University of Oxford Tours and Tickets

The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, dating back to the 11th century. There is no central campus, instead the university is made up of more than 40 colleges and halls, which are spread out across the city center of Oxford and beyond.

Some of the most famous colleges at the University of Oxford are Christ Church College and New College (both of which were filming locations for the Harry Potter films), All Souls College, Magdalen College, Exeter College, Trinity College, Balliol College, Worcester College, Keble College, and Lady Margaret Hall.

Most colleges are open for visiting hours or by appointment. Certain colleges, such as Hertford College and Pembroke College, are only open to prospective students, university members, alumni, or those with connections to the college. It’s best to check ahead if you’re hoping to visit a specific college.

It depends on the college. Colleges that charge a fee for visitors include Balliol, Christ Church, Exeter, Jesus, Magdalen, Merton, New, Oriel, Trinity, and University. Other colleges are free to visit or accept donations. Visitors to Christ Church must book a timed entry ticket online.

The University of Oxford has produced 28 British Prime Ministers, 30 international leaders, 55 Nobel Prize winners, and 120 Olympic medal winners. Notable alumni include J.R.R. Tolkein, Lewis Carroll, Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, Adam Smith, John Locke, Sir Walker Raleigh, Sir Richard Burton, Stephen Hawking, Indira Gandhi, and Margaret Thatcher.