Oxford: Day Trips and Tours from London

On a day trip to Oxford from London you will get to experience the academic city’s unique blend of artistic allure and small-town charm. Add a touch of magic by exploring the very locations that brought the Harry Potter movies to life, or bask in the sun on a leisurely punt ride along the river.

Beyond the academic halls though, you will find there is so much more to explore, from world-class museums and enchanting gardens, to bustling covered markets and cozy pubs.

To plan your own unforgettable adventure, check out our comprehensive guide on Oxford,, one of the best destinations for day trips from London.

Traveling to Oxford from London

Oxford is about 90 kilometers northwest of London and is easily accessible by car, train or bus, making it a convenient destination for a day trip.

• By car: The most direct route to Oxford from London is via the M40, with the journey taking just under 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
• By train: Direct trains from Paddington station typically take about 50 minutes to cover the distance to Oxford.
• By bus: Multiple bus services depart from Victoria Coach Station every hour, taking almost 3 hours to reach Oxford.
• Guided tour to Oxford from London: For a hassle-free experience and to avoid navigating public transport or driving, join a guided tour to Oxford from London. Aside from taking care of logistics, you will have an expert guide by your side offering insight and commentary.

Typical Oxford day trip itinerary

Starting in London, you will head out west into the English countryside. Depending on the tour you select, your first stop may be Windsor Castle, followed by Stonehenge or other locations in the region.

Tours that focus on Shakespeare will continue to Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle, before proceeding to your main destination – Oxford. Most excursions include a walking tour of the city and university grounds with an experience guide accompanying you.

You may also get the opportunity to do some punting in the river or have some free time to explore the English city on your own. After your tour concludes, you will return to London.

Best day trips to Oxford from London

Oxford and Cotswolds Day Trips

Spend a day exploring the English countryside and Oxford, the famed academic city. These tours will take through the Cotwolds, stopping at villages such as Bibury and Burford, before continuing to Oxford. While some tours include a guided tour  of the city's highlights, other may leave you at you own devices to explore or join a walking tours in Oxford.

Our pick: Oxford & Cotswolds Guided Excursion

• Includes: Roundtrip transportation, English-speaking guide
• Price: £85 for adults, £79 for students, seniors (65+) and children (4-15)
• Duration: 10.5 hours

Oxford plus Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tours from London

On these Harry Potter-themed tours from London you will visit many real-life locations in Oxford where the movies were shot, such as the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera and the Sheldonian Theatre, with a seasoned guide along the way to fill you in on the history and associated Potter lore.

For an even more immersive experience, opt for an excursion with tickets for the Harry Potter Studio in London. There you will get to explore many more filming locations, learn about the production and even sample the finest Butterbeer!

Our pick: Oxford and Harry Potter Studio Tourd

• Includes: Roundtrip transfers, professional guide Oxford walking tour, Harry Potter London Studio tickets
• Price: From £149 for adults, £145 for children (5-15)
• Duration: 10.5 hours

Oxford, Cotswolds and Shakespeare excursions from London

Spend a day exploring the English countryside and British heritage with a day trip from London that will take you to Shakespeare's birthplace, Oxford University, the Cotswolds and more! Starting your guided trek passing by picturesque villages in the Cotswolds as you make your way to Oxford.

After exploring the city on foot, you continue to Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was born.  Some tours also include the option of visits to Warwick Castle and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.

Our pick: Warwick, Stratford, Oxford & Cotswolds Day Tour

• Includes: Roundtrip transfers, English-speaking guide, Oxford walking tour, optional tickets for Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s birthplace, and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin
• Price: From £79 (without tickets) and £110 (with tickets) per person
• Duration: 11 hours

Day trips to Oxford, Stonehenge and Windsor Castle from London

Take a trip down history lane with a excursion that includes a visit to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford. Setting off from London, you will first wander through the Windsor Castle grounds, the home of British monarchs for over 900 years.

On your next stop, you will get to explore the mysterious UNESCO World Heritage Site at Stonehenge that dates back to the Neolithic Age. Cap off your escape from London with a guided tour of Oxford.

Our pick: Full-Day Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford Tour

• Includes: Roundtrip transfers, multilingual guide, Stonehenge tickets, Oxford walking tour
• Price: £99 for adults, £96 for seniors (60+) & students, £89 for children (3-16), +£25 for optional Windsor Castle entry and guided tour
• Duration: 11.5 hours

Private Day Trips to Oxford

For an even more flexible and intimate experience in the South West of England, consider booking a private day tour to Oxford. Compared to group tours, these private excursions are exclusive to your party and allow you to customize the itinerary to your liking.

Additionally, you will benefit from roundtrip transportation in a luxury vehicle for you and your party, along with the services of a knowledgeable guide.

