Top Oxford Art & Culture - page 5

Oxford is one of principal university cities of Great Britain, and its university is renowned across the globe.   Oxford is full of wonderful buildings and architecture and walking around its streets it is easy to get lost in its history as Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Wonder round the historical chapels and courtyards around the university or take a walk along the River Thames, known locally as Isis.  Over 9 million visitors a year come to Oxford but there is so much to see that it still feels like a special destination. Oxford also has a wonderful collection of museums such as The Ashmolean Museum, which is every bit a match for those found in London.  Nearby is the famous Bodleian Library, centuries old and one fo the main repositories for books in the United Kingdom. Finally, if all this history and culture gets too much then why not look for a gift or have a tea and scone in Oxfords main shopping district.

Explore the Cotswolds without having to drive on this full-day private tour from your chosen location, such as Oxford. With a private car and driver-guide, simply soak in the scenery as you follow an itinerary tailored to you. Visit manor houses, explore towns and villages such as Stow-in-the-Wold and Minster Lovell; and stop to shop and eat at your leisure—all without transport or parking issues.

There is nothing better than spending time in the country. The stunning scenery, including golden fields in the spring, the vibrant rainbow-coloured country gardens in the summer, and the myriad of dark crimsons, yellows, & silvers in the autumn & winter, always take our breath away. Add the gorgeous historic towns & villages made of soft creamy sandstone, many of which regularly top the best places to visit in the Cotswolds & the UK, plus the local wildlife of ducks, geese, bees & even the odd snake, & the fantastic food and you have the perfect refresher to staying in the noisy city. Visiting many of the villages that are annually voted the best places in the Cotswolds, this tour offers you the opportunity to see some of the prettiest parts of Britain with someone who is passionate about the past, loves to eat (and knows the best places to stop for food), and who knows where to take a photo that will make your friends back home jealous of this unique, almost perfect, day out.

Immerse yourself in the charming English countryside on a 2-hour cycling tour from Oxford. In a small group limited to 15, you’ll cycle along the Thames River and pass narrow boats, ducks and swans, and traditional country pubs. Stop to learn about the area’s rich history and take photos in Christchurch and Binsey, home to medieval thatched cottages and a Norman chapel.

Explore the charming village of Blockley, the real-life backdrop for the beloved BBC series Father Brown. This 90-minute walking tour invites fans to wander through iconic filming locations, including St. Peter and St. Paul Church, which serves as Father Brown's parish. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the show's production while you enjoy the picturesque streets and stunning countryside views. Ideal for Father Brown enthusiasts and lovers of British crime drama, this intimate tour provides a unique perspective on the series and its connection to Blockley's rich history. - Visit iconic filming locations featured in Father Brown - Led by a local guide with insider knowledge of the show's production - Discover Blockley's history as a former mill town during a scenic walk - Perfect for fans of Father Brown and the Cotswolds, with a leisurely pace to enjoy the surroundings

Visit these two amazing World Heritage sites in one day for a trip to remember - a fascinating journey through 5000 years of English history. Experience the unforgettable atmosphere of Stonehenge. Step inside reconstructed Neolithic houses to see how the builders of this must-see monument lived. Dig deeper into the story of this enigmatic site at the world-class exhibition center. In Bath you can enjoy free time to explore at your leisure. You could visit the world-renowned Roman Baths or stunning Bath Abbey, then grab some lunch at one of the many traditional tearooms or pavement cafes. • Travel in style in our spacious and luxurious vehicles. • Skip the Stonehenge queues with tickets pre-booked and collected by your guide. • Enjoy a private guided tour of Bath.

If you’ve been captivated by TV’s “Clarkson’s Farm”, discover the real world locations from the series on this convenient tour. You don’t need a car. As the meeting point is a station with easy access to London and Oxford, you can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. Visit locations including the farm shop, Clarkson’s pub, his brewery, and pretty Chadlington, where farmhand Gerald Cooper lives (and builds walls).

Take this unique opportunity to learn about "Oxford On Screen". Oxford naturally lends itself as a stunning backdrop for the movie and TV screen and reflects why VisitBritain's latest promotion campaign is called “Starring Great Britain”. Our expert and passionate guides will show you around the most famous landmarks that have been immortalised on screen, from the Radcliffe Camera in Emerald Fennel’s Saltburn, to the Bodleian Library in Harry Potter, and share the titbits and anecdotes that filming in Oxford can bring. Suitable for all ages, whether you are a “set-jetting” cinephile or just intrigued by filming locations, join up with those who enjoy spotting the landmarks regularly seen on film and TV.

