guided tour oxford uk

Visiting Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city of stunning architecture, history and culture. You'll find ancient and modern colleges, fascinating museums and galleries, and plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces in which to relax. Plus, the city centre is small enough to cover on foot, and only a few minutes walk from the main rail and coach stations.

Things to see and do at Oxford University

Oxford is not a campus university, so it is not all located on one site. It is made up of many different buildings, including academic departments, colleges and halls, located around the centre of Oxford. Many University buildings, such as gardens, libraries and museums, as well as many of the colleges, are open to visitors during the day, although please note that they may have varying opening hours, fees and rules for groups.

You can find more information, including opening times and fees, at the links below:

• Visiting the Colleges
• Visiting Museums, Libraries and Places of Interest
• What's on at the University
• Shopping at the University

To make the most of your visit, bring along a copy of our leaflet, ' Explore the University of Oxford ', which contains a map and information on opening times of colleges, museums and other places of interest. 

Tours of Oxford University

Oxford University does not organise tours but a city walking tour is offered by the Bodleian Libraries in association with the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides. The tours, all operated by Blue and Green Badge Guides, begin at the beautiful modern Weston Library before heading through the historic and famous streets of the city. Tours take around two hours and can be  booked through the Bodleian Libraries .

A number of independent operators also offer guided tours of Oxford. A range of general and themed tours are available, as are tours by cycle, rickshaw and bus. For a list of tour companies, please visit the  Daily Information  website. 

Please note that all operators are independent of Oxford University. Details are provided here for information only. 

Disabled access

The collegiate University is committed to improving access and is currently continuing to develop its Access guide . As more of our historic buildings are modified the Access guide will become more comprehensive. In the meantime, the Access guide is a helpful first point for information on accessible buildings. Where there are gaps in the information we suggest you contact the places you wish to visit directly.

Information for prospective students

If you're thinking about applying for an undergraduate degree and want to see more of Oxford, our Virtual Open Days are an excellent opportunity to see the University, get to know the city, and meet tutors and students.

Additional information for visitors to the city of Oxford

Experience Oxfordshire  offers advice on walking tours, accommodation, things to do in Oxford, and more.

• History of the University
• Oxford Glossary
• Oxford people

Special offers for alumni

Make sure to bring your Alumni Card with you and see our special offers on the Alumni website

Accommodation in Oxford

• Accommodation at the University and the Colleges
• Visit Oxfordshire - where to stay
• TripAdvisor - hotels near Oxford University

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New Tours Added for Spring and Summer 2024. Additional tours at 11.30am and 2pm every day.

Oxford Official Walking Tours

Oxford university walking tours, our walking tours.

• Our Most Popular Tour!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Oxford University & City Walking Tour

The best way to explore Oxford is on foot with your friendly and expert guide, who will share stories about this beautiful city and its famous university.

• Hour Glass 1 or 2 hours

Group & Private Tours

Explore Oxford’s points of interest and history with your own private guide, perfect for school groups and families and friends. We’ll personalise your tour to meet your interests.

C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Tour

This is the specialist Oxford walking tour for all fans of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien. Explore their work and key Oxford locations with an enthusiastic guide.

Inspector Morse Tour Oxford

Join the Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour Tour for a fun look at all the Oxford locations for these popular TV detective series.

About Our Tours

Explore Oxford’s most famous buildings steeped in history and recognised around the world with one of our experienced and knowledgeable guides from Experience Oxfordshire. Our guides will walk you through some of the most famous spots in Oxford, including filming locations for Harry Potter and Inspector Morse.

You will discover the beautiful Oxford settings of some of the most renowned tales in literature and screen, with historical and cultural knowledge throughout.

Group sizes are limited to 20 people for your safety and comfort.

COVID-19: Our tours are VisitEngland #WereGoodtoGo accredited. They take place completely in the fresh air and comply to social distancing. Group sizes are limited for your safety, so you can enjoy a relaxing walking tour, taking in the famous sights and settings.

Your official Oxford guide will be wearing a visor, ensuring social distancing standards are met throughout the tour.

5-Star Walking Tours in Oxford

Lucy was a great tour guide and told us very funny stories along with some really interesting facts. I felt very safe as everyone was social distanced and the tour guide had a visor on ensuring we had a safe experience. I would highly recommend this tour.

Firstly a big thank you to Lucy as she was superb. Her tour was very informative and the 2 hours just flew by. We learnt things about Oxford that only a qualified guide would know. Definitely give this a go.

Really interesting way to get round the beautiful city of Oxford. The guide was great and it all felt very safe. Would definitely consider doing their other tours if I return back to oxford in the future.

I did this tour with my dad last November and even though it was pouring rain, we both remember the experience very positively. Our guide was very knowledgeable and found a great mix between being informative and entertaining.

Immerse yourself in the city of dreaming spires with an experienced and knowledgeable local guide.  We are the longest running independent tour company in the city, operating from the blue gates of Trinity College on Broad Street for over 30 years.

We had a fantastic tour of Oxford Colleges by Ally in spite of on and off rain. Ally was so incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic about Oxford that we actually felt like we were experiencing collegiate life! We highly recommend the tour. Jackie Buonassisi, United States

City and University Tours

Take a stroll through the city of dreaming spires with one of our experienced guides.  Our daily walking tours will take you into one of the oldest University colleges, exploring the historic dining hall, chapel, cloisters and quadrangles. [1]   Discover the Bodleian Libraries, the iconic Radcliffe Camera, and the original University Church of St. Mary’s.

Learn about the complicated and sometimes bloody rivalry between the city and the University, spanning over a thousand years.  Your guide will explain the collegiate system of tutorials unique to Oxford and Cambridge, and the peculiar traditions, pranks and rituals that define student life.  Stories highlight literary giants such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll, and bring you to many of the sites used for filming in Harry Potter , Inspector Morse , and Lewis .

Tours last 1½ hours and run daily, every hour from 11am–4pm (3pm in Winter).

A very entertaining and informative experience; an excellent way to see Oxford and learn about it’s history. Jane Whiteford, Edinburgh, Scotland

The City and University Tours, Ghost Tours and other speciality tours operate all year round:

The duration of most tours is 90 minutes and involves less than one mile of walking.

Admission fees into the colleges are included in the ticket price (unlike most other walking tours of Oxford):

Tickets can be purchased from the guide prior to departure [2] ; however, numbers are limited.

Private / Group tours are available throughout the year.

Our walking tour with Jeff was most enjoyable and opened the doors to the secrets of college history spiced with colourful anecdotes. Thank you! Dr. Manuela Müller-Windisch, Konstanz, Germany

Our tours have been featured on two BBC TV programmes , in The Cherwell student newspaper , and recommended by Rick Steves in Best of England .

For enquiries, please see our contact page (where you will also find our social media links) for details of the most appropriate person to get in touch with.

Stuart kindly rescued us as we were let down by another company at the last minute.. the tour was concise & educational and any questions were answered. Stuart kept it informative but not too heavy with a mix of humour thrown in.  Quite converted me to “walking tours” John perry, Haywards heath

• Private Tours
• Group Tours
• Private & Group – Cotswolds Tours
• Morse / Lewis / Endeavour
• Gallery & Testimonials

* 5 star reviews on FEEFO * Officially qualified guides*

Walking tours of oxford with qualified guides, click a button below to book a tour:.