Our pick: Private Oxford & Cotworlds Day Tour

• Includes: Roundtrip private transfers, hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guide, customizable itinerary
• Price: £900 per group (up to 7 travelers)
• Duration: 10 hours

Cost of day trips to Oxford from London

Day trips Oxford and Cotwolds day trips from London cost about £80 to £100 per traveler, depending on group size and duration.

For tours to Oxford, the Cotswolds, Stratford-Upon-Avon and Warwick Castle, prices range from £80 to £140.

Day trips to Oxford, Stonehenge and Windsor Castle are priced between £85 and £130 each. The price is determined by the size of your group, itinerary and inclusions.

Oxford excursions with tickets to the Harry Potter London Tour cost £150 to £180, depending on inclusions.

Private day trips to Oxford are booked on a group/vehicle basis, with prices starting at aroung £800 for a party of 7 travelers.

What to see and do in Oxford

Explore Oxford University

The University of Oxford is the oldest English-speaking institution in the world, dating back to 1096, and a leader in research across many fields. Comprised of over 40 colleges, each with their own distinct history, excursions to Oxford are a unique opportunity to explore the campus grounds and get a closer look of the legendary architecture and beauty.

You'll find yourself walking through halls and gardens that have nurtured some of the world's greatest minds, and you can even visit the famous Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe.

Visit world-class museums

With so much history and culture, it's no surprise that Oxford boasts so many impressive museums and art galleries. The most popular are the Museum of Natural History, the Pitt Rivers Museum and the Ashmolean Museum.

Each museum offers a unique glimpse into different aspects of human history and creativity, from ancient artifacts at the Pitt Rivers to fine art at the Ashmolean. Don't miss the chance to see the dodo remains at the Museum of Natural History, a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Explore famous filming locations

In addition to hosting world-class galleries and museums, the city has served as the backdrop in countless films and television series. Beloved movie franchises such as “Harry Potter” and “James Bond” have taken advantage of the city’s unique architecture.

Fans can embark on guided tours to see the exact locations where their favorite scenes were filmed, such as the iconic Christ Church College, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall.

Enjoy the Oxfordian outdoors

Featuring many parks and open areas, it is no surprise that boat tours and cycling are very popular in Oxford. For a bit of traditional and leisurely sightseeing, make sure to ride a punt (a traditional boat) or, if you want to add a dash of adrenaline, go on bike tour across the city.

The River Thames and Cherwell offer serene paths for walking or cycling, and punting provides a uniquely Oxford experience, allowing you to glide peacefully along the waterways.

Discover the Oxford Botanic Gardens

Oxford proudly hosts the oldest botanic gardens in the United Kingdom, which span an impressive 130 acres. This green oasis in the city features over 6,000 different types of plants and is bound to amaze you with its variety.

Seasonal and themed displays, such as the medicinal plant collection, add to the charm of the botanic gardens. The gardens are not only a haven for plant lovers but also a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst the bustling city life.

Admire Blenheim Palace

Moving away from the busier quarters of Oxford and just a short drive outside the city, you will find Blenheim Palace. The historic country house features some of the most impressive gardens in the country, but is perhaps better known as the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an insight into British history and aristocracy, with its opulent and vast parklands designed by Capability Brown, a renowned landscape architect.

Go shopping

Located in the outskirts of Oxford, Bicester Village is a popular shopping destination for locals and visitors aloke. The luxury shopping outlet is a perfect opportunity to spoil yourself (within reason) while exploring the English countryside.

Here, you'll find an array of designer brands offering significant discounts, making it a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. Besides shopping, Bicester Village also offers a delightful array of cafes and restaurants, providing a perfect break between shopping sprees.

Best time to visit Oxford

The best time to visit Oxford is from May to early October, when the weather is pleasant and  ideal for exploring the historic university city on foot. Late spring and early summer (May-June) see the city in bloom, while July and August are warmer, perfect for punting on the Thames. September brings a quieter charm with students returning, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Day trips to Oxford from other UK cities

It is possible to visit Oxford on a day trip from the following other cities in England:

• Day trips to Oxford from Southampton
• Day trips to Oxford and Windsor from Brighton

Travel Tips

• Begin your day early to maximize sightseeing time. Oxford is compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot. Dress in layers, as the British weather can be notoriously unpredictable.
• Consider renting a bike to see the city. Oxford is very cycle-friendly and it's a great way to cover more ground and see the city like a local.
• If you work up an appetite, make sure to enjoy a meal at one of Oxford's historic pubs or cafes. The Covered Market offers a variety of food options.
• Climb the Carfax Tower for a panoramic view of the city. It's a bit of a climb, but the view is worth it.