Oxford: Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour

Oxford’s historic streets beckon visitors to explore its iconic landmarks. The "Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour" offers a captivating 45-minute journey, guiding participants through architectural marvels like the renowned Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera. With a companion app providing a self-guided option, the tour promises an enriching experience for those eager to uncover the city’s rich academic heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this walking tour provides an opportunity to learn about the storied past of one of the world’s most renowned university cities.

Key Points

• A 45-minute walking tour exploring Oxford’s historic landmarks, including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, and more.
• Tour priced at SEK 147 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
• Provides access to a companion app for a self-guided journey, allowing visitors to explore Oxford’s rich history and architecture at their own pace.
• Highlights the striking Gothic architecture, scholarly legacy, and historical significance of the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
• Offers a chance to admire the Radcliffe Camera’s beautiful Palladian design, the main reading room for the Bodleian Library, and a key highlight of the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Oxford Walking Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive 45-minute exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and historic sites.

A 45-minute walking tour of Oxford’s iconic landmarks and historic sites, providing a comprehensive exploration for visitors.

Priced at SEK 147 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve without an upfront payment.

Starting from the Oxford Visitor Information Point, the tour takes guests through key university buildings, including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College.

With access to a companion app, participants can continue their self-guided journey after the tour, discovering more of Oxford’s rich history and architecture.

Exploring the Bodleian Library

A centerpiece of the Oxford Walking Tour, the Bodleian Library commands attention with its striking Gothic architecture and rich academic legacy.

Visitors can explore the iconic Divinity School, an ornate 15th-century lecture hall, and the Duke Humfrey’s Library, which has adorned the silver screen in various films.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore the library’s storied past, learning about its role as one of the oldest libraries in Europe and a hub of scholarly research.

Guests marvel at the grand interiors and gain insights into the university’s intellectual heritage that has shaped Oxford’s identity over centuries.

Admiring the Radcliffe Camera

Towering majestically over the surrounding structures, the Radcliffe Camera captivates visitors with its striking circular design and Palladian architectural style.

Completed in 1749, this iconic building serves as the main reading room for the Bodleian Library. Visitors can admire its beautiful symmetry, intricate stonework, and impressive scale as they explore the heart of Oxford’s historic campus.

The Radcliffe Camera’s grand dome and colonnaded facade make it a true architectural gem, standing as a testament to the city’s rich academic history and cultural heritage.

Its impressive presence is a highlight of any Oxford walking tour.

Visiting the University Church of St Mary the Virgin

As visitors stroll through the historic heart of Oxford, they can’t help but be drawn to the commanding presence of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. This magnificent structure dates back to the 13th century and serves as the spiritual center of the university. Visitors can admire its stunning Gothic architecture, including the impressive spire that towers over the city. Inside, the church features intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a beautifully preserved medieval nave.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Gothic style dating back to the 13th century |

| Spire | Impressive structure that dominates the skyline |

| Interior | Intricate carvings, stained glass, and medieval nave |

| Significance | Spiritual center of the University of Oxford |

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Discovering All Souls College

After exploring the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, visitors can head towards the renowned All Souls College, one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford.

Established in 1438, All Souls is known for its academic excellence and unique admission process, where fellows are elected through an examination rather than applying.

The college’s impressive architecture, including the striking Codrington Library, captivates visitors. Guests can wander the college’s hallowed halls and well-manicured gardens, seeing the rich history and intellectual atmosphere that permeates this distinguished institution.

Crossing the Bridge of Sighs

The iconic Bridge of Sighs, with its distinctive Venetian-inspired design, connects two buildings of Hertford College. Crossing this bridge offers a captivating view of the city’s stunning architecture and picturesque streets. As visitors gaze upon the bridge, they can’t help but wonder about its intriguing history and symbolism.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Completed in 1914, the bridge was designed by architect Thomas Jackson. |

| Purpose | It was built to provide a covered passageway for students to access the college’s library. |

| Significance | The name "Bridge of Sighs" evokes a sense of melancholy, reminiscent of the famous bridge in Venice, Italy. |

Experiencing Christ Church College

Visitors to Oxford’s historic city center can’t miss the imposing presence of Christ Church College. One of the largest colleges at the University of Oxford, it’s renowned for its architecture, traditions, and famous alumni.

The college’s Great Hall, dining hall, was the inspiration for the Hogwarts dining hall in the Harry Potter films. Visitors can tour the hall, stroll through the college’s quadrangles, and admire Christ Church Cathedral.

The college’s gardens and meadows along the River Cherwell offer a tranquil respite from the bustling city streets. A visit to Christ Church provides a glimpse into Oxford’s long, storied academic history.

Delving Into the History of Science Museum

While exploring Oxford’s historic sights, the History of Science Museum offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich scientific heritage.

The museum houses an impressive collection of scientific instruments and artifacts, chronicling the evolution of scientific thought and discovery through the centuries.

The museum’s impressive collection of scientific instruments and artifacts chronicles the evolution of scientific thought and discovery through the centuries.

Visitors can marvel at antique telescopes, mechanical calculators, and other technological marvels that paved the way for modern science.

Interactive exhibits bring the museum’s stories to life, inviting guests to engage with the past and consider the far-reaching impact of scientific innovation on our world.

The Sum Up

The "Oxford: Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour" offers a captivating 45-minute exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks. With free cancellation and a companion app, it’s an enriching way to discover Oxford’s rich academic heritage. Whether you’re admiring the Bodleian Library or crossing the Bridge of Sighs, this tour provides an insightful journey through the city’s architectural marvels.

You can check availability for your dates here: