Radcliffe Camera Tours
1 Review
Located in the heart of Oxford, the Radcliffe Camera is one of the city’s most recognizable and photographed landmarks, with its unusual shape and impressive dome. Completed in 1749, it was the first rotunda library in England, and today it is one of the main reading rooms of the Bodleian Library complex.
The Basics
To view the interior of the Radcliffe Camera, book an extended Bodleian Library guided tour, which will also include the Divinity School, Convocation House, Chancellor's Court, Duke Humfrey's medieval library, and Gladstone Link. Many Oxford sightseeing tours, whether on foot or by bicycle, include a stop outside the Radcliffe Camera. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to see city sights at your leisure. Day trips from London and Brighton often feature a stop here as well.
The iconic building was funded by Dr. John Radcliffe and designed by James Gibbs. The exterior features three tiers of Headington stone and Burford limestone, surrounded by Corinthian columns. The building has two main reading rooms. In addition to the balconies of books that circle the walls of the library, there are over 600,000 books in rooms underneath Radcliffe Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Radcliffe Camera is located in central Oxford, next to the Bodleian Library. The easiest access is from High Street, next to St. Mary’s Church; from Brasenose College Lane; or from Catte Street. Oxford is easily accessible from London by train and bus.
When to Get There
The exterior of the Radcliffe Camera can be viewed at any time. Guided tours of the interior, as part of the extended Bodleian Library tour, are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Where to Find the Best Views of the Radcliffe Camera
One of the best views of the Radcliffe Camera is from the top of St. Mary’s Church Tower. There’s an entrance fee and 127 steps to climb, but the views are unparalleled. Other areas to get good views include: on Catte Street in front of Hertford College, from St. Mary’s Passage, from Brasenose Lane, and from the passage to the Bodleian Library.
The Basics
To view the interior of the Radcliffe Camera, book an extended Bodleian Library guided tour, which will also include the Divinity School, Convocation House, Chancellor's Court, Duke Humfrey's medieval library, and Gladstone Link. Many Oxford sightseeing tours, whether on foot or by bicycle, include a stop outside the Radcliffe Camera. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to see city sights at your leisure. Day trips from London and Brighton often feature a stop here as well.
The iconic building was funded by Dr. John Radcliffe and designed by James Gibbs. The exterior features three tiers of Headington stone and Burford limestone, surrounded by Corinthian columns. The building has two main reading rooms. In addition to the balconies of books that circle the walls of the library, there are over 600,000 books in rooms underneath Radcliffe Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget your camera to capture iconic views of the Radcliffe Camera exterior.
- Photography is not permitted in working areas of the library.
- Bags, including handbags, must be left in lockers during guided library tours.
- Guided library tours are not wheelchair-accessible, as there are stairs involved.
- Children under the age of 10 are not permitted on guided library tours.
How to Get There
The Radcliffe Camera is located in central Oxford, next to the Bodleian Library. The easiest access is from High Street, next to St. Mary’s Church; from Brasenose College Lane; or from Catte Street. Oxford is easily accessible from London by train and bus.
When to Get There
The exterior of the Radcliffe Camera can be viewed at any time. Guided tours of the interior, as part of the extended Bodleian Library tour, are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Where to Find the Best Views of the Radcliffe Camera
One of the best views of the Radcliffe Camera is from the top of St. Mary’s Church Tower. There’s an entrance fee and 127 steps to climb, but the views are unparalleled. Other areas to get good views include: on Catte Street in front of Hertford College, from St. Mary’s Passage, from Brasenose Lane, and from the passage to the Bodleian Library.
Address: Radcliffe Square, Oxford OX1, England
Admission: Varies
31 Tours and Activities to Experience Radcliffe Camera
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Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide
1771
Walk the halls of one of the world’s oldest and most famous universities on this walking tour of Oxford University. Get a glimpse of student life as you peek inside the famous Bodleian Library and see landmarks like the University Church of St. Mary, Radcliffe Camera, and Trinity College. Learn about the prestigious university’s famous alumni, hear fascinating stories and anecdotes about its history, and see on-campus locations used in the Harry Potter films.
