walking tour of oxford colleges

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.

Our tour on Sunday was with Simon, who brought all manner of historical facts to life. It was a hugely enjoyable tour, and set us up very well for further exploration. Simon brought life to ancient history in a way which was quite inspirational. Thank you. Toni, Leicester

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).

The tour and the guide (Simon) were great! I would highly recommend it if you get the chance! Edward Simpson-Lord, England

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.

I really liked this! Great job! adobe store, Tamana

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.

An impromptu decision to join a walking tour turned into a very entertaining hour and a half indeed. Jeff has a great manner about him which even kept my teenager entertained. Simone Bonnett, Blewbury, Didcot

City of Oxford walking tours

   Daily tours available

  90 – 120 minutes

  Starts at the Weston Library steps

  Available in English

  Book tickets in advance

We offer three Oxford walking tours: the City of Oxford walking tour, the Literary Oxford walking tour and the family walking tour .

For upcoming closures, please check our Plan your visit page.

City of Oxford walking tour

  From £20 per person

Discover the vibrant history of the oldest university in the English-speaking world on the only official University of Oxford walking tour. Learn how Oxford grew from a small market town to become the city of dreaming spires.

Starting and ending at the Weston Library, you will see beyond the remarkable spaces of the Bodleian Library in this walking tour; taking in the historic streets of Oxford and following in the footsteps of famous authors, scientists, politicians and film stars.

Developed by the Bodleian Libraries, in partnership with the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides, our popular city of Oxford walking tour will take you on an entertaining journey that will reveal the secrets of this historic city.

As part of the tour you will see inside the oldest teaching room in the University: the Divinity School; as well as the exterior of the Bodleian Library, the Radcliffe Camera and the streets surrounding the central Bodleian site.

All our walking tours are conducted by accredited, qualified guides.

Literary Oxford walking tour

   Please check availability

Oxford has been described as ‘a city steeped in storytelling’, its ‘dreaming spires’ home to countless writers over the years. The Literary Oxford tour explores this city of books, uncovering some well-known authors and some not so well-known.

There are fascinating stories to be told. From English classics to modern writers, Oxford has fired the imagination and produced extraordinary characters, real and fictional.

Walking tour information

• Tours start on the steps of the Weston Library.
• After the walking tour, you will have access to the Divinity School.
• Our City Walking Tour and Literary Oxford tour include walking around Oxford city centre. If you or someone in your party has accessibility requirements, please contact the Tours team prior to your visit on [email protected] .
• Dogs are not allowed on our walking tours. Visitors with assistance dogs, please contact the Tours team prior to your visit on [email protected] .

In the shop

Bodleian Library Souvenir Guidebook £6.00

Face Coverings £6.00

The University of Oxford: A Brief History £12.99

What else to do on your visit

Contact the tours team.

  +44 (0)1865 287400   [email protected]

Our office hours are Monday–Friday, 9am–4pm

Related links

• Getting here
• History of the Bodleian

Home > Articles > Enjoying Oxford

Oxford Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Plan a Visit at Your Own Pace

Oxford is a gem of a town. There’s so much to see, and you can visit practically all of their attractions on foot. This is why walking tours are an excellent option for those coming to Oxford. Some will choose to have a guide, while others might prefer to explore the city, its University museums and sights at their own rhythm . We’ve created these maps to help you do exactly that. Below, you will find free walking tour maps (you can download them to your phone if you prefer) to see all that Oxford has to offer. Pubs and restaurants? We got it. Colleges and libraries? Of course! How about a bit of shopping or a Harry Potter-themed adventure? Look no further. 

(Want to see a self-guided walking tour for Oxford Museums only? Check this link ). 

Oxford Basic Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

Download this Image

Let’s start with a quick overview of the town. This walking tour is perfect for those visiting Oxford for just a few hours. It is a leisurely tour that should give you a great idea of what the town is all about. There are two paths I like to do myself when walking around Oxford:

In pink : Start from the train station or bus station and make your way to the centre of the city. This short walk should take about 30 minutes to an hour at a relaxed walking pace – and cover the best attractions in Oxford: Its colleges, churches, museums, and shops.

In purple : If the day is nice and you have an extra 40 minutes, you can also walk down St Aldate’s and into Christ Church meadow, where you will be able to relax in the shade and see the famous Cherwell river. Make your way back north through the Botanic Garden path and enter the city through the east, where you will see some of the oldest colleges of the university. 

Let’s go into a little more detail if you want to do the short (or pink) self-guided walking tour. 

