Private venue hire
Host Your Unforgettable Event at Oxford Castle & Prison
Step into over 1,000 years of history and create lasting memories against a backdrop like no other. Whether you’re planning a milestone party, private reception, or an intimate gathering with close friends, our historic venue brings character, conversation and charm to your special occasion.
About Private Venue Hire
Make your next event legendary by hosting it within the historic stones of Oxford Castle & Prison. When you book our private venue hire, you get exclusive access to fascinating spaces from the atmospheric candle‑lit crypt to the original prison cells where visitors today discover stories of the past. The venue caters for up to 100 guests* and is available seven evenings a week from 7 pm, complete with a music licence until midnight - perfect for evening celebrations and receptions that linger into the night.
*Note: maximum capacity quoted for full venue hire.
Oxford Castle and Prison
Hire exclusive use of Oxford Castle & Prison! Gain access to the crypt, the prison cells, and debtors tower. Your guests can have drinks and canapés in the atmospheric crypt, explore and mingle around the prison cells.
- Accommodating up to 100 guests (maximum)
- Available 7 days a week from 7pm
- Music licence until 12am
- Please note: there is no access up St. George’s Tower for health and safety reasons
£375 per hour (before midnight)
£410 per hour (after midnight)
*Minimum of 3 hour hire
The Crypt
For something totally unique why not host your drinks and canapé reception amongst the 900-year-old stone carvings of our underground candle-lit Crypt?
- Accommodating up to 50 guests (maximum)
- Perfect for more intimate style events
- Candlelit atmospheric setting
- Available 7 days a week from 7pm
- Music licence until 12am
£170 per hour
*Minimum of 3 hour hire
Plan Your Event
- Bookings: Available 7 days a week from 7 pm onwards.
- Minimum Hire: 3‑hour minimum for all bookings.
- Venue Rates:
- Full venue from £375 per hour (before midnight) and £410 per hour (after midnight).
- Crypt from £170 per hour.
- To Enquire: Email info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk to check dates and discuss your event.
- Music & Sound: Licensed for music until midnight, so your reception can keep the atmosphere alive.
- Please Note: For health and safety reasons, there is currently no access to St George’s Tower during private hires.
Upgrade Options
We have a range of catering and entertainment options to upgrade your private hire booking. Click the links below to find out more!
Terms and Conditions
Please read our full terms and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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