Harry Potter in Oxford Tour Divinity School entry Private Tour

The Harry Potter in Oxford Tour by Visit Oxford Tours offers a unique opportunity to explore the magical film scenes set in this historic university city. Priced at $102.56 per person, this private guided experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours and takes you through the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library, where magical infirmary and dance scenes were filmed. The tour’s personalized approach, with a dedicated guide, makes it ideal for fans eager to learn behind-the-scenes secrets or visitors wanting an intimate look at Oxford’s film and literary heritage.

A major highlight is the entry inside the Divinity School film site, which is worth £2.50. The tour also includes visits to notable landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, and Sheldonian Theatre, with some stops offering only brief glimpses, as the tour prioritizes the film locations and their stories. The tour is suitable for all ages, with no age limit to enter the Divinity School, and includes gowns for photos. However, it does not cover Christ Church, which requires a separate tour, or Duke Humfreys Library, which is not included in the entry.

While some stops like New College could involve an additional £8 entry fee, the guide can advise on possible pay-in on the day, and the tour often concludes near the university’s core, making it easy to extend your visit afterward. The tour is booked 26 days in advance on average, emphasizing its popularity, and includes group discounts and mobile tickets for convenience.

Key Points

• Private guided experience focusing on Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford
• Entry inside Divinity School included, worth £2.50
• Tour duration of 1.5 to 2 hours, ideal for a half-day activity
• Visits to iconic sights like the Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, and Sheldonian Theatre
• Customizable based on group interests, including stories about other literary figures like Tolkien, Lewis, and Carroll
• No strict age limit for the Divinity School, and gowns are provided for photos

Visiting the Bodleian Library’s Divinity School Film Site

The Divinity School at Oxford’s Bodleian Library is the cornerstone of this tour. The film site is especially notable for scenes like the infirmary and dance sequences from the Harry Potter movies. Entry is included, valued at £2.50, and the medieval architecture adds a majestic backdrop. For those interested in exploring further, the Duke Humfreys medieval library is nearby but requires a separate purchase for entry, which you can arrange on the day if you wish to see more.

Since the Divinity School is closed on specific graduation dates, the tour adapts by visiting New College instead. Gowns are provided for photos, giving you a chance to dress up as a wizard or witch, adding fun to the experience.

Exploring Oxford’s Famous Film and Literary Landmarks

The tour passes several iconic sights, starting with the Radcliffe Camera, a renowned round reading room that features in the film series. Though admission is free, the tour emphasizes the external view, tying it into the broader Harry Potter universe.

Next, the Bridge of Sighs and the Sheldonian Theatre are included, each offering a glimpse into the university’s historic architecture. The Bridge of Sighs has appeared in multiple films, including The Mummy and X-Men, making it a visual highlight.

The New College stop offers insights into scenes from the films, such as where Malfoy turns into a ferret. Entry to New College costs £8, but the guide can advise on paying on the day, or you can choose to visit after the tour.

The Turf Pub and Other Oxford Landmarks

The Turf Tavern, which resembles the Three Broomsticks, is a fun stop where Hagrid and friends are depicted drinking in the movies. It’s a brief visit but adds a touch of magical authenticity. The tour also includes stops at Oxford Covered Market, where fans can hunt for Harry Potter-themed chocolates, and other colleges linked to literary legends like Tolkien at Exeter College and Jane Austen’s family at Lincoln College.

While these latter stops are primarily for photo opportunities and quick stories, they deepen the connection to Oxford’s literary and film history.

The Guide and Tour Customization

Naima, or other guides like Peter, Jake, and others, lead the tour. They are praised for their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and ability to keep different ages interested. They wear Harry Potter gowns for photos, making the experience both fun and memorable.

The tour is highly flexible; stops can be tailored to your interests, and the guide offers anecdotes about cast stories, filming decisions, and literary connections. You can also ask about visiting additional colleges, such as Christ Church, though it requires a separate ticket or tour.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour departs from 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, and concludes near the starting point. The central Oxford location is compact, making it easy to walk to other sites afterward. For drivers, parking is limited, and Oxford’s roads are congested, so the Park and Ride options are recommended, with buses running every 15-30 minutes.

Please arrive 5 minutes early to avoid missing the start. The tour is private, so only your group participates, and group discounts may be available. Confirmations are provided immediately upon booking, with free cancellation available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Price and Value for Money

The $102.56 cost covers private guiding, entry to the Divinity School, and the personalized experience. Additional sites like New College or Christ Church are optional extras, which can be paid for on-site or scheduled as an extension.

Given the enthusiastic reviews, especially praising guides like Peter and Naima for their entertainment and knowledge, this tour offers good value, particularly for fans of Harry Potter, Oxford, and literary history.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals to Harry Potter fans, literature enthusiasts, and visitors prioritizing a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s suitable for families, groups of friends, and couples alike. The gown photos add a fun element, and the flexible stops mean you can customize your visit based on interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entry to the Divinity School included in the tour fee?
Yes, entry inside the Divinity School film site at the Bodleian Library is included and valued at £2.50.

Can I visit Christ Church as part of this tour?
No, the tour does not include Christ Church, which is available via a separate tour starting from July 5th.

Are children allowed inside the Divinity School?
Yes, there is no age limit for entering the Divinity School, and gowns are provided for photos.

What if the Divinity School is closed on the day of my tour?
The tour replaces the Divinity School visit with a stop at New College, which requires a £8 entry fee that can be arranged on the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, ideal for a relaxed exploration of Oxford’s Harry Potter sites.

How do I book or cancel?
Bookings can be made up to 26 days in advance, with free cancellation available 24 hours before the tour start time.

This Harry Potter in Oxford Tour delivers an engaging, well-paced journey through film sets and historic landmarks, guided by experts in the city’s stories. It combines famous filming locations with Oxford’s literary heritage, offering a magical day for fans and curious visitors alike.