Oxford tours

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Oxford from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. If you have limited time in Oxford and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Oxford. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has several local guides in Oxford who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

The cost of a private tour in Oxford can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Oxford typically ranges from around $450- $900. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Oxford is rich in history, culture, and academia, offering a plethora of must-do activities for visitors. Here are some recommendations: University of Oxford: Explore the iconic colleges such as Christ Church, Magdalen College, and Bodleian Library. The architecture and history are simply breathtaking. Punting on the River Thames: Enjoy a leisurely punt along the River Thames, passing by scenic views of the colleges and gardens. Ashmolean Museum: Visit one of the oldest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning millennia. Botanic Garden: Take a stroll through the University of Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK, featuring a wide variety of plant species. Radcliffe Camera: Admire the stunning neoclassical building, part of the Bodleian Library complex, which houses reading rooms for students. Oxford Covered Market: Wander through this historic market dating back to the 18th century, offering a wide range of goods from food to crafts. The Eagle and Child Pub: Visit this historic pub, famously known as the meeting place of the Inklings, a literary group including C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Christ Church Meadow: Take a peaceful walk or picnic in this scenic meadow adjacent to Christ Church College, offering lovely views of the spires and river. Oxford Castle and Prison: Explore the medieval Oxford Castle and former prison, now transformed into a visitor attraction with guided tours and exhibitions. These are just a few highlights of what Oxford has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, literature, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this historic city, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are some of the top tours in Oxford, each highly rated with great five star reviews! 1) Half Day Oxford Tour 2) Classic Cotswolds Tour from Oxford 3) Day tour of the beautiful Cotswolds region 4) Oxford to Stonehenge - Prehistoric Day Tour 5) Half Day Oxford Architecture Tour

Oxford is centrally located in England, making it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby attractions. Here are some excellent day trip options from Oxford: Stratford-upon-Avon: Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare and explore the picturesque town with its Tudor-style buildings, museums, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Blenheim Palace: Located in Woodstock, just a short drive from Oxford, Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore the stunning palace, its extensive gardens, and the surrounding parkland. Cotswolds: Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Cotswolds countryside, dotted with charming villages built from distinctive honey-colored stone. Places like Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold are worth visiting for their quintessential English charm. Bicester Village: If you're a fan of shopping, head to Bicester Village, a luxury shopping outlet with over 160 boutiques offering discounted designer brands. Windsor Castle: Explore the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, located in the picturesque town of Windsor. Marvel at the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and the beautiful grounds. London: While not a short trip, London is easily accessible by train from Oxford, making it feasible for a day trip. Explore world-class museums, iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, or simply wander through vibrant neighborhoods. Oxfordshire Cotswolds: Explore the northern part of the Cotswolds, where you can visit charming villages like Chipping Norton, Woodstock, and Burford, as well as attractions like Chastleton House and Rollright Stones. Warwick Castle: Step back in time at Warwick Castle, one of the most well-preserved medieval castles in England. Explore the castle's towers, dungeons, and ramparts, and enjoy interactive exhibits and live shows. These day trip options offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural and historical exploration to natural beauty and shopping. Choose based on your interests and enjoy exploring the surrounding areas of Oxford.