Morse, Lewis and Endeavour

Simply Oxford University

Private Tour

Morse Lewis, Endeavour and Oxford book – A guide celebrating 35 years on screen

Walking Tours of Oxford is dedicated to giving you a truly memorable experience in Oxford, with sights to enthral and memories to treasure along your walk. Our fully qualified Oxford guides – members of the Institute of Tourist Guiding and / or The Oxford Guild of Tour Guides – are looking forward to showing you around this wonderful city. Oxford is steeped in history, dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. It is a city crammed with visual delights whichever way you turn: from the architecture of the ancient buildings that make up the University, to the rivers, parks and fields that surround it.

To visit Oxford and learn of its history is to delve deep into our heritage. The city has been home to many famous and influential characters including great writers of children’s literature. Through your choice of walking tour you can learn about Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Philip Pullman. See real-life settings used as film locations in X-Men First Class, The Golden Compass, Morse, Lewis and Endeavour and Harry Potter . Hear the stories surrounding the University’s most famous students from across the centuries. Discover the origins and rituals of our medieval University. Walking Tours of Oxford will give you a day to remember with tailor-made private guided tours to suit your specific needs, a Simply Oxford tours , Christ Church tours or Morse/ Lewis/ Endeavour tours . Our most popular product is the Simply Oxford university tours which have been developed to simply get the most out of your stay in our beautiful city.

Depending on your tour, you will meet your fully qualified guide in a central location and from here meander through the very heart of Oxford; you will see The Bodleian Library; The Weston Library, The Old Schools’ Quadrangle and The iconic Radcliffe Camera. Stand under the Bridge of Sighs and have your photo taken. Admire The Sheldonian Theatre. See the Emperors’ Heads. Learn about the city and University from experts. Look up at the Gargoyles and Grotesques that adorn the facades. View (from the outside) many of the colleges such as; Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, All Souls and New College.

For private tour options, college entry is discussed and possibly charge additionally, depending on time of tour, type of tour and which college you might like to see. Simply; the best tour experience in Oxford with fully qualified guides!

Why book with Walking Tours of Oxford?

• Clear and transparent costings.
• Fully qualified guides holding the Green or Blue Badge accreditation and members of The Institute of Tourist Guiding and / orThe Oxford Guild of Tour Guides.
• Number one on TripAdvisor and awarded The Certificate of Excellence in 5 consecutive years from 2015-2019.
• Awarded ‘Destination Specialist of The Year 2017’ and ‘Best Bespoke Operator of The Year 2018’ by Luxury Travel Guide.
• 5 star reviews on Facebook and Google.
• 5 star review on Feefo for both service and product.
• 2020 Oxfordshire Prestige Awards winner
• Each tour is unique, we do not have a planned route and we do not follow a script. We simply determine the best route on the day.
• Friendly and knowledgeable guides.
• Regular meetings with Oxford university to provide the most up to date and correct information.
• Many of our guides have connections with Oxford university, having either studied here ourselves or with family members studying here which gives us an insight into student life at Oxford. Heidi’s, owner of Walking Tours of Oxford eldest son is a student at Oxford, so she has first hand knowledge and up to date information on studying here.
• Destination advice and suggestions on what else to do in Oxford.
• Simply the best!

“You won’t find a better tour experience!”

“I’ve visited Oxford every year in the winter for about a decade, bringing a group of university students from the USA each time. We’ve used many tour guides over those years, with varying success. We found Heidi and Walking Tours last year, and booked her again this year. I can say without a doubt she is the best. As advertised, she customizes the experience, and she readily acceded to my list of special requests, helping our students to discover the magic of Oxford. We hope to work with Heidi for many years to come!” -TripAdvisor January 2017

“Absolutely excellent!”

Heidi our tour guide was absolutely excellent and our day was made so much better by having done the Oxford Highlights with her. She was friendly and so knowledgeable and really tailored the tour to our interests and the other guests. Would recommend this to everyone! Google May 2021

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As featured on Kayak – for further information on things to do in Oxford see:- https://www.kayak.co.uk/Oxford.1861.guide

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Green & Blue Badge Tour Guides in Oxford

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Award winning guided tours based on your interests

We find you the best guide, for your walking tour of Oxford

Email:  [email protected] or Call  +44 7769 657145

Make an enquiry

Fully Bespoke Tours

Our guides are experienced and knowledgeable and many of them, including Sandra, have studied at Oxford. We offer a wide range of specialist tours

Award Winning Team

Oxford Tour Guides have won awards - a certificate of excellence from Trip Advisor 2018 and Tour Operator of the Year in 2018 from the Luxury Travel Guide.

Best Priced Tours

We offer reasonable rates and easy ways to pay and book. We will help you plan your tour on a day and time to suit you. Blue or Green Badge accredited Guides

Oxford Tour Guides would love to show you round on a walking tour to discover Oxford’s glorious architecture, the University and ancient colleges and share its history and traditions with you.

We have the top qualified tour guides in Oxford offering general as well as specialist tours. We aim to provide the best guide for your group and tailor your tour to your interests.

"Oxford, the city of dreaming spires is famous for its 800 year old university and centre of learning"

Things to see and do in Oxford

The Ashmolean

The Ashmolean is the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology, founded in 1683. Our world famous collections range from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art, telling human stories across cultures and across time.

The Bodleian

Twenty-seven libraries across Oxford, including the central University library. The Bodleian Library is the main research library of the University of Oxford, and is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. It derives its name from its founder, Sir Thomas Bodley. 

Natural History Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History holds an internationally-significant collection of natural history specimens and archives in a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture. It is home to a lively programme of research, teaching and events.

Our Services

Specialist Tours

We offer specialist tours and find a guide who can best match your interests. Please do contact us for a discussion about how we can help you plan your visit. 

Oxford & Beyond

General Tours

Oxford Tour Guides specialise in private or group tours with a guide exclusively for you, on a date and time to suit. The most popular tour is the general tour lasting either 90 minutes or 2 hours. 

Conferences & Events

We can offer you the following tours, or if you have any other ideas we could possibly find a guide who can best match your interests. Please do contact us for a discussion about how we can help you plan your visit. 

Getting Here

Book a Tour

We can offer you the following tours, or if you have any other ideas we could possibly find a guide who can best match your interests. Please do contact us for a discussion about how we can help you plan your visit. 

[email protected]

+44 7769 657145.

Email [email protected] or phone Sandra on

+44 7769 657145 for a quote for your tour requirements.

Email: [email protected]

or phone Sandra on

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11 Best Oxford Walking Tours (local approved!)

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Ready to tour the gorgeous Oxford on an interesting walking tour?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 11 Oxford walking tours – all led by expert guides who want to share the beauty of this part of England and help you skip the tourist traps.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best Oxford walking tour is this Oxford Official University & City Tour .

It has about 455 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

Oxford, famously known as the City of Dreaming Spires, is one of the most beautiful, picturesque, and incredible parts of England that is famous for its university colleges, and is worth exploring!

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 10 more tours that are definitely worth your time.

So let’s get into the list of the best Oxford walking tours, so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended, so you don’t miss out.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Oxford walking tour is this Oxford Official University & City tour.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Oxford Walking Tours

1.   oxford official university & city tour : best oxford walking tour.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 450+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Guided tour
• College visit
• Radcliffe Tower
• Martyr’s Memorial

This tour is a great way to discover Oxford, just like famous former residents did – walk the streets just like CS Lewis and J.R.R Tolkien did and see the top landmarks of the city.

