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Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Discover Oxford on a 90-minute guided orientation tour, specially designed for international teenage students. Walk through the historic city centre and see world-famous landmarks like Carfax Tower, the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, and the Bridge of Sighs. Our relaxed walking route includes time for exploring, taking photos, and learning about Oxford’s unique history and global importance. Friendly leaders and English-speaking guides will help you experience the heart of Britain’s oldest university city in a fun and accessible way.
Orientation Tour Itinerary
Orientation Tour Itinerary
00:00 – Depart Ruskin College (meet at reception, walk to bus stop)
00:10 – Take public bus to Oxford city centre (Carfax stop)
00:30 – Arrive at Carfax Tower (group photo and introduction)
00:35 – Walk through the Covered Market (explore indoor stalls, local snacks)
00:50 – Arrive at Radcliffe Square (see Radcliffe Camera and University Church of St Mary)
01:05 – Visit Bodleian Library & Old Schools Quad (learn about Oxford’s famous library)
01:15 – Walk to Bridge of Sighs and Sheldonian Theatre (photo stop, fun facts)
01:25 – Stop at Weston Library (indoor break, toilets, quick look at exhibition area)
01:35 – Walk back to Carfax Tower
01:40 – Take public bus back to Ruskin College
02:00 – Arrive at Ruskin College
- Carfax Tower
Carfax Tower is at the very centre of Oxford. It is all that remains of a 12th-century church and has watched over the city for hundreds of years. Today, it’s a great place to start your tour and take a group photo. If you climb the 99 steps, you can see beautiful views of Oxford’s “dreaming spires”.
2. Covered Market
2. Covered Market
The Covered Market is a lively indoor market that has been open since 1774. Here you can see local food, crafts, and flowers. It’s a great place to visit if the weather is bad, and you can find snacks or small souvenirs to try later.
3. Radcliffe Camera
3. Radcliffe Camera
The Radcliffe Camera is one of Oxford’s most famous buildings. Its round shape and big dome make it easy to spot. Built in the 1700s, it was designed as a science library and is still used by students today. The square around it is surrounded by other important university buildings and is a perfect place for photos.
4. University Church of St Mary the Virgin
4. University Church of St Mary the Virgin
This church is nearly 800 years old and has a tall, pointed spire. It was the first meeting place for Oxford University. You can go inside to see beautiful windows and, if you like, climb the tower for amazing city views. There are restrooms here for visitors.
5. Bodleian Library & Old Schools Quad
5. Bodleian Library & Old Schools Quad
The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest and largest libraries in the UK. It has millions of books and has been open since 1602. The Old Schools Quad is a quiet square surrounded by historic university buildings. The library is famous for its beautiful rooms and for being used in films like Harry Potter.
6. Bridge of Sighs
6. Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs is one of Oxford’s most photographed places. It connects two parts of Hertford College over a small street. Built in 1914, it looks a bit like a bridge in Venice, Italy, but it is unique to Oxford. It’s a fun spot for group selfies and to watch students crossing between classes.
7. Sheldonian Theatre
7. Sheldonian Theatre
The Sheldonian Theatre was built in the 1600s by Sir Christopher Wren. It is used for university ceremonies, like graduations, and for concerts. Its round shape and many windows make it very bright inside. Outside, you can see stone heads called “Emperors” watching over the street.
8. Weston Library
8. Weston Library
The Bridge of Sighs is one of Oxford’s most photographed places. It connects two parts of Hertford College over a small street. Built in 1914, it looks a bit like a bridge in Venice, Italy, but it is unique to Oxford. It’s a fun spot for group selfies and to watch students crossing between classes.
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