• Arriving at the train or bus station, walk down George Street. If you are already hungry, this is the perfect opportunity to grab a bite, as there are several restaurants and bars here. If not…
• Continue walking until you reach St Michael at the North Gate . This was the city limit when Oxford was surrounded by a wall!
• Turn right and walk down Cornmarket Street, the central commercial vein. Don’t miss 24-26 Cornmarket Street , a house dating back to the 14th century (it’s on the left, right across the tower).
• You can continue walking down the street and check out the Covered Market , or turn left on Market Street and continue down Braselose Lane, which will eventually lead you to the landmark Radcliffe Camera library. To your right, you will also see the Church of St Mary the Virgin, and to the left, the Bodleian Library .
• Turn left again after you exit, and you’ll see the Sheldonian Theatre and, right across Broad Street, Trinity College .
• Walk up to Corn Steet and turn left again, so you can enjoy a pleasant stroll up Parks Road and see the Natural History Museum and Keble College .
• You can continue until Keble road to close the circuit or turn left on Museum Road to see a secret passage and the most beautiful tree in Oxford!

What You Shouldn't Miss in This Self-Guided Walking Tour

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

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

This is the largest church in Oxford and is popular with students, professors, and visitors. The first church here was built in 1086, although the building that can now be seen on the north side of the chancel is from 1320 (when the Univesity was officially founded). The Baroque porch (considered “the most beautiful porch in the world”) was designed by Nicholas Stone, and the tower (also from the 13th century) can be climbed and offers an excellent view of Oxford. 

Radcliffe Camera

This circular library is probably considered by most locals and visitors as “the very centre of Oxford”. It was built in 1749 by James Gibbes and has an Edwardian Palladian style. Although it appears to have three stores from the outside, it’s actually one main floor. This floor is divided into different bays separated by Corinthian columns. Today, the Radcliffe Camera holds over 600,000 books. It’s open to students but not to the public. 

The Bridge of Sighs

Although you also won’t be able to cross this bridge (unless you are a Hertford College student), you can still admire its beauty from the street level. The bridge was built in 914 by Sir Thomas Jackson and received its name because it looks like its homonym in Venice. The geometrical concept is also inspired by Archimedes in the 3rd Century BC (the area of the parabolic segment is 4/3 of an inscribed triangle). 

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.

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.

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

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

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 >

Un-Missable Stops in an Oxford Walking Tour

If you’re exploring Oxford on your own, there are a few places you should consider stopping by. This includes colleges (which are normally open to visitors during the day), museums, the Botanic Garden , shops, and definitely, if you can, the Bodleian Library !

Of course, Oxford has something for everyone, so if you’re looking for places to shop or parks to relax, you can see some good options in the list below this section.

However, before you move on, if you’re interested in visiting the best Oxford museums (and combining them with the city walking tour), you can use this map.

Also, here’s the complete guide covering the most popular Oxford Museums .

And the direct link to download the museum walking tour map . 

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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Everything about Oxford and its surrounding areas, including places to see, things to do, and information about all the colleges, libraries, and museums. 

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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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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

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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Premium Free Oxford Walking Tour of Oxford University, City & The Old Bodleian Library with University Educated Students & Alumni Guides

Tour price - free, please click on the book now to fill our tour booking form and get instant booking confirmation., join our famous, fun and informative premium walking tour of oxford university, city & the old bodleian library. go inside historic colleges to see where now oxford university students live and study, visit old chapels, 13th century & 15th century lecture halls, exam hall, oldest graduation venue & the great dining hall for free. tour timings - 11 am, 2 pm & 3.45 pm from monday to sunday. we have space available for our daily tours. please fill our book now form. tour duration will be between 90 minutes to 100 minutes and involves less than half a mile of walking. is this tour free – yes it’s a free tour we do not charge any fixed price like others. other tour companies charge £25 per person for this same tour. our donation based tour offers visitors fair pricing in which visitors can pay as they like. this is fair pricing for visitors, where you pay the price that you are confident in and at the end of the tour according to your happiness. our tour guide will take visitors inside many oxford university buildings and historic colleges for free. be inspired, be informed. we also offer premium private oxford university tour. all our private tours can be tailored at the start to ensure you get exactly what you want from your time with us. about us - since 2012, premium oxford university walking tour guides have experience of providing "mind blowing oxford tour" to visitors everyday. all our guides are highly educated university students & alumni, highly experienced and passionate about oxford's history..

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Premium Oxford University Walking Tour Highlights –

Go inside the oldest lectures halls with our university educated guide and understand how students lived and studied here centuries ago? Learn how the old teaching traditions and methods are influencing this world-leading centre of learning, teaching and research known as University of Oxford? And also learn why Oxford is called "the City of Dreaming Spires"? Find why locals and students rioted for many centuries in Oxford?