The walking tour starts in central Oxford and moves towards the university area where you get a chance to see the elegant colleges along with key attractions like Sheldonian Theatre and Bodleian Library . 

While you marvel at all the sites, your tour guide will tell you interesting facts and stories about Oxford’s history you might never have heard before.

Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to take in the evocative ambiance the city’s famous for.

Some exciting sights on this tour that you’ll get to see include Trinity College , Balliol College (known as the oldest Oxford college), Martyr’s Memorial and the monument on St Giles , and the Sheldonian theatre (the university’s ceremonial theatre).

Other stops include the iconic Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. 

2. Private Oxford Walking Tour with University Alumni Guide

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 100+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide on one of the best Oxford walking tours
• All handling charges, fees, and taxes
• Customizable itinerary
• University colleges & the Oxford Castle

Take charge of your tour and explore the city at your own pace with this private tour .

Start off by meeting your guide right in the center of the city and learn about its university and its past while exploring the cobbled streets.

Whether you want your tour to start in the morning or in the afternoon is up to you.

You can make your itinerary as flexible as you like and tailor it as you wish to include sights that interest you, but make sure you visit at least Christ Church College for its gardens, chapels, and quadrangles, and the Bodleian Library.

Of course, you can ask your guide to accommodate other landmarks , too, such as the colleges used to film the Harry Potter movies.

Whatever you want to see more of, your tour guide will thoroughly guide you with in-depth knowledge and offer enjoyable stories about all the sights.

3. Inspector Morse Oxford Small Group Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 100+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to St Johns, Balliol, Exeter College
• Maximum 14 people
• Entry to university locations
• Invitation to solve a murder mystery

Now, this one’s an interesting tour, especially if you’re a fan of the fictional character Inspector Morse (and its spinoffs, Endeavour and Lewis).

This tour gives you a chance to check out all the filming locations of the TV stories and learn about how the detective show was made.

You start off in central Oxford and head over to the different filming locations while listening to your guide about the British detective, the spinoffs, and interesting facts about the city.

Then, head over to Oxford University to see what it’s like to be a student here, before ending the tour with an invitation to solve an exciting murder mystery at Morse’s favorite pub that’s often seen on the show.

Since this tour is only limited to 14 people , you’ll have a nice time and won’t have trouble hearing what the guide has to say.

The different landmarks you’ll get to see on this tour include the Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, Exeter College, the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library, the Turf, and Hertford College.

4. Oxford City and University Walking Small Group Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Complimentary ILoveOxford map
• Balliol, St Johns, or Exeter college for a walking tour of Oxford university
• Filming locations for Harry Potter
• Iconic Oxford sights like Radcliffe Camera and Bridge of Sighs

If you’re a history buff interested in the city’s rich history, this walking tour is the best option for you.

Thanks to your guide, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of the city .

And since the group is limited to a maximum of 15 people , you won’t have to worry about keeping up with your guide.

Part of your tour includes a visit to the Divinity School of the Bodleian Library , where the Harry Potter movies were filmed.

You’ll also get to visit one other college (Wadham College, Exeter College, Balliol College, etc.), depending on what’s open on that day.

While you take in the beauty of all the historical buildings, your tour guide will tell you interesting things about alumni from Oxford University, including J.R.R. Tolkien and CS Lewis.

Before the start of your tour, you’ll also get an ILoveOxford map that shows all the main sites. 

5. Private Walking Oxford Tour for the Discerning Traveler

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private guide on this Oxford walking tour
• Pickup and drop-off
• Any time that suits your itinerary
• Insider tips about the university and the city

This private walking tour is the best way to get insider information about Oxford’s history.

With your guide’s in-depth knowledge and informative narration, you’ll get to learn all about how the university has evolved over the years as well as its achievements.

But perhaps the best thing about this tour is that the itinerary is flexible since this is a completely private tour just for your party.

This also means you’ll get personalized attention, and you’ll get a lot of time to ask all the questions you have in mind.

Your tour starts at the Weston Library , which is part of the main research library at Oxford.

Or you can opt to be picked up at the Oxford Railway station or the Oxford City hotel.

From there, you explore downtown and a few famous university colleges and learn about their ambitions, achievements, foibles, and feuds.

6. 90 Minute Private Guided Walking Tour in Oxford

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5-2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Wheelchair & stroller accessible
• Personalized experience on one of the best walking tours in oxford
• Information about onward transport and accommodation houses
• Stories & insights you won’t find anywhere else

Oxford is famously known as the City of Dreaming Spires because of the dazzling architecture of all its university buildings, and what better way to explore it than this small, guided group tour?

Some of the key attractions you’ll get to see as part of this tour include the Bodleian Library , Radcliffe Camera, the Bridge of Sighs , Queen’s College, Christ Church College , and the Carfax Tower .

While you soak up the ambience and charm of the story, your guide will tell you all about the city’s rich history and insights and stories you’ll hardly ever discover on your own.

This group is best for first-time visitors who only have a limited time.

Plus, since the group size is limited to 10, you’ll have a much more personalized experience . 

7. Oxford Walk & Punt Tour with Optional Christ Church Entry Led By Alumni 

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 12+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Insight into the application process for Oxford
• University alumni guide
• Chauffeured punting tour to add to the guided walking tours in Oxford
• Historical tour & anecdotes

If you’re looking for something more than just a walking tour, check out this combination tour , which combines a walking tour with punting on the River Cherwell.

Yes, it’s as exciting and interesting as it sounds!

Start off your tour with an alumni guide who’ll tell you all about the student life and the storied university.

In addition to all the famous landmarks and colleges at the University of Oxford, you’ll also get insights into the Oxbridge application process and the student life there.

If you want, you can upgrade your tour to include the entrance fee for Christ Church College.

From there, you can enjoy a chauffeured 50-minute punting tour along the River Cherwell, where you’ll get to see various sites of popular literary inspiration. 

This tour is also limited to a small group, so you’ll get to enjoy a personalized experience.

8. Oxford City & University Walking Private Groups Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 9+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to one college on this Oxford city walking tour
• Option to pay entry fees for other colleges
• Stories about famous Oxford students like J.R.R Tolkien and CS Lewis
• Personalized experience and undivided attention

Interested in knowing everything there is about the university city?

Take this private 2-hour tour that unveils the secrets of the famous and prestigious colleges in the city.

Out of the 38 colleges at Oxford University, this tour tries to cover as many as possible.  

In fact, we believe that this is the best introduction to Oxford that any first-time visitor can get.

Plus, since it’s a private tour , you’ll get not only your guide’s undivided attention but also a personalized experience.   

Be amazed by historical landmarks such as Christchurch and Bodleian Library, and marvel at the Oxford University buildings such as the Divinity School, Exeter College, and the New College just like past alumni like King Henry VIII, CS Lewis, Tony Blair, and J.R.R Tolkien did.

You’ll even get to hear some interesting stories about them! 

And don’t forget to check out the filming locations for Harry Potter and walk the halls where all the magic took place.

9. Oxford Private Pub and City Evening Walking Tour  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide on this Oxford tour that includes walking
• Near public transportation
• Group of 2-6 people
• Pubs favored by alumni such as Bill Clinton

Nearly all the tours on this list have been about Oxford University colleges and the history of the city.

