About

OUR HISTORY

When William the Conqueror invaded England and won the Battle of Hastings in 1066, Oxford Castle was marked by the Normans as an ideal place for a motte-and-bailey castle. Norman baron Robert O’Doyly took it upon himself to build this castle. Over time, our site transformed from a castle into a prison. Today, after one millennia, Oxford Castle & Prison is a visitor attraction with a story to tell.

Guided Tours of Oxford Castle

Led by one of our costumed guides, the fascinating history of Oxford and its castle will be revealed as you…

  • CLIMB the Saxon St George’s Tower, one of the oldest buildings in Oxford, and enjoy 360° panoramic views of the dreaming spires.
  • DESCEND underground into the 950-year-old crypt, the only surviving remains of St. George’s Chapel and birthplace of education in Oxford. Learn how Geoffrey of Monmouth penned his History of the Kings of Britain and how the famous legend of King Arthur began.
  • EXPLORE the austere confines of the 18th century Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-Wing.
  • MARVEL at the Mound of the 11th century motte-and-bailey castle.

After your tour, you will be inducted into the castle’s prison and wider site where you will be able to explore at your own leisure. Admission to the castle is by guided tour only.

WHO ARE WE?

Oxford Preservation Trust are the guardians of this historical site. OPT Members gain complimentary access to our guided tours.

The visitor attraction is operated by Continuum Attractions, a leading UK tourist attractions group.

AWARDS 

Oxford Castle & Prison won first place and was named as the Beautiful South’s Small Attraction of the Year 2022. We also are a Visit England Quality Assured Visitor Attraction. 

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