Your friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide will show you around the ancient colleges and with cobbled streets, you will be entertained on the way with unknown anecdotes about the many Oxford University famous students and academics who have walked down these same lanes in times gone by.

Visit Harry Potter filming locations , see Inspector Morse sights, discover Narnia Inspiration, explore Alice in Wonderland site, visit Mordor inspiration of Lord of the Rings, uncover most Haunted site in Oxford with Premium Oxford University Walking Tours.

Premium Walking Tour of Oxford University, Old Bodleian Library & City tour Price – Yes It’s a Free tour! Other tour companies charge £25 per person for this same tour.

Is there any entry fee for going inside the historic Oxford University sights?

Our tour includes visiting the old colleges, old lecture halls, old graduation venues, the old exam school, the old Bodleian library, the Weston library, old school quads where lecture were given earlier and historic chapels for free.

There is a £2.50 optional entry fee for Medieval Lecture hall known as School of Divinity which was also used in Harry Potter movie.

When you can join this Premium Walking Tour of Oxford?

Tour Timings: – 11 am, 2 pm & 3.45 pm Everyday. (Limited places available for our Famous Free Tour. Please fill our Book Now or Contact Us form)

Where does this Premium Walking Tour of Oxford starts from?

Tour starting point - Please meet your guide opposite TSE NOODLE Restaurant No.8 Ship Street, Oxford (postcode is OX1 3DA) and join Premium Oxford University Walking Tour. .

Our guide will come 10 minutes before the tour starts at the tour starting point.

Tour Duration - Our tour takes between 90 minutes to 2 hours approx with less then half-a-mile of walking and seating arrangements to leave you with happy feet.

Information for Tour Groups - Our Free Tour is for small groups. All groups of more than 6 people or school groups or student groups or any commercially arranged trips, must make booking through contact us form or call us on 07412937003 and ask whether your group can joining our tour.

Tour Description –

• Discover Oxford’s history, traditions and walk in the footsteps of famous members like J.R.R. Tolkein and C.S. Lewis
• Visit old colleges,old school quads, lecture halls, exam hall, graduation venue for free
• Explore Oxford with a knowledgeable University educated guide
• Go inside 800 years old Oxford University sites and visit world-famous sites like School of Divinity, the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sigh and Christ Church meadows.
• Learn about unique Oxford University traditions, ceremonies, mysterious legends, student life and much more!
• Visit Narnia through the wardrobe.
• Discover the inspiration of Alice in Wonderland.
• See J. R. R. Tolkien's world of Middle-earth, Mordor.
• Go inside Harry Potter filming locations.
• Follow the footsteps of world famous Inspector Morse.
• Uncover the secret of the historic Tower of Five Orders.
• Visit the Old Bodleian Library Quads.
• Our tour guide will show visitors the oldest lecture halls.
• Our tour includes visiting one of the Oldest Colleges & Chapels.

Visit Harry Potter filming sites, Chronicles of Narnia, Alice in Wonderland & Lord of the Rings sites on a Free Tour. Visit Inspector Morse filming sites with us.

Premium oxford university walking tour & your guide.

Since 2012, Premium Oxford University Walking Tour guides have experience of providing "excellent tours" to visitors everyday. Premium Oxford University Walking Tour guides are passionate about Oxford's inspiring history. Your friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic Guide will be highly trained and University educated.

Premium Oxford University Walking Tour guides will be happy to help with any questions. Our tour guides will cover all the interesting topics about Oxford’s glorious past, historic landmarks and dark secrets.

With our University-educated guides, you will walk the walk through thousands years of Oxford’s history from early Saxon time of small Oxford Town to its present world famous city of learning. Our guides will lead you through historic landmarks of Oxford’s amazing historic stories.

Our guides are University educated with years of guiding experience and local history knowledge. With our guides you can go behind the closed doors where Oxford University members can go.

Which sights will be covered on a Premium Oxford University Walking Tour and what you will see?

• Visit 800 years old Oxford University sites with Oxford University Walking Tour.
• Why we do not charge £25 per person like other tour operators?
• Our guides are highly passionate about Oxford’s history. We have been giving excellent tours since 2012 everyday, otherwise we would have been long gone by now. We believe that all the visitors visiting Oxford should know about the history of Oxford.

Where does this tour starts from and when you can join this Premium Walking Tour of Oxford?

• Our tour starts at 11 am, 2 pm & 3.45 pm Everyday. Please fill our booking form for more information on where the tour starts from and please fill our Book Now or Contact Us Form .
• Tour starting point - Please meet your guide opposite TSE NOODLE Restaurant No.8 Ship Street, Oxford (postcode is OX1 3DA) and join Oxford University Walking Tours.
• Premium Oxford University Walking Tour guide will come 10 minutes before the tour starts.
• Please do not go inside the Church to ask about our tour because people sell tickets for other tour guides.
• Meet your friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic Guide who will be highly trained guide and travellers who are visiting Oxford.
• Walking distance - Your tour will cover less then half-mile of walking (stopping every so often to admire the architecture and learn about the quirky university traditions) and not travelling further than a 10/15 minute walk away from the City centre. Tour Price – Free. Our free tour is a completely free tour and we do not ask visitor to pay anything for this free tour. Our free tour duration will be 90 minutes. Visitors can also switch from our free tour to our donation based tour or private tour for £140. Our private tour will be just for your group. Discover Oxford University with a expert tour guide. Large groups of over 6 visitors are required to take permission before joining our tour. However, when our free tour is fully booked then we can offer visitors a fixed price tour for £6 per person with other visitors.
• Take memorable pictures when we go inside the 13th Century Oldest Lecture and Examination Hall of University of Oxford and all other sites.
• Weather - Tours go ahead whatever the weather, however we do advise you to come prepared and warmly dressed for winter with comfortable footwear.
• Parking - We recommend the Park and Ride service or Westgate Car Park on Thames Street, Oxford OX1 1TR. Please allow at least 30 minutes for the journey into the City Centre.
• Feel free to ask question to your friendly guide and get tips for further planning interesting things to do in Oxford after our tour.
• Take pictures of iconic Oxford University sight's during the tour.

Discover Historic Sights With Premium Walking Tour of Oxford

Discover Oxford’s unknown historic traditions during Premium Walking Tour Of Oxford, visit exhibitions, museums and beautiful gardens. Visit the famous colleges and to take some memorable pictures. Premium Oxford University Walking Tours will make your time well spent in Oxford and walk cobbled stones paths. Find What to do in Oxford? By filling our Book Now Form via this website you will be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions below.

EXPLORE LANDMARKS OF OXFORD

Call Us – Oxford University Walking Tour, the easiest way to explore the iconic Oxford landmarks and explore all the world famous sites and hidden gems of historic Oxford University and City. Book Now

Learn about the unknown traditions and historic events which influenced the formation Oxford University. Our guides will enlighten you with detailed history of Oxford University and City. Our Oxford Walking tours includes a visit inside School of Divinity and famous St Mary’s the Virgin with Gothic style of architecture.

Walk the halls of one of the most historic and world famous Oxford University on a 2 hour premium walking tour of Oxford University, City & The Bodleian Library. Go inside the amazing oldest and famous colleges with insights of student life and their experience in Oxford University.

See all the famous landmarks in the heart of the University like Bridge of Sighs, Radcliffe Camera, University Church of St Mary, Christ Church and Trinity College. Learn about famous students of Oxford University, hear anecdotes and experience secret traditions.

Tour Highlights -

Discover famous Oxford University landmarks like Bridge of Sighs, Radcliffe Camera, Christ Church College, Trinity College, University Church of St Mary.

Explore magnificent Bodleian Library, Old School Quads, School of Divinity, Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford University Printing Press, The New Bodleian Library.

Blackwells bookshop, The Emperor’s Heads, 1000 years old city wall, Oxford Martyrs, Museum of History of Science, All Souls College, Exeter College, Jesus College, Brasenose College, New College, Balliol College, Duke Humphrey’s Library, Harry Potter filming locations and much more!

Who can join this tour and what you can expect?

• Everyone can join this tour. Tour duration is usually between 90 minutes to 2 hour Premium Walking Tour of Oxford is designed to take you behind the high walls and closed doors of world famous Oxford University.
• This Premium Walking Tour of Oxford University departs everyday at 11 am, 2 pm & 3.45 pm. Tour starting point - Please meet your guide outside No.1 Ship Street Restaurant, Oxford OX1 3DA, next to St. Michael Church on Ship Street (Postcode is OX1 3EY) and join Oxford University Walking Tours.
• Using University Graduates as guides, the walking tour unfolds the drama behind the ancient university in a interesting and enjoyable way.
• With small intimate groups, the guides give special attention to everyone while answering all the questions and concentrate on the diverse history of Oxford University. Book a Premium Private Walking Tour of Oxford University from £130 for 1 to 19 visitors. Entry fee is not included inside the paid sites of Oxford University. Visitors will be to required to buy there entry fee.

