Top Oxford How to Get Around in 2026

Escape the busy tourist routes and discover the charm of the Cotswolds with a private, tailor-made tour led by a professional local guide. Travelling in the comfort of a private car, you’ll explore postcard-perfect villages, hidden gems, and scenic spots that large tour groups can’t reach. Create your own itinerary or follow my recommendations, blending famous sights with lesser-known treasures. Enjoy plenty of time to wander honey-stone streets, browse independent shops, or capture stunning landscapes through your lens. As a local photographer, I’ll guide you to the best photo stops. With a flexible schedule and relaxed pace, you'll experience the Cotswolds through the eyes of someone who lives here. Each tour is crafted around your interests—be it history, scenery, local flavours, or a bit of everything. * Hotel pick-up and drop-off is available if you're staying in the Cotswolds. Please ask, I'll do my best.

Explore the lives of two of Oxford's greatest writers, and their friendship, with an award-winning guide. On this tour we will follow in the footsteps of JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis. We will see where they studied, taught, lived, worshipped, lectured, wrote and - most importantly - drank with their friends the Inklings. Out of these friendships and conversations emerged Aslan, Gandalf and many other much-loved characters and stories. Both men became extremely famous in their lifetimes, but never gave up their day-jobs of teaching in the English department. We will explore CS Lewis's conversion to Christianity and late-life marriage to Joy Gresham, and hear about Tolkien's student pranks and life-long deep love for trees. We will end at the beautiful college of Magdalen, where Lewis taught for nearly 30 years and the Inklings met every Thursday. If you want to go inside it, you will need to pay the entrance fee, which is £9.50 adults/£8.50 concessions.

Get some steps in while exploring the charm of Oxford at the same time with the help of a guide on this private walking tour through the city. See the top attractions in town through the eyes of a local, and delve into what sets Oxford apart and discover the town's rich history. See picturesque green spaces and diverse architecture alike—so there's something for everyone.

This magical walking tour is led by an award-winning Green Badge tour guide. It will introduce you to the extraordinary history and people who've shaped our city of dreaming spires. From Alice in Wonderland to JRR Tolkien, Oxford has inspired many timeless stories. But its real history is just as fascinating, and often just as strange… As we walk around Oxford's famous buildings and explore its world-renowned university and colleges this glorious city will reveal its secrets to you. This is a great tour if you only have a short time in Oxford or are visiting for the first time. I can tailor it to your interests so let me know if you are particularly interested in Harry Potter, Tolkien, CS Lewis, Morse, Alice in Wonderland etc. If you want to visit a specific college or the Divinity School you will have to pay an extra entrance fee - we can discuss the options when you book.

Explore Christchurch, Oxford’s most prestigious college on an ancient site. Harry Potter was filmed, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland were conceived here, and 13 British Prime Ministers educated and famousHarry Potter scenes filmed. Visit the Hall, staircase, medieval cathedral, and more of its architectural marvels. The tour continues with a beautifully curated introduction to Oxford’s architectural and historical highlights, featuring its most iconic sites, offering a concise yet immersive journey through centuries of history and culture. An Institute of Tourist Guiding (ITG) certified guide is one of the few permitted to lead visitors inside Christchurch. You will enjoy an informed and enriching experience. ITG green and blue badge guides meet strict standards of historical knowledge, guiding expertise, and visitor safety. This tour is available in English, French, or both.

Oxford History Tours offer real history for genuine history lovers. Experience Oxford's rich history on a 90-minute walking tour led by an Institute of Tourist Guiding professional and Guild of Guides member. Explore the city's origins from Anglo-Saxon times, the evolution of the university, its stunning architecture, libraries, and the student life of today. Stroll through Oxford's iconic sites, including: Radcliffe Camera Divinity School Bridge of Sighs Bodleian Library Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian Theatre Medieval Colleges around every corner Discover stories of patrons, artists, politicians, saints, scholars, rebels, and martyrs who shaped over 1,000 years of Oxford's history. This tour also includes practical tips to enhance your stay in Oxford. The route passes famous film, television locations and literary legend.

Discover San Sebastian’s iconic places in the Downtown area by solving clues and unlocking stories on your phone. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. Ready for an adventure? Highlights include: • Explore Oxford Playhouse, Bodleian Library, Magdalen College, and lesser-known places. • Enjoy a uniquely crafted story brought to you by our talented writers. • Discover where Albert Einstein’s genius equations are captured forever on a chalkboard. • Visit the beautiful, centuries-old library where Harry Potter was filmed. • Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt. After your booking, you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and play the game on your phone. We recommend that each user purchases a ticket for an optimal experience, although several people can share a phone.

Enjoy the structure of a tour with the flexibility of self-guiding when you download this GPS app that helps you discover hidden gems and spectacular places all around Oxford. Play quizzes, solve clues, and visit map locations to earn points, win prizes, and move up the leaderboard—and learn about the sights you're seeing as you do so. The price includes access for one device for one day.

Pair the freedom of independent travel with the challenge of solving quizzes, clues, and puzzles when you download this fun GPS explorer app for Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire's landmark stately home. Choose whether to tour the map pins displayed on your screen or enjoy the journey at your own pace. Your price includes 1-day access to the app for one device (which can be shared): Blenheim Palace tickets are not included.

