Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour

Oxford, a city steeped in history and intellectual prowess, beckons visitors to explore its renowned university and charming streets. This private walking tour promises an immersive experience, guiding groups through iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library and the Bridge of Sighs. More than just a sightseeing excursion, this tour delves into the prestigious colleges, offering personalized insights that bring the city’s rich heritage to life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking to deepen your understanding of this remarkable destination, this tour unveils the captivating essence of Oxford.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-hour private walking tour of Oxford city and university, including visits to iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library and filming locations from the Harry Potter series.
• Insider’s perspective on prestigious colleges like Exeter and Balliol, with the option to visit one college entry included in the tour.
• Tailored experience based on participant interests, suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time.
• Accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, with service animals allowed.
• Highly-rated tour with an average of 4.8 based on 14 reviews, praised for the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and personalized attention.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Oxford City & University Tour provides a comprehensive 2-hour private walking experience that showcases the highlights of this historic and captivating city.

Guests will explore the renowned Bodleian Library, admire the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and visit filming locations from the beloved Harry Potter series.

The tour also delves into the prestigious colleges, including Exeter and Balliol, offering an insider’s perspective on Oxford’s rich academic legacy.

Ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour delivers an engaging and informative introduction to the city’s most notable landmarks and hidden gems.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes entry to one college, with additional fees applying for visits to further colleges.

Visitors should be aware of limited college entry during specific dates, such as graduations and Christmas.

The tour doesn’t provide entry to Christ Church, which has an £18 entry fee.

However, foreign language tours are available with 2 days’ notice for an additional cost.

The key inclusions and exclusions are:

1. One college entry included in the tour.
2. Additional fees for visiting more colleges.
3. Limited college access during certain dates.
4. No entry to Christ Church.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point for the Oxford City & University Tour is located at 15-16 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK, right next to the Oxford tourist information centre.

The tour doesn’t have a fixed end point, but participants are provided with a free Oxford map to continue exploring on their own.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, and service animals are allowed.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or short on time, this private walking tour offers a rundown of Oxford’s history and culture, tailored to your interests.

Booking Information

When booking the Oxford City & University Tour, travelers can expect to receive confirmation at the time of booking unless the experience is scheduled within 14 hours of the start time.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins, and the price starts from $64.02 per person, varying by group size.

This tour provides value for those short on time, as it delivers a rundown of Oxford’s history and culture.

Booking this tour is a convenient and flexible option for visitors looking to make the most of their time in the city.

Key booking details:

1. Confirmation received at booking, unless within 14 hours of travel.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
3. Price starts from $64.02 per person, varies by group size.
4. Ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Oxford City & University Tour, with an average rating of 4.8 based on 14 reviews.

Guides are lauded for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and personalized attention, making the tours informative and entertaining.

Reviewers recommend the tour for its rundown of Oxford’s history and culture, providing first-time visitors or those short on time a well-rounded introduction to the city.

The positive feedback reflects the tour’s ability to offer a memorable experience, highlighting the city’s iconic landmarks and colleges in an engaging and insightful manner.

Exploring the Bodleian Library

As the most famous library in Oxford, the Bodleian Library stands as a must-see destination for visitors on the Oxford City & University Tour. This iconic institution boasts a rich history and serves as one of the oldest libraries in Europe.

Visitors can admire its stunning architecture, explore its vast collections, and even step into the famous Divinity School, which was used as a filming location for the Harry Potter films.

The Bodleian offers a truly immersive experience, allowing guests to:

1. Marvel at the library’s impressive Gothic Revival design.
2. Discover rare and ancient manuscripts in the reading rooms.
3. Engage in interactive exhibits showcasing the library’s cultural significance.
4. Appreciate the Bodleian’s role in preserving knowledge and heritage.

Discovering the Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is an iconic landmark that captivates visitors on the Oxford City & University Tour. This stunning structure, modeled after the famous bridge in Venice, spans the River Cherwell, connecting two buildings of Hertford College. As the tour group admires the ornate architecture, the guide explains the bridge’s intriguing history and nickname.

Bridge Features	Historical Significance	Visitor Experience
Ornate limestone façade	Originally constructed in 1914	Stunning photo opportunities
Enclosed pedestrian walkway	Designed by architect Thomas Graham Jackson	Chance to learn about Oxford’s history
Arched windows	Named after the "Bridge of Sighs" in Venice	Sense of tranquility along the river
Gothic revival style	Connects two buildings of Hertford College	Appreciation for the bridge’s architectural beauty
Views of the River Cherwell	Symbolic of the transition from student life to the "real world"	Memorable part of the Oxford walking tour

Visiting Iconic College Campuses

On the Oxford City & University Tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the iconic college campuses that have shaped the city’s rich educational heritage.

These prestigious institutions, such as Exeter College and Balliol College, offer a glimpse into Oxford’s storied past and present.

The tour allows guests to:

1. Discover the architectural wonders that adorn these historic grounds.
2. Learn about the notable alumni who’ve walked these halls, from political leaders to renowned authors.
3. Appreciate the vibrant student life that continues to thrive within the college walls.
4. Gain a deeper understanding of Oxford’s enduring academic excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants should dress casually and be prepared to explore the historic city on foot.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour itself does not include a lunch stop, but visitors are free to take breaks and grab a bite to eat during the 2-hour walking tour as they explore Oxford at their own pace. Many guides are happy to recommend nearby dining options.

Are Photographs Allowed Inside the College Buildings?

Photographs are generally allowed inside the college buildings, but visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules set by the colleges. It’s best to check with the tour guide beforehand to ensure compliance with the policies.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, with highlights spread across Oxford’s historic city center. Participants can expect to cover approximately 2 miles during the 2-hour experience, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and colleges on foot.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour offers foreign language options, with 2 days’ notice and an additional cost. Visitors can explore Oxford’s highlights in their preferred language, ensuring a more immersive and personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour offers a captivating exploration of Oxford’s rich history and prestigious university life. Visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grand Bodleian Library to the picturesque Bridge of Sighs. With personalized insights into renowned colleges, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through Oxford’s cultural heritage, perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.