Oxford City and University Walking Small Group PUBLIC Tour

We’re excited to invite you on an unforgettable journey through the historic heart of Oxford. Join our small group tour as we explore the city’s rich academic heritage, uncovering the lives and legacies of renowned alumni like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll explore iconic colleges, learn about the university’s storied past, and discover hidden gems that bring this captivating city to life. Get ready to learn about the timeless traditions and intellectual vibrancy that make Oxford truly unique.

Key Points

• This guided walking tour of Oxford lasts approximately 2 hours and provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s iconic colleges and notable alumni.
• The tour includes entry to one college or the Divinity School, with optional visits to additional colleges such as Bodleian Library, Christ Church, and New Colleges.
• Expert guides lead the small group of up to 14 travelers, known for their exceptional knowledge, flexibility, and engaging presentations.
• The tour starts at the Oxford Tourist Information Centre and concludes outside New College or the Bodleian Library, with a complimentary map provided.
• The tour is fully accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, and service animals are welcome.

Tour Overview

This guided walking tour of Oxford offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and renowned university.

Over the course of around 2 hours, we’ll explore the city center and visit several iconic colleges, including Balliol, Exeter, or St John’s.

Along the way, we’ll learn about Oxford’s notable alumni, such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.

You’ll receive a complimentary map highlighting the main sights, and our expert guides are praised for their knowledge, flexibility, and engaging presentation.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Oxford, this tour is an excellent way to discover the city’s charming streets and fascinating academic heritage.

Meeting and Ending Points

The Oxford City and University Tour begins at the 15-16 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, outside the Oxford Tourist Information Centre. From there, we’ll embark on our journey, exploring the historic city and prestigious university.

• The tour concludes either outside New College or the Bodleian Library, allowing you to further learn about the rich academic atmosphere.

• We’ll start our adventure at 12:45 PM, ensuring ample time to uncover the city’s hidden gems.

• With a maximum of 14 travelers per tour, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience and have the opportunity to ask questions along the way.

• Please note that some college access may be limited during certain dates, so be sure to check for any scheduling conflicts.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the Oxford City and University Tour, we’ll gain entry to one college or the Divinity School.

However, visits to the Bodleian Library, Christ Church, Magdalen, and New Colleges aren’t included, as those carry an additional cost of £8-£18.

It’s important to note that the colleges are typically closed from December 21 to January 2, so plan your trip accordingly.

Plus, graduation dates may affect college access on September 27-28, November 8, 9, and 16, 2024.

Despite these exclusions, the tour still offers a comprehensive introduction to Oxford’s renowned academic heritage.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Wheelchair users and those with strollers can easily join the Oxford City and University Tour, as the experience is fully accessible.

We welcome service animals, and the tour route is designed to be accommodating for all.

In the event you need to cancel, we offer free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. This ensures maximum flexibility should your plans change.

Additionally:

• Confirmation is provided at booking, unless reserved within 1 day of travel
• Tours operate rain or shine, so dress appropriately
• Refunds are available if the tour is cancelled by the operator

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

With a 4.7-star rating based on 96 reviews, the Oxford City and University Tour has consistently received high praise from travelers.

Guides like Peter, Alasdair, and Jacob are singled out for their exceptional knowledge, flexibility, and ability to entertain. Many travelers express a desire to repeat the tour, highlighting the customization based on group interests.

While some note access challenges during COVID-19 and other closures, the tour operators provide clear explanations.

Notable Alumni

The Oxford City and University Tour not only showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, but also delves into the lives of its most renowned alumni.

You’ll learn about:

• C.S. Lewis, the beloved author of the Chronicles of Narnia, who studied and taught at Magdalen College.

• J.R.R. Tolkien, the renowned fantasy writer, who was a professor at Merton College and drew inspiration from Oxford’s landscapes.

• Oscar Wilde, the celebrated playwright, who attended Magdalen College and left an indelible mark on the university’s literary legacy.

• Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, who studied at Lady Margaret Hall.

• Stephen Hawking, the groundbreaking physicist, who conducted research at the University of Oxford.

College Visits

Although the tour includes entry to one college or the Divinity School, we can optionally visit other prestigious colleges like Bodleian, Christ Church, Magdalen, or New Colleges for an additional fee of £8-£18.

While access to colleges may be limited during certain events like graduation dates or the holiday season, our knowledgeable guides will provide explanations and recommendations to ensure you make the most of your visit.

With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience as we explore the rich history and architecture of Oxford’s renowned academic institutions.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The tour typically runs for around 2 hours, allowing us to cover the key highlights of Oxford’s city center and university while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Our small group size of 14 travelers maximum ensures an intimate and personalized experience. You’ll have ample opportunities to ask questions and engage with your knowledgeable guide.

Some key benefits of the group size include:

• Easier maneuverability through narrow streets and college courtyards
• More personalized attention from the guide
• Flexibility to accommodate individual interests and needs
• Enhanced camaraderie and discussion among the group
• Smoother logistics and transitions between sites

The Sum Up

Join us on this engaging 2-hour exploration of Oxford’s iconic colleges, where we’ll uncover the rich academic heritage of this historic city. With expert guides, a complimentary map, and a personalized experience, you’ll gain insights into the lives of renowned alumni like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the storied past of Oxford’s prestigious institutions.