The Cotswold Tour
Johnnie your local driver and tour guide, has lived and worked in The Cotswolds for three decades. As we navigate the picturesque countryside, Johnnie, with his passion for the Cotswolds and love of local history will provide an informative and interesting commentary. Visitors will be left with cherished memories of this timeless English countryside. Our tours showcase the beauty of the area while minimising time spent in the car and with this in mind, we have carefully chosen the routes and destinations. We aim to show you as much as possible whilst ensuring you have a relaxed and enjoyable experience and time to savour the Cotswolds. There will be plenty of photo opportunities, breaks for a bite to eat, a cream tea, or a pint in a cosy pub, as well as a chance to explore local shops.
This is a private tour and will include only you and your driver.
You will not share the car with anyone else.
Oxford University and Harry Potter Tour with Live Entertainment
Oxford’s Only Guided Tour with Live Entertainment
All tours given in English only
Magician to The Royal Family as your guide!
Experience Oxford like never before with a tour that combines fascinating history and unforgettable live entertainment. We are the only tour company in Oxford to offer this unique experience.
Your guide a magician who has and continues to perform for the British Royal family and A list celebrities.
As you explore Oxford’s historic landmarks, enjoy not only rich tales of the university’s past but also mind-blowing tricks and illusions. This is not just a tour—it’s a magical Experience history, magic, and charm, making it the perfect experience for anyone looking to explore the magic of Oxford in a whole new way.
We also re create a famous spell from the Harry Potter movie (looks Like trick Photography)
Book your spot now and get ready for a truly one-of-a-kind experience!
We do limit the numbers, advanced boking is highly recommended.
Discover Oxford University with Recent Graduate
Welcome to my speciality tour: an unforgettable 90-minutes in the world’s greatest university – led by Rory, recent graduate of the University of Oxford (BA Philosophy and Theology, 2020-2023).
You’ll discover a thousand years of history and tradition, learn from first-hand experience what it’s like to be an Oxford University Student, and visit some of the most incredible architecture in the world. We’ll even get to go inside a college or a University building (normally Trinity College, or the Divinity School - the oldest teaching building in the whole University)!
I keep my tour groups small and personal – with a maximum of 10 people, you'll be in one of the smallest groups in Oxford – meaning you’ll be able to ask all the questions you want. I’m always happy to adapt tours to the interests of the group.
Discover the Secrets of the Cotswolds Private Tour Experience
A tour of the Cotswolds, England's stunning and unique village area, departing from near Cotswolds by private vehicle. It is quite flexible as the trip is by private vehicle and small group.
Private Cotswolds Tour: Small-Group Luxury in a Mercedes
✤ Fully Private: Just your group (up to 3 adults + 3 children under 12) in a Mercedes-Benz.
✤ Exceptional Value: A modest upgrade for a fully private, comfortable experience
✤ No Tour Buses: Skip the crowds and explore at your own pace.
✤ Local Know How: We use back lanes to avoid heavy tourist traffic.
✤ Flexible Itinerary: Your day, tailored around what you want to see.
✤ Authentic Stops: Optional visits to farm shops for local cheeses, delis & fresh scones.
✤ Door-to-Door Ease: Complimentary pickup within the Cotswolds.
✤ Better Views: Elevated seating for scenic countryside views.
Welcome to Oxford: 2hr private Oxford walking tour
This magical walking tour is led by an award-winning Green Badge tour guide. It will introduce you to the extraordinary history and people who've shaped our city of dreaming spires. From Alice in Wonderland to JRR Tolkien, Oxford has inspired many timeless stories. But its real history is just as fascinating, and often just as strange…
As we walk around Oxford's famous buildings and explore its world-renowned university and colleges this glorious city will reveal its secrets to you.
This is a great tour if you only have a short time in Oxford or are visiting for the first time. I can tailor it to your interests so let me know if you are particularly interested in Harry Potter, Tolkien, CS Lewis, Morse, Alice in Wonderland etc. If you want to visit a specific college or the Divinity School you will have to pay an extra entrance fee - we can discuss the options when you book.
Reformation Oxford Christian History Tour private groups
This tour focuses on introducing famous people and events from the Reformation era but also introduces other religious names from before and after the Reformation and Counter Reformation period.
You will also earn all about Oxford city & university history and traditions plus student life and how the university developed.
This tour can be booked at a range of start times but please note there are much more colleges open afternoons than mornings, so ideally preferable to book afternoon tour.
