Downton Abbey Tours from Oxford
Few British period TV series have captured the world’s attention the way Downton Abbey did, with millions of viewers around the globe tuning in. Here are a few ways to follow in the footsteps of the famous Crawley family, using Oxford as a base.
Cotswolds Filming Sites
Many of the set locations made famous in Downton Abbey are in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds—the countryside outside Oxford—and the city makes a great base from which to go exploring. Tours visit picturesque hamlets such as Bampton (which doubles up as the on-screen Downton village) Bladon, Cogges, and Swinbrook, and spot some of the locations featured in the series. There’s the home of Isobel Crawley, the church where Lady Mary married Matthew Crawley, the village where Lady Sybil eloped with then-chauffeur Tom Branson, and the Grantham Arms pub—where scheming maid Edna seduced the widowed Branson. Although not directly linked to Downton Abbey, nearby UNESCO World Heritage–listed Blenheim Palace is also featured on many tours from Oxford.
Highclere Castle Filming Sites
Home to the Carnarvon family, Highclere Castle is the real-life 17th-century stately home that doubled for Downton Abbey itself in the popular television series. Downton fans will recognize the castle’s sweeping driveway, grand facade, and main hall featured heavily throughout the series; some of the bedrooms were used as well.
145 Tours and Activities
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Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide
2207
Walk the halls of one of the world’s oldest and most famous universities on this walking tour of Oxford University. Get a glimpse of student life as you peek inside the famous Bodleian Library and see landmarks like the University Church of St. Mary, Radcliffe Camera, and Trinity College. Learn about the prestigious university’s famous alumni, hear fascinating stories and anecdotes about its history, and see on-campus locations used in the Harry Potter films.
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From
$27.80
From
$27.80
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Regular temperature checks for staff
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Oxford Sightseeing River Cruise Along The University Regatta Course
225
Explore Oxford University’s famous regatta course on this 50-minute Thames River sightseeing cruise in Oxford. Hop aboard your sightseeing vessel in the heart of Oxford and cruise out onto the famous waterway. Listen as your guide sheds light on the city’s rich history, and discover local landmarks such as Folly Bridge, Christchurch College, the Oxford University boathouses and the Meadows. Share the waters with rowing eights, punts, university boats and cruisers, and watch the banks for sightings of native river wildlife.
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From
$17.12
From
$17.12
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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City Sightseeing Oxford Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
385
Experience one of the world’s greatest university cities on this hop-on hop-off Oxford bus tour. With a 24- or 48-hour pass, design a personalized itinerary with several possible stops including the University of Oxford buildings (some featured in the 'Harry Potter' films), Oxford Castle, and Bodleian Library, one of the world’s oldest public libraries. Enjoy unobstructed views from the open-top viewing deck and fun onboard commentary as you savor this elegant city.
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From
$22.94
From
$22.94
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Sundowner Cruise with Three Course Riverside Dining
57
Make unforgettable memories in the heart of Oxford on this 2-hour dining experience with evening cruise. Step aboard your vessel as the sun slowly sinks on the horizon, and cruise out onto the Thames River. Sip chilled Prosecco as you wind your way along the tranquil waterway, and gaze out over Christchurch Meadows and the university boathouses. Afterwards, alight at the mooring outside The Folly restaurant and follow the candles and fairy lights to your table. Then, enjoy a delicious 3-course a la carte dinner in the restaurant’s romantic surroundings.
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From
$83.35
From
$83.35
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Oxford Walking Tour
113
Immerse yourself in the world of Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Hathaway during this 2-hour walking tour in Oxford. Listen to stories about the city's most famous detectives and stop at landmarks such as Broad Street, the White Horse pub, and the Randolph Hotel.
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From
$27.81
From
$27.81
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh
178
See more of the picturesque Cotswolds on a trip that leaves from Moreton-in-Marsh. Showcasing the must-see villages that can be tricky to find on your own, the excursion visits Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Camden along with some lesser-known hamlets that many Cotswolds tourists miss. You have ample free time to explore, along with commentary and tips for places to eat or see through the day.
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From
$69.53
From
$69.53
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Divinity School Oxford Harry Potter Insights - PUBLIC tour (75 minutes) DAILY
248
Tour includes entry worth £2.50 per person inside the Divinity school at the Bodleian Library. Tour lasts average 75 minutes. From Sep 9th, you can also opt to pay extra £10 cash on the day to include New college film site entry too for longer tour lasting two hours.
How does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater the tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage.
Calling all fans of the world’s favourite wizard, this Oxford walking tour takes you to recognizable locations of the Harry Potter films. During this family-friendly tour, see the grand buildings of Oxford University and see inside the Divinity School—which featured as the infirmary & classroom space in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Learn of other literary legends that attended Oxford University.
