The Siege of Oxford at Oxford Castle & Prison

Experience Oxford’s greatest civil war

Travel back to the year 1646, a time when Oxford was caught in the heart of the English Civil War! The city is under siege, will you join the Royalists or the Parliamentarians?

Join The Earl of Manchester’s Regiment of Foote for an action-packed reenactment day of living history at Oxford Castle & Prison. Explore the 17th-century encampment in the Castleyard and discover what life was really like during the Siege of Oxford — from the battlefield to behind-the-scenes spying!

What’s happening all day?

⛺ Walk through a 17th-century military encampment in the Castleyard
🪖 Meet soldiers and civilians and learn about daily life in wartime Oxford
🏹 Explore civil war weaponry, spy gear, and historic reenactments
🥁 Hear the drums of war and watch regimental drills
🍻 Recharge with hearty refreshments fit for any soldier
⚔️ Choose your side and find out who will be victorious!

Ticketed Experiences for Kids

Are you a royalist soldier?

Join the recruitment and defend Oxford!

  • Learn the skills to become a pikeman or a musketeer in the King’s army.
  • Handle a real musket and see it fired up close
  • Be put through your paces by the drill sergeant!

£10 per ticket (pre-booking recommended)

Session Times

  • 10:45
  • 14:15
Become a soldier
Or are you a Parliamentarian spy?

Sneak behind enemy lines and gather intel

  • Learn civil war spy craft.
  • Discover cypher codes and invisible ink.
  • Create your own secret messages.

£10 per ticket (pre-booking recommended)

Session Times

  • 12:30
  • 16:00

 

Become a spy

Activities are recommended for ages 7+.

FAQ’s

Do I need to book tickets to the Castle?

This is a separate event outside in the Castleyard. You don’t need to to book tickets for our standard tour.

WHEN

21 - 22 Jun 2025

TIME

All Day

TICKETS

£0-10

INCLUDES

Kids activities (recommended for 7+)
Siege of Oxford reenactment BOOK NOW

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Oxford Castle & Prison
44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY

Heritage Projects (Oxford Castle) Ltd
Registered in England No: 5763243
Registered Office: St. Edmund's House, Margaret Street, YORK, YO10 4UX

Oxford Preservation Trust
© 2025 Oxford Castle & Prison. All Rights Reserved.

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