Top Oxford How to Get Around in 2026

With more than 1,000 years of written history plus lashings of ancient buildings, Oxford has a tale or ten to tell. Discover them on this ghoulish walking tour that pairs spine-chilling stories with historical sights. See where Protestant martyrs burned at the stake, stroll Dead Man’s Walk, discover one of England’s most haunted roads, hear about the ghost that rolls his head across the floor, and more.

Hear the whole story of Oxford. From Vikings, Saxons and Normans to the modern University, the ‘Ox-ford’ has been at the centre of English history for over a thousand years.. And learn about what 800 years of dreadful Dons and sickening Students have got up to since, in the company of one of our expertly entertaining guides. If you want a long talk about different types of arches we are not for you - if you want to learn by laughing we are!

Feel like you’ve gone back in time on this 1-hour tour of Oxford Castle. Led by a costumed guide who plays a real-life character from history, you’ll explore the Norman castle’s medieval remains, from the prison to the 900-year-old crypt. Climb up the steps to the top of St. George’s Tower, discover the Debtors’ Tower and the prison’s D-Wing, and make your way to the mound of the 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle.

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.

A guided walking tour followed by a relaxing punt. The perfect tourist package for a day in Oxford. The walking tour starts at St Michaels Church. The oldest church in Oxford. Located on the inside of the old city wall. Your guide will then take you to several of Oxford Universities colleges, halls and institutes, including the famous Bodleian library, Sheldonian Theatre and Clarendon building.

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.

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. As you stroll through the historic streets, you'll pass key landmarks like Christ Church College, Trinity College, and Jesus College. Each site has its own fascinating story, and our guides will share insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. This small-group experience, limited to just ten participants, ensures a more personal and engaging atmosphere. This walking tour includes a visit to the iconic Bodleian Library, the second oldest library in the world. Visit the founding college of Oxford University, established in 1263. 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

Discover Hogwarts on a Harry Potter tour, visiting film sites from the Philosophers Stone and The Chamber of Secrets. Enter into New Colleges Cloisters, Dining Hall, Gardens and Chapel.

Explore the rich history of Oxford, the renowned "City of Dreaming Spires," with a SELF-GUIDED AUDIO WALK that reveals the stories behind its iconic landmarks. This two-and-a-half-mile route covers eighteen notable stops, including Christ Church College, the Bodleian Library, and the Ashmolean Museum, allowing you to discover the city at your own pace. With insights from a Chartered Geographer, enjoy tales of Saxon origins, ghost stories, and architectural wonders while strolling through college quads and medieval streets. Ideal for history buffs and solo travelers, this flexible tour offers a unique way to immerse yourself in Oxford’s scholarly charm. - Wander through 18 historic sites at your own pace - Learn about Oxford’s rich history from a Chartered Geographer - Visit iconic locations like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bridge of Sighs - Enjoy flexibility with an audio guide on your phone that you can pause and resume at any time

Explore the enchanting city of Oxford on a private walking tour tailored just for you. Accompanied by a friendly local guide, wander through charming streets and visit iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and historic Oxford Castle. This personalized experience allows you to uncover fascinating stories about the university's traditions and local secrets, ensuring a memorable adventure that highlights the best of Oxford. The tour concludes at the picturesque Bridge of Sighs, offering a perfect photo opportunity. - Enjoy a private walking tour with a local guide in Oxford - Visit must-see landmarks including the Bodleian Library and Oxford Castle - Customise your start time and choose your meeting location - Ideal for groups of up to 4 or more, with a duration of 1.5 hours

Turning the streets of Oxford Into an Adventure Playground! Get a unique perspective of the city centre on this self-guided, interactive treasure hunt. It's the best way to explore the city! On your adventure, unlock a hidden trail by finding clues, solving puzzles and completing challenges, earning points along the way. During your Quest, not only discover the city's highlights but explore hidden gems, learn some fun facts about the places you visit and see things that most people just pass by. As the activity is all self-guided through the app, you can start your Quest when you want (must be played during daylight hours), there are no set starting/ending times. No groups to follow. You can go at your own pace, stopping for longer in one location, taking a break or having a snack in one of the many cafes and pubs along the trail OR you can make it a race and try to get to the top of the city leaderboard! Instant acess with nothing to print from home. Will you conquer the Quest?

