Oxford and Cotswold Private Tour Entry to Oxford University

Set out on a captivating journey through the historic city of Oxford and the picturesque Cotswold villages. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the hallowed halls of Oxford University, discovering iconic filming locations from the beloved Harry Potter series. Explore the academic grandeur of prestigious colleges, marvel at the architectural wonders of the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera, and learn about the rich tapestry of England’s storied past. With insider access and expert guidance, prepare to be enchanted by the timeless beauty and scholarly legacy that define this remarkable region.

Key Points

• Explore the historic city of Oxford and the picturesque Cotswold villages on a private 9-hour tour.
• Gain entry to renowned Oxford University and discover its iconic colleges, libraries, and Harry Potter film locations.
• Visit prestigious institutions like Balliol, All Souls, and Trinity Colleges, known for their academic excellence and storied traditions.
• Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera, showcasing the university’s rich history and scholarly grandeur.
• Enjoy a wheelchair-accessible tour with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or private address.

Tour Overview

This private 9-hour tour provides an immersive experience exploring the historic city of Oxford and the picturesque Cotswold villages.

You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel or private address, making for a hassle-free journey. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, this is a private tour tailored to your needs.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can participate fully.

Throughout the day, you’ll discover the rich history, culture, and architectural wonders that have made these destinations so beloved.

With an expert guide leading the way, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the charm and allure of Oxford and the Cotswolds.

Oxford University Visit

Visitors can wander inside the renowned Oxford University, exploring the historic halls and colleges that have shaped generations of scholars. They’ll visit prestigious institutions like Balliol, All Souls, Trinity, Oriel, Hertford, and Merton Colleges, each with its own captivating story.

At the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera, guests will marvel at the stunning architecture and uncover the university’s rich academic heritage.

The tour also takes guests to filming locations from the Harry Potter movies, where they can enjoy the magical world of wizardry. Throughout the visit, the guide will share fascinating insights into Oxford’s history, student life, and famous alumni, providing a comprehensive understanding of this iconic institution.

Balliol, All Souls, Trinity Colleges

Balliol, All Souls, and Trinity Colleges stand as iconic landmarks within the hallowed halls of Oxford University, each boasting a rich history and distinguished legacies that have shaped the institution’s esteemed reputation.

Balliol, founded in 1263, has nurtured intellectual giants like Adam Smith and John Wycliffe.

All Souls, established in 1438, is renowned for its prestigious fellowship and its influential role in shaping British politics.

Trinity College, established in 1555, counts among its notable alumni the revered writer Oscar Wilde.

These colleges embody the academic excellence, storied traditions, and enduring influence that have made Oxford one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera

The Bodleian Library’s hallowed halls and the iconic Radcliffe Camera stand as two of Oxford University’s most emblematic architectural gems, captivating visitors with their rich history and scholarly grandeur.

The Bodleian, dating back to the 15th century, houses an impressive collection of over 12 million items, including rare manuscripts and ancient texts. Visitors can explore its awe-inspiring reading rooms, including the stunning Duke Humfrey’s Library, featured in the Harry Potter films.

Nearby, the Radcliffe Camera, a masterpiece of Palladian architecture, is one of the most photographed buildings in Oxford. With its circular design and majestic dome, the Camera serves as the university’s main research library, offering a glimpse into the intellectual heart of this prestigious institution.

Harry Potter Film Locations

Harry Potter fans delight in exploring the iconic filming locations scattered throughout Oxford’s picturesque streets and historic college grounds.

Many of the scenes from the beloved wizarding franchise were filmed on-site at the prestigious university, allowing visitors to step into the magical world of Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

Highlights include the Bodleian Library’s Duke Humfrey’s Library, which doubled as the Hogwarts Library, and the iconic Hogwarts courtyard, filmed at the New College cloisters.

Fans can also discover the Divinity School, used as the Hogwarts Hospital Wing, and the inspiring Christ Church College, which provided the setting for the Great Hall.

This magical tour offers an enchanting peek behind the scenes of the Harry Potter movies.

Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury

After exploring the historic halls of Oxford University, the private tour ventures into the picturesque Cotswold countryside, where charming villages await.

Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ boasts a quintessential English atmosphere with its quaint stone bridges and tranquil river running through the heart of the town. Visitors can wander the peaceful streets, admiring the traditional Cotswold stone cottages and browsing the local shops and galleries.

The tour also includes a stop in Bibury, known for its iconic Arlington Row – a stunning collection of 14th-century weavers’ cottages that epitomize the region’s timeless beauty. Here, travelers can enjoy the serene, rural charm that makes the Cotswolds so alluring.

Burford Picturesque High Street

Winding through the heart of the Cotswolds, Burford’s picturesque high street showcases a charming tapestry of Cotswold stone cottages, Georgian townhouses, and a medieval church, enticing visitors to stroll its historic lanes and browse the quaint shops and pubs that line the thoroughfare. From the iconic 15th-century St. John the Baptist Church to the charming boutiques and galleries, every step along Burford’s main street reveals the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds. Whether you’re admiring the intricate architecture, popping into a traditional English pub, or indulging in the local crafts and artisanal wares, Burford’s picturesque high street offers a delightful taste of quintessential Cotswold culture.

Attraction	Description	Highlights	Hours
St. John the Baptist Church	15th-century medieval church	Ornate interior, stained glass windows, historic graveyard	Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm, Sun: 12pm-5pm
Burford Antiques Centre	Antique and collectibles emporium	Vast selection of vintage furniture, art, and curiosities	Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 11am-4pm
The Angel at Burford	Traditional English pub	Cozy atmosphere, local ales, classic pub fare	Mon-Sun: 11am-11pm
Tolsey Museum	Local history museum	Exhibits on Burford’s past, including its role in the English Civil War	Tues-Sat: 10:30am-4:30pm

Logistics and Cancelation Policy

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or private address, allowing for a seamless start and end to your Oxford and Cotswold adventure.

If your pickup time isn’t available at the time of booking, you’ll need to provide those details at least 12 hours prior to the tour. This private group experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the journey.

For ultimate flexibility, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can easily reserve your spot now and pay later, making planning your Oxford and Cotswold exploration a breeze.

With the logistics taken care of, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the rich history and stunning scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food Included During the Tour?

The tour does not include any meals. However, visitors can explore the charming villages and find plenty of local cafes, pubs, and restaurants to enjoy a bite during the self-guided portion of the tour.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Additional Sightseeing?

Yes, the tour allows for flexibility to make additional stops along the way for sightseeing. The tour is private, so you can customize the itinerary to your interests and spend more time at sites that captivate you.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The private tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, allowing them to provide an engaging and informative experience for guests from diverse backgrounds. This flexibility ensures everyone can fully enjoy the highlights of Oxford and the Cotswolds.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

There are no age restrictions for the tour participants. The tour is suitable for guests of all ages, providing a wheelchair-accessible and private group experience to explore the historic sights of Oxford and the picturesque Cotswold villages.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Device for Audio/Visual Guides?

No, you don’t need to bring your own device for audio/visual guides on this tour. All necessary equipment is provided, allowing you to fully learn about the historical sights and stories without the hassle of technology.

Recap

Discover Oxford’s captivating history and the Cotswolds’ picturesque charm on this private tour.

Enjoy the hallowed halls of prestigious Oxford University, explore iconic Harry Potter filming sites, and marvel at the architectural wonders of the Bodleian Library.

Experience the quintessential English countryside as you wander the quaint streets of charming Cotswold villages.

This tour offers an unforgettable journey through the region’s rich heritage and scholarly grandeur.