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From
$28.65
From
$28.65
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More
Oxford City and University Walking Tour with Entry to Harry Potter Film Site
74
If you’re interested in Oxford’s rich history, look no further than this walking tour for a comprehensive overview of the historic city. In a small group limited to 15, visit Bodleian Library—home to 'Harry Potter' filming locations—and one other college, and learn about Oxford University alumni such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Plus, receive an ILoveOxford map showing all of the main sites.
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From
$28.65
From
$28.65
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Public Afternoon Christ Church Harry Potter Film Sites Tour
13
This is the essential tour for Harry Potter fans. Spend a day discovering the sites of Oxford associated with the Harry Potter movies. See Christ Church College which inspired the Great Hall of Hogwarts, and learn behind-the-scenes secrets about the Harry Potter actors, and J. K. Rowling.
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From
$71.65
From
$71.65
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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'Inspector Morse,' 'Lewis,' and 'Endeavour' Walking Tour of Oxford
247
Follow in the footsteps of Inspector Morse, star of the British TV detective drama that was filmed on the streets of Oxford. With a guide, you’ll see the eminent university city through the eyes of Morse and his sidekick Lewis, visiting filming sites such as pubs and even one of the university colleges. Along the way you’ll learn all about the cast and crew who were involved in the much-loved productions of Inspector Morse, the Lewis spin-off series, and the Endeavour prequel—all filmed in the city.
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From
$28.67
From
$28.67
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Inspector Morse Filming Locations Walking Tour in Oxford
86
Visit filming locations from the British television series 'Inspector Morse,' as well as spin-offs 'Lewis' and 'Endeavour,' on this Oxford walking tour. With a guide, learn about the making of the detective show and visit Oxford University colleges to gain insight into what it might be like to be a student here. End with an invitation to solve a murder mystery at one of Morse's favorite pubs. Entrance fees to university locations are included; drinks are not.
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From
$35.82
From
$35.82
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Harry Potter Insights Oxford PUBLIC Tour with entry to Divinity School film site
195
Calling all fans of the world’s favorite wizard, this Oxford walking tour takes you to recognizable locations of the Harry Potter films. During this family-friendly tour, explore the grand buildings of Oxford University, including New College and Divinity School—both featured as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Learn of other literary legends that attended Oxford University and admire the Bodleian Library, home to more than 11 million books. This small-group tour is limited to 15 Harry Potter fans to maintain an intimate atmosphere. If you prefer, choose the private tour of New College with just your party and guide.
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From
$35.83
From
$35.83
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour
5
Explore the world of ‘The Inklings’—the mid-20th-century writers’ group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien—on this private Oxford walk. Rather than researching locations yourself, let a guide show you where the writers worked and relaxed. Visit Exeter College where Tolkien studied; and see Lewis’ Magdalen College and other sights while learning history and literary tales you’d otherwise miss. A choice of departure times gives you flexibility.
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From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Bespoke Oxford Walking Tour with a Private Guide
17
Explore the university city of Oxford with your own private guide, and discover the history behind its standout sights such as the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sighs, and the Sheldonian Theatre. With your guide, you’ll also see some of the famous university colleges, and learn about the institution’s history from its humble roots to its worldwide prestige today.
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From
$205.82
per group
From
$205.82
per group
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Oxford Combined Cycle Walking Tour- Saturdays Only Minimum 3 persons to book
5
Explore more of Oxford’s University buildings, riverside parks, and picturesque countryside on this small-group half-day bike tour. Admire city landmarks such as the Bodleian Library and Christchurch; cycle along the scenic River Thames Path; and visit local villages such as Iffley, Binsey, and Old Marston.
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From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Oxford Walking and Biking Tour
20
Discover Oxford’s highlights on foot and two wheels on this walking and bicycle tour. Set out by foot to visit the Bodleian Library, Christ Church, and other colleges as you learn about their history and former luminaries. Then, ride a bike to see the Radcliffe Camera, Magdalen College, places linked to Oxford’s literary heritage, and other sights. Includes entrance fees and bike usage for the rest of the day post-tour.
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From
$62.48
From
$62.48
Oxford Christian History Tour
10
See a different side to popular Oxford during this comprehensive walking tour which provides a great introduction to the city itself, while also emphasizing the city’s Christian legacy and history, something few travelers get to explore in depth. Listen to stories from your guide about the Oxford Martyrs, Queen Mary Tudor, and even Harry Potter, as you pass by significant buildings.
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From
$46.77
From
$46.77
Walking Tour Combined with River Punting Rowing (2 hours plus)
2
This fantastic combination tour allows you to see the highlights of Oxford from the land and the water on the same day. You’ll save hours shortlisting the city’s top sites by having a guide to show you around instead. The guided walking tour takes you past top city sites including Oxford University, Harry Potter filming locations, and Christ Church Meadow. A highlight of the tour is a boat trip, where you can choose to row yourself or have a chauffeur to punt for you.
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From
$110.27
Price varies by group size
From
$110.27
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Inspector Morse Private Tour Oxford with entry to Divinity School
6
Calling all fans of the iconic British TV programme, Inspector Morse, this 2-hour tour visit famous filming locations around Oxford. With a private guide, you’ll visit recognizable settings inside the Bodleian Library, Exeter College, and the Divinity School, all within the prestigious Oxford University campus. The tour concludes at a historic pub regularly featured in the Inspector Morse shows.
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From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
From
$71.65
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
PRIVATE Harry Potter in Oxford tour -Includes entry to Divinity school film site
9
See two of the three Hogwarts filming locations in Oxford (access permitting) on this private Harry Potter tour. With a guide, you'll visit New College and the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library. Ponder how studying at Oxford University compares to being a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and learn a bit about Oxford's history as your guide tailors the tour to the interests of everyone in your group.
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From
$143.34
per group
From
$143.34
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Private Oxford City & University Walking tour with Entry to Divinity School
5
Oxford is home to one of the world’s most famous and prestigious colleges, and this private 2-hour walking tour unveils all the secrets of the university city. Marvel at landmarks including the Bodleian Library and Christchurch, peek inside Oxford University buildings like New College or the Divinity School; and follow in the footsteps of British legends such as J.R.R Tolkien, CS Lewis, King Henry VIII, and Harry Potter.
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From
$150.50
per group
From
$150.50
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Oxford Highlights Small Group Tour
35
Explore the university city of Oxford on a tour that showcases its highlights in just a couple of hours. The walking tour introduces you to many of Oxford's famous colleges and university buildings as you stroll around the city with a guide. Get recommendations for things to do and see in the city in your own time, and hear insider tips for Oxford's many restaurants. The experience includes a visit inside one college and either the Divinity School or the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.
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From
$27.23
From
$27.23
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Spencer’s Tour for Oxford (Private, all proceeds to Oxford charities)
3
100% of your booking fee will be donated to two Oxfordshire-based charities, supporting vulnerable individuals facing homelessness and addiction in the city.
The city of Oxford is commonly considered as being divided into two groups: the Town (local residents) and the Gown (students of the University). While I am certainly a ‘townie’, both my girlfriend and sister are studying doctorates at the University of Oxford. This gives me a unique perspective on both sides of the community and the city, and I will share it with you in a tour so entertaining and memorable that you will wish you lived here, or your money back!
We’ll cover as much as we can in 90 minutes. If you wish to continue the tour, I’m happy to discuss extending it where possible. Please note that entry fees are not included, though they are not necessary for a fantastic tour.
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From
$86.00
per group
From
$86.00
per group
TWO DAYS TOUR of Oxford City plus Cotswolds Cycle Tours
Day 1: See the city of Oxford's most well known & less known best sights as locals do on 2 wheels. Includes visit inside colleges.
