The second largest library in the UK, this library has 12 million items and has about 400 years of records of English literature. The Bodleian Library is also famous for being entitled to receive a free copy of every single book published in England.
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The ultimate day trip from London to Oxford
While London is home to some of the most beautiful attractions and experiences in the world, there is a lot to do and see beyond this fast-paced city. One popular day trip destination is Oxford, home to the world-renowned Oxford University. Read on to find out everything you need to plan your day trip from London to Oxford.
Why a day trip from London to Oxford is a must-do
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Short travel time
Located about 96 kilometers from London, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours, Oxford is a university city and home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, including the Univerity of Oxford and Christ Church College.
Historical importance
Oxford University was founded in the 12th century, and thus, the “City of Dreaming Spires” has buildings in nearly every style of English architecture. Must-sees include Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and the various Oxford colleges such as Christ Church College.
Perfect for pop-culture enthusiasts
Visitors can discover all the filming locations used in the Harry Potter film franchise here, drink at a bar where J. R. R. Tolkien frequented, or try their hand at punting - a popular Oxford pastime.
See charming sights
Depending on the route, you might catch views of Richmond Park, one of London’s largest Royal Parks, or Hammersmith Park. Further along, see villages like High Wycombe, Didcot and Abingdon, known for traditional English architecture, including quaint cottages and historic churches.
Tour options for a day trip from London to Oxford
- When booking your day trip from London to Oxford, you can choose between a day tour of Oxford with return transfers from London or a London to Oxford day trip that also includes visits to nearby towns like Stratford-upon-Avon and attractions such as Stonehenge or Warwick Castle.
- The Day Tour of Oxford with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Rail Transfers from London. This day trip is best for those on a budget. These tickets allow you to explore Oxford at your own pace with HOHO buses that operate from 9:15am to 5pm, offering full flexibility in your itinerary. Your open-top bus has over 20 stops allowing you to explore several attractions including Christ Church College, which featured in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and other colleges. The bus also has an audioguide in 14 languages with complimentary headphones as well as a kids’ commentary. You can also participate in the Stepping Through Oxford walking tour, subject to availability. Also, note that these tickets do not include entry to Oxford University.
- Alternatively, if you want to explore beyond Oxford or want a guided tour, choose between the From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Oxford Day Trip option or the From London: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Trip option.
- From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Oxford Day Trip depart from London from Thursday to Monday at 8am and the tour lasts 11 hours. These tours are led by an English-speaking guide. The AC coach with free Wi-Fi and USB charging points departs and concludes the trip at the Bulleid Way bus stop. From there, it goes to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and then Oxford, where you can see Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Christ Church College, libraries, and museums. These tours include entry to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. Discounted tickets are available for families (2 adults + 2 kids), seniors (above 60 years), students, and children (between the ages of 3 and 16).
- When booking From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Oxford Day Trip, please note that Windsor Castle is closed to visitors on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Being a functioning royal palace, the castle might be subject to unforeseen closures. Windsor Castle’s St George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays. When visiting Stonehenge, please maintain at least 10 meters distance from the stones. You will not be allowed to enter the Stone Circle itself. English Heritage and National Trust England members can enjoy free admission to Stonehenge. Both attractions are wheelchair accessible and guide dogs are allowed.
- From London: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Trip offers three ticket options: a simple guided day tour, a day tour with entry to Warwick Castle, and a day tour with entry to Warwick Castle and Shakespeare’s Birthplace. These tours also include an English-speaking guide. The journey starts at 8:30am and lasts for 11 hours. Departing from London, these tours head to Warwick Castle, then Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can see the Shakespeare’s Birthplace museum. Then, head to the Cotswolds, before traveling to the last stop on your journey: Oxford, where you can see the University of Oxford, Christ Church College, Trinity College, Bodleian Library, and the Ashmolean Museum.
- These tickets can be canceled 24 hours before departure and you will get a full refund.
Find your ideal day trip from London to Oxford
| Experience name | Inclusions | Duration | Mode of transfer | Recommended tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Day Tour of Oxford with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Rail Transfers from London | HOHO buses in Oxford; Audio guide in 14 languages; Kids’ commentary; Stepping Through Oxford walking tour (subject to availability) | Flexible | Train | from £89 |
From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Oxford Day Trip | English-speaking guide; Free Wi-Fi & USB charging points on coach; Entry to Stonehenge & Windsor Castle | 11 hours; Starts at 8am | AC coach | from £125 |
From London: Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Trip | English-speaking guide; Free Wi-Fi & USB charging points on coach; Entry to Warwick Castle and/or Shakespeare’s Birthplace museum (optional) | 11 hours; Starts at 8:30am | AC coach | from £79 |
How to get from London to Oxford
Most of the tickets included round-trip transfers in an AC coach or by train. You can cover the 96 km distance between London to Oxford in about 1.5 hours by either mode of transport. This is your best bet for having the least amount of worries when finding your way to and around Oxford. Here is why we think booking round-trip transfers is best:
Round-trip transfers
Other options
Best time to take a day trip from London to Oxford
Best things to do in Oxford
Tips to make the most of your day trip from London to Oxford
- It's recommended to book your trip at least a week in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays, to ensure availability.
- Since the day trips do not include entry to all attractions that require entry tickets, buy them in advance online to avoid long lines.
- Decide on the best mode of transportation beforehand, considering factors like cost, travel time, and convenience. Not all coaches are wheelchair accessible, so please call or email before your tour date to confirm.If you’re using public transport, check the schedules.
- Have a look at the weather forecast for the day to dress appropriately and pack essentials like sunscreen or umbrellas. Bring only what you need, such as water, snacks, and a power bank, but keep your bag light.
- Begin your day early to maximize sightseeing time and beat the crowds to popular spots.
- Have a plan, but be open to spontaneous changes based on discoveries or recommendations by your guide.
- Don’t miss visiting the Bodleian Library which houses one of the oldest and largest collections of books in the UK. In addition to the University of Oxford, make time for the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, and a walk along the River Cherwell for a scenic view of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions about day trips from London to Oxford
Meals are typically not included. However, there will be free time to explore local eateries or enjoy a picnic in one of Oxford’s scenic parks.
There are generally no strict age restrictions, but it’s advisable to check with the tour operator. Family-friendly tours are available, making it suitable for both children and adults.
Yes. While most tours do not include visits to colleges, you can still explore iconic colleges like Christ Church or Magdalen College with your available time in Oxford. You may also explore other parts of the University of Oxford during your free time.
If you miss the departure, it's unlikely you'll be able to join later. Arriving at the meeting point at least 15-20 minutes early is advised to avoid any issues.
As Oxford is generally an expensive city, head to areas where students frequent to get a good and cheap meal. Walton Street, Jericho, and Cowley Road are popular places to eat at in Oxford.
You can use bicycles to get around Oxford. Apps like Pony Bikes and Mobike are popular and cheap options for dockless bikes, or you can also rent bikes for a full day. Oxford is a very bike-friendly city, so just stick to the lane and you should be fine.
Oxford is a wheelchair-accessible city. Oxford Shopmobility also allows for visitors to borrow a manual or electric wheelchair or scooter to travel in the City Centre based on prior booking. Please note that the Railway Station is fully accessible as well.
Restroom facilities are available at several stops towards and in Oxford.
Oxford has plenty of shops where you can purchase university merchandise, books, and unique gifts. Some tours may even stop at designated souvenir shops.
Oxford University is made up of 38 colleges. While some are free to visit, others charge a nominal fee for visitors to gain access inside.