Please note that entry to all Oxford University buildings are subject to availability and our tour guides can only take visitors inside Oxford University buildings where visitors are allowed. We cannot take visitors inside the rooms where students live or study. Explore Oxford’s unique history while going inside oldest colleges and also discover equally about history of Oxford City. Learn about famous Oxford graduates who are now world leaders and their less known experiences in University of Oxford. Also discover academic traditions and ancient ceremonies at Oxford. Above all visit all the Magical sites of Narnia, Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter and the Hobbit in Oxford. And also the famous “finishing story of a stand-off” between an intelligent professor and a naughty student. Join our excellent free tour to uncover the inspiring historic stories of Oxford University, Old Bodleian Library and Oxford City while visiting the oldest colleges which were established between 1249 and 1264. Go behind the huge gates and high stone walls to see where University of Oxford students live. Our tour guide will help you discover the distinctive collegiate structure, unknown secrets of famous alumni and weird traditions of the University of Oxford.Tour price - There is no fixed price of this donation based tour, you can donate what you like at the end of the tour according to your happiness, our suggested donations that visitors can pay is as low as £5 per person or £10 per person or £20 per person according to your happiness at the end of the tour or during the tour or before the tour starts. However, when our donation based tour is fully booked then we can offer visitors a fixed price tour for £6 per person with other visitors. Visitors will be required to pay before the tour starts for the fixed price tour or during the tour when our tour guide will ask you to pay or we will ask for donations at the end of the donations based tour. If our donation based tour is fully booked then visitors can always go by themselves to see Oxford University. Our tour price is very low when compared with £20 to £25 per person charged by some other people. What is the meaning of Free on our website? Free means that visitors are free to pay as they like and visitors are free to choose whether or not to leave a donation. Free also means that we are going to share historic information about Oxford during the tour for free and for the same tour other tour operators charge £20 to £25 per person. Free also means that we will take visitors inside the historical sites of Oxford University. Free also means that visitors are free to take pictures during the tour. Free also means that our tour guide will share free information with visitors about all the sites of Oxford University which can be visited by visitors after our tour. Free also means that our tour guide will help visitors to locate Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford for free unlike other tour operators who charge £35 per person. We offer a free tour to visitors and we do not charge anything before the tour starts and we do not prosecute any visitors for not donating anything. Thank you for booking our tour. We have different types of tour. Our most popular tour is our free tour. Tour Price – Free. This is a completely 15 minutes free tour and we do not ask visitor to donate anything for this free tour. Pay As You Like Tour duration – 90 minutes. Tour timings – 11 am, 2 pm and 3.45 pm everyday. Discover Oxford University in 90 minutes. Please click here for more information on free tour.

Review sent by Sharon (London) on 11th March,2017 – The Historic Oxford Walking Tours

Scholars Walk Oxford Walking Tours have many sites which can be very modern and sometimes hundreds of years old. The most important thing that we liked about our guide was that our guide was University graduate and very friendly. Our guide Allan took us inside many beautiful colleges and commentary was also very interesting due to facts about the colleges and unusual traditions.There is no other better way of learning about the Oxford’s history then joining Scholars Walk Tours. Our guide was very knowledgeable. Sometimes too much history becomes a little boring but our guide was managing the group of different ages very well. Scholars Walk Tours guide helped many members of our group to realise how Oxford University works? Our knowledgeable guide also discussed about the rivalry between the colleges and local gossip with many unknown Oxford University secrets.

There was lots of information about J.R.R. Tolkein, C.S.Lewis and Harry Potter. Our guide took us to Tolkein’s college in Oxford University and we also visited Harry Potter filming location. This tour is a must for everyone who will visit Oxford.

Review posted by Adrian (USA) on 5th March, 2017

Great Experience with Oxford Walking Tours guide who was knowledgeable about local Oxford history and also charmingly funny. Our guide introduced us with excellent Oxford student experience, urban legends and university culture. We also learned about British history of Oxford, especially during the English civil war and time flew very quickly.We visited many interesting sights like The Old Bodleian Library with lots of details about student life in Oxford University and student traditions.

With Scholars Walk Tours, we enjoyed many great sights with historic tales of Oxford students and our guide was excellent with people in our group. Our guide gave all the answers and we were all very happy. We took lots of picture with the statue of the Third Earl of Pembroke and also visited School of Astronomy.

When we visited the Old Schools then we felt like students of Oxford University and we experienced how students felt hundred of years ago. We also saw School of Medicine and historic School of Rhetoric. All the text on the top of these schools were written in Latin with faces of old students next to entrance.

Welcome to Premium Oxford Walking Tours

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Magical harry potter tour oxford.

Free Magical Walking Tour of Oxford Harry Potter fans and Muggels are welcome to walk on the footsteps of Harry Potter. Visit the Harry Potter sites in Oxford. Our Magical tour of Oxford also includes visiting The School of Divinity and beautiful dining hall in a historic college.