Step back in time and soak up over 1,000 years of Oxford history on this guided walking tour. Skip the crowds and join a small group to explore important sites like Merton College, Divinity School and Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian Theatre. The route also includes visits to famous film and television locations, including the magnificent Bodleian Library which doubled as the Hogwarts library in Harry Potter.

From Harry Potter™ to one of the best-known universities in the world, Oxford is a city that’s rich in stories. However, without a guide, it can be hard to track down the top sights. Save time and get oriented in the city on this convenient walking tour. Led by a local who knows both the town and gown sides of Oxford, head to spots you'd otherwise miss and hear stories you won't find in a guidebook.

This is not like other Oxford walking tours. If you’re bored of the Bodleian, sick of the Sheldonian and tired of the towers… then this is the tour for you! We want to help you scratch beneath the surface of Oxford, whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for decades. Our tour explores Jericho, a neighbourhood just a few minutes north of the city centre. Today it’s one of the most desirable areas in the country. But 150 years ago it was smoky, noisy, smelly and relentlessly productive. You’ll hear stories of kings, politicians and rock stars - but our real focus will be on the factory workers, printers, publishers and hospital staff who worked, lived and died on these streets. Your guide for this two hour walking tour is Rob, who has lived in Oxford for over 25 years. Rob’s a storyteller, not an historian. We’ll go down rabbit holes and explore the personal stories that have helped shape Jericho’s community.

Join us for a special interest walking tour of Oxford. See the 2026 Contrada Tours schedule below for further details. Saturday 4 April - Oxford history and architecture Saturday 11 April - 17th c. Oxford and the British Civil Wars Saturday 18 April - 19th century Oxford Saturday 25 April - Literary Oxford Saturday 2 May - Oxford history and architecture Saturday 9 May - 17th c. Oxford and the British Civil Wars Saturday 16 May - (Graduation day) - Oxford ceremonies Saturday 23 May - (Graduation day) - Oxford ceremonies Saturday 30 May - 19th century Oxford Saturday 6 June - Literary Oxford Saturday 13 June - Oxford history and architecture Saturday 20 June - 17th c. Oxford and the British Civil Wars Saturday 27 June - Literary Oxford Saturday 4 July - 19th century Oxford Saturday 11 July - tbc Saturday 18 July - (Graduation day) - Oxford ceremonies - Your tour will be led by an expert, local, independent guide.

What do you get if you take 1500 years of history, add lashings of ancient buildings, and mix in some of the world’s most colourful characters? A city that’s ‘alive’ with ghosts – that’s what! Meet the victims of horrific punishments, visit one of the most haunted roads in England, and hear the chilling tales of phantom Fellows and spooky Scholars that haunt the city.

Oxford’s historical streets are full of interesting and unusual pubs, some of which have been providing refreshment for over 700 years. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll visit a few of the oldest and quirkiest pubs the city has to offer. Starting at the Head of the River pub near Folly Bridge, you’ll wind through cobbled lanes and hidden passages to discover ten of Paul Coyne favourite pubs, each with a story to tell. The audio guide will lead you through the ancient streets where students and townspeople have all enjoyed an ’Education in Intoxication’. You’ll see where a Tuesday afternoon pub brawl took 600 years to be finally reconciled, and learn which pub had a camel. You'll also see a few historical landmarks like Hertford Bridge, Carfax Tower, and Radcliffe Square. By the end of the tour, in front of the Grapes on George Street, you’ll have learnt the differences between an alehouse, a tavern, and an inn.

On this fully guided walking tour of Oxford’s must-see top 10 highlights, visitors can discover the treasures of one of the greatest university cities in the world. This tour offers the best opportunity to see the very best of Oxford. Starting from the heart of Oxford's historical centre, your expert local guide offers a wonderful engaging tour through the vibrant historical streets of Oxford visiting both well-known sites and hidden gems where visitors can see, and experience so much more, than they could on their own. Packed full of incredible insights and up-close historical visits, including the Bridge of Sighs, the 14th-century New College, and magnificent Divinity Library, this interactive, three hour tour is the essential guide into Oxford city and England’s fascinating history. Visit Oxford’s Top 10, including Bridge of Sighs, the 13th century New College as well as the magnificent Divinity Library, where many of the Harry Potter moves were filmed.

Bored with traditional sightseeing? Turn Oxford exploring into a game with this scavenger hunt experience that helps turn the city into one big escape room for you and your party to enjoy. Learn things about some of Oxford’s most notorious historic scoundrels that you’d easily miss if you tried exploring on your own, and put your problem-solving skills to the test trying to solve the mystery of the Bullingdon Burglar.