But if you’re looking for something different, this pub and city evening walking tour is your best bet.

With this evening walking tour, you get to see the different pubs around the city and illuminated landmarks that would make for great pictures for your Instagram!

As you go along with this tour, explore the twilit house and check out a couple of pubs, your knowledgeable local guide will indulge you in different urban legends, tales about the city’s past, and delightful stories about the antics of different students over the years.   

But what we love the most about this tour is that it doesn’t have a fixed route plan, but it introduces you to numerous famous sights and stops at a bunch of historic pubs that were favored by famous alumni like Bill Clinton.

And it is at these pubs that you can absorb and relax in the sociable atmosphere to have a unique experience.  

10. Oxford Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 4+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  50 minutes – 1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Self-guided audio tour (audio tour provided by a historian or local)
• Offline mode to download tours in advance in case you don’t have Wi-Fi
• GPS map to enjoy sites without getting lost
• Instagram hotspots for the perfect pictures

If you’d rather explore the city on your own without following a guide around, we suggest that you check out this self-guided audio tour that’s narrated by a local or a historian.

This tour takes you through not just iconic sights like the historic colleges, Radcliffe Square, the Sheldonian Theatre, the Bodleian Library, and the Bridge of Sighs, but also the perfect Instagram spots, so you get the best pictures of your tour without someone rushing you!

Plus, you’ll get to hear historical tales like the one about Protestant martyrs that were burnt at the stake and interesting stories such as the reason for Radcliffe Square’s unusual building.

The best part?

You don’t need an active internet connection to be able to take this tour.

You can just download it in advance and listen to it while walking around town, even if you don’t have Wi-Fi.  

11. Royal Windsor, Oxford & Cotswold Private Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 2+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Parking fees
• Wi-Fi onboard
• Private door-to-door tour

Get the ultimate English experience with this tour of the royal town of Windsor, which is home to the infamous Windsor Castle, Oxford, and Cotswolds , which is famous for its honey-hued stone cottages.

Of course, seeing these on your own without your own transportation, that, too, in just a day, is an impossible feat, but this door-to-door tour is perfect for the task.

The tour includes three different stops: Oxford, Eton College, and Windsor Castle, and a drive through the Cotswolds.

Since this is a private tour , the pace is entirely up to you.

Plus, there’s WI-Fi onboard to keep you connected and allow you to share your trip with others in real time without worrying about roaming charges.

The tour also includes a 2-way private transfer from your address of choice in London.   

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

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UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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Duration : 2 Hours Language : English Availability Monday to Sunday: 11am & 2pm Meeting point : All Our Tours Meet At Oxford Tourism Information, 16 Broad Street, OX1 3AS ( see here )

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• Is this child-friendly?

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• Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but it must not disrupt the tour. 

The Original Famous Oxford Free Tour

For over 10 years we have provided this hugely popular experience. With our fun and engaging guides, its fair to say this tour has revolutionised tourism in Oxford!

The Most Famous Sites At Oxford University

From the Radcliffe Camera to the Libraries, this tour covers a huge amount of sights. These are all covered externally, if you want to go inside you need this tour (click here ). 

A Wealth Of History In A Fun Way

 The tour covers a vast range of different topics, all explained clearly and accessibly by our University-educated guides. We take you through the story of Oxford, from the city’s beginnings as a humble Saxon town through to its current position as a world-famous seat of learning and culture. Oxford has been around for nearly 2000 years. Give us two short hours, and we’ll tell you this amazing story from start to finish!

No Boring Tours

All of our Oxford walking tours are delivered in such a way as to ensure you don’t fall asleep! We hate dry, boring tours that don’t engage their audiences. History doesn’t need to be boring, and with so many big names and events having been tied to Oxford (as well as the University having so many bizarre traditions and funny stories), we see no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy every single minute of your tour experience.

• Christ Church College
• All Souls College
• Trinity College
• Oriel College
• Hertford College
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• The Bodleian Library
• The Radcliffe Camera
• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
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• Many More University Sites
• History Of The Town
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How Much Does All That Cost?

At Footprints, we believe in letting you decide how much your experience was worth. Our free oxford walking tour is solely funded by tips; tips are purely voluntary, and our guides will never pressure you to leave one.

This way of doing business means we are constantly working to provide the best Oxford walking tours we can. If people didn’t love our tours, we’d be long gone! Fortunately, they do – we’re consistently have more reviews than any Oxford tour provider on TripAdviser!

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1. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

2. Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide

3. Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

4. Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds & Warwick Castle Tour from London

5. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Oxford Day Trip

6. Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle

7. Oxford Official University & City Tour

8. River Cruise with Three Course Riverside Restaurant Dining

9. Cotswolds Villages and Oxford Full Day Tour from London

10. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

11. Oxford and Lacock Coach Tour

12. Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London

13. Cotswolds Villages Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Oxford

14. Extended: Oxford University & City Tour With Christ Church

15. Private tours to Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, Oxford

16. 90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford

17. Oxford Sightseeing River Cruise Along The University Regatta Course

18. The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour - Private Groups Daily

19. Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford

20. Cotswold Summer Explorer Tour

21. Oxford and Cotswold Small-Group Tour from Bristol

22. The Cotswolds and Shakespeare Tour from Oxford

23. Private Day Tour to Oxford and The Cotswolds

24. Oxford and Cambridge Tour from London

25. Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Oxford Walking Tour

26. Evening Cocktail Cruise in Oxford

27. Tours of Oxford private walking tours for the Discerning Traveler

28. 1.5-hour Oxford University and Colleges Walking Tour

29. Small-Group Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter & Oxford

30. Royal Windsor, Oxford & Cotswold Private Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Brad Geneva, Switzerland 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour! Highly recommend We had a wonderful time during our tour! Our guide was Chloé, she was dynamnic, interesting and funny. Even for non-English native speakers she grabbed our intention through her story-telling — we definitely recommend. Read more Review of: Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide Written April 25, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• ireena n 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles The lady who made the day Rowan, the guide made the journey memorable with her interesting anecdotes and researched facts. She was excellent in giving narration. There was sufficient time to explore the places and the journey was very comfortable. Read more Review of: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London Written April 24, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide
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Best Walking Tours of Oxford

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As a beautifully historic city with lots to see, there are plenty of Oxford walking tours to get involved with. 

But which one is best? Well, that depends on what you’re after. Big Harry Potter fan? There’s plenty of options for you here. Or, if you’d love to see the iconic university and its stunning surroundings, you’re also in luck.

Whichever kind of walking tour tickles your fancy, we’ve compiled a guide with our favourites to help you choose. So have a read through of the best Oxford walking tours the city has to offer, and prepare to whip out your comfiest trainers.

Best Walking Tours in Oxford 

Oxford university and city tour .

After a classic tour of Oxford? Then this University and City Tour is your best bet. You’ll get the opportunity to wander through cobbled streets, ancient cloisters, and historic university halls, living out your wildest Oxford dreams.

Join a member of the prestigious university’s alumni and be transported on a tour through the city spanning decades, learn about the age-old rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge, and discover filming locations used in Harry Potter movies and popular tv series Brideshead Revisited.

Sounds great right? Well the price is even better – for just £14.95, you’ll be treated to a 90 minute tour packed full of famous sights and hidden gems dotted throughout the city.

Harry Potter Tour 

Potterheads just have to take a Harry Potter Tour in Oxford. With so many of the medieval buildings here inspiring the series, and with many filming locations throughout Oxford, it really does feel like you are being given an all-access tour of the Harry Potter franchise.

This tour is filled with tidbits and behind the scenes facts on the locations used in the films, and you’ll even have the chance to visit the Bodleian Library , which was used as the Hogwarts’ infirmary (can’t promise you’ll run into Madam Pomfrey, though).

At just £19.99 per person, this is a great-value way to get up close and personal with the places in the infamous magical series.

C.S. Lewis and Tolkien Walking Tour

Lovers of literature will adore this C.S. Lewis and Tolkien Tour that takes you around C.S. Lewis’ Magdalen College and the stunning gardens of Tolkien’s Exeter College.

After a brief introduction about the Inklings Oxford University Literature Club and the history of the city, you’ll be taken on a tour around Oxford to see some of the pubs, architecture, and gardens that inspired the literary greats.

Fancy a pint? You can even opt for a pub stop on the tour to quench your thirst.

At £35 per person for 2 hours, this tour is a bargain – you’re getting to see the best of the city, all whilst a knowledgeable guide introduces you to the former playgrounds of C.S Lewis and Tolkien – pretty great value, if you ask me.

Inspector Morse Tour

Another one for literature fans is the Inspector Morse Tour.

On this tour you’ll get to put your own detective skills to the test as you explore Morse filming sites like the Randolph Hotel, the castle, and Bodleian Library to try to spot any traces of the much loved inspector.

And, of course, it wouldn’t be an Inspector Morse tour without a trip to his favourite pub jaunts – you’ll even get to visit the bar named after Morse, where author Colin Dexter used to visit.

Sounds good right? For £29.99 this is a jam-packed tour filled with golden nuggets of information about the infamous British character.

Historic Pub Tour

Want to discover why one pub in Oxford has over 4000 ties decorating its walls? Of course you do – and you can find out this and lots more on a Historic Pub Tour around the city.

And obviously, there’s nobody better to tell you about the history of ale and Oxford pubs than a current uni student (and to take you to all the best boozers!).

Starting in the city centre, you’ll tour some of the oldest pubs in the UK, learn about their medieval history and the traditions that still rule the city today, as well as getting to try some of the best local beers (not included in the price of the tour, but at just £16.99 you should have some pennies spare for a pint!).

Ghost Tour 

Ready for a fright? This Oxford Ghost Tour , led by author of ‘Haunted Oxford’, Rob Walters, is sure to thrill. 

For £22, discover the mysterious side of the city in the dark and hear about the myths and legends that rule the city, from an expert in all things creepy. Learn about the gruesome murders, religious persecution, and viking history of the city, all whilst admiring the stunning buildings as they are illuminated in the evening lights.

This tour takes place rain or shine, so make sure to bring an umbrella just in case – we all know British weather can be unpredictable!

River Punting Trip with Walking Tour

If a tour completely on foot sounds like too much hard work, why not take a River Punting Trip with Walking Tour included?

Relax whilst you spend an hour floating down the river, learning all about Oxford University and student life, rowing and punting, as well as catching a glimpse of some of the city’s most iconic buildings. 

This is followed by a city tour on foot, where you can choose to delve further into Oxford’s history – at £100, this is a pretty good deal, since punting alone can cost that for a couple of hours.

Want to learn more about punting? Check out our Punting in Oxford Guide.  

Alice in Wonderland & Harry Potter Tour

The combination of Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter might seem random (and, honestly, it is) but this walking tour takes you to all the sites that inspired these two literary treasures.

Along with the Bodleian Library and the university, you’ll get to explore Christ Church, where your guide will tell you all about the little girl who really inspired Alice in Wonderland, as well as taking a trip to the local sweet shop she visited – it would be rude not to.

Prices and times vary depending on what you want to do on this tour, so check out the availability now.

Philip Pullman Tour

Ready to dive into the world of His Dark Materials ? This fully endorsed Philip Pullman Tour lets you do just that. 

Your expert guide will show you around all the jaunts that were explored by Lyra and Will during the series, including Bodley’s Library, The Covered Market, and the Pitt Rivers Museum. 

Can’t get enough? You can even choose to extend your tour to the outskirts of Oxford, visiting the Botanic Gardens, Godstow Abbey, as well as Jericho (highly recommended as there’s lots of great places to eat here !).

University Student Life Tour

The University Student Life Tour is an intimate tour that spills the secrets of student life in Oxford, followed by a delicious lunch in one of the elegant university dining halls.

You’ll be led by a graduate guide in a group of 6 max, so it’s incredibly personal with plenty of opportunity to ask questions – and, if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to know lots more about the striking buildings you’ll be seeing.

Have no fear, you don’t need to be a prospective student to take this tour – everyone is welcome to delve deeper into the university student life.

With tours starting at £85 and running every day, there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved.

Shakespeare’s Oxford Tour

The award for the quirkiest walking tour goes to… Shakespeare’s Oxford Tour , complete with live actors accompanying you through the cobbled streets.

Make your way through one of the cities that inspired the bard and learn about its colourful history, all whilst lively Shakespeare characters make an appearance – where else could you find Romeo in Oxford?

Prices and times vary, and for the ultimate experience, you can even book a private tour for £150. 

Food and Drink Sightseeing Tour

Fancy eating your way through the historic city centre? Who doesn’t? Embark on a Food and Drink Sightseeing Tour to get the inside scoop on where locals chow down, as well as the markets with the best street food.

Being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the UK certainly has its perks; the variety of cuisines in Oxford is vast. From Indian stalls serving up deliciously spicy snacks to elegant French-inspired restaurants with traditional plates, there’s something to suit everyone’s palette. 

Tours can cost between £30-£100 depending on the size of the group, but with the opportunity to sample some delicious food whilst also seeing the stunning city, it’s great value for money.

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Oxford City Centre Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Explore at Your Own Pace

This Oxford City Centre walking tour will allow you to see the city’s highlights while exploring little lanes and secret shortcuts only the locals know. An ideal self-guided tour if you’re in Oxford for just a few hours. In this circuit, you will be able to see some of Oxford’s most important landmarks and beautiful colleges without having to get too far from the city centre. Do you want to see a more extensive self-guided walking tour ? Check this link .

Distance to cover with this self-guided tour: 2 miles / 3.2 kilometres . Estimated time: 1 hour .  Type of terrain: Paved paths and pavements.

Oxford City Centre Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

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Let’s start with a quick overview of this walking tour. As we mentioned above, this is a more compact and short tour. You can see everything it has to offer in about an hour (less if you don’t stop, more if you enjoy looking at things in a little more detail). Here are some of the things you will cover in this free, self-guided tour:

In solid lines : Starting from Carfax Tower, this walk will take you through the historical city centre and many lanes and shortcuts only known to the locals. You will see a thousand years of history, including the Saxon Tower of St. Michael, the Sheldonian Theatre, and the 20th-century Bridge of Sighs.

In dashed lines : If you have a little extra time or you want to see more of Oxford, you can expand your walking tour by adding this little circuit, which will take you to the remains of Oxford’s Norman castle and numerous shops. A perfect conclusion if you want to end your walk with a nice coffee or beer, or some food. 

Let’s now go step-by-step with all the directions you need to follow to do this self-guided walking tour of Oxford’s city centre. 

