Why choose this Oxford tour ?
Our guides, Oxford alumni or students, blend personal experiences with a passion for the city’s history and architecture. The tour is conducted in English and takes place outdoors. Indoor access isn’t included unless booked in advance. For entry to specific colleges, request this option ahead of time.
Take a fascinating walk through Oxford, where history comes alive. Visit the meadows where Lewis Carroll first imagined Alice in Wonderland and admire stunning Gothic and Baroque architectures.
Our 90-minute tour covers highlights like Balliol College, Trinity College, Sheldonian Theatre, Bridge of Sighs, Old Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Square, All Souls College, St Mary’s Church, Merton College, Christ Church College Meadows and South Wall.
After your walking tour, you’ll be directed to the punting station. You’ll be chauffeured past Oxford’s Botanic Gardens, Magdalen College School fields, Christ Church Meadows, and St Hilda’s College gardens before returning to the Boathouse.
Make the most of your Oxford adventure
What makes Oxford | Alumni-Led Walking & Punting Tour w/opt New College a unique experience ?
Meet your Alumni Guide outside 12 Broad Street, by the red post box. They will be wearing a blue hat with the Alumni Tours logo on (or other item of Alumni Tours uniform), and will check you in for your tour
Gain an overview of one of the oldest universities in the world while admiring the first of many architecturally grand buildings.
Take a look into some of the strange traditions that come with an old and prestigious university. From pranks to tortoises, student life certainly isn’t boring here!
Learn about the 13 busts visible atop the pillars, and get an insiders’ correction of a common misconception.
Hear about the intricacies of the Oxford graduation ceremony, and, if possible, take a look inside the Divinity School which was famously used in the Harry Potter films.
A library with a long history, find out about some of the treasures kept among the 12 million books here.
A dome that is famous for being one of the Oxford Dreaming Spires, and a Camera which has nothing to do with photography? Contradictions abound here, and your guide will make sure you don’t get lost in them!
All Souls is a very prestigious college which requires an incredibly stringent examination to be completed by all prospective students. Your guide can give you examples of past questions; how do you think you would fare?
The University Church is a great location to understand some of the tensions between so called ‘Town and Gown’, and of course is a stunning building to appreciate!
A controversial piece of university history, learn why there have been protests against honouring one of the main funders of the College.
One of the most famous sites in Oxford, there are many powerful figures associated with this college!
After experiencing the above (and more!) on the walking tour, have a short break and walk to Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, where a manager will meet you and direct you to the departure point for your punting tour!
Start your relaxing trip by being chauffeured past the UK’s oldest botanic garden, with the dreaming spires of Oxford peeking over the trees.
Continue your peaceful trip through the nature of Oxford by passing Christ Church Meadow, a large area owned by the College which allows access to many of the cities boathouses.
One of several extensive College Gardens, St Hilda’s boasts rich wildlife and seasonal colour year-round, perfect to appreciate on your serene trip along the River Cherwell!
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
Oxford | Alumni-Led Walking & Punting Tour w/opt New College Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Insight into student life
- Oxford University Student or Graduate Guide
- Insight into the Oxbridge application process
- Chauffeured punting tour
- Historical tour and anecdotes
- Indoor access to structures unless booked in advance
Trending Oxford Nearby Tours Likely To Sell Out
Special Instructions:
- This Tour is Provided by Oxford Alumni Tours.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/London.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 24 valid reviews on VIATOR.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.
**Meeting Point:**
Meet your tour guide at the red post box at 11-12 Broad St, Oxford, OX1 3AP. The guide wears a royal blue hat, polo shirt, or full uniform featuring a coat of arms.
**Punting Information:**
Unless otherwise stated, punting departs 2 hours after the walking tour begins from Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, OX1 4AU.
If you have purchased college entry, punting departs 3 hours after the walking tour.
Important Notes (PLEASE READ. THE COMPANY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ISSUES ARISING FROM FAILURE TO UNDERSTAND THESE GUIDELINES):
1) Arrive on time; late arrivals will not be eligible for a refund or rebooking. Once the tour starts, the guide cannot be contacted by the manager. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early. Cancellations made 24 hours or more in advance will receive a full refund.
2) You may bring snacks and drinks, but they are not allowed inside the college premises, if visited.
3) The tour includes a 1.5-hour walk at a moderate pace, which is not suitable for those with mobility impairments. Be cautious of uneven surfaces, curbs, and vehicles. Stay with the group; the guide will not wait for those who fall behind. Wheelchair users are welcome.
4) There are no scheduled toilet breaks. The guide cannot wait for customers using the restroom during the tour. Consider this if you are booking a college visit immediately after the walking tour.
5) Wear weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. Be prepared for bad weather or muddy terrain. In warm weather, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
6) Tours are conducted in English, but be prepared to hear various accents, as the city is a global educational hub.
7) Pets are not allowed inside the colleges, except for guide dogs.
8) Direct complaints to managers via phone/email. The guides and the sales team are not authorised to handle such issues.
9) Follow the guide’s instructions and local health&safety regulations. Inform the guide immediately if you feel unwell or notice any safety concerns.