Sightseeing Of Oxford

Oxford University Colleges and University Buildings

Highest tower to climb in Oxford City

Oxford’s Most Haunted Sights

Oxford Walking Tour

Walking tours of oxford.

Join Free Harry Potter Tour of Oxford to go inside Harry Potter filming locations, Narnia, Alice in Wonderland & The Hobbit Inspiration while Discovering Oxford University on a free tour.

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Things to do in oxford.

Oxford Walking Tours- Arts, Music, Events, Festivals and Entertainment

Museums, Exhibitions and Art Galleries in Oxford

Things To Do

History of oxford city.

If you want to discover the history of Oxford, the best way is to go for a walking tour around Oxford thus populating your mind with famous people and long lasting old traditions.

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Oxford University & City of Oxford Walking Tour 2024 with Alumni Guide

Go on one of the best oxford walking tours and explore the university city and its history, about oxford city and university walking tour.

Book this Oxford Walking tour and visit one of the UK’s most famous universities. Your Alumni guide will provide insight into Oxford’s prestigious university and the city itself. You’ll also visit the Harry Potter film locations on this guided Oxford tour.

DESCRIPTION

City and university walking tour of oxford.

Explore Oxford City and step inside the grounds of Oxford University on this exciting tour led by a former university student. Discover student life with your alumni guide as you admire the iconic architecture.

Visit the Bodleian Library, University buildings, and one of the oldest university colleges. Learn about the history of the university institutes, including Trinity College, Oriel College, Hertford College, All Souls College, the Radcliffe Camera, the University Church of St. Mary, and Merton College

Tour includes an equally in-depth history of the Oxford city centre. Walk down Broad Street as you hear all about ceremonies at Oxford, famous graduates, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and how the most powerful Archbishop of Canterbury was burned at stake in Oxford.

You’ll also visit the Exeter College and Divinity School, used as a filming site for Harry Potter movies. Follow the Footprints tour of Oxford set up by students and designed to provide an entertaining and authentic way of discovering the city of Oxford.

• Entrance fees
• Skip the ticket line access
• Walking tour
• Professional guide
• Tips/Gratuities

Tour Meeting Point

Meeting point for this Oxford University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide is at the Oxford Tourist Information Centre. .

GET PRIORITY ACCESS TO ALL OF THE POPULAR OXFORD ATTRACTIONS!

Uncover the beauty of Oxford City and University with an alumni guide.

Step inside one of the oldest colleges at Oxford University.

Learn all about life at the prestigious Oxford university from your student tour guide.

Visit the world-famous Bodleian Library, Divinity School, Trinity College, and other important Oxford sites.

How long is the Oxford walking tour?

Is oxford university & city of oxford walking tour worth it, what can you do in oxford for 2 hours, can you tour oxford university by yourself, don’t miss out on this best-selling tour, look no further, book this oxford tour right away, and find out why oxford is called the city of dreaming spires, good to know before the tour.

• Remember to wear comfortable shoes for this walking tour.
• Skip the line entrance fees are included in the Oxford university walking tour price.
• If your plans change, you can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.

Incredible Experience in Oxford!

I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Oxford. Our tour guide was amazing, she shared a lot of interesting and funny stories about the city and student life in Oxford. Overall it was a fantastic experience of getting to know the town and its rich history.

Amazing tour

Our guide did an amazing job leading this tour. She was knowledgeable and confident and answered all of the questions our group asked. The tour was really well organized with a full itinerary. We visited a lot of interesting places, and the tour was well worth the money we spent.

Book Oxford University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide Right Away!

• Free cancellation policy for up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.
• Small group tours.

Instant ticket delivery

Smartphone tickets accepted

Skip the line ticket

• Private Family Tours

2 Hour Free Oxford Walking Tour

• Oxford University & City Tour with Alumni Guide
• Christ Church With Extended University Tour
• Harry Potter Tour of Oxford
• Oxford Ghost Tour
• Oxford Bike Tour
• Oxford Bike & Walking Tour
• Oxford to Stonehenge and Bath
• Blenheim Half Day Tour
• Private Day Tours
• School Group Tours
• Foreign Language Oxford Walking Tours
• All Our Oxford Tours
• Cambridge Free Walking Tour
• Cambridge University & King’s College Tour
• Private Family Tour of Cambridge
• Group & Student Tours of Cambridge
• London Day Tour
• Free London Walking Tour
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• Day Trips From London
• Bath Free Walking Tour
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• York Minster & City Tour
• Private Tours of York
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• Oxford City Guide
• London City Guide
• Cambridge City Guide
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• Become A Guide

• Authentic Tours By Oxford Students
• The Most Famous Parts Of Oxford University
• The Most Popular Tour In Oxford
• Hear About Student Life, Ceremonies And Rivalries

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 )

All groups of 8 or over, and any commercially arranged trips, must make a private booking – contact us  for details.

