Best Oxford tours from London 2026 | Compare tours and day trips

How we chose the best Oxford tours from London

Our selection is based on a mix of:

• First-hand insight from the Visit London team
• Tour itineraries that showcase Oxford’s most famous landmarks and experiences
• Popular combinations with nearby destinations
• Memorable sightseeing opportunities

1. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour – Best for ticking off England’s must-see sights

Discover three of England’s most iconic destinations in a single day on the Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour. Explore Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, before uncovering the mysteries of Stonehenge, one of Britain’s most famous prehistoric landmarks. To make the most of your visit, head straight for the shuttle bus queue on arrival at Stonehenge.

The journey ends in Oxford, where a guided walking tour takes you past historic colleges, cobbled streets and the renowned Bodleian Library – we recommend grabbing lunch early or bringing snacks, as cafes can get busy. Ideal for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts, it’s a memorable way to experience England beyond London.

Best for: History enthusiasts and first-time visitors looking to see royal, prehistoric and academic landmarks in one day.
Good to know: Windsor Castle has plenty to see, so it’s worth deciding in advance which highlights to focus on, such as the State Apartments, Semi-State Rooms or St George’s Chapel. In Oxford, expect around 2-4 km of walking, mostly on flat ground.

2. Oxford and Cambridge Tour – Best for exploring England’s university heritage

Travel beyond London and discover two of England’s most famous university cities on the Oxford and Cambridge Tour. Often referred to as “Oxbridge”, these historic destinations are renowned for their stunning architecture, centuries-old colleges and rich academic heritage. Wander through Cambridge’s picturesque streets and riverside paths, where highlights include the striking Corpus Clock and King’s College Chapel, famous for its stunning interior and exquisite stained-glass windows. 

Continue to Oxford to explore magnificent college courtyards, cobbled lanes and the iconic Bodleian Library. Along the way, learn fascinating stories about university traditions, famous alumni and the long-standing rivalry between these world-renowned institutions. Combining history, culture and striking architecture, this day trip is the perfect introduction to two of England’s most celebrated cities.

Best for: Architecture admirers and anyone interested in England’s academic heritage.
Good to know: Tours run on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in English, with Mandarin available on Tuesdays and Saturdays and Spanish on Thursdays. We recommend comfortable shoes, as Cambridge’s historic streets include plenty of cobblestones and uneven pavements.

3. Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Tour – Best for medieval and Tudor history

Explore England’s rich history and heritage on the Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Tour. Begin in Oxford, home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, where a guided walking tour showcases historic colleges, cobbled streets and soaring spires.

Journey through the picturesque Cotswolds, enjoying views of its charming villages and rolling countryside from the coach. In Stratford-upon-Avon, learn about the early life of William Shakespeare and Tudor England, with the chance to sit in a classroom at Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and even write with a feather. The day ends at Warwick Castle, where medieval history comes to life through grand halls, armour displays and impressive castle grounds.

Best for: Shakespeare fans and history buffs interested in historic landmarks.
Good to know: Bring snacks and water to keep you going throughout the day, as food queues can cut into sightseeing time. Comfortable shoes are also recommended, with plenty of walking at several stops.

4. Oxford and Lacock Tour: Harry Potter filming locations – Best for movie buffs

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter on the Oxford and Lacock Tour: Harry Potter filming locations and explore two of England’s most atmospheric destinations. Begin in the historic city of Oxford, where you'll visit famous filming locations including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College, whose grand hall inspired Hogwarts’ Great Hall.

Continue to the picturesque village of Lacock, home to Lacock Abbey, where Hogwarts corridors and classrooms were brought to life on screen. Both Oxford and Lacock are favourites with film crews, featuring in productions including Harry Potter, The Golden Compass, Inspector Morse, Lewis, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abbey. Combining movie magic, history and beautiful architecture, this memorable day trip is a must for Harry Potter fans.

Best for: Fans of Harry Potter and period dramas wanting to visit some of England’s most recognisable filming locations.
Good to know: This tour focuses on Harry Potter filming locations and includes plenty of walking between sites.

5. Windsor, Oxford and Avebury Stone Circle Tour on Christmas Day – Best for a quintessentially English Christmas

Celebrate Christmas with a festive day trip outside the capital on the Windsor, Oxford and Avebury Stone Circle Tour on Christmas Day. Discover the royal town of Windsor and admire its historic streets before continuing to Oxford, home to one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities. 

Wander among the city’s famous colleges, cobbled lanes and architectural landmarks, then journey to Avebury Stone Circle, one of Britain’s most remarkable prehistoric sites. A traditional Christmas lunch adds to the seasonal atmosphere, making this a memorable way to experience some of England’s most iconic destinations. We recommend taking photos early in the day, as sunset is around 4pm and daylight fades quickly.

Best for: First-time visitors, history lovers and travellers looking for a unique Christmas Day experience.
Good to know: Windsor Castle is closed on Christmas Day. Wrap up warm and wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as Avebury can be muddy and exposed. We also recommend bringing a power bank to keep your phone charged throughout the day.

6. Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford Tour on Boxing Day – Best for historic festive sightseeing

Make the most of the festive period on the Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford Tour on Boxing Day, an unforgettable day trip exploring some of England’s most historic destinations. Visit Warwick Castle, where grand halls, armour displays and lavish State Rooms bring medieval history to life. Continue through the picturesque Cotswolds countryside before discovering Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

The day ends in Oxford, where a guided walking tour takes you through beautiful college courtyards, cobbled lanes and past the renowned Bodleian Library. Combining history, culture and scenic landscapes, it's a memorable way to round off the Christmas season.

Best for: History lovers, Shakespeare enthusiasts and anyone wanting to explore England during the Christmas period.
Good to know: Dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes, as you'll be exploring on foot throughout the day. We recommend bringing snacks and water, as restaurant service can be slower during the festive period.