• Start at Carfax Tower . Head along Queen Street and turn left down St Ebbe’s Street. Continue walking until Brewer Street and turn left. Don’t miss Pembroke College Bridge.
• Turn right and continue down St Aldates until you reach the pedestrian crossing right after the entrance to Christ Church . Cross the road and go into the Memorial Garden gate. Continue straight and turn left at the end of the building.
• Go through the kissing gate and emerge onto Merton Street. Turn right and pass Merton College . Turn left on Logic Lane and go through University College . 
• When it’s safe to do so, cross over the High Street into Queen’s Lane. Pass St. Edmund’s Hall and follow Queen’s Lane between Queen’s and New College . You can make a stop here to get refreshments through a tiny alley that leads to Turf Tavern . 
• Walk past the Bridge of Sighs onto Cattle Street. Cross over the Square to see the Sheldonian Theatre and exit by the arched gate onto Broad Street. 
• Turn left on Broad Street, pass the Museum of the History of Science and continue to Turl Street. Turn left down Turl Street and take the first turn on the right into Ship Street; then, walk to the end. 
• Optional walking tour : Cross Cornmarket Street at the end of Ship Street and walk past the Oxford Union. Then, turn left on George Street. Turn left down Bullwarks Lane and left again out into New Road. Cross over to see Oxford’s Castle. From here on, follow the map to find your way back to Carfax Tower.

What You Shouldn't Miss in This Oxford City Centre Walking Tour

(You can click here to see all the historical places you will encounter )

Carfax Tower

Carfax Tower, in Oxford, is a 23-meter-high bell tower that used to belong to a 12th-century church. Here’s how to visit it (and why!).

Turf Tavern

The Turf Tavern in Oxford is hidden way and accessed only by two small alleys. However, don’t be tricked by its humble entrance. The Turf Tavern has been around since

Oxford Castle & Prison

Oxford Castle is a partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the centre of Oxford. The castle then became a prison which closed in 1996.

History of Science Museum

The History of Science Museum holds a large collection of scientific instruments ranging from Middle Ages to the 19th century.

Radcliffe Camera

Radcliffe Camera is a neo-classical style building inside Oxford University, built from 1737 to 1749 for the Radcliffe Science Library.

Merton College

As one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford in England, Merton College dates back to the 1260s by Walter de Merton.

Christ Church College

Christ Church is college of the University of Oxford. It was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII and is one of the larger colleges.

The Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is one of Oxford’s most photographed spots. This skyway joins two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane.

Oxford Colleges

St John’s College

A constituent college of the University of Oxford, St John’s College was founded in 1555 as a men’s college but turned coeducational later.

Keble College

Keble College is one of the University of Oxford’s constituent colleges. It is located on Parks Road, opposite the University Museum.

Exeter College

A constituent college of the University of Oxford in England, Exeter College is the fourth-oldest college of the university.

Brasenose College

Oxford University’s Brasenose College (BNC) was founded in 1509 and is home to one of the oldest rowing clubs in the world.

All Souls College

All Souls College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford. It was founded by Henry VI and it has no undergraduate members.

See all Oxford Colleges >

Oxford Museums

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology in Oxford is Britain’s first public museum. It was founded in 1683.

Oxford University University Museum of Natural History

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History or OUMNH displays many of the University of Oxford’s natural history specimens.

See all Oxford Museums >

Oxford Libraries

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of Oxford’s most famous landmarks. Among the oldest in Europe, it’s easy to visit and incredible to see.

See all Oxford Libraries >

Best for Shopping in Oxford

There are two – possibly three – shops you should NOT miss if you’re visiting Oxford and doing a self-guided walking tour. These are Alice’s Shop (with tons of Alice in Wonderland memorabilia, all beautifully displayed in a historically-relevant little building!), The Shop of Secrets (more Harry Potter merch than you can dream of), and Blackwell’s Bookshop , founded in 1879.

Of course, as Oxford continues to grow, there re several other places you can visit if you’re looking for unique gifts or just a memorable experience. Below is a more comprehensive list with all of them. 

Blackwell’s Bookshop

Blackwell’s Bookshop first opened its doors in 1879, on Broad Street, Oxford. They have been trading continuously from there ever since. The History of Blackwell’s Bookshop The first Blackwell’s Bookshop

Alice’s Shop

Alice’s Shop is a little shop placed exactly where Alice Liddell (the “real” Alice that inspired the books) used to buy sweets.

Arcadia Bookstore

Arcadia is a popular bookstore in Oxford, offering second-hand books and stationery with a vintage and whimsical vibe.

The Shop of Secrets

The Shop of Secrets is Oxford’s chamber of Harry Potter collectibles and merch. A shopping must-to in the city, this is why you should visit.

Parks and Meadows

Oxford has many beautiful parks and meadows – which make perfect spots for a picnic or a relaxing stop. These parks are large and tend to have exotic plants and students practising sports or reading a book under the shadow of a tree. The best thing about adding a visit to a park during your self-guided walking tour is that you can visit them any time of the year. University Parks , for example, are evergreen and have seats no matter the season. Of course, if you like plants and quietness you should not miss the Botanic Gardens, they are included in the map above and have exotic species, lots of secret corners, and even a pond with fish!

Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. It was founded in 1621 and holds unique and important species.

Christ Church Meadow

Christ Church meadow is open to the public all year round. This open space in the heart of Oxford is an ideal choice for recreation.

Oxford University Parks

Oxford University Parks (or University Parks) is a large park area northeast of the city. The park is open to the public during the day.

Port Meadow

Port Meadow is a large open space in the north of Oxford. The River Thames flows through its heart and the plains are home to many animals.

Learn More About Oxford

Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum: A Brief History

Oxford College Gardens

Oxford Aerial Map and Guide

Insight Guides Great Breaks Oxford

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Lady’s Self-Guided Walking Tour of Oxford

Today I want to share my self-guided walking tour of Oxford, England with you. This university city to the west of London is an exciting place to discover. With its historic colleges, pretty green spaces, exciting shopping streets, and beautiful river, there’s a lot to see on an Oxford walk. My self-guided route and map will show you the highlights of the city.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Oxford

From the eye-catching architecture of the Radcliffe Camera to the riverfront scenery on Christ Church Meadow, Oxford is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK .

Home to the oldest English-speaking university in the world, the city is one of the most important centers of learning in Britain.

But it’s not just about the colleges. Whether you’re passionate about heritage buildings or punting on rivers, shopping at covered markets or being inspired by museums, Oxford has something for everyone.

If you’re here on an Oxford day trip or an Oxford and Cotswolds day tour , you’ll be able to discover a lot in this part of Oxfordshire.

I’ve visited Oxford many times. Each trip has revealed more of the city’s best highlights and secret spaces. Friends who studied at Oxford have often acted as my tour guides, and they’ve shown me spots visitors tend to miss.

I’ve also attended a graduation and a wedding in Oxford , and I’ve gone punting in Oxford and taken tours of Oxford with locals. All my experiences have imparted me with a love of this place.

I hope my walk helps you enjoy discovering Oxford as much as I have. It’s one of my favorite university cities in the UK . If you want more ideas, you can find lots of additional routes and maps in the book Oxford City Walks . You can get it on Amazon here .

Oxford Walk

My self-guided walking tour of Oxford starts on Broad Walk at Christ Church college. It’s centrally located, so it’s easy to get to from the train and coach stations, bus stops, and on foot from other parts of the city.

