OCP Guided Tour Hero

Guided Tour

  • 1st Jan - 31st Dec 2026
  • 10am - 5pm
  • Adult £19.50 | Child £12.50 | Student £18.50
  • Save 10% when pre-booking up to midnight the day before

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Step Back 1,000 Years in the Heart of Oxford

Explore over a millennium of history on our Guided Tour, a compelling journey through one of Oxford’s most dramatic heritage sites. 

With costumed guides bringing tales to life - from Viking raids and Norman conquest to Victorian justice - you’ll uncover the stories of infamous prisoners, climb ancient towers for breathtaking views, and descend into atmospheric crypts where legends were born.

12Wd 06375

About the Tour

Join expert guides on a fully immersive walk through centuries of crime, power, legend and life behind bars.

Hear vivid stories of historic figures who lived, worked, suffered and served time within these ancient walls. The tour covers major milestones in Oxford’s past, including the castle’s early military origins, its transformation into a Georgian and Victorian prison, and its eventual closure in 1996.

Along the way you’ll discover how Oxford’s educational heritage began, how law and punishment evolved, and why this site remains one of the city’s most fascinating attractions.

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OCP Guided Tour 10

What to Expect

  • 1000 Years of History: Fascinating storytelling from Viking raids to Victorian justice.
  • Stunning Views: Ascend the 101 steps of St. George’s Tower for panoramic views across Oxford.
  • Candle‑lit Crypt: Descend into the atmospheric Norman crypt and uncover connections to ancient legend.
  • Prison Cells: Step inside 18th‑century cells once home to desperate criminals and infamous inmates.
  • Guided Experience: Tours run frequently throughout the day - about 50 minutes for the core tour with extra time available to explore exhibitions afterwards.
  • Gift Shop: Browse unique souvenirs, books and local treats on your way out.

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OCP Guided Tour 3

Plan Your Visit

  • Tour Times: Daily from 10:00 – 17:00 with departures approximately every 20–30 minutes.
  • Duration: Guided tour lasts around 50 minutes
  • Tickets: Adults, children and student pricing available; under‑5s go free (though they cannot climb the tower).
  • Accessibility: Steep steps and historic spaces mean some areas, including the tower, may not be suitable for all visitors; alternative viewing options are available.
  • Booking: Pre‑booking is recommended to secure your preferred time and save on admission.
  • Location: In Oxford’s Castle Quarter, a short walk from Oxford Station.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The guided tour itself lasts around 50 minutes, and afterwards you can explore the exhibition and prison at your own pace.

Tours run daily from around 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with multiple start times throughout the day.

When you arrive, go to the Gift Shop where a member of the Guest Services team will check you in. It’s best to arrive about 10 minutes before your tour.

Yes. The tour includes a climb up 101 steps of St. George’s Tower for panoramic views of Oxford. However, children under 5 cannot climb due to safety reasons.

Children under 5 go free but must be registered for safety reasons, and they cannot climb St. George’s Tower.

Tours are conducted in English, but translation sheets are available in several languages (e.g. French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese).

Due to the historic nature of the site, not all areas are accessible, including the tower and some cells, so please read our Accessibility page before booking.

On the guided tour you’ll ascend St. George's Tower, descend into the candle‑lit crypt, explore 18th‑century prison cells, and learn about over 1000 years of history from Vikings and Normans through to Victorian justice.

It’s recommended to book your guided tour online in advance because tour capacity is limited, though walk‑up tickets may be available on the day.

Before your tour, it’s helpful to arrive about 10 minutes early, check booking details in your confirmation email, and note that on‑site car parking isn’t available so you’ll need to use nearby city or park & ride parking. Please check our How to Find Us page for more details.

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