How to Plan Your Official University City Walking Tour in Oxford

Are you looking for a fun and informative way to explore Oxford? Look no further than the Official University City Walking Tour. This tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the charm that Oxford is so famous for while exploring its rich history and culture. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your walking tour in Oxford.

Experience

The Official University City Walking Tour is a guided walking tour that will take you through the heart of Oxford, a city famous for its “dreaming spires.” You will learn about the history of the city and its contributions to academia and English literature.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include admiring Oxford’s stupendous architecture and picturesque parks, finding the city’s secret alleyways and passageways alongside an expert guide, discovering the history hidden behind the walls of Oxford University, walking past the favorite pubs of Inspectors Morse Lewis and Endeavour, and seeing Harry Potter film locations New College and Christ Church from the outside.

Full Description

The walking tour starts at the grand and very old Broad Street, once the city’s ditch. Your guide for the tour is an expert from Oxford’s tourism board who will show you the famous sights of the city while also uncovering its hidden history. You will learn all about the astonishing stories behind Oxford’s key characters – real and fictional.

The tour includes a visit to the Martyrs’ Memorial, which was built in honor of the city’s Protestant martyrs who were burned at the stake in the 16th century. You will also see the oldest tower at St. Michael of Mercer Street, which dates back to the 11th century.

Throughout the tour, your guide will provide entertaining and informative commentary about the city’s rich history and architecture. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and take photos of the city’s many beautiful buildings and landmarks.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Official University City Walking Tour is easy. You can book the tour online at GetYourGuide.com. The tour cost is $25 per person, and it takes approximately 2 hours. To book the tour, simply click on book the tour here to visit the booking page.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your walking tour:

1. Dress comfortably and wear walking shoes. The tour covers a lot of ground, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes. The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather conditions.
2. Bring a camera. Oxford is a beautiful city with many photo opportunities, so make sure to bring a camera or smartphone with you to document your experience.
3. Stay hydrated. It’s essential to drink plenty of water throughout the tour, especially on hot days.
4. Bring an umbrella. If the forecast is for rain, bring an umbrella or raincoat so that you can enjoy the tour without getting wet.
5. Pay attention to your guide. Your guide is an Oxford expert and can provide you with many interesting facts and stories about the city. Make sure to listen carefully to their commentary during the tour.

Conclusion

The Official University City Walking Tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the charm and history of Oxford. With a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the city’s famous landmarks and hidden gems, this is a tour that’s not to be missed. Book your tour today and get ready to explore the heart of Oxford.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford

If you’re planning a visit to the historic city of Oxford, there are several questions that you may have on your mind. To help answer some of these questions, we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know before your trip.

1. Where is Oxford?

Oxford is a city in the South East of England, located approximately 60 miles west of London. It is the county town of Oxfordshire and is situated in the Thames Valley in the Cotswold Hills.

2. What is Oxford famous for?

Oxford is famous for being home to the University of Oxford, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. The city is also known for its beautiful architecture, historic buildings, museums, and galleries.

3. What are the best things to do in Oxford?

There are many things to do in Oxford, including:

– Visit the University of Oxford: take a guided tour of one of the many colleges, such as Christ Church or Magdalen College
– Go punting on the River Thames: hire a punt and take a leisurely tour along the river
– Visit the Ashmolean Museum: explore one of the oldest and most extensive museums in the country, with a broad range of exhibits from around the world
– Walk around Oxford Botanic Garden: wander through the beautiful gardens, which are home to a diverse range of plants from temperate regions around the world
– Explore Oxford Castle and Prison: take a guided tour of the fascinating medieval castle and its prison

4. How can I get to Oxford?

Oxford can be easily reached by road, rail or air. The nearest airport is London Heathrow, which is approximately 50 miles away. There are also regular direct train services to Oxford from London Paddington and other major cities in the UK.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Oxford?

The best time to visit Oxford is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmer and many of the university’s historic buildings are open to the public. However, it’s worth noting that this is also the busiest time of year, so expect large crowds and longer queues.

6. Where should I stay in Oxford?

There are a wide range of accommodation options available in Oxford, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Many visitors choose to stay in the city centre, close to the university and other attractions. Some of the best areas to stay include Jericho, Cowley Road, and the historic centre of Oxford.

7. How much does it cost to visit Oxford?

The cost of visiting Oxford will largely depend on your budget and what activities you choose to do. Many of the university’s historic buildings charge an admission fee, while some attractions such as the Ashmolean Museum are free to enter. It’s worth budgeting for transportation costs, accommodation, food and drink, and any activities or tours that you plan to do.

8. What should I pack for my trip to Oxford?

What you pack will depend on the time of year that you visit, but some essentials include:

– Comfortable walking shoes: you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking around the city
– A raincoat or umbrella: it’s always worth being prepared for the unpredictable British weather
– Layers: the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s best to pack clothes that can be easily layered
– Camera: with so many beautiful buildings and scenic spots, you won’t want to miss the chance to take some photos

9. Can I visit the university colleges?

Many of the university’s colleges are open to the public, although some may have restricted opening times or charge an admission fee. It’s a good idea to check ahead before visiting to avoid disappointment. Some of the most popular colleges to visit include Christ Church, Magdalen College, and New College.

10. Is Oxford wheelchair accessible?

Many of the city’s attractions and hotels are accessible to wheelchair users, although you may encounter some historic buildings with limited access due to their age and design. It’s worth contacting individual attractions and hotels ahead of time to check their accessibility details and ensure that your needs can be accommodated.

Final Thoughts

Oxford is a fascinating city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. By knowing the answers to some of these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of England. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, a raincoat, and a camera, and be prepared for plenty of walking and exploring!