Oxford University Tour: History & Architecture

Embark on a 90-minute walking tour of Oxford University and the city, delving into its rich history and stunning architecture. Led by a knowledgeable guide, explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems, including the University Library and historic college buildings.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Oxford Walking Tours - Your tour will begin at the blue gates of Trinity College and take you into some of the oldest colleges, usually including New College, which was founded in 1379 and made an appearance in the Harry Potter films.
What's Included
  • Expert local guide
  • Inclusive of all entrance fees
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Pressed for time but eager to experience Oxford to the fullest? The City and University Tour offers an ideal 90-minute introduction to this iconic city and its renowned university. Perfect for newcomers or those seeking a comprehensive overview of the history and main attractions, this guided walking tour highlights all the essential central landmarks,…

Location
Oxford Walking Tours
Broad Street
Meeting location is the Oxford Walking Tours signboard on Broad Street, OX1 3BH.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(1422 Ratings)
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S7943wxsarahk
Mar 16, 2026
Fascinating tour by a well-informed guide - Dan, our tour guide, gave us a fascinating overview of the history of Oxford, singling out the tiniest details of its astonishing architecture to illustrate a story of town and gown conflicts, prestige and power, revolutionary protest and bastions of privilege. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jbackpacker
Mar 15, 2026
An insiders tour - Simon was a great guide! He knows it all, the history, the anecdotes - a total pleasure.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nicolatb5075sa
Mar 13, 2026
Wonderful tour! - We had a wonderful tour with Dan. It was an exclusive tour for us. Dan knows a lot about Oxford and its colleges. We can recommend this tour 100%.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sunny_s
Mar 11, 2026
Jonathan is AMAZING! - This was honestly the best tour and tour guide I have ever had. We has Jonathan as our guide and we were a group of co-workers in Oxford for work and the tour was our social element. Everyone, literally every single person in the group commented on how enjoyable the tour was and how great Johnathan is. His knowledge about the area was fantastic. We had an age range of 26-56 and the people / films / books he talked about, as well as historical figures were relatable to all. I mentioned my daughter was a HP fan and my husband a LOTR fan and he incorporated fun facts throughout the tour. I have told him I will come back with the family as I told them all about how fantastic he is and they are really looking forward to a tour with him too. Highly recommend, you will not be disappointed.
Review provided by Viator
G7181nlkyleg
Mar 10, 2026
University tour - Thanks for a great tour, Simon! Knowledgable, engaged and happy to answer questions. We were able to enter some beautiful college buildings, too.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joecm144cv
Mar 8, 2026
A memorable spring day in beautiful Oxford. - An excellent tour which delighted us, especially my step-daughter for whom this was a birthday treat. We all know the city a bit, but the tour took us to new streets and viewpoints. The visit to beautiful Balliol College was a highlight. As the tour was over lunchtime we couldn't go into the dining hall, but Kate, our excellent and knowledgeable guide, gave us the tickets so that we could return later when the hall was open. The unexpected spring sunshine and our friendly and helpful guide added a lot to the experience. 1.5 hours was just the right length for the tour, long enough to see some highlights and short enough to stave off fatigue.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Maggiebw5508kz
Mar 7, 2026
10 out of 10! - This tour provided insight far beyond the history and landmarks of Oxford. Simon’s depth of knowledge and seamless story telling made the tour engaging and impactful. The experience was far more valuable than it’s modest price.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
O8385km_
Mar 7, 2026
Great tour with Simon! - Simon was a great tour guide: his knowledge of the town, history and all specifics of the city were astonishing! We saw libraries, churches and witnesses graduation from Oxford!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Trailblazer798093
Mar 3, 2026
A great walking tour! - Simon was a very informative and friendly tour guide. It was a great walking tour, we recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Beatrizmu5675qm
Feb 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - We loved the visit! Simon was our guide and he was lovely guy. Super friendly and very informative. Portugal xxx
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $16
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).