The shop will be open to customers as normal whilst you're at the bar, but it is a private booking so no one can join you whilst you are making the succulent bowls. The process of making the bowls is simple, however the beauty of making it yourself is you can be as much of a perfectionist -or not!- as you want. Generally it takes about 25-30mins to do, but there's an hours time limit so if you want to spend a while getting the decorating perfect, go for it!

The Best Way to Discover Oxford: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo at the History of Science Museum or a visit to The Story Museum and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Audio & Text: Listen to our audio guide or read the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: Oxford Castle & Prison, The Covered Market, Ashmolean Museum, History of Science Museum, University of Oxford, Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, The Story Museum, Christ Church, and Christ Church Meadow.

This private walking tour reveals Oxford’s historic and romantic heritage. Ancient streets create a timeless atmosphere for couples. Begin at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. Its medieval tower reflects Oxford’s spiritual legacy.Admire the Radcliffe Camera nearby. This classical landmark symbolises centuries of scholarship. Observe the historic Bodleian Library exterior. Generations of thinkers studied within its ancient walls.Walk beneath the elegant Bridge of Sighs. Why did this graceful bridge inspire such a name?View the Sheldonian Theatre designed by Christopher Wren. Its architecture celebrates England’s classical tradition. Pause at the Martyrs’ Memorial. It marks a dramatic chapter of religious history.Explore the historic Oxford Castle area. End near Christ Church Cathedral and Magdalen College grounds. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

This One Hour Wonder offers a compact walking tour crafted for those who want the very best of the city in the shortest time. Led by an Institute of Tourist Guiding professional and Oxford Guild of Guides member, this 60 minute tour distils a thousand years of history into an unforgettable sweep through Oxford’s most beautiful heart. What makes it special? Efficiency with depth, condensed highlights without feeling rushed. Flexible timing. Perfect between meetings, before dinner, or curtain-up. Atmospheric settings – Oxford’s landmarks glow differently at dawn, midday, or twilight. Real history – authentic stories from Anglo-Saxon origins to the vibrant student life of today. Discover Oxford’s most iconic sights, from the Radcliffe Camera and Sheldonian Theatre and Oxford's historic quad in a magical bite-sized experience designed to orient, delight, and leave you with a sense of wonder and fresh understanding of the city's history and great scholars.

Did you know Oxford’s Great Tom bell chimes 101 times every night—and the university runs 5 minutes behind the rest of England? Discover the stories behind Oxford’s most iconic landmarks on this comprehensive 18-stop self-guided audio walking tour. From Christ Church’s Harry Potter connections to the hidden Narnia door, from a 14th-century rebel tavern to the world’s oldest public museum – this tour covers more ground than most guided walks, at a fraction of the price. Crafted with insights from Oxford students, the tour is available in 9 languages. Unlike fixed-time group tours, you control the pace. Start anytime, pause to explore colleges and museums, grab lunch at the Covered Market, or linger over a pint at the Turf Tavern – your tour waits for you. Over 1000 customers have taken this tour and a full refund guarantee means you can book with confidence

Why is being ‘medieval’ seen as an insult? Why are we fascinated with the idea of 'horrible histories'? Modern media has fostered the stereotype that people in the Middle Ages were uniquely backwards, superstitious, violent, and dirty.  Join us on a tour that delves into medieval Oxford, uncovering the complexity of life in the past, while debunking the many myths of 'medieval' times. This tour will explore long-lasting similarities with how people acted centuries ago, while discussing how historic tensions have lasted to this day. This tour lasts for about 1.5hrs. Our tours are academically researched and led by experts. They incorporate active discussion and ask questions about historical memory, controversial histories, and the impacts of discrimination on the city and university. ACCESSIBILITY: Wheelchair accessible, but please note some mild uneven pavement in the city centre. Distance walked is less than 2km.

Are you looking for a way to see Cirencester without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • See Anne Boleyn’s silver gilt chalice, believed to be the last thing she touched before her execution and stroll down Cecily Hill, the most exclusive street in Cirencester • Hear from producer Owen Bowles, a Blue Badge Tourist Guide for the Heart of England region • Do it all in 90 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Set out on an Oxford adventure that’s both intriguing and enlightening! Begin at the Martyrs’ Memorial, delve into the city’s Viking roots, and explore the world’s oldest museum. Capture selfies at the Radcliffe Camera, climb the tower of a 13th-century church, and uncover the surprising origin of the word “snob.” Stroll along the same streets once walked by C.S. Lewis and Rupert Murdoch, and wrap up your journey at the Ashmolean Museum. And keep your eyes open—you might just spot the elephant!