Oxford Castle & Prison: A Millennium of History in the Heart of Oxford
Step into a millennium of history at Oxford Castle & Prison, where medieval towers, eerie cells, and captivating stories await.
Oxford Castle & Prison is a historic landmark in Oxford, England, offering an immersive journey through over 1,000 years of history. Explore the medieval castle, climb St. George’s Tower for panoramic city views, descend into the atmospheric crypt, and wander the prison corridors where notorious inmates were held. Guided tours led by costumed characters bring the site’s rich past to life, complemented by interactive exhibits and the unique opportunity to stay overnight in a converted prison cell hotel.
A brief summary to Oxford Castle & Prison
- 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY, GB
- +441865260663
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance online to save 10% and secure your preferred time slot.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves climbing 101 steps to St. George’s Tower and navigating narrow stairs.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience the guided tour and explore the exhibition and grounds.
- Children under 5 are not permitted to access St. George’s Tower for safety reasons.
- Consider an overnight stay at the Malmaison Oxford hotel for a unique experience sleeping in a converted prison cell.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Oxford Bus Company route 8 or 9 from Oxford city center to Gloucester Green Bus Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to Oxford Castle & Prison. The bus ride takes about 10-15 minutes; tickets cost around £2-£3.
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Train
From Oxford Railway Station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the castle through the city center, passing historic streets and shops. The station is well connected by trains from London and other UK cities.
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Taxi
A taxi from Oxford Railway Station to Oxford Castle & Prison takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7-£12. Taxis are readily available at the station.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central Oxford, walking to the castle is a pleasant 10-20 minute stroll through the historic city center, with mostly flat terrain and accessible pavements.
Oxford Castle & Prison location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Oxford Castle & Prison
A Storied Past Spanning a Millennium
Oxford Castle & Prison stands as a testament to over 1,000 years of English history. Originally founded shortly after the Norman Conquest, the castle has served many roles—from a royal fortress and religious site to a university precinct and a county jail. The site’s layered history reflects the evolution of Oxford itself, intertwining tales of power, justice, and community. The castle’s motte and bailey earthworks remain a striking feature, offering insight into medieval military architecture and Norman influence in England.Architectural Highlights and Historic Features
Visitors can ascend the 101 steps of St. George’s Tower, a Saxon-era structure dating back nearly a millennium, to enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Oxford’s iconic skyline, known as the 'dreaming spires.' Descending into the candlelit Crypt of St. George’s Chapel reveals connections to Arthurian legend and the early university. The 18th-century prison wing presents a stark contrast, with authentic jail cells and corridors that evoke the harsh realities of incarceration. The site’s blend of medieval, Victorian, and modern elements creates a unique architectural tapestry.Immersive Guided Tours and Interactive Exhibits
The heart of the visitor experience is the guided tour led by costumed interpreters who vividly recount the castle’s multifaceted history. These engaging narratives include stories of famous residents like Empress Matilda, legends such as the curse of Rowland Jenkes, and the tragic fate of Mary Blandy. After the approximately 50-minute tour, guests can explore the exhibition wing at their own pace, engaging with interactive displays like the padded cell where visitors can experience the eerie atmosphere firsthand.The Prison’s Legacy and Modern Adaptations
Oxford Prison, built in 1785 and expanded in 1876, operated until 1996. Its transformation into a heritage attraction preserves the social history of justice and incarceration in the region. A remarkable feature is the Malmaison Oxford hotel, housed within the former prison, offering guests the rare chance to stay overnight in converted cells that blend historic ambiance with contemporary comfort. This innovative reuse highlights the site’s dynamic role in Oxford’s cultural landscape.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Oxford Castle & Prison welcomes visitors year-round, with guided tours running regularly. The site is accessible to most visitors, though the climb to St. George’s Tower and the narrow stairs may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. The castle grounds include informative signage and seating areas, enhancing the visit. Nearby amenities and Oxford’s rich array of historic sites make it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.Atmosphere and Cultural Significance
The castle’s atmospheric setting, from the dimly lit crypt to the imposing prison cells, evokes a palpable sense of history and mystery. The juxtaposition of grandeur and grim reality invites reflection on societal change over centuries. As a landmark, Oxford Castle & Prison not only preserves architectural heritage but also serves as a cultural touchstone, connecting visitors to Oxford’s enduring legacy through vivid storytelling and immersive experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Explore 1,000 years of history from Norman fortress to Victorian prison with panoramic views and immersive storytelling at Oxford Castle & Prison.
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Saint George's Tower
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Westgate Oxford
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Menkind
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MINOX Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