• Is this child-friendly?

Absolutely. Lots of families come on this every day. We keep the content as fun and engaging as possible!

• Is this accessible with a pram? 

Yes, but at one point you may need to collapse the pram to go through a kissing gate. 

• 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
• Merton College
• The Bodleian Library
• The Radcliffe Camera
• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
• University Church of St Marys
• Many More University Sites
• History Of The Town
• Student Life At Oxford
• University Ceremonies
• Famous Graduates And Their Little Known Stories
• Our Famous Finishing Story!

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!

Want to go inside the University?

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

Oxford Walking Tours

Explore oxford with a skilled and knowledgeable guide.

Explore Oxford with a skilled and knowledgeable Oxford Official Walking Tour Guide. See the filming locations used in Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, and the University’s most famous buildings: The Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, Sheldonian Theatre, and the Bodleian Library.

• 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.

Oxford Ghost Tour

Meet the ghosts of Oxford on this evening ghost tour! Hear the spookiest, most well-known tales from around the city and learn about its most famous spirits.

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.

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.

• Hour Glass 1 hours

Harry Potter Highlights Tour

For all fans of Harry Potter (designed especially for children and their families), this is the perfect Oxford walking tour. See the key locations from the outside that inspired the Harry Potter Stories.

Philip Pullman’s Oxford Tour

Experience the places and stories that inspired Philip Pullman’s best-selling books on a walking tour of Oxford, endorsed by the author himself!

• Map Marker Oxford
• Hour Glass 50 Minutes

Oxford Experience Cruise

Oxford river cruises.

Experience river life in Oxford whilst cruising down the University regatta course! We take in a fascinating stretch of River as we cruise down the university regatta course towards quaint Iffley village.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Oxford Picnic Cruise

Travel through the city past famous landmarks including Christchurch College and Meadows, the University boathouses and regatta course, the Head of the River and Folly Bridge. Tour operates between April and October.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Afternoon Tea River Cruise

This relaxing afternoon cruise sails downstream from Folly Bridge taking in the best-known reach of the River Thames in Oxford.  This trip operates between May and September.

• Map Marker London

River Thames Cruise

Vip london tour.

Discover London’s hidden riverside gems on this fascinating tour.

Windsor Castle Tour

Visit the amazing site of Windsor Castle.

Stratford upon Avon, Oxford and The Cotswolds Tour

Famous sights and gorgeous architecture with your own private driver

Oxford, Stratford, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Tour

Beautiful scenery and world famous architecture in one private tour.

Bath, Stonehenge, Salisbury and Magna Carta Tour

Informative and fun all day private tour.

Stonehenge and Bath Tour

See some of Britain’s most marvellous sights with your own private driver!

London Top Sights Small Group Tour

See the sights tours.

See all the sights at once including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge, Downing Street & more

Regents Canal Waterbus Boat Trip from LITTLE VENICE → CAMDEN TOWN

London water bus.

Perfect for a visit to CAMDEN MARKET & Buck Street eco Market.

Regents Canal Waterbus Boat Trip from CAMDEN TOWN → LITTLE VENICE

Departing from West Yard street food at CAMDEN MARKET travelling to serene LITTLE VENICE, with nearby Paddington Central, Merchant Square and Warwick Avenue.

Pay & Play Virtual Tour – Regent’s Canal

London guided walks.

Discover the history of the Regent’s Canal, between Angel Islington and London Fields, Hackney.

Temple Treasure Hunt

Give your brain a workout with our challenging clues which cover the famous area known as Temple.

Find the Phoenix – Virtual Escape Room

Embark on a virtual London adventure with friends, family or colleagues.

• Map Marker Henley

Private Cruise on Modern Day-Boat

Henley river boats.

Enjoy a wonderful river cruise on a modern day boat, as you relax on the river as it meanders through Henley and runs along the famous Regatta course.

Two-hour Private Cruise on Hebe

Enjoy a wonderful river cruise on a traditional boat, as you relax on the river as it meanders through Henley and runs along the famous Regatta course.

Wizards London Bus Tour of Harry Potter Film Locations

Brit movie tours.

Come and join the Wizards London Bus Tour and take a magical fun-packed coach tour of Harry Potter film locations and inspirations inspired by J K Rowlings books in the British capital.

James Bond Walking Tour of London

Discover what it takes to be the world’s most famous secret agent, as we take you on a journey to uncover some of the locations from the James Bond films, including the latest 007 film to be released in 2020 – No Time to Die, as well as Bond’s previous adventure, SPECTRE.

