Explore Two Historic University Cities in One Day

The London: Oxford and Cambridge University Town Tour with Guide offers an engaging way to see two of the world’s oldest university cities in a single day. Priced at $120 per person and lasting approximately 11.5 hours, this tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of South East England’s academic heritage. Starting early from opposite Earls Court Underground Station, the tour includes roundtrip bus travel, guided walking, and access to the Tower of St. Mary the Great in Cambridge.

This tour stands out because it combines the charm of Oxford’s dreaming spires with the historic allure of Cambridge, offering enough free time to explore colleges, museums, or enjoy a punt ride. A notable strength is the knowledgeable tour guide, who helps navigate the busy schedules of these popular cities. However, the drive between Oxford and Cambridge can feel lengthy, which may impact some travelers’ experience.

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Key Points

Visit two of the world’s oldest university towns in one day.
Includes guided walking tour of Oxford’s key sights.
Climb the tower of St. Mary the Great in Cambridge for panoramic views.
Free time in both cities to explore colleges, museums, shops, or take a punt.
Roundtrip bus transfer from central London with a professional guide.
Tour duration is about 11.5 hours, starting early at 8:30 am.

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From London to Oxford: Starting the Day

The tour departs from opposite Earls Court Underground Station at 8:30 am, with travelers advised to wait at Bus Stop C in front of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre. The journey by bus is straightforward, setting the stage for a full day of sightseeing. The group size is manageable, and the guide is available to provide context on the way to Oxford.

Once in Oxford, a guided walking tour leads through the city’s renowned sights, often called the “City of Dreaming Spires.” This nickname highlights Oxford’s stunning architecture and historic buildings. The guide shares insights into the university’s traditions and notable landmarks, making the walk both educational and visually enjoyable.

Discover Oxford’s Architectural Gems on a Guided Walk

The Oxford walking tour emphasizes the city’s famous college buildings, libraries, and historic streets. The guide explains the significance of each site, making it easy to appreciate the city’s academic atmosphere. After the tour, travelers are encouraged to use their free time to visit a college, a museum, or simply absorb the lively street scenes. Since the tour does not include entrance to Bodleian Library or any colleges, visitors should plan their own visits during this period.

The balance of guided commentary and free exploration provides flexibility. Some might opt to visit more colleges or relax at a local café, while others can explore boutique shops or local landmarks. The guide offers suggestions on where to go, but entrance to colleges cannot be guaranteed due to possible closures for exams, graduations, or events.

Climbing the Tower of St. Mary the Great in Cambridge

After the Oxford visit, the journey continues to Cambridge. One of the tour’s key highlights is the climb up the tower of St. Mary the Great. From the top, panoramic views of Cambridge’s historic skyline unfold, offering a memorable photo opportunity. The entrance fee to the tower is included in the tour, making this a convenient way to access this famous vantage point.

Following the tower visit, travelers have free time in Cambridge. This includes the chance to browse shops, visit colleges, or punt down the River Cam—a classic activity that many find enjoyable. The guide can advise on places to explore, but individual options are flexible during this period.

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Exploring Cambridge’s Charm and Iconic Spots

In Cambridge, the Colleges like King’s College and St. John’s College are often highlights, even if access to interior grounds depends on timing and college schedules. Visitors can enjoy walking around the historic courtyards and gardens or relax by the riverbanks. The shopping streets offer quaint stores and cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Punting on the River Cam is a popular option, providing a unique view of the city’s architecture from the water. The tour allows enough free time for those interested in this experience and offers opportunities to see some of Cambridge’s most iconic sights.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The meeting point at Earls Court is easy to find, and the tour operates in English with a live guide. The comprehensive package includes roundtrip bus transportation, guided walking tours in both cities, and entry to the tower in Cambridge. The duration of 11.5 hours means a full day that balances guided activities with self-guided exploration.

It’s advisable to bring comfortable shoes for walking, as both cities involve some strolling on cobblestone streets and through historic sites. The tour does not include food or drinks, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during free time.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, some reviews note the long drive between Oxford and Cambridge may affect the overall pace. The drive time impacts the flow of the day, and some may prefer to visit just one city rather than both in a single day.

Plus, entrance to colleges is not guaranteed, as they may be closed for exams or events. The guide can suggest alternative sites, but access is not assured. Travelers should keep this in mind if interior visits are a priority.

The Verdict: A Solid Day Trip for Curious Explorers

This full-day tour offers a practical way to see Oxford and Cambridge without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides. The guided walks, view from the tower, and free time make it an engaging experience suitable for those interested in academic history and historic architecture.

The value for money is evident considering the comprehensive itinerary and included entries. The positive guide interactions and beautiful cityscapes contribute to a memorable day, even if the long drive between the two cities is a minor drawback.

This tour appeals most to history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of these renowned university towns. It’s an efficient, organized way to experience Oxford and Cambridge’s highlights in one day.

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London: Oxford and Cambridge University Town Tour with Guide

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance to colleges?
No, the tour does not include entrance to the Bodleian Library or any colleges. The guide can advise on visiting colleges during free time, but access is not guaranteed.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, both in Oxford and Cambridge, the tour provides periods of free time for independent exploration, shopping, or visiting a college or museum.

What activities are included in the tour?
Included are guided walking tours in both cities, climbing the tower of St. Mary the Great in Cambridge, and roundtrip bus transportation from London.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and prepare for a full day, as the tour does not include food or drinks.

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
While it’s accessible for most, those with mobility issues should consider walking distances and cobblestone streets, and be aware that college access is not guaranteed.