Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour
Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour

Outty Ranking 56 4.8 · 4 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $136
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Outty Ranking

56/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour worth booking?

Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour is a 2-hour experience in Oxford, United Kingdom, from $136 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
56 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (4)
Duration
2 hours
From
$136 per person

Entry worth £10 per person is included to Magdalen college and deer park, as and when it is open. See what is excluded section for any dates of closures. Besides introducing Oxford heritage, this tour is led by one of Oxford's most experienced local guides and it introduces the best college gardens off the beaten route of most tourists visiting Oxford. For anyone interested in herbalism, this can be a focus interest too, if made known in advance before the tour. You will visit inside at least one or more college -see details of which colleges in the main tour description. This tour is suitable for all ages but it will appeal especially to anyone who has a special interest in gardening.

What you get

    About this experience

    Entry worth £10 per person is included to Magdalen college and deer park, as and when it is open. See what is excluded section for any dates of closures. Besides introducing Oxford heritage, this tour is led by one of Oxford's most experienced local guides and it introduces the best college gardens off the beaten route of most tourists visiting Oxford. For anyone interested in herbalism, this can be a focus interest too, if made known in advance before the tour. You will visit inside at least one or more college -see details of which colleges in the main tour description. This tour is suitable for all ages but it will appeal especially to anyone who has a special interest in gardening.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entry inside at least one or more colleges such as St Johns, Exeter, Balliol or Wadham
    • Entry worth £10 per person to Magdalen college is included- except any dates published closures

    Not included

    • Magdalen college entry ticket for £10 is not included in tour & is an optional add
    • Colleges may be closed on graduation dates- see dates below...
    • 2026 graduation dates of likely closures of some or all colleges:
    • Feb 28, March7, May 15+16+23, July 18+28+31, Aug 1+8, Sep 25+26, Nov 6+7+13+14 of 2026
    • 2027 graduation dates of likely closures of some or all colleges:
    • Jan 23, Feb 27, March 6, May 14 + 15+ 22 of 2027
    • Magdalen is always closed during Christmas from about December 21 until December 31

    What you'll see and do

    1. Magdalen College

      Entry to Magdalen worth £10 per person is included in the tour. This is probably the gem of Oxford college gardens and it's also famous for where CS Lewis & JRR Tolkien used to walk and talk in the gardens. The college also has a deer park. Note that on any dates, when Magdalen is closed, we will replace instead with entry to another college. See dates of any closures under the section. Magdalen is closed every year from usually about December 21 until December 31st.

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Balliol College

      This college dates back to 1263! We usually visit this college too- unless it's closed. This college has an amazing dining hall which looks like Hogwarts hall! This college is where Adam Smith studied plus four prime ministers. Entry worth £5 per person included

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Magdalen College

      Magdalen is ONLY included in our tour, if you agree to pay the extra £10 cost directly to the college. We can discuss the option of whether to include this or not in the tour, on the day but please be aware that it's at least 20 minutes walk away. This college has the most expansive and probably the most pleasant gardens. Addisons Walk is also where CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien used to walk and talk. Magdalen is where Cs Lewis taught.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Bridge of Sighs

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    5. University Church of St. Mary the Virgin

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Brasenose College

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    7. All Souls College

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Hertford College

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    9. Trinity College

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Bodleian Library

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    11. Wadham College

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours. If however Exeter or St Johns or Balliol college is closed, we may instead visit this college chapel and garden. Its entry fee is £3 per person. This is the college which JK Rowling applied to but she was turned down.

      Pass by without stopping

    12. St John's College

      This college is always on our tour to visit inside and see the medieval quadrange, the gardens and the chapel. Its free entry. However, it's only open from 1pm to 5pm.

