The Harry Potter in Oxford Tour offers a captivating private experience, providing exclusive access to the stunning Divinity School. Renowned for its ornate Gothic architecture, this iconic landmark also played a significant role in the beloved Wizarding World films. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, participants explore the fascinating connections between Oxford University and the magical realm, enriched by behind-the-scenes stories from the set. While this immersive journey highlights renowned landmarks, it also invites visitors to uncover the rich literary heritage that has shaped the Wizarding World’s enduring appeal.
Key Points
- Private, immersive tour of Oxford University, focusing on connections between the campus and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Exclusive access to the Divinity School, which served as a filming location for the Hogwarts infirmary in the Harry Potter films.
- Knowledgeable guides provide behind-the-scenes stories and insights about the filming process and the Harry Potter universe.
- Option to add a tour of New College for an additional fee, exploring Oxford’s literary heritage and Harry Potter film locations.
- Convenient meeting and end points, with accessibility considerations and flexible booking and cancellation policies.
Tour Overview
The Harry Potter in Oxford Tour offers visitors a private, immersive experience exploring the iconic film sites, filming process, and cast stories throughout the city’s historic university.
With a 5.0 rating from 10 reviews, this tour focuses on revealing the Divinity School and Bodleian Library‘s connections to the beloved wizarding world.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour tailors the experience to each group’s interests, drawing parallels between Oxford University and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Guests can look forward to entering the Divinity School, worth £3 per person, and learning behind-the-scenes details that bring the magic of the films to life in this picturesque setting.
Included at Divinity School
As part of the Harry Potter in Oxford Tour, visitors gain entry to the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library, which is valued at £3 per person.
This grand 15th-century hall, with its ornate Gothic architecture, served as a prominent filming location for the Hogwarts infirmary in the Harry Potter movies. Here, tour-goers can stand in the very spot where Madam Pomfrey tended to the magical ailments of Harry and his classmates.
The tour guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the filming process, bringing the movie magic to life. This exclusive access to the Divinity School is a highlight of the tour, allowing participants to enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Alternative Tour Options
Along With the core Harry Potter in Oxford Tour, there are alternative tour options available for visitors interested in exploring more of Oxford’s literary heritage. On specific dates, the tour operator offers an alternative tour to New College at an additional cost of £5 per person. This optional excursion allows guests to delve deeper into Oxford’s distinguished academic history and see locations used in the Harry Potter films. The table below outlines the available alternative tour dates:
| Date | Price |
|---|---|
| July 23, 26, 27 | £5 per person |
| Aug 3, 12, 15, 18, 19 | £5 per person |
| Sep 27, 28 | £5 per person |
| Nov 8, 9, 16 | £5 per person |
Meeting and End Points
Guests meet the tour at the Oxford Tourist Information Centre, located at 15 Broad Street in Oxford’s city center.
The guides, identifiable by their red ‘I Love Oxford‘ lanyards, may even don Hogwarts robes and hats to set the magical tone.
The tour ends near the iconic Bodleian Library, at the corner of Broad Street, where guests receive a complimentary Oxford map to continue exploring on their own.
Along the way, the guides regale the group with behind-the-scenes stories from the Harry Potter film productions and draw insightful comparisons between the hallowed halls of Oxford University and the wizarding world of Hogwarts, leaving visitors spellbound.
Additional Attractions
The tour also provides opportunities to see other renowned Oxford sites beyond the Harry Potter filming locations, allowing guests to fully enjoy the university’s rich literary history.
Along With exploring the Divinity School and Bodleian Library, the tour may feature:
- Visits to notable colleges associated with celebrated authors like C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Lewis Carroll, providing insight into their academic experiences and inspirations.
- Stops at iconic landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, and the Bridge of Sighs, showcasing the timeless architecture and grandeur of Oxford.
- Optional entries to additional sites like the Sheldonian Theatre and New College, where visitors can delve deeper into the university’s storied past (entry fees may apply).
Accessibility and Parking
The tour caters to visitors with accessibility needs, as it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, with public transportation options nearby and service animals allowed.
Driving to the tour’s meeting point can be a bit tricky, though, as central Oxford experiences heavy congestion. Visitors are advised to allow 30-60 minutes extra for parking and use the city’s park and ride facilities on the outskirts to avoid hassle.
Arriving 5 minutes early is also recommended, as late arrivals may forfeit their booking.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the tour is straightforward, with confirmation provided at the time of booking unless the reservation is made within 1 day of the tour start.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to back out up to 24 hours before the tour commences. The price per person varies based on group size, but guests are guaranteed the lowest available rate.
The booking process is:
- Simple and secure online purchase
- Flexible cancellation option up to 24 hours prior
- Group size pricing with best rate assurance
With these convenient policies, guests can easily plan their Harry Potter-themed Oxford adventure and have the freedom to adjust their plans as needed.
Tour Highlights
With convenient booking and cancellation policies in place, the Harry Potter Oxford Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the wizarding world’s connection to this historic university.
Guests can expect to explore film sites, learn about the filming process, and uncover stories of the cast during this private tour. The highlight is entry to the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library, a stunning location featured prominently in the films.
The knowledgeable guides, recognizable by their Hogwarts-inspired attire, skillfully weave together the parallels between Oxford’s hallowed halls and the magical world of Hogwarts.
From the iconic Radcliffe Camera to the charming Bridge of Sighs, this tour provides an immersive experience for any Harry Potter fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?
Visitors can purchase souvenirs at various shops around the Bodleian Library and Oxford city center after the tour. The tour itself does not include any souvenir sales, but there are ample opportunities to find Harry Potter-themed merchandise nearby.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Divinity School?
Photography is generally allowed inside the Divinity School, but visitors are asked to avoid using flash. Guests should follow any guidance from the tour guide or staff to ensure the preservation of this historic site.
What Should I Bring for the Tour?
Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and any necessary medications or mobility aids. It’s also a good idea to bring a small backpack or purse to store personal items during the tour.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour appears suitable for children, as it is wheelchair and stroller accessible and the content focuses on the Harry Potter films, which are popular among younger audiences. The guide can also tailor the tour to the group’s interests.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Harry Potter Sites?
Yes, you can extend the tour to visit other Harry Potter sites in Oxford. The tour can be tailored to your group’s interests, allowing you to explore additional filming locations and literary connections beyond the Divinity School and Bodleian Library.
Recap
The Harry Potter in Oxford Tour offers an enchanting immersion into the Wizarding World, providing exclusive access to the stunning Divinity School and exploring the captivating connections between Oxford and the beloved magical series.
Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this private experience deepens appreciation for Oxford’s rich literary heritage, making it a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan.
