About Us

OUR HISTORY

When William the Conqueror invaded England and won the Battle of Hastings in 1066, Oxford Castle was marked by the Normans as the 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 900-year-old crypt, the only surviving remains of St. George’s Chapel. Where it is said, began the education for which Oxford is famed, and where Geoffrey of Monmouth penned the Legends of King Arthur.
  • EXPLORE the austere confines of the 18th century Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-Wing.
  • MARVEL 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. 

© 2024 Oxford Castle & Prison. All Rights Reserved.

Continuum Attractions is committed to achieving the highest standards of Health & Safety to all its visitors and employees. We are proud of the processes, systems and procedures we have in place across our business. Health & Safety is much a part of our company culture as our dedication to delivering unique experiences in memorable locations.