Requests for a tour in Dutch must be received at least 2 days in advance and the Dutch guide does not work weekends or Mondays.
Private Half-Day Guided Tour in Oxford
Spend half a day with an award-winning guide who knows and loves Oxford, to get a thorough overview of its extraordinary history, architecture, and stories. Whether you are interested in the city's ancient origins, the rise of the university, the many fascinating personalities who have studied here, or its famous film locations, this bespoke tour will take you off the beaten track, guide you amongst the dreaming spires, and give you the inside story of this beautiful and eccentric city. You will see inside one of Oxford's most fascinating colleges, including its chapel and dining hall. You will visit the oldest classroom in the world and learn not just about the ancient university but how it works today. And you will hear many stories about the city's famous - and infamous – inhabitants, including its connections with Tolkien, CS Lewis, Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter and Wonka. The timings include a coffee break and walking times between stops.
2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Oxford
Visit the stunning buildings of the University, dating back 900 years up to modern day. We will learn how the University works, what makes Oxford unique and the history of the town itself.
We will visit at least one College or University building (depending on availability). I will show you some of the beautiful green spaces Oxford has to offer, as well as the varied architecture.
Oxford has a long and varied history that I look forward to sharing with you. I love telling the amusing stories and strange traditions we have here.
Oxford Pub Tour: Historic Pubs and Local Brews
Discover the charm of Oxford and its historic pubs on this small group guided evening walk. Starting at the Tap Social Bar in The Covered Market, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food options before meeting your guide. Stroll along Broad Street to the renowned Turf Tavern, where you can savor a complimentary half-pint of ale while soaking in the local history. Continue to the Bear Inn, one of the oldest pubs in the world, and hear captivating stories as you enjoy another round. The tour concludes at the Royal Blenheim , known for its extensive ale selection, with recommendations for further explorations in Oxford.
- Walking tour exploring Oxford's main sights and iconic pubs
- Visit historic landmarks like the Sheldonian Theatre and Radcliffe Camera
- Enjoy a complimentary drink at Turf Tavern
- Discover local history and insider tips from your knowledgeable guide
Oxford PRIVATE Pub and City Evening Walking Tour
You will learn lots about Oxford and what to see and do tips with your own private guide for the evening. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Oxford and explore its city streets at night. Average duration is 3 hours.
Visit two or three historic local pubs and learn the stories and urban legends behind them while socializing with others at the two or three historic pubs we visit.
This tour offers a social night out in Oxford while you hear stories about local students and their antics, learn urban legends, discover the favourite hangouts of famous alumni, and pass the famous university at night.
Cotswolds Walking Tour from Stratford-on-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh
On this one-day tour, you'll get out of the minibus and into the glorious countryside! Experience the Cotswolds' celebrated walking trails with a fun, friendly local guide.
You'll enjoy up to three glorious walks on this tour. Walks may vary according to the group, weather and trail conditions, but we can promise you peaceful Cotswold villages, gloriously scenic views and quiet footpaths away from the crowds of the ‘touristy’ parts of the Cotswolds - heaven! The day will round off with a visit to the gorgeous village of Broadway (with the option to see Broadway Tower), where you can explore, shop, or grab some refreshment after your day of walking the Cotswolds!
Tours depart from Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon, or from Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds.
Travelling from London or Oxford? Take the train to Moreton-in-Marsh! You'll skip all the traffic, enjoy a charming, scenic train ride, and get to spend even longer in the beautiful Cotswolds!
Experience Oxford's Art Masterpieces with an Art Historian
Explore the highlights of Oxford's two major art collections, at the Ashmolean Museum and Christ Church Picture Gallery, with an art historian and Sotheby’s specialist. Join me on a rich and entertaining journey through the history of European art, from Ancient Greece to French Impressionism. On the way, you’ll discover masterpieces ranging from Uccello's Hunt in the Forest, to Monet’s Sunset at Sea. Half way through, we’ll have a coffee break at Ashmolean’s Rooftop café. We’ll then walk to Christ Church Picture Gallery, part of Christ Church, one Oxford’s most famous colleges, to see masterpieces from their collection of mainly Italian paintings and drawings, including Botticelli's paintings of the Sybils, and Head of Young Woman by Verrocchio, one of the most beautiful drawings that remains from the Florentine Renaissance.
During the experience, you'll be introduced to specialist skills, including spotting painting restorations and identifying 15th century paper.