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From
$34.75
From
$34.75
Oxford Sightseeing River Cruise Including a Picnic
97
Explore one of England’s most ancient cities on this 2.5-hour sightseeing river cruise in Oxford. Cruise onto the tranquil Thames River as your skipper points out places of interest such as Christchurch College, the Meadows, the Oxford University boathouses, Osney Island, Port Meadow and Folly Bridge. See a side of Oxford's rich heritage that many visitors miss, and discover sites made famous by authors including Lewis Carroll and C S Lewis. Stop off along the way for a delicious picnic of delicacies such as potted salmon and Mediterranean vegetable loaf.
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From
$64.19
From
$64.19
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Regular temperature checks for staff
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace Private Day Tour from Oxford
11
Discover some of the most picturesque highlights of the Cotswolds—and visit UNESCO-listed Blenheim Palace—on this full-day, private tour. Meet your guide at your area accommodation, and set off via air-conditioned vehicle. Head first to the Cotswolds (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) to visit charming English villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Next, transfer to Blenheim Palace: famed for its opulent design, the palace was also Winston Churchill’s birthplace. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can also be customized to suit your interests.
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From
$392.23
Price varies by group size
From
$392.23
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Private Cotswold Village Tour (for your group only)
10
THIS TOUR IS EXCLUSIVE TO YOUR GROUP ONLY
Having lived in the Cotswolds for over 50 years we know where the hidden gems are, we have also worked in the hospitality industry for many years.
This EXCLUSIVE tour is for your group ONLY from 2-11 passengers.
Why not come up from London Paddington or Oxford on the train and we can meet you at Moreton in Marsh train station.
We have pick up points in Cheltenham, Winchcombe, Broadway and Moreton in Marsh (if you can't reach those points please contact us to see if we can help)
Our beautiful Cotswold tour takes you on a stunning journey through many villages and towns, all in the comfort of our luxury vehicles. The tour does a loop from Winchcombe to Stanway - Stanton - Broadway (we stop here for 30 minutes) - Broadway Tower - Chipping Campden - Moreton in Marsh, Stow on the Wold - The Slaughters - Bourton on the Water (we stop here for 30 minutes) - Guiting Power - Winchcombe
We can stop at any of these villages for you take a photos
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From
$173.82
From
$173.82
Oxford Evening Sightseeing Cruise Including a Drink
20
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Thames River and soak up the views in style on this 30-minute evening sightseeing cruise in Oxford. Hop into your sightseeing boat as the sun starts to set and head out onto the calm waters with your guide. Sip a glass of Prosecco, beer, wine or a soft drink as the sunlight dances on the river, and gaze out over Oxford’s beautiful Christchurch Meadows. Learn of the city’s educational and sporting heritage, and enjoy a romantic moment on the river with your loved one.
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From
$28.53
From
$28.53
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford Including Bodleian Library
50
Discover the Harry Potter movie locations of Oxford on this walking tour. Visit the famous Bodleian Library to see the hall used as Hogwarts’ Infirmary in many movies, and view other locations in one or two of Oxford’s oldest colleges. As you walk, enjoy a fun Harry Potter quiz, and learn about Oxford University and other famous children’s books written in the city. Entrance fees to the Bodleian and select colleges are included.
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From
$30.30
From
$30.30
1.5-hour Oxford University and Colleges Walking Tour
942
Oxford University is one of the world’s most famous universities and this 90-minute walking tour takes you behind the scenes of its historic colleges. Follow in the footsteps of alumni such as Stephen Hawking, Albert Einstein, and J.R.R. Tolkien; admire architectural landmarks such as Trinity College, New College and the Radcliffe Camera; and peek inside the colleges, chapels, and halls.
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From
$20.79
From
$20.79
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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Oxford Official University & City Tour
254
Follow in the footsteps of famous former residents like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis—and discover many of Oxford’s top landmarks in just a couple hours—on this introductory walking tour. Meet your group in central Oxford, and set off on foot. You’ll see key attractions like the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre, will explore the university area, and will even visit one of its elegant colleges. As you go, your guide will share insider stories about Oxford’s history.
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From
$27.81
From
$27.81
Oxford City and University Walking PUBLIC 1pm Tour
85
If you’re interested in Oxford’s rich history, look no further than this walking tour for a comprehensive overview of the historic city. In a small group limited to 15, visit Bodleian Library—home to 'Harry Potter' filming locations—and one other college, and learn about Oxford University alumni such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Plus, receive an ILoveOxford map showing all of the main sites.
