Oxford College Gardens- Includes Spaces Closed to the Public

Tucked away behind the iconic Oxford spires lie hidden gardens, where the very fabric of academic life unfolds. This exclusive tour beckons the curious, offering a rare chance to wander these enchanting spaces, typically closed to the public. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll discover the rich traditions and architectural marvels that have shaped the scholarly community for centuries. As you stroll through the verdant landscapes of Exeter, St. John’s, and Balliol Colleges, prepare to be captivated by the tranquil beauty and scholarly charm that make this tour a truly unique experience.

Good To Know

• The tour provides exclusive access to private college gardens, including Exeter, St. John’s, and Balliol, which are typically closed to the general public.
• Participants can opt to visit Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens for an additional fee, offering a more comprehensive exploration of Oxford’s hidden gems.
• The small group size of up to 6 people allows for a personalized experience and deeper insights into the scholarly community’s private spaces.
• The tour highlights the botanical contributions of Charles Daubeny, a renowned figure in the history of Oxford’s college gardens.
• Wheelchair accessibility and a flexible cancellation policy ensure the tour is inclusive and accommodating to all visitors.

Tour Overview

The Oxford College Gardens tour whisks visitors away on a captivating 2-hour exploration, offering a glimpse into the prestigious university’s verdant sanctuaries.

Priced from $132.17 per person, this intimate group experience caps at 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the expert local guide.

Wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour convenient for all.

Strolling through the college gardens, you will marvel at the stunning scenery, from Exeter to St. John’s and Balliol, with an optional visit to Magdalen or the Botanical Gardens for an additional fee.

Throughout the journey, the guide shares insights into student life and the contributions of renowned botanist Charles Daubeny.

Accessibility and Cancellation

Wheelchair-bound travelers and those seeking hassle-free booking find the Oxford College Gardens tour a convenient choice. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility and peace of mind when planning a visit.

Feature	Details
Accessibility	The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to fully experience the stunning college gardens.
Cancellation Policy	Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, ensuring a seamless booking process.
Meeting Point	The tour departs from 15 Broad St, Oxford, near the Oxford Tourist Information Centre, a convenient and easily accessible location.
Group Size	The group is limited to 6 participants, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.

College Gardens and Attractions

Stepping through the historic gates, visitors embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Oxford’s renowned college gardens.

These lush, verdant havens offer a tantalizing glimpse into the private lives of Oxford’s scholarly community. Guests can wander the walled gardens of Exeter, St. John’s, and Balliol, marveling at the vibrant blooms and seeing the timeless ambiance.

For those seeking an extra adventure, an optional visit to Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens awaits, providing insights into the university’s rich history and Charles Daubeny’s botanical contributions.

With an experienced local guide leading the way, the tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Oxford’s hidden gems.

Tour Experience Highlights

Traversing the historic gates, visitors embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Oxford’s renowned college gardens.

The tour whisks them through the enchanting Exeter, St John’s, and Balliol, unveiling the tranquil beauty of these verdant oases. An optional visit to Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens adds an extra layer of discovery, allowing guests to enjoy Charles Daubeny’s botanical legacy.

Led by an experienced local guide, the tour weaves together tales of student life and traditions, bringing the university’s rich history to life.

Whether seeking the finest blooms or exploring the footsteps of Oxford’s celebrated writers, the tour is tailored to accommodate individual interests, promising an unforgettable experience.

Tour Duration and Pricing

The Oxford College Gardens tour offers visitors a captivating two-hour journey, priced from $132.17 per person.

With a limited group size of up to 6 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour’s accessibility makes it suitable for wheelchair users, and the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance provides flexibility.

The tour’s highlights include:

• Exploring the beautiful college gardens, including Exeter, St John’s, and Balliol.
• Visiting Magdalen College or the Botanical Gardens for an additional fee.
• Discovering the rich history and traditions of Oxford’s prestigious institutions.

This immersive adventure is led by an experienced local guide with a wealth of knowledge and hundreds of 5-star reviews, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Oxford’s captivating college gardens.

Group Size and Language

A small group of up to 6 participants embark on the Oxford College Gardens tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is conducted exclusively in English, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of these iconic academic institutions.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this group size provides ample opportunities to engage with the knowledgeable guide, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the colleges’ architectural marvels and lush botanical treasures.

With a focus on exclusivity and attentive service, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Oxford’s hidden gems.

Meeting Point and Location

Tucked away on Broad Street, just a stone’s throw from the bustling heart of Oxford, stands the meeting point for the Oxford College Gardens tour.

This convenient location places guests in the perfect position to embark on a journey through the hidden gems of the university’s historic grounds. The tour meets near the Oxford Tourist Information Centre, providing easy access and clear directions for participants.

The meeting point’s strategic placement allows seamless transitions between the charming college gardens, making the most of the allotted tour time.

Key features of the meeting point include:

• Proximity to public transportation
• Ample signage and landmarks for easy wayfinding
• Opportunities to explore the local area before or after the tour

Booking and Payment Options

Conveniently, the tour offers a flexible booking process, allowing visitors to reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

Simply secure your place and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free experience. This reservation system caters to travellers’ needs, providing the option to pay upon arrival or online via a secure platform.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan your Oxford adventure with confidence, knowing you’ll receive a full refund if plans change.

The tour’s transparent pricing and payment options make budgeting a breeze, so you can focus on enjoying the captivating college gardens and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the College Gardens Have Any Dress Code Requirements?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and walking. Comfortable shoes and layers are recommended to enjoy the beautiful college gardens comfortably, regardless of rain or shine.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour focuses on exploring the private college gardens, and the presence of animals could disturb the delicate flora and fauna. For an enjoyable and educational experience, only human participants are permitted.

Is Photography Permitted Inside the College Gardens?

Photography is encouraged throughout the tour, allowing visitors to capture the stunning college gardens, flourishing blooms, and historic architecture. The guide provides guidance on the best angles and techniques to get fantastic shots.

What Type of Transportation Is Recommended to Get to the Meeting Point?

The most convenient way to reach the meeting point at 15 Broad St, Oxford is by walking, as it’s located near the Oxford Tourist Info centre. Visitors can also take public transportation like buses or taxis to easily get to the starting point.

Can the Tour Be Customized for a Private Group Event?

Yes, this tour can be customized for a private group event. The experienced local guide will work with your group to tailor the itinerary based on your interests, such as focusing on Oxford writers or other specific topics.

The Sum Up

Discover the hidden secrets of Oxford’s storied colleges on this captivating garden tour. Wander through enchanting walled spaces, marvel at architectural marvels, and explore the rich traditions of student life. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors to a world of botanical beauty and historic charm.