Oxford’s storied history and prestigious educational legacy come alive on this captivating tour. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks and discover hidden gems through the eyes of university-educated guides. Step inside one of the university’s prestigious colleges, uncovering the secrets of its collegiate system. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about this celebrated seat of learning, this tour promises an engaging and enlightening journey into Oxford’s remarkable past.
Key Points
- This 1.5-hour tour provides access to historic Oxford colleges and the University Library, offering insight into the city’s renowned collegiate system.
- The tour is led by knowledgeable, university-educated guides who enhance the experience with engaging commentary on Oxford’s landmarks and filming locations.
- Flexible booking options include a "reserve now, pay later" feature and a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to all guests, and audio guides are available for supplemental information.
- With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, the tour is praised for its value, guide knowledge, and the exclusive college access it provides.
Tour Overview
The tour offers visitors the opportunity to experience Oxford with an expert guide. It lasts 1.5 hours and costs from €29.67 per person.
Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. A "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
The tour includes entry to one college and the University Library. Highlights include visiting historic colleges, discovering filming locations, and learning about Oxford and Cambridge’s unique collegiate system.
Accessible to wheelchair users, the tour is led by university-educated guides with local knowledge.
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Highlights and Activities
During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to visit historic colleges such as New College, founded in 1379, and Exeter College, founded in 1314.
The tour includes entry into one college and the University Library, allowing guests to discover locations featured in popular media like Harry Potter, Brideshead Revisited, and Inspector Morse.
Tourists will also learn about the unique collegiate system of Oxford and Cambridge. Plus, they’ll view the iconic Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College.
The knowledgeable, university-educated guides provide insightful commentary throughout the 1.5-hour experience.
Guide and Group Information
University-educated guides with local knowledge lead the tours. They provide a wealth of insights into Oxford’s history, architecture, and famous alumni. Visitors can choose from private or small group tours, all with live English-speaking guides.
| Tour Options | Details |
| — | — |
| Private Tours | Available for personalized experiences |
| Small Group Tours | Intimate settings for optimal engagement |
| Wheelchair Accessible | Accommodations made for all guests |
| Audio Guides | Supplements tour with additional information |
The guides bring the city and university to life, ensuring a memorable and informative experience for all.
Customer Reviews
With over 1,745 reviews, the Oxford City and University Tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Customers praise the tour’s knowledgeable and engaging guides, giving them a 4.6/5 rating. Reviewers also highlight the tour’s value for money, which scores 4.3/5.
Knowledgeable and engaging guides earn a 4.6/5 rating, while the tour’s value for money scores 4.3/5 according to reviewers.
Key customer review highlights include:
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"Our guide’s passion and expertise brought Oxford’s history to life."
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"Entering the college and library was a real treat and made the tour feel exclusive."
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"Highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to get the full Oxford experience."
Important Information
The meeting point for the tour is Trinity College Gate. Visitors should arrive at this location to begin the 1.5-hour experience.
Admission to colleges and the university library may incur additional costs, which apply primarily to private tours. It’s important to note that the colleges and library can close without prior notice, in which case alternative attractions will be provided.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all guests.
While every effort is made to deliver the full itinerary, unforeseen circumstances may require adjustments to the planned activities during the tour.
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Exploring Historic Colleges
As visitors embark on the tour, they’ll have the chance to explore the historic colleges that have shaped Oxford’s rich academic legacy.
The tour includes entry into one college, offering a glimpse into the university’s storied past.
Highlights include:
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Admiring the stunning architecture of colleges like New College (founded 1379) and Exeter College (founded 1314).
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Discovering the locations featured in popular films and TV shows, such as Harry Potter, Brideshead Revisited, and Inspector Morse.
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Learning about the unique collegiate system that has defined Oxford and Cambridge universities for centuries.
Discovering Film Locations
Visitors exploring Oxford’s historic colleges will also delight in discovering the many film locations found throughout the city.
The tour includes stops at sites featured in popular productions like Harry Potter, Brideshead Revisited, and Inspector Morse. Fans can stroll through the Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College, recognizable from various movies and TV shows.
The knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about how Oxford’s distinctive architecture and landmarks have become backdrops for some of the most iconic cinematic scenes.
Whether a film buff or not, this aspect of the tour offers a unique glimpse into Oxford’s enduring appeal on the silver screen.
The Collegiate System Explained
Although Oxford University is renowned for its prestigious colleges, many visitors may not fully grasp the unique collegiate system that defines its academic structure.
The collegiate system is a key aspect of the Oxford experience:
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Each of Oxford’s 39 colleges operates as a semi-autonomous community, housing both students and faculty.
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Colleges provide accommodation, meals, libraries, and recreational facilities for their members.
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Students are primarily affiliated with their college, which oversees their academic progress and social life, in addition to the university’s central administration.
Understanding this collegiate framework enhances one’s appreciation of Oxford’s rich history and vibrant academic culture.
The Sum Up
The Oxford: City and University Tour offers an engaging 1.5-hour experience that combines the rich history of the city with entry to prestigious colleges and the University Library. Led by knowledgeable guides, participants explore historic sites and discover filming locations, all while gaining an insightful glimpse into Oxford’s renowned collegiate system. With options for private or small group tours, this accessible adventure promises an informative and immersive experience for visitors.
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