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From
$34.75
From
$34.75
Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from Oxford including Shakespeare's Birthplace
13
Discover the quintessential charm of the English countryside on a full-day excursion to Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds from Oxford. With a knowledgeable guide, travel to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, to discover the rich historical heritage of the area. Stop at Anne Hathaway’s quaint cottage and then discover a selection of charming villages in the Cotswold’s region. Conclude your day with a comprehensive walking tour of Oxford and marvel at the architectural grandeur of the historical university city.
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From
$207.20
From
$207.20
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh
61
Immerse yourself in the Cotswolds with this one-day tour that gets you off the road and onto the trails! Visiting Broadway Tower, Broadway and Bourton-on-the-Water as a minimum, this tour provides additional walking opportunities to explore the picture-perfect villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter on foot.
Highlights:
- Easy walk to Broadway Tower for panoramic views and red deer sightings
- Take the minibus to Broadway, or walk from Broadway Tower following The Cotswold Way
- Free time in Broadway to explore and take lunch at your leisure
- Stay and explore beautiful Bourton-on-the-Water, or take a circular guided walk to the pretty villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter
Between stops, travel the narrow country lanes, while your friendly local driver-guide brings the Cotswolds to life with a fun live commentary.
Tour includes a pick-up from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh railway station, enabling an easy connection by train London, Reading, Oxford, Worcester or Birmingham.
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From
$76.48
From
$76.48
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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'Inspector Morse,' 'Lewis,' and 'Endeavour' Walking Tour of Oxford
275
Follow in the footsteps of Inspector Morse, star of the British TV detective drama that was filmed on the streets of Oxford. With a guide, you’ll see the eminent university city through the eyes of Morse and his sidekick Lewis, visiting filming sites such as pubs and even one of the university colleges. Along the way you’ll learn all about the cast and crew who were involved in the much-loved productions of Inspector Morse, the Lewis spin-off series, and the Endeavour prequel—all filmed in the city.
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From
$30.59
From
$30.59
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Oxford University Alumni
18
See two of England’s most in-demand destinations—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—on this full-day, small-group tour from Oxford. Following pickup at the meeting point, head first to Bath: famous for its Roman–era origins as well as its Georgian architecture. See highlights like the Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey before continuing to Stonehenge. Once there, see the sights, learn the theories about its creation from your guide, and discover more in the visitor center.
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From
$150.03
From
$150.03
Oxford Guided Tour (in your foreign language)
13
This Oxford Guided Tour is an ideal choice for first-time visitors to the city, especially those who are Harry Potter fans. As it’s a private tour, you won’t waste any time waiting around for other travelers and can customize your tour based on your needs. Decide which sites you want to visit, and enjoy a day exploring Oxford’s top landmarks with a guide. Potential attractions you’ll see include New College, and the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library.
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From
$213.94
per group
From
$213.94
per group
Inspector Morse Filming Locations Walking Tour in Oxford PUBLIC tour
90
Visit filming locations from the British television series 'Inspector Morse,' as well as spin-offs 'Lewis' and 'Endeavour,' on this Oxford walking tour. With a guide, learn about the making of the detective show and visit Oxford University colleges to gain insight into what it might be like to be a student here. End with an invitation to solve a murder mystery at one of Morse's favorite pubs. Entrance fees to university locations are included; drinks are not.
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From
$34.75
From
$34.75
Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour Locations Private Walking Tour in Oxford
10
Follow in the footsteps of Inspector Morse and his successors on this private ‘Inspector Morse,’ ‘Lewis,’ and ‘Endeavour’ walking tour in Oxford. With your own Blue Badge or Green Badge guide to lead you on their recommended route for the day, explore Oxford’s streets to see the buildings and places frequented by Morse, Lewis, and Hathaway as you hear about the series characters, production, and plotlines. Includes choice of morning or afternoon departure.
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From
$213.94
per group
From
$213.94
per group
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Learn More
Private Oxford Walking Tour for the Discerning Traveler
24
Get the inside scoop on Oxford's storied history on this private walking tour. Through your dedicated guide's informative narration, learn about the evolution of the university and all the achievements that have taken place there. Enjoy a flexible itinerary, personalized attention and plenty of time to ask questions, since this is a private tour for just you and your party.
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From
$139.06
per group
From
$139.06
per group
The Oxford Artisan Distillery Tour
46
Taste and discover grass-to-glass spirits at TOAD (The Oxford Artisan Distillery.) The 1-hour tour gives you a behind the scenes look at the distilling process, with stops at the Old Threshing Barn, the lab, and the distillery itself. Your tour is lead by a team member, ensuring an immersive and comprehensive experience. Try two of TOAD’s gins and vodka at the end of your visit.
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From
$27.81
From
$27.81
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More