Oxford is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a plethora of activities for tourists and locals alike. One of the best ways to truly immerse oneself in the magic of this historic city is to take a private tour. A private tour in Oxford allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace, with a personalized experience tailored to their interests. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which tour is the best fit. In this post, we will be exploring the 5 best private tours in Oxford, highlighting the unique features and offerings of each tour. Whether you are a history buff, literature lover or simply looking for a fun day out, this list has got you covered.

The 5 Best Private Tours in Oxford

1. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour
2. Private Paddleboard Tour in Abingdon
3. Blenheim Palace Guided Tour- meet at palace- private tours
4. Classic Cotswolds Private Tour
5. Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour – Private Groups

The 5 Best Private Tours in Oxford

1. Undiscovered Cotswolds Private Driving Tour

Experience the undiscovered beauty of the Cotswolds on this private driving tour. Departing from your hotel in the Northern Cotswold or Oxford at 10:00AM, you’ll visit idyllic villages and famous Cotswolds towns. Tailor-make your tour to your interests and enjoy lunch at an award-winning traditional pub.

The day starts with a visit to the fascinating village of Great Tew before continuing on to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds. Here, you’ll have time to browse among honey-colored buildings, cozy pubs, narrow streets, interesting shops, and tiny tea rooms.

The next stop is the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, one of the prettiest villages in the Northern Cotswolds and set in the most amazing countryside. Arguably the most famous Cotswolds town is our next stop, Bourton-on-the-Water, regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” there is plenty to see and do with a wealth of attractions, shops, restaurants, and tea rooms.

From Bourton-on-the-Water, your route takes you through some of the lesser-known Cotswolds villages, including the charming village of Broadwell and the small hamlet of Windrush. This private driving tour is the perfect way to discover the Cotswolds at your own pace and create memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Private Paddleboard Tour in Abingdon

Explore the scenic waterways of Abingdon with a private paddleboard tour. This experience includes all equipment you need such as paddleboards, paddles and buoyancy jackets. The meeting point is the Hales Meadow Motorhome Parking and the local provider will confirm the exact start time with you in advance.

During the tour, expect to see stunning views of the countryside as you paddle through the water. This private tour allows you the flexibility to take your time and appreciate your surroundings at your own pace.

Please note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Additionally, travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness.

Cancellation policy is up to 24 hours in advance of the experience.

3. Blenheim Palace Guided Tour- meet at palace- private tours

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace, the former home of Winston Churchill and the Duke of Marlborough, on this 60-minute guided private tour. With your pre-booked admission ticket included in the tour price, avoid long waiting times and guarantee your entry at the specified time. Learn about the palace’s rich history and construction from a knowledgeable guide as you explore the state rooms and gardens. Hear fascinating stories about the palace’s famous former residents, including Winston Churchill, and discover what makes this palace such an architectural wonder. Before or after the tour, you can purchase food and drinks from the palace cafe. Please note that there are no tours on December 24 to 27 and January 1 to 2. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to experience a guided tour of Blenheim Palace with an expert guide.

4. Classic Cotswolds Private Tour

Immerse yourself in the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and enjoy a fully customized sightseeing experience on this full-day private tour. Your knowledgeable local driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a scenic journey through charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden. Along the way, you’ll also discover lesser-known destinations that most visitors miss. With full control over the itinerary and route, you’ll have the freedom to plan a tearoom or pub stop (separate expense) or focus on natural highlights and other attractions. The 7-hour private tour of the North Cotswolds includes entrance fees to attractions, and round-trip transit from your area hotel makes getting around easy.

5. Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour – Private Groups

Get off the beaten tourist track and onto quiet country lanes on this full-day e-bike guided tour of the Cotswolds. Starting in the village of Long Hanborough, you’ll zip around on high-performance e-bikes that make hilly terrain a breeze. Explore charming villages like Wilcote Crawley and Swinbrook, stopping to savor stone cottages and quaint gardens. Admire the ruins of North Leigh Roman Villa and medieval Minster Lovell Hall & Dovecote, and snap photos of the iconic streetscapes in Burford. This is a private tour, meaning you choose where to stop for lunch, drinks, or afternoon tea. And with a local guide leading the way along routes Google Maps would never suggest, you’re sure to get an authentic glimpse of the Cotswolds that most tourists never see. The tour includes the use of a bicycle and lunch. Please note that any tours booked in June 2022 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays start at 10am and end at 3.30pm. The meeting point for this tour is in Hanborough, and the specific address will be provided upon booking.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford

Oxford is a historic city in southern England, home to the famous University of Oxford. It is a city that is steeped in history and full of culture, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you are planning a visit to Oxford, you might have several questions about what to do, where to stay, and what to see. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Oxford.

1. What is the best way to get to Oxford?

There are several transport options to get to Oxford, including train, coach, and car. If you are coming from London, the easiest way is to take a direct train from Paddington Station or Marylebone Station. It takes around an hour to get to Oxford from London by train. Coach services are available from cities such as Birmingham, Coventry, and Bristol, and it generally takes around 2-3 hours to reach Oxford by coach. If you prefer to drive, you can hire a car from major airports such as London Heathrow or Gatwick, and the journey to Oxford takes around 1-2 hours.

2. What are some of the best things to see in Oxford?

Oxford is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers many attractions, including historic buildings, museums, and parks. Some of the best things to see in Oxford are:

• The University of Oxford: The oldest university in the English-speaking world founded in 1096, it is comprised of 38 colleges and 6 permanent private halls. One of the most famous attractions is the Radcliffe Camera building, and visitors can also take a walking tour of the campus.
• Ashmolean Museum: The world’s first university museum, established in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum contains an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
• Christ Church College: One of the most famous colleges at the University of Oxford and alma mater to 13 British prime ministers. The college halls were also used as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies.
• Blenheim Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Punting on the River Thames: A quintessential Oxford experience, punting is a relaxing way to enjoy the views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

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

The best time to visit Oxford is between May and September when the weather is mild and sunny, and there are many festivals and events taking place. Summer is a peak tourist season, so it may be crowded, and prices for accommodation and attractions could be higher. If you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists.

4. Where is the best area to stay in Oxford?

Oxford has many types of accommodation to suit all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. The best area to stay in Oxford is the city center, as it will give you easy access to all the major attractions. Some of the best neighborhoods in the city center are:

• The High: The historic heart of Oxford, it is home to many of the city’s oldest and most famous colleges and buildings.
• Cowley Road: A bustling area with many bars, restaurants, and cafes, and a great place to experience Oxford’s nightlife.
• Jericho: Located north of the city center, this is a fashionable area with a bohemian vibe and many independent shops and boutiques.

5. How do I get around Oxford?

Oxford is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer public transport, there are several options available, including:

• Buses: Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach operate frequent bus services throughout the city and the surrounding area.
• Taxis: There are several taxi companies in Oxford, and you can hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance.
• Bikes: Oxford is a very cycle-friendly city, and there are many bike rental shops available.

6. What are some of the best places to eat in Oxford?

Oxford has a thriving restaurant scene, with many cafes, bars, and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. Some of the best places to eat in Oxford are:

• The Perch: A traditional pub serving classic British dishes with a modern twist.
• The Old Bookbinders: A gastropub with a charming outdoor seating area, serving locally sourced ingredients.
• Branca: A stylish Italian restaurant, serving handmade pasta and pizzas.
• Flying Pig: A quirky cafe serving delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

7. What is Oxford famous for?

Oxford is famous for its prestigious university, which is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with many famous figures, including J.R.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll, who lived and worked here. Oxford has been used as the filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Harry Potter and Inspector Morse, and it is known for its stunning architecture, picturesque countryside, and numerous parks and gardens.

Conclusion

Oxford is a unique and fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and many attractions to see and experience. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, there is something for everyone in Oxford. We hope this guide has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the city and helps you plan your trip. Remember to use our recommended transport options, stay in the best areas, and enjoy the best food experiences while exploring Oxford.