Exploring Oxford’s rich history and iconic architecture can be a truly captivating experience. The Alumni-Led Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s past and gain insights from current students or recent graduates. With an optional visit to the prestigious New College, this tour promises to immerse you in the traditions and achievements that have shaped Oxford’s legacy as one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture buff, or simply curious to understand the student experience, this guided tour is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable city.
Key Points
- The walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Oxford’s historic sites and learn about student life from current students or recent graduates.
- The tour provides insights into the Oxbridge application process and allows visitors to discover iconic college buildings and achievements of famous alumni.
- Participants can opt for an additional visit to the prestigious New College to explore its exceptional architecture and rich history.
- Knowledgeable Oxford alumni or current students guide the tour, providing an authentic and exclusive perspective on the Oxbridge experience.
- The tour includes the historical guided exploration, insights into student life, and entry to New College if the option is selected, but excludes other entrance fees and expenses.
Overview of the Walking Tour
The Oxford University Alumni-Led Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the historic city and learn about student life from current students or recent graduates.
The tour allows you to save up to 20% on the regular ticket price, bringing the cost down from £25 to just £19.99 per person.
Depending on your interests, the tour can last between 1.5 to 3 hours, giving you ample time to learn about the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
The guided tour provides insights into the Oxbridge application process and lets you discover the iconic college buildings and the achievements of famous alumni.
Plus, you can opt to visit the prestigious New College for an extra fee.
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Highlights of the Tour
During the tour, visitors will explore Oxford’s iconic college architecture and learn about the achievements of its famous alumni.
Guides, who are either Oxford graduates or current students, share insights into student life and the Oxbridge application process, providing a unique behind-the-scenes perspective.
Participants can marvel at the stunning buildings and courtyards that have inspired generations of scholars. They’ll discover the stories behind the university’s distinguished alumni, including renowned figures in politics, science, literature, and more.
The optional entry to New College allows guests to step inside one of Oxford’s most prestigious institutions and enjoy its rich history and traditions.
Guided Tour by Oxford Alumni
Knowledgeable Oxford alumni or current students guide visitors through the tour, sharing their firsthand experiences and insights into student life at the prestigious university.
These enthusiastic guides provide a unique and exclusive perspective, offering an authentic glimpse into the Oxbridge experience.
From discussing the rigorous application process to narrating the daily routines of students, the tour leaders captivate audiences with their engaging storytelling.
Visitors can expect to learn about the iconic college architecture, the legacy of famous alumni, and the rich history that permeates every corner of Oxford.
With their in-depth knowledge and contagious passion, the Oxford-educated guides ensure an informative and memorable walking tour experience.
New College Entry Option
Along With the guided walking tour, visitors can select the optional entry to New College, one of Oxford’s historic and prestigious colleges.
This add-on feature provides participants with the unique opportunity to explore the college’s exceptional architecture and learn about its rich history firsthand.
Stepping inside the college grounds, guests can marvel at the impressive medieval buildings, manicured gardens, and renowned cloisters that have been a backdrop to generations of Oxford students.
The New College entry option offers:
- A chance to explore the college’s stunning Gothic-style architecture, including the famous New College Cloisters.
- Insights into the college’s fascinating history, dating back to the 14th century.
- An opportunity to learn about the academic traditions and student life at one of Oxford’s most renowned colleges.
- The ability to capture breathtaking photos of the college’s picturesque grounds and historic landmarks.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The walking tour’s inclusions cover the historical guided exploration, insights into student life, and entry to New College if the option is selected. However, the tour excludes entrance fees to colleges not listed in the itinerary, food and drinks, as well as tips.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about Oxford’s iconic college architecture and famous alumni from an Oxford graduate or current student. The tour involves a 1.5-hour walk, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Attendees should also provide a functional contact in case of any updates.
While pets aren’t permitted inside the colleges, guide dogs are allowed. The tour maintains a moderate pace, and those unable to keep up may miss parts of the experience.
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Meeting Point and Directions
Participants are to meet at the red post box situated at 11-12 Broad Street, which serves as the designated starting point for the walking tour.
The tour involves a brisk 1.5-hour walk, so attendees should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
It’s important to provide a functional contact, such as a phone number or email, in case there are any updates or changes to the schedule.
Guide dogs are the only pets allowed inside the colleges, as the tour maintains a moderate pace, and failure to keep up may result in missing parts of the experience.
- Meet at the red post box at 11-12 Broad Street.
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Provide a functional contact for updates.
- Guide dogs are the only pets allowed inside the colleges.
Preparing for the Tour
To make the most of the Oxford alumni-led walking tour, guests should arrive prepared. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are essential, as the tour covers 1.5 hours of brisk exploration.
Plus, providing a reliable contact, such as a phone number or email, ensures participants receive any necessary updates or schedule changes.
The tour moves at a moderate pace, so guests should be prepared to keep up. While guide dogs are welcome, other pets aren’t permitted inside the colleges.
Guests should also note that entrance fees to colleges not included in the itinerary aren’t covered. By arriving ready, visitors can fully enjoy the rich history and architecture of Oxford.
Important Information to Note
Guests should arrive at the specified meeting point – the red post box at 11-12 Broad Street – to begin the tour.
The walking tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 3 hours and covers a moderate pace, so participants must be prepared to keep up.
While guide dogs are welcome, other pets aren’t permitted inside the colleges.
Plus, entrance fees to colleges not included in the itinerary aren’t covered by the tour.
To make the most of the tour, keep these tips in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Bring a functional contact (phone/email) for updates.
- Be mindful of the pace, as failing to keep up may result in missing parts of the tour.
- Understand that the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?
The tour may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users, as it involves a 1.5-hour walking tour. While the meeting point and some college grounds may be accessible, interior college access may be limited. Visitors with mobility concerns should inquire about accessibility prior to booking.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide at the start, as some colleges may have restrictions on photography. Respect any rules and be mindful of others on the tour.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can save up to 20% on the ticket price, which is reduced from £25 to £19.99 per person. The discounted rate applies to both students and seniors.
Can I Cancel My Booking and Get a Refund?
Customers can typically cancel their bookings and receive a full refund, as long as they do so before a certain cutoff date. However, the exact cancellation policy may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for their specific terms.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The walking tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Individuals can join the tour as solo travelers or with a group of any size. The tour operates with flexibility to accommodate varying group sizes.
Recap
The Oxford Alumni-Led Walking Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history and iconic architecture while gaining insights from current students or recent graduates.
The optional visit to the prestigious New College provides an exclusive opportunity to step inside one of Oxford’s most renowned institutions.
Whether you’re interested in the city’s past or curious about student life, this tour is an excellent choice for a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Oxford.
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