Oxford History and Architecture Walking Tour

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2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 2 more

Enjoy a walking tour of the sights of central Oxford with an experienced, independent guide (we're new here on Viator). The tour includes a visit inside the famous Sheldonian Theatre, and inside the Divinity School (part of the Bodleian Library). Learn about the protestant reformation of the 1530s and the catholic reaction of the 1550s, and how the changes affected Oxford, the university and colleges. Learn also about the changes of the 19th century and how the architecture of the city and university was transformed during this period. This tour also explains the Oxford University system, the colleges, and describes student life at the University today.

- This private tour can be tailored to your interests and schedule
- Main themes : History, Religion and Architecture
- Entry to one or more colleges can be arranged. We will arrange this with you in advance. This is an extra cost.
- Prices include the Contrada Tours pre-tour planning service by WhatsApp.

What's Included

Expert, independent guide
Gratuities are not included and are welcomed!

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Hotels : We will pick you up at the main entrance.
Railway station : We will meet you in the arrival hall, near the main entrance.

Your guide will be waiting for you with a sign with the lead traveller's name.

OR
Meeting point

We meet by the red telephone box outside the Italiamo Cafe - 22 Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AS. This is our recommended meeting option.

End point
Radcliffe Square

Tours usually end at Radcliffe Square, or somewhere within a few minutes walk of Radcliffe Square.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Martyrs' Memorial

    See the Martyr's Memorial on St Giles Street. Hear the story of the 16th century reformation in England and understand why the martyr's memorial was built.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Bodleian Library

    Your guide will show you the famous Bodleian library and will explain about the history and architecture of the library, and about the library today. Your tour includes a visit to one part of the library: the Divinity School. For a tour of other parts of the library, please visit the Bodleian Library website, or go to the ticket office at the Weston library, when you are in Oxford.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Bridge of Sighs

    See the iconic Bridge of Sighs and learn how the bridge got its name.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Sheldonian Theatre

    Visit Christopher Wren's baroque masterpiece. See the main auditorium and climb to the cupola and enjoy a remarkable view of the Oxford skyline. Learn why the theatre was built and how it is used as a ceremonial hall by the university today. Hear about famous people who have received honorary degrees here.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 5
    University Church of St. Mary the Virgin

    Visit the University Church. Learn about the architecture and the history of the church. See where the trial of Thomas Cranmer took place. See the pulpit from which C.S.Lewis gave several of his most important sermons.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Radcliffe Camera

    In beautiful Radcliffe Square, see the iconic Radcliffe Camera, today part of the Bodleian Library. Learn about the history and architecture of the building and how it is used today. Please note that it is not possible to visit the interior of the building as it is a working library.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 7
    Oxford Covered Market

    Visit the covered market which opened 250 years ago in 1775. If time permits we will enjoy a brief coffee stop at one of the cafes.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    All Souls College

    See the college's remarkable 18th century quadrangle.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 9

    St. John's College is open to visitors most days from 1pm onwards. It the tour schedule permits we will visit St John's College, in particular the Canterbury Quad, Oxford first classical quadrangle which was built by St John's most famous student, William Laud, who rose to be Chancellor of the University of Oxford and whose religious policies in the 1630s were one of the many factors which led to the outbreak of the British Civil Wars. It's usually also possible to visit the front quadrangle, the chapel where Laud was buried and the lovely college Gardens.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Contrada Tours - walking tours of Oxford

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Architecture Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Religious Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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