With narrow, often busy country lanes, complex geography, and limited parking, the Cotswolds can be challenging to explore independently. Leave route planning, navigating, and parking to your personal driver-guide on this flexible private tour that hits all the highlights direct from your door. Upgrade to add a professional photographer who can capture your group amid the beauty and create memories that can last a lifetime.

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!

The audio guide serves as a handy mobile companion for a self-guided tour in Oxford. This tour is specifically designed for those looking to explore the city in a short span of time (1.5-2 hours). Simply follow the route on the app's map, which takes you from Oxford Castle to University Park, passing by colleges and other notable landmarks. You're guaranteed to see: Carfax Tower, Tom Tower, Alice's Shop, Christ Church College, St. Mary's University Church, Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, The favourite pubs and a bench of J.R.R. Tolkien. Once you've downloaded the tour, the app runs offline. The audio guide can always be heard clearly through your headphones. Enjoy captivating stories and legends at your own pace, without the need to keep up with a tour group. Feel free to pause for a break in a café, or explore a scenic alleyway before resuming your tour. If you only have a few hours to explore Oxford, make the most of it with the audio guide.

Explore Oxford’s iconic sights, uncover rich history, and embark on the ultimate academic adventure! Perfect for exam takers and curious travelers alike - celebrate your success and start your journey here. The world awaits! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

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.

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.

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.

Follow me down a dark alleyway into Oxford's mysterious and bloody past. Oxford is one of the most haunted places in Britain, with good reason. It was the murder capital of medieval England, largely due to its extremely badly behaved student population. I will take you on a tour round the city's most sinister streets and baddest back-alleys, where we will hear about the terrible events that have left so many spirits wandering eternally. Burning bishops. Enraged poltergeists. Abandoned lovers. The Devil himself!! All have made their restless presence felt over the centuries and if we're (un)lucky, we might spot one of them tonight - it has happened on my tours before. This tour is thoroughly enjoyed by children, but it does contain some quite gory details so check they are ok with that. It needs to take place when it's dark, as that's when 'they' come out. It could well be cold, and possibly wet, so please dress accordingly.

Spend half a day with an award-winning guide who knows and loves Oxford, to get a thorough overview of its extraordinary history, architecture, and stories. Whether you are interested in the city's ancient origins, the rise of the university, the many fascinating personalities who have studied here, or its famous film locations, this bespoke tour will take you off the beaten track, guide you amongst the dreaming spires, and give you the inside story of this beautiful and eccentric city. You will see inside one of Oxford's most fascinating colleges, including its chapel and dining hall. You will visit the oldest classroom in the world and learn not just about the ancient university but how it works today. And you will hear many stories about the city's famous - and infamous – inhabitants, including its connections with Tolkien, CS Lewis, Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter and Wonka. The timings include a coffee break and walking times between stops.

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.

Even before Harry Potter, Oxford was a magical city. Add even more magic to your day on this unique tour led by an actual magician who’s performed for the British royal family and A-list celebrities. As well as top sights and fascinating trivia, expect mesmerizing tricks and illusions, including a recreation of a famous spell from a Harry Potter movie. Book in advance as tours do sell out.

A tour with a local, qualified, and enthusiastic guide. Your guide grew up in Oxford, has very in-depth knowledge of the city and has many interesting tales to tell you. Your guide has carefully curated this tour with a wide range of stories from books, listening to others and their own experiences. We visit well known buildings from the outside as well as lesser known streets and lanes. Will you see the floating orbs that usually appear on this tour? Will you discover any new ghosts?

Explore the university city of Oxford on a tour that showcases its highlights in just a couple of hours. The walking tour introduces you to many of Oxford's famous colleges and university buildings as you stroll around the city with a guide. Get recommendations for things to do and see in the city in your own time, and hear insider tips for Oxford's many restaurants.