Discover the Pre-Raphaelite movement and artists in Oxford, and see city and university landmarks on this private guided tour. Learn about two prominent artists of the movement, William Morris and Edward Burne Jones. Then explore Exeter College and Oxford Union with included entry when open, before taking in city landmarks on a walking tour.

Step into the world of Jeremy Clarkson’s hit TV show with this immersive road trip through the Cotswolds. Visit the iconic Diddly Squat Farm Shop, enjoy a pint at Hawkstone Brewery, and relax at The Farmer’s Dog pub—all set against the backdrop of rolling English countryside. Along the way, explore charming villages, sample local produce, and discover the real-life locations that inspired the show. Perfect for fans and countryside explorers alike! Yes, we can arrange pickup and drop-off in London as part of the trip. This option is available only when booked as a full-day trip.

Explore the charming countryside of the Cotswolds away from the crowds with this private guided tour. Travel in comfort in a private car and visit locations large tours can’t get to, and experience historical villages and towns like Chipping Camden, Lower Slaughter, Bibury, and more, with plenty of time to explore each location.

I have personally been touring this enchanting area for over 10 years now. The beauty of a Cotswolds private driving tour is the freedom and flexibility that it gives you on the day. This tour has a set itinerary where I have a recommended route. Here I have combined idyllic hidden villages with the more famous Cotswold towns. This gives you a wonderful overview and experience of what the Cotswolds is all about. You get to see the postcode locations as well as escape the tourist trail and discover hidden gems that only us locals know about. As it is a private tour I am totally flexible as to how long you would like in each place, and are more than happy to adapt the itinerary on the day if you would like. If you want more hidden villages, more market towns or natural beauty then your wish is my command! With that in mind if you have any specific requests in advance or pickup locations then feel free to message me. I will be happy to help.

Explore Cheltenham in a different way with this private, interactive Operation City Quest scavenger hunt. Download the app to your phone, grab your team, and start the game. You'll find 120 items in 13 categories to earn points, with chances to gain more by completing challenges. Compete against other teams around the country and see who tops the leaderboard.

Perfect for history buffs and those looking for a unique gift idea. This tour offers exclusive access to some of the university's oldest colleges, beautiful gardens, and historic chapels.[Enter St Johns and Keble College]This small-group experience, limited to just ten participants, ensures a more personal and engaging atmosphere. This walking tour includes entry to two of the iconic colleges of Oxford University. Discover the unique architecture and philosophy of these storied institutions as you soak up the ambience of this enchanting city. It's a perfect gift for anyone eager to explore the world of academia and enjoy the charm of one of the UK’s most iconic cities.

Dedicate a day to exploring idyllic Cotswold villages through the eyes of a local. Beginning in Blockley village and ending in Moreton-in-Marsh (with eight stops in between), this private tour lets you explore Cotswold landmarks at a pace that suits you while discovering spots larger tour groups miss. See beauty spots like Broadway Tower and Lower Slaughter, as well as cozy pubs and independent shops.

Punting is a great leisure activity, a great tradition amongst the people in summer. An experienced punter will guide you down the Idilic river Cherwell whilst you enjoy the beautiful scenery and if you so choose you can bring along a picnic. Feeding the waterfowl (swans, ducks, moorhens and geese) is allowed but please refrain from touching the waterbirds are some are protected species.

Discover the charm of Oxford at night on this City Sightseeing Walking Tour, perfect for history buffs and those looking for a unique gift idea. Follow your friendly local guide as they bring Oxford history to life. Discover the unique architecture and philosophy of these storied institutions as you soak up the ambience of this enchanting city. Explore the magical grounds of Oxford University, spot gargoyles on the famous rooftops, wander through the leafy streets, and discover surprising stories hidden around every corner of the city. Enjoy a family day out or evening that’s exciting, educational, and full of adventure.

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.

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. Learn 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.

Oxford is one of England’s most renowned university cities and a private tour means you can explore at your own pace. On this 3-hour walking tour, admire Oxford landmarks such as the Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, and the Ashmolean Museum; learn more about the city’s fascinating history and heritage; and see the famous Oxford University colleges.

Can money ever be 'clean'? This tour highlights the University of Oxford’s relationship with contentious sources of revenue. Learn about historic and modern wealth distribution networks within the University and engage with conversations of wealth inequality in a city experiencing a housing crisis. We ask why billionaires keep investing in the historic university, how massive philanthropic donations should be handled, and what effects such income streams have on academic freedom and political neutrality. All our tours are led by university researchers who have completed our official Uncomfortable Oxford training programme. Our guides combine expert knowledge and performance, ensuring each tour is a fun and educational experience. Tour recommended for teens age 14 and older.

Step back in time on this unforgettable journey to two of England’s most iconic destinations. Uncover the secrets of the 5,000-year-old Stonehenge as you explore this ancient wonder and ponder its mysterious origins. Then, stroll through the elegant city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and rich Roman history. With included entry to both Stonehenge and the famous Roman Baths, this tour offers a perfect blend of mystery, history, and breathtaking sights.

Come face to face with famous scenes from the Harry Potter films on this Oxford walking tour. Visit the three major must-see sights: Christ Church, New College and the Divinity School. See the stairs Hogwarts freshmen climb to go to the Great Hall, find the spot where Alastor Moody turns into a ferret, catch a glimpse of the place where Hermione shows Harry his father’s Quidditch trophy, and much more.