James Bond Walking Tour of London • Private

Wizards london walking tour of harry potter film locations.

For fans of J K Rowlings famous young wizard this Wizards London Walk is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours in the British capital exploring Harry Potter London filming locations.

Wizards London Walking Tour of Harry Potter Film Locations • Private

Midsomer murders private tour.

Enjoy a tour of the fictional murder capital of England with your own expert local driver guide

London Ghost Tour

Brit icon tours.

Believers and skeptics are welcome to join this frightening London Ghost Tour as your world renowned author leads you on a walking tour around some of London’s most haunted sites.

Jane Austen Tour of Bath plus City Highlights

Bath as your expert local guide shows the main attractions of this beautiful Georgian city.

Beatles London Walking Tour

Roll up, roll up, step right this way as we take you on a Beatles Tour of London.

Tour Calendar

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

Public Group Tours

If you are looking for the highest quality tour and a small group experience that allows a personal experience and interaction with the guide then these tours are for you., simply oxford university tour.

Walking Tours of Oxford is delighted to offer this ‘Simply Oxford’ group walking tour to experience the very best of Oxford. On this tour, we restrict group size to just 14 people and we believe this gives a far superior quality of tour and allows interaction with your guide.  Some groups operate with 50+ people per guide in Oxford!

Tour starts at 11.30am and will operate April-September on a Tuesday, and Thursday (additional days added to meet demand – click book now for full availability). Tour length is 1 hour and 45 mins.

Meet your fully qualified guide at Christ Church memorial gardens on St Aldates for a journey through the university, hear the story of how it all began, see stunning buildings and admire the architecture.

Highlights include:- The Bodleian Library; The Weston Library, The Old Schools Quadrangle and The Radcliffe Camera, The Clarendon Building, The Museum to the History of Science, The Sheldonian Theatre, The Bridge of Sighs, The University Church, All Souls College, Brasenose College plus many other secrets and surprises along the way. Ideal for families, individuals, couples or anyone that wants to get the very best from their time in Oxford.

We are unable to visit inside a college during the tour but will provide information and advise on where you can visit independently in the afternoon.

The tour will finish on or around Broad Street where recommendations will be made for lunch/dinner, shopping, further sightseeing and colleges you may like to visit.

This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or limited mobility. Please get in touch to discuss a private tour. We cannot accept dogs on our public tours.

Simply the best but don’t take our word for it – read over 1000 5 star review on TripAdvisor .

£25 per person + booking fee

“A must for any visitor to Oxford”

Fun, friendly and informative, we would definitely recommend this tour. We had a great tour with Heidi, who was very informative and knowledgeable about Oxford and make our walk both fun and interesting. Heidi made us feel as if we were walking with a knowledgeable friend, and it was a fun few hours. We would definitely do this again. Feefo. September 2020.

Morse/ Lewis/ Endeavour tour

Join others on this 1 hour and 45 mins (90 mins in winter months) Morse/Lewis/Endeavour tour around Oxford and discover some of the many filming sites and stories.

This tour operates on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 2pm in peak season (usually March until October). A 11am tour maybe added to meet demand when the afternoon tour is sold out. During the quieter winter months, please see schedule on BOOK NOW button. The tour starts from Martyrs Memorial on St Giles.

This tour is restricted to 20 people per guide.

Many of our guides have witnessed the filming and even met the cast!

These tours are often fully booked weeks in advance so book early to experience the best!

We do not visit inside a college.

£20 per person + booking fee

Walking Tours of Oxford Guides – Elizabeth, Leigh and Heidi with Abigail Thaw (Dorothea Frazil from Endeavour) at Colin Dexter’s memorial service 2018 #choosequalified

Additional information

Our tour costs are clear and transparent.

Your guides are fully qualified and hold the green badge accreditation.

We are one of the highest rated tour company in Oxford on TripAdvisor and hold the ‘gold standard’ award from Feefo.

Whilst this is a group tour, each one is unique and the best route will be chosen on the day. We do not follow a script.

Tours numbers are much smaller than other tours in Oxford which allows for a more personalised tour rather than just being part of a large group and a scripted tour.

We cannot guarantee college entry.

90 Minute Classic Walking Tour of Oxford

• Carfax Tower - Admission not included
• Christ Church
• Magpie Lane
• High Street
• Queen's College
• Bridge of Sighs
• Radcliffe Camera
• Bodleian Library
• Sheldonian Theatre
• History of Science Museum

How to get there?

Martyrs' Memorial

356 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8GL

Select date and session

No booking fees

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