Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour

Oxford, the historic seat of learning in England, beckons visitors to explore its hallowed halls and iconic landmarks. A private walking tour through the city and university promises an immersive experience, unveiling the rich tapestry of Oxford’s past. With a knowledgeable guide, groups can explore the legacies of renowned alumni, from literary giants like Tolkien to renowned academics. As they wander past the Bodleian Library and the Bridge of Sighs, the group will uncover the architectural marvels that have inspired generations of scholars. But the true allure lies in the customizable nature of the tour, catering to the unique interests of each party. What secrets might Oxford’s storied past hold for your group?

Good To Know

• A 2-hour private walking tour of Oxford’s key highlights, including the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sighs, and Harry Potter filming locations.
• Access to iconic university buildings like Exeter College, Balliol College, and the Divinity School, with insights into the university’s notable former students.
• Customizable tour experience catering to guests’ needs and interests, with language options, wheelchair accessibility, and service animal accommodations.
• A private guided experience led by a dedicated tour guide, offering an engaging and immersive exploration of Oxford’s history and heritage.
• Highly rated by previous guests for the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to provide personalized attention and memorable insights.

Tour Overview

This 2-hour private walking tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Oxford’s historic city and renowned university.

Highlights include the awe-inspiring Bodleian Library, the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and various filming locations from the Harry Potter movies.

Along the way, you’ll uncover the stories of notable former students, such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Tony Blair, and even King Henry VIII.

The tour also provides access to iconic Oxford University buildings, including Exeter College, Balliol College, and the Divinity School.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or short on time, this private tour is an ideal way to learn about the rich history and architecture of this esteemed academic institution.

Tour Details

The tour includes entry to one college, with the option to pay additional fees for access to extra colleges. Foreign language tours are available with 2 days’ notice at an extra cost. However, the tour is closed from approximately December 21 to January 2, and some colleges may have limited access during graduation dates in May, July, August, September, and November.

The tour details are as follows:

Feature	Details
Entry Included	One college
Extra Colleges	Additional fees apply
Language Options	English; foreign languages available with 2-day notice, extra cost
Closure Dates	Closed Dec 21 – Jan 2; limited access during graduation dates

This comprehensive tour offers flexibility to cater to the needs and interests of each guest.

Meeting and Accessibility

Oxford City & University Walking PRIVATE GROUPS Tour

Meeting and Accessibility

The meeting point for the tour is located at 15-16 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK, outside the tourist information center.

The tour doesn’t have a fixed end point, but participants are provided with a free Oxford map.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, allows service animals, and is stroller accessible.

Key accessibility features:

• Wheelchair accessible

• Service animals allowed

• Stroller accessible

The convenient meeting location and inclusive accessibility ensure all visitors can fully enjoy the highlights of Oxford’s historic city and university on this private walking tour.

Tour Experience

Spanning 90 to 120 minutes, the tour offers a customizable experience tailored to visitors’ interests, providing a personalized exploration of Oxford’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

Participants can expect a private guided experience with a dedicated tour guide, ensuring their questions are answered and their curiosity is satisfied.

The flexible format allows the tour to be adjusted based on the group’s preferences, ensuring an engaging and immersive journey through the city’s past.

Whether visitors are short on time or eager to delve deeper, the tour promises to deliver a memorable and insightful experience that highlights Oxford’s unparalleled heritage and legacy as one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.

Reviews and Recommendations

Positive reviews from past participants highlight the Oxford City & University Tour as a top activity for visitors, with a 5.0 average rating across 14 reviews.

Guides consistently receive praise for their enthusiasm, in-depth knowledge, and ability to engage attendees, enhancing the overall experience. Notable mentions in the feedback include:

• Personalized attention and insightful stories that make the tour more engaging and memorable.

• The guide’s enthusiasm and passion, which brings the history and stories of Oxford to life.

• The tour’s ability to provide a rundown of the city and university for first-time visitors or those short on time.

The overwhelmingly positive reviews solidify the Oxford City & University Tour as a must-do activity for anyone visiting this historic and captivating destination.

Highlights

Visitors on the Oxford City & University Tour are treated to a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and architectural wonders, with highlights that leave a lasting impression.

The tour includes a visit to the iconic Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of knowledge and a filming location for the Harry Potter series. Guests will also marvel at the picturesque Bridge of Sighs, a renowned landmark that connects two college buildings.

Plus, the tour explores the distinguished histories of notable former students, including J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Tony Blair, providing an intriguing glimpse into Oxford’s illustrious past.

From the grand Exeter College to the breathtaking Divinity School, each stop on the tour offers a deeper understanding of this renowned center of learning.

Iconic Oxford University Buildings

The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore some of Oxford University’s most iconic and architecturally significant buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the institution’s storied past.

Exeter College, one of the oldest constituent colleges of the university, boasts a magnificent 13th-century chapel and quadrangle that have witnessed the scholarly pursuits of countless students over the centuries.

Equally impressive is Balliol College, renowned for its striking Gothic Revival-style buildings and as the alma mater of numerous distinguished alumni, including philosopher and former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair.

The tour also includes visits to:

• The Divinity School, a stunning late Gothic structure that has served as a venue for university ceremonies and exams for over 500 years.

• The Bodleian Library, one of the oldest and most prestigious research libraries in the world, home to millions of volumes and countless historic treasures.

• The Bridge of Sighs, a striking 17th-century structure that has become an iconic symbol of the university.

Notable Former Students

Oxford University has produced a remarkable number of renowned figures across various fields, with its former students boasting an impressive legacy that spans centuries.

From celebrated authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis to influential political leaders such as Tony Blair, the institution has long been a breeding ground for intellectual and creative talent.

The university’s esteemed alumni also include King Henry VIII, who studied at Wolsey College, and countless other luminaries in science, philosophy, and the arts.

Visitors on this walking tour can discover the stories and contributions of these notable former students, gaining insight into the university’s rich history and its enduring impact on the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour to Include Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows for a personalized experience, where the guide can tailor the itinerary to the group’s preferences and areas of interest.

Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?

Audio guides are not mentioned as an option for this tour. However, the tour is customizable based on your interests, and you receive a personalized experience with a dedicated guide who can provide in-depth information throughout the walking tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. Visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably for walking and exploring the city. Casual attire is generally appropriate, though participants may wish to avoid extremely casual or revealing clothing out of respect for the historic settings visited.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, photography is generally permitted during the tour. The guide will provide guidance on when and where photographs can be taken to ensure the best experience for all participants and to respect any restrictions within the historic buildings visited.

Are Food and Drinks Allowed on the Tour?

Food and drinks are generally allowed on most walking tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They may have specific guidelines or restrictions to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants.

Sum Up

Oxford City and University’s walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and stunning architecture of this renowned institution.

With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore iconic landmarks, learn about the legacies of famous alumni, and customize the experience to suit their group’s interests.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to discover the charm of this historic city, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Oxford.