Oxford Scenic Cycle Tour- 2 persons minimum summer season
Leave Oxford city & the crowds behind on this small-group tour and enjoy a 3 hour bike ride with scenic views. Cycle past traditional narrow boats, ducks, swans, and of course Oxford's famous teams of rowers out on the Thames river. There are two routes available, both of which include an optional garden pub stop. Fun for all ages but a good family activity too.
Learn about the rowing races and the historical importance of trade along the river, and the various writers, including Lewis Carroll, whose story-telling is the result of days messing about with boats on the river.
Private Oxford Portraits Photo Tour Photos in Iconic Locations
A private photo tour around historic Oxford to capture memories of your time there.
For solo travellers, Oxford Graduates, couples or families.
We will start by visiting iconic sites such as Oxford's Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library & Divinity School, Bridge of Sighs (also Harry Potter filming locations)& continue to many more and finish at Christ Church Meadows.
If you're a Harry Potter fan I've also got you covered! A lot of the filming locations were around Oxford (fun fact... I was even in Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find them myself)!
I like movement in the photos, such as walking shots, to create natural, comfortable photos.
You will receive 10 digital printable images via an online gallery up to 2 weeks after your experience.
Please note there are two options:
One for up to 3 guests max.
Another for 4+ guests (please allow for up to 2 hours if you are a larger group).
Some locations are occasionally closed due to filming or ceremonies so I will adapt the tour as needed.
Oxford On Screen Walking Tour
Take this unique opportunity to learn about "Oxford On Screen".
Oxford naturally lends itself as a stunning backdrop for the movie and TV screen and reflects why VisitBritain's latest promotion campaign is called “Starring Great Britain”.
Our expert and passionate guides will show you around the most famous landmarks that have been immortalised on screen, from the Radcliffe Camera in Emerald Fennel’s Saltburn, to the Bodleian Library in Harry Potter, and share the titbits and anecdotes that filming in Oxford can bring.
Suitable for all ages, whether you are a “set-jetting” cinephile or just intrigued by filming locations, join up with those who enjoy spotting the landmarks regularly seen on film and TV.
CS Lewis & Tolkien Tour with Magdalen Entry Public tour 13.45
Enjoy a tour exploring the lives, works and ideas of CS Lewis, JRR Tolkien and their circle. This tour is focused for an adult audience. Children may join it but the private tour option is more suitable.
This tour typically lasts 2 hours to 2.5 hours and it includes entry to Magdalen college, where CS Lewis taught. If Magdalen is ever closed, we will inform you & offer refund or reschedule date or proceed with a visit to an alternative such as Exeter college, where Tolkien studied.
This tour introduces both these famous writers and their lives here in Oxford plus offers insights into what life is like as an Oxford academic.
Magdalen entry fee worth £10 per person is included.
NOTICE: any known closures for Magdalen college will be published under the What's Excluded section.
Please note that Magdalen only permits entry to up to 10 persons with guide before we must instead pre book with Magdalen. Thus, if you book at very short notice, you may instead be asked to do private tour.
Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups
You will see more scenic beauty & experience nature better on a bike tour than by car. This tour is delivered only by myself, Alasdair and my local colleagues. I am the business owner of Visit Oxford Tours. However, for insurance purposes, these tours are actually booked to be conducted privately via myself as a self employed sole trader offering you a personal service. They are not delivered as a product delivered by Visit Oxford Tours Ltd. This legal distinction will be reconfirmed in writing whenever any booking is received.
Default itinerary is 10am to 5.30pm.
The Cotswolds is a scenic part of England located only 10 minutes by train from Oxford or less than 30 minutes tax ride from Oxford. Oxford is only 60 minutes from London Paddington station. It's my pleasure to share these sights & heritage with you on an active cycling tour.
Participants must be fit and aged 14+ as the Cotswolds roads are lots of up and down cycling but the scenery plus the villages here are beautiful.
Secret Cotswolds: Private Tour of Picture-Perfect Villages
Escape the busy tourist routes and discover the charm of the Cotswolds with a private, tailor-made tour led by a professional local guide. Travelling in the comfort of a private car, you’ll explore postcard-perfect villages, hidden gems, and scenic spots that large tour groups can’t reach.
Create your own itinerary or follow my recommendations, blending famous sights with lesser-known treasures. Enjoy plenty of time to wander honey-stone streets, browse independent shops, or capture stunning landscapes through your lens. As a local photographer, I’ll guide you to the best photo stops.