From Broad Walk you can take in the historic buildings of Christ Church, including the famous Christ Church Cathedral. You can also walk around Christ Church Meadow and soak up the peaceful riverfront surroundings.

When you’re done, continue your free walking tour of Oxford by heading onto St Aldate’s.

Here you’ll find fun places like Alice’s Shop, a store that pays homage to Alice in Wonderland’s Oxford connections (the author, Lewis Carroll, was a Tutor in Mathematics at Christ Church).

You can pop into Alice’s Shop if you want to, or continue your Oxford walk by turning right on St Aldate’s and heading north. You’ll pass by Christ Church’s Tom Tower on your right and the medieval St Aldate’s Church on your left.

Soon you’ll reach the Museum of Oxford and Oxford Town Hall, after which you’ll arrive at the intersection of St Aldate’s and the High Street.

If you look to your left, you’ll see the 12th-century Carfax Tower. You can go over and climb to the top for views across the city if you want to.

If not, continue your self-guided walking tour of Oxford by turning right on the High Street. Cross the street where it’s safe and head down one of the passageways leading to the Covered Market.

This 18th-century indoor marketplace is bursting with shops selling everything from clothing to food and flowers.

When you’re done exploring the market, head back out onto the High Street and turn left. You’ll pass beautiful historic buildings and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin before turning left onto Catte Street.

This passage will lead you to the iconic Radcliffe Camera. An 18th-century library, it’s one of the most famous buildings in the city .

You can walk around Radcliffe Square to see the library and the buildings of Brasenose College and All Souls College, then continue your Oxford walking tour by popping into the historic quad of the Bodleian Library.

The Bodleian is another Oxford landmark. It’s the main research library of the University of Oxford. Not only is it one of the oldest libraries in Europe, but also the second-largest library in Britain.

When you’re done taking in the quad, continue your walk by heading north on Catte Street. You’ll soon see two famous sights: the Sheldonian Theatre on your left and Oxford’s Bridge of Sighs on your right.

The former is a ceremonial and concert hall, and the latter is a stunning arch that connects two Hertford College buildings over New College Lane.

From here your self-guided walking tour of Oxford continues with a left turn on Broad Street. You’ll pass the Clarendon Building and get a better view of the Sheldonian Theatre as you make your way down towards Trinity College and Balliol College.

When Broad Street meets Magdalen Street, turn right and walk up to Beaumont Street. Turn left there and take in the facade of the Ashmolean Museum.

This is one of the most famous museums in Oxford, and it has an impressive collection of art and archaeological treasures. You can go inside and look around if you want to (entry is free).

If not, continue your walking tour of Oxford by heading west down Beaumont Street until you reach St John Street. Turn right there and walk up to Wellington Square.

When you get there, walk around it to the northeast corner and take the passageway through to Little Clarendon Street.

Here you’ll find yourself in Jericho, a local part of Oxford that most visitors miss. It’s known for its colorful houses, so keep your eyes out for pastel facades.

Turn left on Little Clarendon Street and follow it to Walton Street. Along the way you’ll pass lots of shops and cafes.

When you reach Walton Street, you’ll see the Last Bookshop on your left. If you’re a book lover, this independent bookstore is worth a detour.

If you’re not, turn right on Walton Street and continue your Oxford walk past local shops and the Oxford University Press until you reach Observatory Street.

Turn right on Observatory Street and take in the long row of colorful houses as you walk towards Woodstock Road. When you get there, turn left, then take your first right on Bevington Road. It’s full of pretty brick and stone houses.

Walk along Bevington Road until you reach Banbury Road. Turn right there, then left on Parks Road. This will take you into University Parks, a big green space.

You can stroll along West Walk until you reach South Walk, where you can turn right to exit the park.

When you reach Parks Road, turn left and take in the eye-catching architecture as you make your way south. Soon you’ll reach the impressive facade of the building that holds the Pitt-Rivers Museum and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

The former is a unique museum that houses 500,000 objects, photographs, and manuscripts from all over the world. The latter is home to an extensive collection focused on Earth, science, and nature. You can visit one or both if you want to (entry is free).

If not, continue walking down Parks Road past Trinity College and Wadham College. When you reach the intersection with Broad Street and Holywell Street, keep straight as Parks Road becomes Catte Street. You’ll recognize this area from earlier in your walk.

Walk down Catte Street to New College Lane and turn left. Pass under the Bridge of Sighs and follow New College Lane as it twists and turns. Eventually you’ll pass under an arch and find yourself on Queen’s Lane.

This narrow passage will take you past Queen’s College in Oxford before leading you back to the High Street. Once on the High Street, turn right and continue your self-guided walking tour of Oxford by taking in the beautiful historic buildings around you.

When you reach Magpie Lane, take a left and walk down the narrow alley to get to Merton Street.

When you get there, turn right and follow it as it curves around and becomes Oriel Square. You’ll see some of the stunning buildings of Oriel College as you go.

When you reach Bear Lane, turn left and follow the narrow street it as it becomes Blue Boar Street. Blue Boar Street will take you to St Aldate’s, where you can turn left to get back to Broad Walk at Christ Church college.

When you reach Broad Walk, you’ll be back where you started. Your self-guided walking tour of Oxford ends here.

Walking Tour Details and Map

Map of the first half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/cFZc97FAKTznpd3c6

Map of the second half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/RUWzLxLWJrWvVsFH7

Further afield: Blenheim Palace, The Cotswolds

I hope my self-guided walking tour of Oxford has made you want to get out and discover this amazing place and its world-class university. Oxford is one of the best cities in England and there are a lot of great sights to see here. Happy walking!

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4 Comments on Lady’s Self-Guided Walking Tour of Oxford

So nicely explained, we followed it to the T and enjoyed it a lot. Thank you for this.

You’re welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

Clear and accurate ! The maps were very helpful.

Thanks, Anne! I’m really glad to hear you found the walk easy to follow.

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Oxford Travel Guide (Practical tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Oxford Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most famous university cities in the world. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Oxford!

Plan your visit to Oxford

Located only 60 miles (90 km) north-west of London in the county of Oxfordshire is the city of Oxford, home to arguably the world’s most famous and prestigious university.

Nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires” Oxford is a compact city with many of its main sights situated close to each other.

Oxford is one of England’s most beautiful cities and a popular day trip from London easily reached by train from the capital. Plan to spend the day exploring the University’s famous colleges, magnificent medieval buildings & museums.

What you will find in this complete Oxford Travel Guide

Map of Oxford

When is the best time of year to visit oxford, how many days do you need in oxford, what is the best way to explore oxford, which city should i visit – oxford or cambridge, by train from london, by car from london, take a tour from london to oxford, attractions and things to do in oxford and the surrounding area, accommodation in oxford, tickets, tours & attractions in oxford, best day trips from oxford, books to read before visiting oxford, enjoy your visit to oxford.

Oxford travel guide – Visiting Oxford FAQ’s

Oxford is a beautiful destination whatever time of year you plan to visit.

The summer months are busy with visitors from the UK and abroad flocking to explore the sights.

If you plan to stay in Oxford we recommend booking accommodation in advance during peak season.

During the winter Oxford is quieter but a truly magical experience when frost or snow covers the city.

Spring heralds in blossom-covered trees and colourful flowers across the city whilst visitors during the Autumn will be greeted by multi-coloured leaf displays of golds and reds. Oxford is simply stunning whenever you choose to visit.

