Exploring the hallowed halls of Oxford and Cambridge is a must for any visitor to England. This day trip from London whisks you away to these renowned academic centers, offering an immersive glimpse into their storied pasts. You’ll wander through iconic landmarks, admire architectural wonders, and discover the legacies that have shaped generations of scholars. Guided by an expert, you’ll uncover the hidden gems that make these universities truly unique. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the world-class education these institutions provide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But what secrets await within the walls of these elite institutions?
Key Points
- This day trip from London offers walking tours of the renowned university cities of Oxford and Cambridge, showcasing their iconic landmarks and academic heritage.
- The tour includes admission to Christ Church College in Oxford and King’s College in Cambridge, providing in-depth exploration of these historic institutions.
- Travelers are transported by air-conditioned coach with a professional guide, ensuring a convenient and informative experience throughout the 10.5-hour journey.
- The small group size allows for a personalized and immersive experience, though the tour is likely to sell out due to limited availability.
- The itinerary is subject to change, and King’s College may be closed on certain dates, with a walking tour of Cambridge offered as an alternative.
Tour Overview
This day trip from London allows visitors to explore the renowned university cities of Oxford and Cambridge, showcasing their key highlights.
The tour includes walking tours of both cities, providing the opportunity to see iconic landmarks such as the Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, King’s College Chapel, Corpus Clock, and the Mathematical Bridge.
Travelers will be transported by air-conditioned coach and receive insights from a professional guide throughout the journey.
The duration of the tour is approximately 10.5 hours, making it an efficient way to experience these historic universities in a single day.
With a small group size, this tour is likely to sell out, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience for participants.
Highlights of Oxford
The tour kicks off with a visit to the iconic Bodleian Library, where visitors can admire its stunning medieval architecture and learn about its rich history as one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
From there, the group moves on to Christ Church College, a highlight for many due to its magnificent halls and association with famous figures like Lewis Carroll.
Key sights in Oxford include:
- The Bridge of Sighs, a picturesque pedestrian bridge
- The Sheldonian Theatre, an iconic 17th-century building
- The Radcliffe Camera, a magnificent circular library
- The University Church of St Mary the Virgin, with its impressive spire
Throughout the visit, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, bringing Oxford’s history and traditions to life.
Highlights of Cambridge
After exploring the historic city of Oxford, the tour continues on to the renowned university town of Cambridge.
Visitors stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the iconic King’s College Chapel with its impressive Gothic architecture and intricate stone carvings. The Corpus Clock, a unique timepiece featuring a captivating mechanical grasshopper, also draws attention as a mesmerizing Cambridge landmark.
The Mathematical Bridge, a wooden footbridge designed by the renowned engineer William Etheridge, showcases the ingenuity of Cambridge’s academic legacy. Guests have the opportunity to venture inside King’s College, where they can marvel at the stunning interiors and learn about the university’s rich history and traditions.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a walking tour of both Oxford and Cambridge, along with admission to Christ Church College and King’s College, all led by a professional guide. However, gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off aren’t covered.
The tour features:
- Walking tours of Oxford and Cambridge
- Admission to Christ Church College (if option selected)
- Admission to King’s College (if option selected)
- Professional guide to provide insights
Travelers should also note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Plus, the tour itinerary and order are subject to change, and King’s College may be closed on certain dates.
Tour Schedule and Duration
The day trip departs from Bulleid Way in London at 8:30 AM, giving travelers approximately 10.5 hours to explore the historic university cities of Oxford and Cambridge.
Guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure.
The coach journey takes visitors to both cities, where they’ll enjoy walking tours and have the opportunity to visit key highlights like the Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, King’s College Chapel, Corpus Clock, and Mathematical Bridge.
While the itinerary is set, the tour order may change.
Travelers should note that King’s College is closed on July 20th, and a walking tour of Cambridge will be provided instead.
Additional Information
Confirmations are provided at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, requiring moderate physical fitness from participants. Travelers must arrive 15 minutes prior to the 8:30 AM departure time, as the coach journey’s itinerary and order may change.
Plus, King’s College is closed on July 20th, so a walking tour of Cambridge will be offered instead.
Some key additional information includes:
- Small group size of maximum 53 travelers
- Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off not included
- Tour likely to sell out due to limited availability
- Confirmation provided at time of booking
The day trip offers a rundown of the historic university cities, with a professional guide providing insights throughout the journey.
Tour Logistics
Travelers meet at Bulleid Way in London for an 8:30 AM prompt departure on the air-conditioned coach.
The tour lasts approximately 10.5 hours, with participants needing to arrive 15 minutes early to board on time.
While the itinerary and order may change, the comprehensive day trip covers the key highlights of both Oxford and Cambridge.
The tour includes walking tours of each university city, as well as admission to Christ Church College and King’s College, if selected.
A professional guide provides insights throughout the journey.
Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off aren’t included.
The small group size of maximum 53 travelers makes for an intimate experience.
Tour Size and Availability
This small-group tour has a maximum capacity of 53 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. With limited availability, the tour is likely to sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.
To secure your spot, consider the following:
- Book early to avoid disappointment as this tour is in high demand
- Expect a cozy group size that allows for more personalized attention from the guide
- Take advantage of the small-group setting to ask questions and get insider tips
- Enjoy a more immersive and engaging experience compared to larger group tours
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
It’s generally recommended to book tickets in advance for this tour, as space is limited. Purchasing tickets on the day of the tour may not be possible, as the tour often sells out.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
There are no special discounts for students or seniors on this tour. The standard adult ticket price applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
Can I Choose Which College to Visit in Oxford and Cambridge?
While the tour includes set visits to Christ Church College in Oxford and King’s College in Cambridge, travelers cannot choose which specific colleges to see on the day trip. The itinerary and order of visits are predetermined.
Will There Be Any Free Time to Explore on My Own?
The tour provides guided walking tours of the key highlights in Oxford and Cambridge, but also allows some free time for passengers to explore the cities on their own. The exact amount of free time may vary.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
Here’s a concise and practical answer in the third-person point of view, active voice, and using contractions:
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight jacket, snacks, and water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenery. Travel light, as there’ll be some walking during the tour.
Recap
The Oxford and Cambridge Universities Day Trip from London offers an immersive experience, exploring the renowned academic centers of England.
Visitors can discover iconic landmarks, architectural wonders, and academic legacies through walking tours, with the convenience of air-conditioned coach transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
This personalized tour promises an efficient and memorable journey for those seeking to uncover the history and grandeur of these prestigious universities.
