Exploring the historic halls of Oxford University has never been easier, or more intimate. This specialized walking tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the renowned institution’s highlights, guided by knowledgeable students. With small group sizes and a focus on social distancing, visitors can explore the university’s rich history and traditions, from the majestic Christ Church to the famous Bodleian Library. But what truly sets this tour apart is the chance to uncover the Harry Potter filming locations, transporting guests into the magical world they’ve come to love. Prepare to be captivated, as this personalized experience unveils the secrets of Oxford University like never before.
Key Points
- The tour showcases highlights of Oxford University while maintaining small group sizes and social distancing measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Student guides provide insightful commentary on the university’s history, traditions, and student life, offering a personalized and immersive experience.
- The tour includes visits to iconic locations featured in the Harry Potter films, such as the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sighs, and Christ Church College.
- The tour is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and accommodations for individuals with special needs.
- The cancellation policy is straightforward, allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
Overview of the Tour
The Oxford University Walking Tour showcases the highlights of the historic university, guiding visitors through Christ Church, the Bodleian Library, the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, the Bridge of Sighs, and multiple college campuses.
The tour is led by student guides who provide insightful commentary on university life, including details about the famous Harry Potter filming locations found throughout the campus.
Designed for social distancing, the tour keeps group sizes small and avoids crowded areas, ensuring a personalized experience for each traveler.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of the wizarding world, or simply curious about the renowned institution, this walking tour offers a unique and enriching way to explore the storied halls of Oxford University.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can expect to see several iconic landmarks throughout the Oxford University Walking Tour, including the majestic Christ Church and its grand cathedral, the renowned Bodleian Library with its expansive collections, and the picturesque University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.
The tour also showcases the stunning Bridge of Sighs and numerous college buildings that have become familiar sights from the Harry Potter films.
Along the way, the student guides provide insightful commentary on the university’s history and student life.
This unique experience offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Oxford’s academic and architectural heritage, all while maintaining social distancing measures for a safe and enjoyable tour.
Commentary on University Life
During the Oxford University Walking Tour, student guides provide insightful commentary on the daily lives and experiences of those studying at this prestigious institution.
They share what it’s like to be an Oxford student, from the demanding academic workload to the vibrant social scene.
Guests learn about the traditions and rituals that have shaped the university for centuries, like the formal hall dinners and the annual May Day celebrations.
The guides also discuss the unique college system, where students live, study, and dine within their respective colleges.
Harry Potter Filming Locations
Along With showcasing the architectural gems of Oxford University, the walking tour also highlights several locations used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies.
Visitors can see the Bodleian Library, which doubled as the Hogwarts library, and walk across the iconic Bridge of Sighs, featured in various magical scenes.
The tour covers three key Harry Potter filming spots:
- Christ Church College, which served as the inspiration for Hogwarts’ Great Hall.
- The Divinity School, a stunning 15th-century room that stood in for the Hogwarts infirmary.
- Duke Humfrey’s Library, part of the Bodleian, which appeared as the restricted section of the Hogwarts library.
Tour Duration and Group Size
The Oxford University walking tour lasts a couple of hours and has a maximum group size of 100 travelers.
Visitors can expect a personalized experience in small groups as the tour avoids crowds for better social distancing. This allows the student guide to provide in-depth commentary on university life and the historical significance of the sites.
The tour showcases highlights like Christ Church, the Bodleian Library, and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, as well as Harry Potter filming locations.
With a focus on maintaining safe distances, the tour ensures visitors can fully enjoy the rich culture and architecture of Oxford University.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The tour meets at 5 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AJ, UK and ends at the same location. This convenient meeting point is situated right in the heart of Oxford, making it easy for travelers to find.
The tour is designed with social distancing in mind, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
The meeting point is located near public transportation, making it accessible for visitors.
Infants are welcome, but they must sit on laps during the tour.
Wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces are available to accommodate all travelers.
The tour’s focus on personalization and small group sizes ensures that each participant receives the attention they deserve while exploring the historic highlights of Oxford University.
Accessibility Information
Accessibility is a key consideration for the Oxford University Walking Tour, ensuring an inclusive experience for all travelers. The tour is wheelchair accessible, with stroller-friendly surfaces and the ability to accommodate service animals.
Travelers don’t need to worry about navigating the historic city, as the meeting and end points are conveniently located near public transportation. While infants must sit on laps, the tour provides a memorable outing for the whole family.
The tour operator is committed to making adjustments to accommodate individual needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the highlights of Oxford University at their own pace and comfort level.
Cancellation Policy
Canceling the Oxford University Walking Tour can be done up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, though changes within 24 hours aren’t accepted.
Should the minimum number of travelers not be met, the tour operator offers either an alternative date/experience or a full refund.
The cancellation policy provides travelers with flexibility:
- Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are eligible for a full refund.
- Changes made less than 24 hours before the experience aren’t accepted.
- If the minimum group size isn’t reached, the tour operator will either offer an alternative or provide a full refund.
This straightforward cancellation policy ensures a hassle-free booking process and protects travelers’ investments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Masks Required During the Tour?
The tour operator recommends wearing masks during the walking tour to comply with current health and safety guidelines. Face coverings are optional but encouraged to protect yourself and others.
How Often Are High-Touch Surfaces Sanitized?
The tour operator frequently sanitizes high-touch surfaces like handrails and doorknobs to ensure guests’ safety. They follow strict cleaning protocols to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission during the walking tour.
Are Temperature Checks Conducted Before the Tour?
The tours don’t conduct temperature checks before participation. However, they prioritize social distancing and take measures to ensure a safe experience, like limiting group sizes and requiring masks as per local guidelines.
Is There an Option to Join a Private Tour?
Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Customers can request a private tour for their group, which allows for a more personalized experience with their own dedicated guide.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized for specific interests. The tour operator offers flexibility to tailor the experience to visitors’ preferences, such as focusing on certain colleges or academic disciplines. This allows for a more personalized and engaging tour.
Recap
This specialized Oxford University walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic campus while prioritizing social distancing.
Led by knowledgeable student guides, the tour showcases the university’s highlights and immerses visitors in its rich history and traditions.
With small group sizes and avoidance of crowded areas, this tour provides a personalized and safe experience for those seeking to discover the world-renowned Oxford University.