It is possible to see the main sights and attractions of Oxford in a day but if you are an art or history lover we recommend 2 days to fully explore the cities museums and colleges.

Oxford is also a great base for further exploration of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds by car or tour.

The historic centre of Oxford is easy to explore on foot. Alternatively consider buying tickets on the Oxford hop-on-hop-off bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours.

I would say visit both if you can fit them into your itinerary. Both cities have their own unique charms.

Oxford is the larger city and has lots of things to see and do so could easily fill 2 days if you wish to explore all its colleges and museums. It is also the perfect destination to visit if you are considering a road trip to the Cotswolds. If you are a Harry Potter fan head to Oxford where you will find several film locations used in a number of the movies.

Cambridge is a smaller city than Oxford. There is less to do and see but it is a beautiful and easy city to explore in a day and well worth visiting. Enjoy a stroll along the river Cam, try punting, and enjoy the cities stunning architecture. Read more about Cambridge in my Cambridge Travel Guide .

As I have mentioned both cities are doable day trips from London by train. If you only have one day and want to see both cities take this Oxford & Cambridge Day Tour from London .

What is the best way to travel to Oxford from London?

Oxford is an easy day trip from London but with so much to do and see it is worth considering spending a few days there to fully appreciate the city.

It is also the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Cotswolds . The UNESCO World Heritage listed Blenheim Palace is also close to Oxford.

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Oxford for the day or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Although located only 54 miles and an hour drive from London I recommend taking the train! Oxford is one of the least car-friendly cities in the UK and it is not worth the hassle if you can avoid it.

If you are planning to visit Oxford as part of a UK road trip and it is your first destination after London I recommend travelling to Oxford by train and picking up a rental car at the station.

If you are travelling to Oxford by car from other UK destinations note that car parking in the city centre is limited and expensive. 5 Park and Ride sites are available if you plan to visit for the day but do take into consideration the additional time you will need. Alternatively, if you plan to stay for longer book accommodation which includes parking.

There are many day tours available which include Oxford in their itinerary. If you are pushed for time we recommend considering booking a tour from London to see the highlights of the city.

• Day Trip to Highclere Castle and Oxford – Relive scenes from Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, set in 1000 acres of beautiful countryside, followed by a visit to the university city of Oxford.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages Day Trip – Escape the hustle and bustle of London and spend the day exploring the historic city of Oxford and the traditional stone villages of the Cotswolds. Travel in comfort through the countryside on a small group tour with a knowledgeable guide.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford Day Tour from London – Depart London for a magical day out on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour–The Making of Harry Potter, followed by a visit to the University of Oxford. The full-day trip includes admission to the studio tour and a professional guided walk in Oxford.
• Warwick Castle, Stratford, Oxford & Cotswolds Day Trip – Discover Oxford on a guided walking tour from London. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon to see William Shakespeare’s birthplace as well as his schoolroom and guildhall. Explore inside Warwick Castle.

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Oxford plus places we recommend visiting in the surrounding area.

ONE DAY IN OXFORD ITINERARY – BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO

COTSWOLDS TRAVEL GUIDE

VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN OXFORD

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

There are numerous walking tours of Oxford available. Choose the tour that interests you the most – for fans of Inspector Morse and Harry Potter there are excellent themed tours available.

If you prefer to tour the city with a university graduate this is also possible and a great way to learn about life for students at this hallowed university.

• University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide – Learn about life at the prestigious university from your student guide. This tour is also available as a private walking tour if you prefer to customise your tour.
• Making of Harry Potter Tour – Explore Oxford through the eyes of Harry Potter and other characters from the Harry Potter movies on a 1.5 to 2-hour tour. Discover how student life at Hogwarts compares with an Oxford education. Test your knowledge with a Potter-mania quiz.
• Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Walking Tour of Oxford – Follow in the footsteps of the fictional Inspector Morse and his sidekick Lewis on a TV locations tour of Oxford. See sites from the books and TV shows created by the author Colin Dexter.
• Private Punting Trip with Optional Walking Tour – Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour outing on the river and learn all about Oxford university, student life, and its proud rowing traditions. Have the option to also add on a guided walking tour afterward.

Oxford is the perfect base for day trips to surrounding areas including the Cotswolds and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace.

I have handpicked the best tours available from Oxford through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy)

• Cotswold Explorer Full-Day Tour – Take an unforgettable drive through the glorious Cotswolds, visiting sleepy stone villages, hidden valleys, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy hearing the history and stories of the old wool and market towns and browsing in the quirky shops and cafes.
• Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace Small-Group Tour – Meander through the quaint villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, and explore the rich history of Blenheim Palace.
• Blenheim Palace Guided Tour – Enjoy a guided tour of one of England’s most famous palaces and gardens and home to the Churchill family and Duke of Marlborough. Learn about the events which led to the creation of Blenheim Palace. Enjoy a private tour for a maximum of 4 persons.

Oxford is proud of its literary heritage and connections with many famous authors who have studied or taught at one of its colleges. To fully appreciate and enjoy your visit to Oxford we recommend reading some of their works.

These include

• Lewis Carroll
• Oscar Wilde
• JRR Tolkien
• John Betjeman
• Philip Pullman

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Oxford. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Liverpool Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map)
• York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Guided tours

All tours are in English and suitable for ages 11+. All children under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

If you have any accessibility requirements, please contact us in advance at [email protected] so that we can make arrangements for you to join the tour. 

Highlights guided tours – 30 minutes

If you are short on time, join us for a 30 minute highlights tour of the College OR the Cathedral.

Ticket: From £14 online/£16 on the door 

Tickets will be released online each Friday (c.10am) for the following week . Additional tours may be added on an ad-hoc basis. Tickets may also be purchased at our Visitor Centre, subject to availability.

Explore the College/Cathedral on a multimedia tour for the reduced price of £10 before or after your guided tour. Add tickets for one of our 30-minute guided tours and a multimedia tour to your basket and the discount will be automatically applied at the checkout. 

College only guided tour

• Hall Stairs

Guided tours of the College AND Cathedral – 60 minutes

Tickets from £24 online/£26 on the door 

Tickets will be released online each Friday (c. 10am) for the following week . Additional tours may be added on an ad hoc basis. Tickets may also be purchased at our Visitor Centre, subject to availability. 

Special interest Cathedral guided tours – 60 minutes

Cathedral architecture guided tour

Standard ticket: £24

This 60-minute tour offers a journey through centuries of architectural development, from the Norman construction of the Priory of St Frideswide in the 12th century, through the emergence of Gothic architecture, to the remodelling of the Cathedral by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 19th century. 

Cathedral stained glass guided tour

Standard ticket: £20

This 60-minute tour offers a journey through the Cathedral’s rich stained glass heritage, starting with early 14th century gems such as the ‘Becket Window’, through a period when ‘painted’ glass was in fashion in the 17th century, to the Victorians and the exquisite legacy left by the Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones. 

Private guided tours

To make an enquiry about a 30-minute private Guided Tour please complete this form .

To make an enquiry about a  60-minute private Guided Tour  please complete this form .

We can accommodate up to 16 people per tour guide. 30 minute tour = £14 per person, 60 minute tour = £24 per person. The minimum charge for a 30 minute tour is £140, and for a 60-minute tour is £240.