Oxford College Gardens- Includes Spaces Closed to the Public

Exploring the prestigious colleges of Oxford offers a unique opportunity to uncover the city’s rich academic heritage. The Oxford College Gardens tour takes visitors beyond the public spaces, granting exclusive access to the meticulously maintained grounds and architectural gems typically closed off. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour promises an immersive experience, delving into the colleges’ functions and student life. From the stunning Exeter gardens to the botanical delights of Magdalen, this two-hour adventure unveils the hidden gems that make Oxford’s academic landscape truly captivating.

Key Points

• The Oxford College Gardens tour allows access to spaces typically closed to the public, including Exeter, St. Johns, and Balliol colleges.
• The tour focuses on college functions, student life, and the contributions of botanist Charles Daubeny.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests aged 10 and above.
• Optional add-ons include visits to Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens for an additional £9.
• The tour is led by an experienced guide with hundreds of 5-star reviews, ensuring a high-quality experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Oxford College Gardens tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the stunning green spaces and historical architecture of Oxford’s renowned colleges, including areas typically closed to the public.

Explore the private college gardens of Oxford and experience the stunning green spaces and historical architecture typically closed to the public.

Priced from £100.00 per person, the 2-hour walking tour allows guests to explore these private college gardens.

Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour provides an immersive experience, with the chance to learn about college functions, student life, and the contributions of botanist Charles Daubeny.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the Oxford Tourist Info Centre on 15 Broad Street, the tour includes entry to colleges like Exeter, St Johns, and Balliol, subject to availability.

Visitors have the option to add Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens for an additional £9 entry fee.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about college functions, student life, and admire the blooming flowers.

Guests will also discuss the contributions of Charles Daubeny to the field of botany.

The 2-hour experience allows visitors to explore spaces typically closed to the public, providing a unique glimpse into Oxford’s rich academic heritage.

Accessibility and Guide Information

Although the tour is led by an experienced guide and director of Visit Oxford Tours with hundreds of 5-star reviews, the live tour guide is fluent in English and the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. The tour caters to a wide range of guests, offering a seamless experience.

| Guide Information | Accessibility | Additional Notes |

| — | — | — |

| Experienced | Wheelchair Friendly | Suitable for 10+ Years |

| Knowledgeable | Multilingual Guide | Weather-Appropriate Attire |

| 5-Star Rated | Inclusive Experience | Itinerary Subject to Change |

Meeting Point and Identification

Guests can find the meeting point for the Oxford College Gardens tour at the Oxford Tourist Info Centre, located at 15 Broad Street, OX1 3AS.

The guide will wear a red lanyard and meet travelers by the red sign. This ensures an easy and efficient start to the tour.

The guide is an experienced professional with hundreds of 5-star reviews, so guests can expect a high-quality tour.

With the meeting point clearly identified, guests can arrive on time and begin their exploration of the college gardens that are usually closed to the public.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The Oxford College Gardens tour includes entry to several prestigious colleges in Oxford, such as Exeter, St. Johns, and Balliol, subject to availability. Guests can also opt to add an additional £9 to visit Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens. The tour provides insight into college functions, student life, and the opportunity to admire blooming flowers. An experienced guide well-versed in the history and botany of the area will lead the tour.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| – Entry to Exeter, St. Johns, and Balliol colleges | – Entry fee for Magdalen College or Botanical Gardens (optional £9) |

| – Learn about college life and see blooming flowers | – Guided tour for children under 10 years |

| – Tour led by experienced guide with 5-star reviews | – Refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours in advance |

Outdoor Attire and Weather Conditions

As the tour proceeds regardless of rain, guests are advised to dress for all weather conditions.

Since most activities take place outdoors, visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire. This may include jackets, umbrellas, or rain boots, as the tour will continue in light rain.

Dressing in layers is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves navigating college grounds.

While the tour guide will do their best to accommodate, guests should be prepared for potential changes in the itinerary due to inclement weather or college availability.

Suitability for Children

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old. The gardens and college grounds may pose risks for younger visitors, and the content may not be engaging for them.

However, the tour offers an enriching experience for adults and older children. Here are four reasons why this tour may not be ideal for young children:

1. Extensive walking required

2. Potential for overcrowding in narrow spaces

3. Detailed historical and academic information

4. Lack of interactive elements designed for children

Guests are advised to consider their children’s interests and abilities before booking this tour.

Potential Changes to Itinerary

Although the itinerary aims to include specific colleges, it may change based on their availability. Factors like college events, maintenance, or other bookings can impact access.

The tour may need to substitute alternative colleges if the planned ones are unavailable. Guests will still enjoy exploring Oxford’s renowned academic spaces and learning about their history and architecture.

While the exact lineup can’t be guaranteed, the experienced guide will adapt the tour to provide an enriching experience showcasing the best of what Oxford’s college gardens have to offer.

Flexibility ensures guests make the most of their time in this historic city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate special interests. Guests can opt to include additional college visits or focus the tour on specific topics like botany or architecture for an extra fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Students receive a 10% discount while seniors aged 65+ can get 15% off the regular price. Discounts are automatically applied at checkout with valid ID.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour, but visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Guides may provide guidance on appropriate photography etiquette throughout the visit.

What Happens in Case of Extreme Weather Conditions?

The tour proceeds regardless of the weather, as most activities are held outdoors. Guests should dress appropriately for rain, as the tour continues even in inclement conditions to provide the full experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour proceeds regardless of weather, with most activities outdoors, so guests should dress appropriately. Refreshments aren’t provided, but there may be opportunities to purchase them during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Oxford College Gardens tour offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the stunning gardens and architecture of some of the city’s most prestigious colleges. Led by an experienced guide, the tour provides insights into college functions and student life, as well as the chance to visit Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Oxford.

You can check availability for your dates here: