Oxford: City & University Tour with College entry included

Explore Oxford’s Historic Streets and Famous Landmarks

This Oxford: City & University Tour with College entry included offers a comprehensive 1.5-hour walking experience through the heart of Oxford, United Kingdom. Priced at $173.76 per group for up to 14 people, the tour is ideal for those seeking an engaging overview of the city’s storied past and iconic sites.

The tour is led by local guides who are passionate about Oxford’s history, ensuring an authentic storytelling experience. It’s perfect for small groups wanting a flexible, personalized exploration of Oxford’s most celebrated locations, with the chance to visit inside a university college—subject to availability. The walking pace is relaxed, allowing for comfortable sightseeing and optional coffee breaks, making it suitable for visitors of many ages and mobility levels.

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Key Points

• Private, flexible tour lasting around 1.5 hours for groups up to 8 people
• Includes entry to a historic Oxford college (subject to opening times)
• Led by expert local guides with in-depth knowledge of Oxford’s history and culture
• Visit major landmarks such as the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Bridge of Sighs
• The meeting point is outside The Randolph Hotel with flexibility in start times
• Tour ends in Broad Street, central for further exploration

Starting Point at The Randolph Hotel

The tour begins outside the entrance of The Randolph Hotel, a well-known spot across from the Ashmolean Museum. This central meeting location makes it convenient for visitors arriving by foot or public transport. The guides are flexible about the start time, allowing groups to choose what works best for their schedule.

This initial meet-up sets a friendly tone for the experience, with guides ready to share the stories that make Oxford so captivating. After gathering, the group heads out to explore the city’s most notable sights, with the option to adjust the pace or take breaks as needed.

Visiting the Martyrs Memorial and Historic Colleges

The first stop is the Martyrs Memorial, a prominent monument commemorating Protestant martyrs from the 16th century. Although brief—about 10 minutes—it offers insight into the religious history of the city. The tour continues with visits to St John’s College, Balliol College, and Exeter College.

Each college visit is around 10 minutes, providing snapshots of Oxford’s university architecture and traditions. St John’s College is known for its impressive grounds, while Balliol is one of the oldest, dating back centuries. Exeter College is also featured, giving visitors a taste of the university’s historic academic environment.

Inside a College (Subject to Availability)

The tour includes entry into one college, which is a highlight for many visitors. This visit offers a rare chance to see inside the university’s historic buildings, cloisters, and courtyards. However, access depends on the college’s opening hours and policies at the time of visit.

Guests appreciate this inclusion as it adds an authentic look at university life, complementing the city sightseeing. The guides handle the logistics smoothly, making the college visit a seamless part of the tour.

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Exploring Oxford’s Literary and Cultural Landmarks

Next, the group visits Blackwell’s Bookshop, an iconic destination for book lovers, where about 5 minutes are spent browsing or admiring the shop’s history. Then, the Sheldonian Theatre is on the itinerary, where guides explain its role in university ceremonies and performances during a 10-minute stop.

The Bridge of Sighs, another key landmark, is visited for about 10 minutes, where visitors can learn about its architecture and significance. From there, the tour moves to the Bodleian Library, spending 10 minutes exploring this historic repository of knowledge, and the Radcliffe Camera, an architectural marvel and part of the library complex.

The University Church of St Mary the Virgin provides another 10-minute stop, giving insight into Oxford’s religious history and architecture. Visitors are encouraged to take their time at each site, with the option to ask questions and absorb the stories behind the structures.

Final Stops and Easy Access to Oxford’s Market and City Center

The last stops include All Souls College for 5 minutes and the Covered Market, where about 10 minutes are allocated. The market is a lively hub filled with shops, food stalls, and local crafts, perfect for souvenirs or a quick snack.

The tour concludes at Broad Street, central in Oxford’s city center. From here, visitors have easy access to nearby attractions, shops, cafes, or additional sightseeing options. The flexible nature of the tour allows guests to extend their exploration afterward, making it an ideal starting point for the rest of their day in Oxford.

Practicalities and Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, welcoming guests with mobility needs. It is a private experience, tailored to the size of your group, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The guides are known for being friendly and patient, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.

The activity offers full refund options if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, and you can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours but can be adjusted to suit your group’s preferences.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this Oxford City & University Tour particularly appealing is the combination of city highlights and inside access to a college, all led by local guides who are passionate about sharing Oxford’s stories. The tour’s small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and a more personal connection to the history.

The flexible start times and the option to customize the visit make it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer a leisurely pace. The positive reviews underscore the value of having guides like Jaye, who is praised for his extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits visitors who want a rundown of Oxford’s landmarks and university history in a short timeframe. It’s especially good for those who appreciate local insights and private, flexible arrangements. Since the tour includes a college visit (subject to access), it’s perfect for those interested in the academic side of Oxford.

Travelers seeking a well-organized, informative, and friendly tour will find this option rewarding. It’s also a great choice for small groups or families wanting a personalized experience with a local guide.

The Sum Up: A Captivating Introduction to Oxford

The Oxford: City & University Tour with College entry included offers a balanced mix of city sights and university history within a compact timeframe. Its private format, expert guides, and included college visit make it a standout option for anyone looking for an engaging overview of Oxford.

While the tour’s duration is short, the carefully curated stops and flexible approach ensure a meaningful experience. It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy storytelling, architecture, and local history, and who want to maximize their time in Oxford without feeling rushed.

With positive reviews praising knowledgeable guides and good value for money, this tour provides a reliable and enjoyable way to discover Oxford’s most notable features. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper appreciation, this experience gives a friendly, informative introduction to the city’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the college visit included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes entry to one college, subject to its opening hours.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with some stops and optional breaks.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, the guides are flexible with start times, allowing you to select what suits your plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is outside The Randolph Hotel, opposite the Ashmolean Museum.

What landmarks will we visit?
You will see the Martyrs Memorial, St John’s College, Balliol College, Exeter College, Blackwell’s Bookshop, the Sheldonian Theatre, Bridge of Sighs, Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, St Mary the Virgin, and the Covered Market.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the private format and flexible pacing make it suitable for families and groups of all ages.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the price for the group?
The price is $173.76 for up to 14 people, offering good value for small groups or families.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby