Oxford Castle and Prison Guided Tour
Oxford, GB
91% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Interactive costumed guided tours
- Explore 1,000-year history of Oxford Castle
- Touch stones where Oxford University began
- Dress up like a prisoner in exhibition space
- Climb the remains of the motte and bailey castle
-
Costumed Character Guide
-
Guided Tour
-
Duration 1 hour
-
Skip-the-line tickets
-
Small Group Tour
-
Admission Ticket Included
Embark on a captivating journey through time with the Oxford Castle and Prison Guided Tour. Delve into the rich history of this 1,000-year-old castle and prison with costumed guides bringing stories to life. From the top of St. Georges' Tower to the crypt of St. Georges’ Chapel, every corner holds fascinating tales waiting to be discovered. Explore the prisons’ D-Wing, touch the stones of Oxford University's rumored beginnings, and dress up like a prisoner in the exhibition space. With a skip-the-line ticket and a costumed character guide, this tour offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers seeking a glimpse into the past. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure!
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
1 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the 1,000-year history of Oxford Castle with a captivating guided tour led by costumed characters, exploring stories of intrigue and legend.
Included
-
OtherCostumed Character Guide -
OtherGuided Tour
Excluded
-
OtherSouvenir photos (available to purchase)
Meeting Point
The entrance to the tour is to the left of the cafe. You will enter through the gift shop.
45 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1BY , United Kingdom
End Point
The entrance to the tour is to the left of the cafe. You will enter through the gift shop.
45 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1BY , United Kingdom
What to expect
Take a guided tour today and let the characters reveal their fascinating stories entrenched in the building’s 1,000 year history. When William the Conqueror invaded England and won the Battle of Hastings in 1066, Oxford Castle was marked by the Normans as the ideal place for a motte-and-bailey castle. Today, after almost one millennia, Oxford Castle & Prison is a visitor attraction with a past stretching far beyond your imagination. Guided tours last approx. an hour and run every 20 minutes and are led by one of the castle's costumed character guides. The rich history of Oxford and the castle is revealed as you climb the Saxon St George’s Tower, one of the oldest buildings in Oxford, and enjoy its stunning 360° panoramic views over the historic city of Oxford. Then, descend deep underground into the dark atmosphere of the 900 year old crypt, the only surviving remains of St. George’s Chapel where it is said, began the education for which Oxford is famed, and where Geoffrey of Monmouth penned the Legends of King Arthur. Explore the austere confines of the 18th century Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-Wing and scale the Mound of the 11th century motte-and-bailey castle. After your tour, you will be inducted into the castle’s prison and wider site where you will be able to explore at your own leisure. Admission to the castle is by guided tour only.
Admission Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Children under 5 years of age will not be permitted access to St George’s Tower due to health and safety regulations. -
Due to the historical nature of the building Prams & Pushchairs do not fit through our doors, so they need to be left in the reception area where they will be looked after from a member of our team.
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
No dogs are allowed in the attraction, the mound, Castleyard Cafe or the gift shop except for guide dogs.
-
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
-
Opening times may be subject to change; for up-to-date information on admission prices and opening times, please telephone our information line on +44(0)1865 260666
-
Payment must be made at the time of booking by credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Switch or Delta).
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
Visitors unable to climb the tower may wait at the bottom with a guardian and watch our “Story of Oxford Castle” video. Once the tour group returns from the Tower, you are then able to rejoin your group as the tour continues. To find out more about this policy, click here to view our access information.
-
Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
-
Don't miss the views from St. George's Tower. -
Explore the crypt for a unique experience.
-
Visit the nearby Castleyard Cafe for snacks.
-
Check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
-
Plan your visit to avoid peak hours.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on a journey through time with the Oxford Castle and Prison Guided Tour. Delve into the rich 1,000-year history of this iconic landmark, as costumed guides bring captivating stories to life. From the tales of Empress Matilda to the mysteries of Mary Blandy, every corner of this castle holds a fascinating narrative waiting to be discovered.What to expect?
Participants can anticipate a immersive experience filled with historical insights, dramatic reenactments, and breathtaking views from St. Georges' Tower. Explore the crypt of St. Georges’ Chapel, touch the stones where Oxford University is said to have begun, and even step inside a padded jail cell. Discover the austere confines of the prison's D-Wing and learn about the youngest inmates who once called it home.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, families looking for a unique outing, and travelers seeking to uncover the hidden stories of Oxford. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Oxford Castle and Prison Guided Tour offers something for everyone.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Oxford Castle and Prison with this guided tour. From costumed character guides to skip-the-line tickets, every detail is carefully curated to provide a memorable and educational experience. Explore at your own pace, dress up like a prisoner in the exhibition space, and climb the mound to witness the remains of the ancient motte and bailey castle.Good to know
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking and be prepared to climb stairs to access certain areas of the castle. Souvenir photos are available for purchase at the end of the tour, allowing you to take home a memento of your time at this historic site.Reviews
Travelers rave about the engaging guides, immersive storytelling, and stunning views offered by the Oxford Castle and Prison Guided Tour. Visitors of all ages have praised the experience as both informative and entertaining, making it a must-see attraction in Oxford.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
