Oxford City Walking Tour & Bodleian Library Tour

Itinerary

The Bodleian Libraries Tour

The Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. Founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602, it is one of oldest libraries and the main research library at the University of Oxford. The Library Tour delves into the drama of the university and stories of student high jinks.

Starting in the Divinity School and ending in the exquisite Duke Humfrey’s Library, hear how Oxford University maintained order in the 17th-century and also housed King Charles I’s parliament whilst the King was resident in Oxford during the English Civil War (1642–1651). The Bodleian Library dates back to 1488, with the library, as it stands today, opening in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley.

In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied through the ages, amongst them monarchs, Nobel Prize winners, British Prime Ministers and writers including Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. You will see the Divinity School, Convocation House, Chancellor’s Court, and Duke Humfrey’s Library.

After the tour you can visit the Weston Library offering free, inspiring exhibitions featuring some of the libraries’ rich collections.

The City of Oxford Walking Tour

The City of Oxford walking tour of up to two hours is led by an official Green or Blue badge guide, taking in the history of the city and university together. It includes entry to the Divinity School, and, where possible, entry to a college.

Discover the vibrant history of the oldest university in the English-speaking world and how Oxford grew from a small market town to become the city of dreaming spires. This popular tours takes you on an entertaining journey that will reveal the secrets of this historic university city. All tours are conducted by accredited guides, ensuring you receive the most accurate and interesting facts and anecdotes.

Travel arrangements

We arrive in Oxford with time to get yourself some lunch before we meet up for your selected tour. You are free to make your own plans for lunch or stay with the group and we will go to a suitable eatery nearby.

Departing Shrewsbury 08.45

Arriving Shrewsbury 19.30

Exact timings for the trip will be confirmed 7-days before travel.

Booking your place

The cost for the day is £83 which includes return coach travel from your pick-up point and either a 2-hour guided walking tour or 1-hour guided tour of the Bodleian Library. Please note lunch is not included.

A non-refundable deposit of £20 per person is payable when booking. Full payment is due 10 weeks before departure.

Oxford with City Walking Tour or Bodleian Library Tour

Tour Information

Limited to 40 places

Itinerary

The Bodleian Libraries Tour

The City of Oxford Walking Tour

Travel arrangements

Booking your place