With a flexible schedule and relaxed pace, you'll experience the Cotswolds through the eyes of someone who lives here. Each tour is crafted around your interests—be it history, scenery, local flavours, or a bit of everything.
* Hotel pick-up and drop-off is available if you're staying in the Cotswolds. Please ask, I'll do my best.
The wonders of Christ Church Oxford: Private Tour
Christ Church is home to many wonders, and I'm lucky enough to be one of the few guides accredited to take private tours inside. The college caps these at 5 people, so they are very exclusive!
Christ Church is the most famous college in the world's oldest English-speaking university, unique in having a chapel that's also a cathedral.
It has been a place of worship for 1300 years, founded by a feisty Saxon saint before Oxford even existed.
Over time it became home not just to thousands of scholars but to the real Alice in Wonderland and, more recently, a famous boy wizard.
I invite you to travel back in time via the spectacular Tudor dining hall, miraculously rescued ancient shrine, carved throne of doomed King Charles I, fabulous Hogwarts staircase and rare medieval stained glass windows to get a history of not just the college, but England itself.
IMPORTANT: I'll need to check the college's availability before confirming.
Follow the Money Tour – by Uncomfortable Oxford™
Can money ever be 'clean'?
This tour highlights the University of Oxford’s relationship with contentious sources of revenue.
Learn about historic and modern wealth distribution networks within the University and engage with conversations of wealth inequality in a city experiencing a housing crisis. We ask why billionaires keep investing in the historic university, how massive philanthropic donations should be handled, and what effects such income streams have on academic freedom and political neutrality.
All our tours are led by university researchers who have completed our official Uncomfortable Oxford training programme. Our guides combine expert knowledge and performance, ensuring each tour is a fun and educational experience.
Tour recommended for teens age 14 and older.
Tolkien Lewis Walking Tour, with Magdalen College visit, + Alice!
Explore the fascinating world of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis on this guided walking tour through Oxford. See iconic locations such as Exeter College, the Sheldonian Theatre, the Bodleian Library, and Magdalen College, where the Inklings met. Discover how these writers inspired and helped one another. Enjoy a visit to Magdalen College, where Lewis spent nearly three decades. This tour provides a unique insight into the lives of these authors and the city that inspired them.
- 2.5 hour guided walking tour of Oxford’s literary landmarks
- Visit Magdalen College, where Lewis worked from 1925 to 1954
- Suitable for teenagers and adults; private tours are also available for families with young children
- Learn from an expert guide about the lives of Tolkien and Lewis and their friendship
- Learn how Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) met the young Alice Liddell at Christ Church College and how she inspired him to write Alice in Wonderland!
- Avoid the crowds - maximum group 12 people
Secret Cotswolds Private Tour from Oxford
I have personally been touring this enchanting area for over 10 years now. The beauty of a Cotswolds private driving tour is the freedom and flexibility that it gives you on the day. This tour has a set itinerary where I have a recommended route. Here I have combined idyllic hidden villages with the more famous Cotswold towns. This gives you a wonderful overview and experience of what the Cotswolds is all about. You get to see the postcode locations as well as escape the tourist trail and discover hidden gems that only us locals know about.
As it is a private tour I am totally flexible as to how long you would like in each place, and are more than happy to adapt the itinerary on the day if you would like.
If you want more hidden villages, more market towns or natural beauty then your wish is my command!
With that in mind if you have any specific requests in advance or pickup locations then feel free to message me. I will be happy to help.
Private Walking Tour of Oxford: Explore History and Colleges
Discover the rich history and unique architecture of Oxford on a personalized walking tour led by an experienced, independent, local guide (we're new here on Viator). This tour provides insights into the Oxford University system, the colleges, and fascinating stories of notable figures who shaped the city. Tailor your experience by choosing a theme such as literature, history, or music to enhance your visit. Enjoy the flexibility of a private tour, allowing you to explore hidden corners and learn about the vibrant student life at Oxford today. A visit to one or more colleges is highly recommended for a complete experience.
- Private tour tailored to your interests and schedule
- Flexible duration, typically 2 hours, with options to extend
- Explore themes like literature, history, and architecture
- Entry to one or more colleges can be arranged. We will arrange this with you in advance. This is an extra cost.
- Prices include the Contrada Tours pre-tour planning service by WhatsApp.