The ideal length of time to tour Oxford can vary depending on your interests and how thoroughly you want to explore the city and its surroundings. Here are a few considerations: One Day: If you're short on time, you can still get a taste of Oxford's highlights in a single day. Focus on visiting key attractions such as the University of Oxford colleges, Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and perhaps take a punting tour on the River Thames. While you won't be able to see everything, you can still experience the essence of Oxford in a day. Two Days: With two days, you'll have more time to delve deeper into Oxford's history and culture. You can visit additional colleges, explore museums like the Ashmolean Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum, and take leisurely walks through the city's parks and gardens. You might also have time for a day trip to a nearby attraction like Blenheim Palace or Stratford-upon-Avon. Three or More Days: If you have three or more days, you can take a more relaxed pace and truly immerse yourself in all that Oxford has to offer. In addition to visiting more colleges and museums, you can explore lesser-known attractions, attend guided tours or lectures, and sample the city's culinary scene. You'll also have time for multiple day trips to nearby destinations like the Cotswolds, Windsor Castle, or London. Ultimately, the length of your stay in Oxford depends on your preferences and how much time you have available. Even a short visit can be rewarding, but the more time you have, the more you'll be able to uncover the city's hidden gems and appreciate its rich history and culture.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Oxford from the US can vary depending on several factors, including: Flight Costs: The price of round-trip flights from the US to England varies depending on factors such as the time of booking, departure city, airline, and time of year. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per person. Accommodation: Oxford offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, and vacation rentals. Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation, location, and amenities. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or more per night for accommodation. Transportation: Once in Oxford, you may need to budget for transportation within the city and for any day trips or excursions you plan to take. Options include public transportation, taxis, rental cars, or guided tours. Food and Dining: Dining out in Oxford can range from inexpensive cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants. Budgeting for meals, snacks, and drinks throughout your trip is important. You can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day per person on food, depending on your dining preferences. Activities and Attractions: Oxford offers a variety of attractions, including historic colleges, museums, parks, and walking tours. Some attractions may have entrance fees or guided tour costs that should be factored into your budget. To estimate the total cost of your 7-day trip to Oxford from the US, you'll need to research specific prices for flights, accommodation, transportation, dining, and activities based on your preferences and travel dates. It's also a good idea to budget some extra funds for unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Choosing where to stay in Oxford depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're looking for. Here are some options: City Centre: Staying in the city centre puts you within walking distance of many attractions, restaurants, and shops. You'll have easy access to historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque streets of Oxford. There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, and boutique accommodations available in this area. Near the University: If you want to be close to the University of Oxford colleges, consider staying in the area around High Street, Broad Street, or Turl Street. This area offers a charming atmosphere with historic buildings and easy access to the university's landmarks. Jericho: Located just north of the city centre, Jericho is a trendy and eclectic neighborhood known for its independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a vibrant area with a bohemian atmosphere and offers a range of accommodation options. Botley Road: This area, slightly west of the city centre, offers more affordable accommodation options compared to the city centre. It's well-connected by public transportation and provides easy access to central Oxford. Summertown: Located north of the city centre, Summertown is a residential area with a village-like feel. It offers a quieter atmosphere while still being within easy reach of Oxford's attractions. There are hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments available in this area. Oxfordshire Countryside: If you prefer a quieter retreat away from the city, consider staying in the Oxfordshire countryside. There are charming villages and rural accommodations within a short drive of Oxford, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as budget, proximity to attractions, amenities, and transportation options. It's a good idea to book accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or when major events are taking place in Oxford.

The best time to visit Oxford depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Here are some factors to consider for each season: Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Oxford when the city comes to life with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm, making it pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring is also a popular time for events and festivals in Oxford, including May Morning celebrations and various cultural events. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Oxford, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. The city is bustling with visitors, and outdoor attractions such as parks, gardens, and punting on the River Thames are popular. Keep in mind that accommodation and attractions may be more crowded and prices may be higher during this time. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Oxford brings cooler temperatures and the changing colors of fall foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploring the city. September and October are typically less crowded than summer months, making it a good time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings. Autumn is also a great time to enjoy cultural events and academic activities, as the university year begins. Winter (December to February): Winter in Oxford is cold and can be rainy, but the city has a cozy atmosphere with festive decorations and holiday events. Attractions such as museums and indoor activities are still accessible, and you may find fewer crowds at popular tourist spots. Keep in mind that some attractions and accommodations may have reduced hours or seasonal closures during the winter months. Ultimately, the best time to visit Oxford depends on your personal preferences for weather, crowds, and the types of activities you want to enjoy. Whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of summer or the tranquility of autumn, Oxford offers something for visitors year-round.

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Oxford: 1) 'Town versus Gown': discover Oxford University history 2) Tolkien, Lewis and the Inklings' Oxford 3) Christchurch Hall and Cathedral with University's architectural and historic highlights - full day tour 4) Oxford Experience by Bike - Half Day Private Tour 5) Windsor Castle & Eton College