Oxford: Harry Potter Walking Tour Including New College

If you’re a Harry Potter fan eager to explore the real-life sites that inspired the wizarding world, this Oxford: Harry Potter Walking Tour Including New College offers a charming and informative experience. Priced at $40.40 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, the tour is led by passionate student guides who share their love for both Oxford’s rich heritage and the magical film series. The tour departs from the Oxford Tourism Information at 16 Broad Street, making it an accessible starting point right in the heart of the city.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on specific filming locations, including the Bodleian Library, which serves as the Hogwarts Infirmary, and New College, which inspired various scenes. The inclusion of entry to the Divinity School and New College adds an extra layer of access to buildings that are central to the Harry Potter universe. While the tour does not include Christ Church, it offers enough stops and stories to keep both casual visitors and dedicated fans engaged.

This student-led walking adventure provides a well-balanced mix of film trivia, Oxford history, and scenic views. The reviews highlight enthusiastic guides like Amy, Paula, Olivia, and Tym, who excel at making the experience fun and approachable. The price, combined with the duration and content, makes it a solid choice for fans seeking a cost-effective, lively tour. However, those wanting to see Christ Church will need to book that separately. For fans ready to walk in the footsteps of Harry and learn more about Oxford’s influence on children’s literature, this tour offers a magical yet educational journey.

Key Points

• Duration of 1.5 hours offers a compact yet comprehensive experience
• Led by enthusiastic student guides with a passion for Harry Potter and Oxford history
• Includes entry to Divinity School and New College, key filming locations
• Visit the Bodleian Library, where the Infirmary scenes are set
• Stops at Oxford’s oldest colleges and landmarks
• Price is $40.40 per person, making it accessible for most fans

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Meet in the Heart of Oxford at Broad Street

The tour starts at Oxford Tourism Information, a convenient central location on Broad Street. From there, the guide leads the group through the city’s medieval streets, heading toward key filming sites and historic colleges. The meeting point’s central position makes it easy for visitors to combine this tour with other Oxford attractions or city explorations.

Visiting the Bodleian Library’s Infirmary Set

The tour’s standout location is the Bodleian Library, where the Hogwarts Infirmary scenes are shot. The guide points out the richly sculpted beasts and biblical carvings that appear in the movies, helping visitors visualize the magical hospital scenes. This stop offers a close look at a building that combines Oxford’s historic architecture with its role in popular culture.

Exploring New College’s Magical Atmosphere

A highlight of the tour is the visit to New College, whose architecture and courtyards inspired various Hogwarts scenes. The magical atmosphere created by the old stone walls and leafy cloisters helps visitors imagine how J.K. Rowling might have envisioned her fantasy school. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, allowing for easy access to other parts of the city.

Inside Visits to Oxford’s Oldest Colleges

The tour includes entry to one or two of Oxford’s oldest colleges, providing a closer look at the historic rooms and cloisters that served as the backdrop for Hogwarts interiors. These locations are rich with history and character, fulfilling the curiosity of fans and history enthusiasts alike. It’s worth noting that the tour does not include Christ Church, so those wishing to see the Great Hall should plan to visit separately.

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Filming Locations and Harry Potter Trivia

Throughout the walk, guides share insider facts about the films, characters, and filming processes. Visitors get to hear anecdotes about behind-the-scenes moments and movie trivia, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing. The tour also features a custom Harry Potter quiz and a prize, adding a fun element that keeps everyone engaged.

Accessibility and Practical Info

The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes an express security check to keep the pace smooth. It operates rain or shine, so visitors should dress appropriately. The live tour guides speak English, providing clear and engaging narration throughout the walk. Cancellation is free if made up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans.

The Tour Experience and Guide Quality

Reviewers consistently praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides like Amy, Paula, Olivia, Tym, and others. Their ability to blend Oxford’s history with Harry Potter stories creates a lively and memorable atmosphere. Many mention how the guides’ stories and humor make the tour enjoyable for both adults and children. The group size tends to be small and manageable, ensuring you can ask questions and participate comfortably.

Pacing, Length, and Tour Flow

The 1.5-hour duration is praised for its good pace, avoiding fatigue or rushed stops. Some reviewers note that longer visits at certain locations would be welcome, but overall, the timing keeps the tour engaging without dragging. The ending near the Hogwarts courtyard provides a perfect photo opportunity, especially since many visitors want to capture memories of the iconic setting.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for Harry Potter fans of all ages, especially those interested in film locations and historical buildings. With enthusiastic guides and interactive elements like quizzes, it suits travelers who enjoy learning and fun. Visitors should be prepared for walking and potentially crowded spots at peak times, but the tour’s accessibility makes it suitable for most.

Final Thoughts on the Oxford Harry Potter Tour

For $40.40, this 1.5-hour guided walk offers a rich mix of film secrets, Oxford history, and beautiful architecture. The inclusion of New College and the Bodleian Library makes it especially appealing for fans wanting bona fide film locations. The knowledgeable guides ensure that the experience feels lively and personal, making it a standout choice among Oxford tours.

While it doesn’t cover Christ Church, the tour’s focus on Hogwarts-inspired sites and Oxford’s literary influence provides plenty of magical moments. This tour suits those who want a fun, educational introduction to Oxford’s Harry Potter connections without spending a full day or breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include Christ Church?
No, the tour does not include Christ Church. If visiting that location is important, you’ll need to book that separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the guides are praised for engaging both adults and kids, and the tour includes fun elements like quizzes that appeal to a wide age range.

What locations are included in the tour?
Highlights include the Bodleian Library, New College, and other historic Oxford sites that inspired parts of the Harry Potter films.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes an express security check.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Oxford Tourism Information, located at 16 Broad Street.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

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