Day 2: Make use of an electric bike to enjoy an adventurous ride of approx 40km, taking in scenic views & picturesque villages in the Cotswolds
Tour officially starts from March 30th but if you have a request for earlier dates, please ask viator to contact us!
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From
$573.33
Price varies by group size
From
$573.33
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
Private Oxford Bicycle Tour - available to book daily
COVID19 NOTICE:
Currently all university colleges are still closed to the public but you will see & hear lots about the colleges on the tour route.
The best way to see Oxford is on a bicycle on this private bicycle tour along the River Thames Path. In fact, bikes are the locals' favourite way to get around the city as the compact Oxford is not very car-friendly.
Default start time is 12.00 but you may request any start time from 12.00 until 14.30 start time. The tour lasts for 3-4 hours, including a guided tour plus bike set up time and a refreshments stop. The route covers both the city's sights and stories with a college entrance fee and a relaxing cycle along the River Thames to Iffley or Binsey Village.
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From
$110.27
Price varies by group size
From
$110.27
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Bill Spectre's Oxford Ghost Trail
27
Join the mysterious Bill Spectre for this high-impact theatrical ghost tour of historic Oxford, packed with props, illusions, scares, and thrills. Learn about the sinister inhabitants of Oxford Castle & Prison, an unquiet resident of the University Church graveyard, plus the many ghouls, ghosts, and criminals who’ve passed through the city over the last 1,000 years or so.
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From
$17.20
From
$17.20
Private Oxford Food and Sightseeing Tour
Discover Oxford’s diverse foodie scene with a private introduction to one of England’s most cosmopolitan cities. This 2.5-hour tapas tasting tour will introduce you to some of the city’s best cuisine, stopping at street food stalls, artisan shops, and markets, where you can sample an array of regional delicacies and international foods.
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From
$215.01
per group
From
$215.01
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
PRIVATE GROUP- Afternoon- Christchurch Harry Potter film sites tour
Find out how does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Find out on this 5 star rated popular walking tour about the making of Harry Potter in Oxford.
Your ticket includes up to £15 in entry fee per person plus (where & when open), it also includes £2.50 entry to Divinity school film site at Bodleian library. We can only gain entry by pre-purchasing entry tickets online so please book this tour ahead in order to not be disappointed if no tickets left available. If we cannot get entry tickets, you'll be refunded in full.
Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater the tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage. See Christchurch film site.
Christ Church Hall only closure dates 2020:
Oct 4 + 9
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From
$286.66
Price varies by group size
From
$286.66
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
PRIVATE GROUP- MORNING- Christchurch Harry Potter film sites tour
Covid19 Notice: Christchurch requires you to wear mask to enter & we can only enter with advance pre paid online entry tickets- which are limited- so please book ahead. If we cannot run the tour, you will be refunded or you may select to choose a rescheduled date.
This tour also visits the Divinity school film site at the Bodleian library- as & when this secondary venue is open. Pre paid entry fee is included for all venues.
Find out how does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Find out on this 5 star rated popular walking tour about the making of Harry Potter in Oxford. Your ticket includes up to £15 in entry fee per person.
Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater the tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage. See Christchurch film site.
Christ Church Hall only closure dates 2020:
Oct 4 + 9
NB all other film sites and university venues are closed to the public during Covid19
…More
From
$286.66
Price varies by group size
From
$286.66
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
Oxford River Cruise + Walking Tour to Iffley village
Fall in love with Oxford by joining a relaxing 20 minute Thames river cruise to Iffley village. Then walk or take the cruise back again Thames path. We'll see the Norman chapel & medieval homes in Iffley village. Special focus on Alice in Wonderland heritage and the Oxford rowing tradition.
This tour includes about 1 mile walk at start of tour past famous university sights introduced briefly by the guide. After the cruise ends, we have one hour in Iffley village and then a 3 mile walk along the scenic Thames river path back to Oxford city.
For anyone who has mobility walking issues, please let us know when booking as alternatively we could just replace the walk back from Iffley with either a return trip on the river cruise or a taxi back to the city.
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From
$143.34
Price varies by group size
From
$143.34
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
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