Oxford and Cambridge tour from London

Travel just outside of London on a luxury coach and visit two world-famous university cities in one day – Oxford and Cambridge. Often referred to collectively as "Oxbridge", these iconic destinations showcase a stunning blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture, steeped in rich history.

Both cities are renowned for their centuries-old universities, which have educated some of the world’s greatest minds. Oxford boasts alumni such as Stephen Hawking and Oscar Wilde, while Cambridge counts Isaac Newton and King Charles III among its graduates.

Walk the cobbled streets and peaceful riverside paths of Oxford and Cambridge, catching a glimpse into England’s intellectual heritage, in a lively, academic atmosphere. 

What's included in the Oxford and Cambridge tour?

The tour includes a walking tour of Oxford and Cambridge with an expert guide accompanying your group through the day. You also have the option to visit Christ Church College and King's College Chapel (all attractions listed in the next paragraphs are available upon purchasing tickets). The order in which you visit the two cities may vary depending on traffic conditions and the scheduled entry times at different monuments.

Enjoy the coach journey from London to the historic collegiate cities, as your guide shares fascinating facts, including age old conflictual relationships between townspeople and scholars, and quirky traditions and rules that are still in place today.

Did you know? Students applying for a bachelor's degree can only submit their application to one of the two universities.

Explore Cambridge 

Step off the coach upon arrival in Cambridge and join your guide for a brief walking tour, introducing you to the city's rich history and key landmarks. The walking tour is included within two hours of free time, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore all that Cambridge has to offer before pick-up.

Visit the Senate House, once the meeting place for the University of Cambridge’s Council of the Senate, and now the official venue where capped and gowned students graduate each year – still following the tradition of conducting the ceremony in Latin. The university is home to 31 independent colleges, each with its own chapel, library and dining hall. 

Stop by the Taylor Library at Corpus Christi College, where you can find the striking Corpus Clock outside the building. This remarkable invention, designed by Stephen Hawking, features a gold-plated grasshopper that tells time through shifting light rather than traditional numbers. It rings every five minutes, serving as a reminder that time can feel subjective depending on what you are doing.

Marvel at the famous King’s College Chapel, known for its breathtaking architecture and exquisite stained glass windows. Exit the chapel through the southern porch to admire the flamboyant Gothic facade before enjoying a leisurely stroll through the gardens and watch the punters gliding gracefully along the river Cam.

Be sure to cross the 300-year-old Mathematical Bridge, renowned for its seemingly impossible curve constructed entirely from straight wooden timbers. Next, make your way to Trinity College, where you can find the famous apple tree, which is said to have inspired Newton’s groundbreaking discovery of gravity.

Be sure to pay a visit to St John’s College, renowned for its picturesque gardens and for being one of the largest colleges in Cambridge. Marvel at The Great Gate, adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures, before heading to The Chapel to admire its beautifully painted ceiling. Conclude your visit with a leisurely stroll around the college grounds, which are bordered by the scenic river Cam.

If you find yourself with some spare time, why not stop by the river Cam and take a leisurely punt ride along the river? The scenic route offers incredible views of the city and its famous colleges.

Walking tour of Oxford

Step off the bus in Oxford and wander through magnificent college courtyards, where spires soar into the sky. As you follow your guide through the heart of the city, you will discover hidden alleys leading to charming shops and cosy cafés.

Oxford University is the oldest and most prestigious English-speaking university in the world, with a reputation for welcoming some of the greatest scholars, from Albert Einstein to Oscar Wilde and Lewis Carroll. With 39 colleges scattered across the city, it can be hard to decide where to begin, but with over two hours to explore, here are the must-sees.

Christ Church College is a highlight, said to have been the inspiration for Hogwarts’ Great Hall in the Harry Potter films. Walk through the grand dining hall lined with long tables and portraits of donors, scholars and alumni. As you descend the Hall Staircase, you might imagine Professor McGonagall welcoming first-year students. Don't miss the Cloister Garden, offering one of the best views of the cathedral spire.

Stop by the Bodleian Library, one of the largest and oldest libraries in Europe. This architectural masterpiece is a series of interconnected libraries, famous not only for its historic collections but also as a filming location for various films and TV series. Just a few metres away, you'll find the Radcliffe Camera, an iconic reading room that forms part of the Bodleian Library.

Stroll through the picturesque grounds of the city, and admire the extensive collection of plants and flowers that the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum offers. If the weather allows it, make your way to the river Thames and discover one of the best ways to experience Oxford. Take a punting tour on a traditional flat-bottomed boat and admire scenic views of the city's famous bridges as you navigate the city's waterways.

Fun fact: Did you know Oxford students often refer to Cambridge as "the other place" or "you-know-who", a nod to a long-standing rivalry, which might remind you of a certain villain in Harry Potter?

How can I buy tickets for the tour?

You can buy tickets for the Oxford and Cambridge tour now. 

Where does the tour start?

The Oxford and Cambridge tour departs every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (April to October) from Bus Stop 1 Bulleid Way, 123-151 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9SH, close to Victoria Station. 

What time does the tour leave London?

Check in at Golden Tours Visitor Centre at 8.15am. The coach departs at 8.30am. Don't forget your e-ticket!

What time does the coach get back to London?

The tour arrives back in London at approximately 7pm. You’ll be dropped off three minutes walk away from Gloucester Road Underground Station (Zone 1).

Be sure to double check all timings on your e-ticket.

Can you visit Cambridge and Oxford in one day?

It is possible to visit both Cambridge and Oxford in one day, and booking a day trip can be an efficient way to experience the best of both cities. However, it may feel fast-paced depending on your itinerary. The two cities are about 90 miles apart, with a drive time of approximately two and a half hours. Both cities are rich in history, with many museums, colleges and historic sites to explore. To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to prioritise a few key sights in each city to ensure you have enough time to fully enjoy the experience.