FRENCH Private Bespoke tour University and or Harry Potter

If you’re considering a visit to Oxford and want an experience that combines history, architecture, and a touch of magic, a private, bespoke tour focusing on the university and Harry Potter sights might just be the perfect choice. We’ve looked into this 100-minute experience offered by Visit Oxford Tours, and while we haven’t participated ourselves, the details suggest it’s a flexible, engaging way to get to know the city’s most iconic spots.

What immediately stands out are the personalized approach—the guide can tailor the tour to your interests—and the chance to peek inside some of Oxford’s historic buildings, which otherwise are often off-limits. Plus, the option of a bilingual guide (French) makes this a standout choice for Francophone travelers seeking an authentic local experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the short duration—100 minutes isn’t a lot of time, so you’ll want to prioritize what’s most important to you: the university’s history or Harry Potter film magic. This tour suits those who appreciate a customized, intimate experience and are comfortable with walking and a bit of a flexible schedule. If you’re after a comprehensive campus visit, this might be a starting point rather than the full story.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The guide adjusts the tour based on your interests, making it more engaging.
• Bilingual Guides: Fluent French guides ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for French-speaking visitors.
• Flexible Inside Access: You can visit inside one college or the Divinity School; additional visits are possible at extra cost.
• Focus on Harry Potter: Perfect for fans wanting to see the inspiration behind JK Rowling’s magical world.
• Short but Sweet: At roughly 90-120 minutes, this is a quick but rewarding way to see key sites.
• Affordable Value: Considering the personalized guide and inside access, the price (~$135 per person) offers good value.

This private tour, run by Visit Oxford Tours, begins at 15 Broad Street, right outside the Tourist Info Centre. The meeting point is straightforward, marked by a red sign and a guide wearing a red lanyard, so you won’t have trouble spotting them. From there, the journey through Oxford’s famed university heritage begins.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Highlights

The core of the experience is a guided walk lasting about two hours, during which your guide will share insights into Oxford’s 39 colleges—some dating back to the 1200s—and the overall history of the university. The tour offers a flexible approach: you can choose between a general university tour or a Harry Potter-themed exploration.

Harry Potter fans will love learning about the inspirations behind the films and discovering the locations that served as filming sites, especially the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library, which was used as the Hogwarts infirmary. The guide can also arrange a visit inside the Divinity School, which is a highlight for many.

If you’re interested in visiting a college, options include St John’s, Exeter, Wadham, Oriel, All Souls, or St Edmund Hall, depending on what’s open on your tour day. The entry fee for these colleges is typically no more than £3, but if you wish to visit a college with a higher fee or limited entry times—like Magdalen College (£10)—you will need to negotiate with your guide, possibly paying extra.

What You’ll See Inside and Outside

While most of the tour is on foot, visiting the exteriors of historic colleges and the Bodleian’s Divinity School allows for some spectacular photo opportunities. The Divinity School’s Gothic architecture is breathtaking, and its role in Harry Potter movies makes it a must-see for fans.

Inside access to colleges is limited by entry fees and opening hours, particularly during busy seasons or graduation dates. The Bodleian’s Duke Humfrey’s Library is not included but can be visited separately through Bodleian’s own guided tours, but these often sell out weeks in advance. Christ Church College is also excluded from this tour due to high entry costs and limited availability, though there is a dedicated Harry Potter tour for Christ Church elsewhere.

The Value of a Private, Custom Tour

Compared to group tours, a private guide offers tailored insights and flexibility. You can specify what interests you most—be it the academic history, the Harry Potter film locations, or the architecture—and the guide will adjust the flow accordingly. This personal touch makes for a more relaxed and educational experience, especially if traveling with a small group or family.

Considering the cost (~$135 per person), this is good value for a private, guided experience that includes some inside access—something that usually costs more in larger, less personalized tours. The price covers the guide’s time, the private setting, and entry to a college or Divinity School, which adds a tangible value.

Timing and Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 100 minutes, so it’s perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Availability varies, so it’s wise to check in advance. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes since there’s walking involved, and bring a camera and water to stay refreshed. Be aware that during Christmas holidays or graduation days, some venues might be closed or have limited access, so plan accordingly.

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible introduction to Oxford’s university and Harry Potter sights. The bilingual French guide makes it particularly appealing for French-speaking visitors seeking an authentic, local perspective. You’ll love how the tour combines history, architecture, and pop culture into one compact outing.

It’s a good choice for those who value inside access and tailored storytelling but are okay with a shorter duration. If you’re after a more in-depth university exploration or want to visit multiple colleges or Christ Church, you might want to consider other tours. Still, for a first taste of Oxford’s delights, especially with a focus on Harry Potter, this private tour offers a great mix of value, intimacy, and flexibility.

How long is the tour?
The guided walk lasts approximately 90 to 120 minutes, making it a quick yet thorough overview.

Can I visit inside the colleges?
You can visit inside one college or the Divinity School included in the price, with additional visits possible at extra cost. Some colleges with higher entry fees or limited hours may require negotiation on the day.

What languages are available for the guide?
This tour is offered with a live guide in French, ideal for French-speaking travelers wanting a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside the Tourist Info Centre at 15 Broad Street and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though some venues’ accessibility might vary.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and water to stay comfortable during the walk.

Are there any additional costs?
Entry to the college or Divinity School is included up to £3, but extra visits or higher fee colleges are at your own expense and may require negotiation.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for families or groups?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, ideal for families or small groups seeking a tailored, intimate tour.

This private, French-guided tour of Oxford’s university and Harry Potter sites offers a personalized, flexible way to explore one of the world’s most iconic university cities. The combination of inside visits, customizable content, and local expertise makes it a smart choice for those looking for a meaningful, authentic experience without the crowds. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or a history buff, this tour provides a balanced, value-packed introduction to Oxford—perfect for a short, memorable visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: