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Oxford Castle and Prison Tour Highlights

  • Take a tour of the Oxford Castle and Prison to know about the city's evolution and 1,000 years old significant history

  • Climb the Saxon St. George's Tower's 101 stairs to take in the breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the city

  • Hear from your guide about the numerous fascinating stories of King Arthur, Empress Matilda, and the cases of murderers and criminals

  • See the vaulted chambers on the mound of the Motte-and-Bailey fortification from the 11th century designed by Normans

  • Explore the fascinating and creepy 900-year-old crypt, the sole thing left of St. George's Chapel that has survived

Oxford Castle and Prison Tour Overview

Activity Location: 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY, UK

Operational Hours:

  • Monday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Friday - Sunday: 10:AM - 6:00 PM

Activity Duration: 1 Hour

About the Oxford Castle and Prison:

When in Oxford, visit the old Oxford Castle and Prison to learn more about the fascinating city's glorious past. Explore the castle's many famous zones, including the Debtor's Tower, the Old Crypt, the fortress mound of Motte-and-Bailey, the vaulted chambers, and the Historical Exhibition Wing. For sweeping views of the city, head to St. George's Tower. So spend a lovely time with your loved ones while touring the magnificent fortress and jail.

About the Oxford Castle and Prison Tour:

  • To get a sense of the city's 1,000-year old history, get ready to visit the historic Oxford Castle and Prison.
  • Head to the Victorian era Prison in D-Wing and the Debtor's Tower to know about the inmates who were detained there.
  • Then, make your way to the 900-year-old crypt that is hidden beneath the castle and see the antique pillars that have been identified as the final remnants of St. George Chapel.
  • After that, head over to the Norman built Motte-and-Bailey fortress to see the mound's arched chambers.
  • Then scale the St. George Tower's more than 100 steps to the top, where you can take in some stunning views over the gorgeous city. 
  • Hear about historical lore and myths about the Empress Matilda's escape, Oxford's founding of education, and numerous infamous criminal trials from your experienced guide.
  • Finally, visit the Historical Exhibition Wing to learn about the contemporary history of the castle and prison.
  • So, come on a tour of Oxford Castle & Prison with your friends and family & have an amazing experience.

How to Reach?

  • By Car: The meeting location is at a distance of 2 km from the city center. You can reach the destination within 5 minutes by car.
  • By Bus: Take a bus to the nearest bus stop D2, from here your destination is of 2 minutes walk.

Select Package Options

Age Policy:

  • Visitors aged 0-4 years can join free of cost.
  • Child Tickets are applicable for visitors aged 5-15 years.
  • Adult Tickets are applicable for visitors aged 16+ years.
Price Includes
  • Ticket
    • General admission to the Oxford Castle and Prison
    • Access to the Castle Mound
    • Free time to explore the premises after the tour
  • Guide
    • One hour guided tour in English

More Details about Oxford Castle and Prison Tour

Know Before You Go for Oxford Castle and Prison Tour

  • The guided tour lasts approx. 50 minutes, after the tour you will be able to explore the exhibition and prison at your own leisure.
  • Visitors unable to climb the tower may wait at the bottom with a guardian and watch the “Story of Oxford Castle” video, once the tour group returns from the Tower, you are then able to re-join your group as the tour continues.
  • Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.

Oxford Castle and Prison Tour Map

Starting Point
Oxford Castle & Prison
44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY, UK