      Pass by without stopping

    13. Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

      We walk past and introduce this sight on our tours

      Pass by without stopping

    14. Exeter College

      This is easily one of Oxford's college gems, founded in 1314 and the student college of Tolkien plus of the pre Raphaelites artists, William Morris & Edward Burne Jones. The chapel is gorgeous & so is the Old Fellows Garden. This college is also where they often filmed Inspector Morse & Lewis shows. This college is usually closed to the public but as a guide, I can get you access with me, as and when the college is open. It is usually closed in term time though. On dates when Magdalen college is closed, we usually replace with entry to Exeter college instead. Exeter alongwith most colleges is closed during Christmas period from about December 20 till about January 4.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Oxford

    Meet myself, Alasdair, your guide wearing red lanyard. Meeting next to our black sign, OUTSIDE Oxford Tourist info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS. This is also next to the Oxfam shop which has a green sign above its shop.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Meet myself, Alasdair, your guide wearing red lanyard. Meeting next to our black sign, OUTSIDE Oxford Tourist info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS. This is also next to the Oxfam shop which has a green sign above its shop.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Visit Oxford Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 2Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 3Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 4Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 5Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 6Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Small groups

    1 mention

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    4 verified traveler reviews for Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
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    521mariagrazias · October 2026

    Paradise in the garden

    After a tour of Oxford, the botanical gardens are the ideal place to rest a bit along the river, lying on the grass surrounded by centuries-old trees, flowers, little squirrels, and so much peace. Everything is so beautiful, tidy, and fragrant that you would want to spend the day there. The greenhouses are special. There should also be a room here dedicated to flower drawings, but unfortunately, it was not open.. It is a special place for biodiversity. It is worth the entrance ticket.

    Response from the operator: Grazie per aver condiviso la tua esperienza.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    weynmady · March 2025

    The tour was so interesting that we want to recommend it to everyone who is interested in the history of Oxford.

    We had an amazing Morse/Endeavour/Lewis tour with our guide Tom. He made our walk in Oxford come alive with his extensive commentary on Oxford history, authors, life in college, filming locations, etc. We selected the Morse/Endeavor/Lewis tour but got so much more. Beautiful details inside and outside buildings were pointed at, which we would have otherwise overlooked. Tom is a very good story teller and gives you plenty of time to ask questions. We can only recommend to take this tour with Tom as you will enjoy Oxfor even more.

    Response from the operator: Thanks!

    via Tripadvisor

    ACN13 · November 2024

    Informative, relaxed and enjoyable - ticked all our boxes

    OK, an overcast November day may not seem ideal for a garden tour. Nevertheless our amiable and knowledgeable guide flexed the route and built in other elements to ensure we had a rich, realxed and varied couple of hours. A perfect way to discover and digest parts of the history, flora and vibe of Oxford that we'd never have managed alone. Thanks Harvey.

    Response from the operator: Thanks!

    via Tripadvisor

    B1053NYgaila · September 2024

    Private CS Lewis tour

    The tour was beyond my wildest expectations. That my guide clearly understood my lifelong long of Lewis, resonated with me. I would not hesitate to recommend him. He was honest, informed, and funny!

    Response from the operator: Hi. Glad you enjoyed the tour.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $136 to $200
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Visit Oxford Tours, who run 31 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.2.

    See everything Visit Oxford Tours runs

    Why this scores 56

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)82
    Review evidence (18% weight)22
    Booking momentum (14% weight)11
    Value for money (12% weight)43
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)51
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oxford.

    How much does Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $136 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Oxford usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Oxford is not rushed.

    Is Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Oxford, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Oxford can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Oxford and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Oxford within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Oxford?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Oxford experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon, Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide, Oxford Official University & City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Oxford?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Oxford?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Included: Entry inside at least one or more colleges such as St Johns, Exeter, Balliol or Wadham; and Entry worth £10 per person to Magdalen college is included- except any dates published clo. Not included: Magdalen college entry ticket for £10 is not included in tour & is an optional add; Colleges may be closed on graduation dates- see dates below..; 2026 graduation dates of likely closures of some or all colleges:; and Feb 28, March7, May 15+16+23, July 18+28+31, Aug 1+8, Sep 25+26, Nov 6+7+13+14 of 2026. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Meet myself, Alasdair, your guide wearing red lanyard. Meeting next to our black sign, OUTSIDE Oxford Tourist info centre, 15 Broad street, OX1 3AS. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Oxford. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Oxford College Gardens Public Walking Tour?

    +

    Across 4 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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