the tour more affordable and convenient.

Some reviewers comment on the quality of the insider information, saying it added depth to their appreciation of Oxford’s architecture and Harry Potter filming secrets. Others mention that the tour’s focus on New College makes it a more intimate experience, especially compared to larger, busier city tours.

A few note that access to filming locations can sometimes be restricted during busy periods or special events, but guides are upfront about this and will provide alternative highlights.

The Sum Up

This Harry Potter-themed tour at New College provides a friendly, immersive experience for fans and history enthusiasts alike. It offers inside access to key film locations, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore Oxford’s medieval charm—all at a reasonable price that includes college entry fees.

It’s best suited for those who value a personalized, small-group experience and are eager to learn fun trivia while soaking in the historic atmosphere. While not covering every Harry Potter filming site, it hits the highlights that make Oxford a magical film backdrop.

If you’re after an engaging, cost-effective way to see Oxford through a Harry Potter lens, this tour strikes a fine balance between entertainment, education, and value. Just keep in mind the potential closures and plan your visit accordingly for the best experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but some sites like the medieval library are not accessible to children under 11. The tour itself is engaging for all ages interested in Harry Potter and Oxford.

How long is the tour?
The guided experience lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you enough time to absorb the sights and stories without feeling rushed.

Are the entry fees included?
Yes, the cost includes entry to New College, worth up to £12.50 per person, along with the guide’s insights.

Can I visit other Harry Potter filming sites?
This tour focuses on New College and nearby locations. For other sites like Christ Church or the Bodleian’s interior, separate tours or tickets are needed.

What happens if some locations are closed?
The tour will proceed but may skip certain sites if they are temporarily closed, such as during graduations or Christmas. Guides will advise you beforehand about closures.

Can I add extra access to the Divinity School?
Yes, for £2.50, you can include a self-guided entry to the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library after the tour.

In summary, this tour offers an engaging, well-priced way to see Oxford through Harry Potter’s eyes. It balances historic charm with cinematic magic and is perfect for fans who want a more intimate and informative experience.