Bodleian Library Tours
5 Reviews
Located in central Oxford in a complex of historic buildings, the venerable Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. It’s the main research library for the University of Oxford and also a copyright library, housing every book printed in the UK and Ireland, a collection of more than 12 million printed items.
The Basics
The historic core of the Bodleian Library is clustered around Radcliffe Square and includes the 15th-century Duke Humfrey’s Library and Divinity School, the 17th-century Old Schools Quadrangle, the 18th-century Clarendon Building and Radcliffe Camera, and the modern Weston Library.
While the Old Schools Quadrangle can be viewed for free and the Divinity School for a fee, other areas can only be accessed through a guided (short, standard, or extended) tour. Many Oxford sightseeing tours, whether on foot, by bike, or Harry Potter focused, will include a stop at the Bodleian Library. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to see other city sites at your leisure. Day trips from London often feature a stop here and can also be combined with visits to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, the Cotswolds, or Stratford-upon-Avon.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Bodleian Library is located in central Oxford. Of the six entrances, the recommended entrance is the main entrance on Catte Street, using the Great Gate, which provides direct access to the Old Schools Quadrangle.
When to Get There
The Bodleian Library is open daily during the school term and closed on Sundays during vacations. It is usually closed from around December 20 to January 2, over the Easter holidays, and for the August bank holidays. Short and standard tours are offered daily, while extended tours are offered only certain days of the week.
The Bodleian’s Collection
In addition to printed items, the Bodleian Library also houses special collections, which include rare books and manuscripts, classical papyri, music, art, and maps. A portion of the collection can be viewed online through the Bodleian Library’s image portal or in the exhibition galleries at the Bodleian Library’s Weston Library.
The Basics
The historic core of the Bodleian Library is clustered around Radcliffe Square and includes the 15th-century Duke Humfrey’s Library and Divinity School, the 17th-century Old Schools Quadrangle, the 18th-century Clarendon Building and Radcliffe Camera, and the modern Weston Library.
While the Old Schools Quadrangle can be viewed for free and the Divinity School for a fee, other areas can only be accessed through a guided (short, standard, or extended) tour. Many Oxford sightseeing tours, whether on foot, by bike, or Harry Potter focused, will include a stop at the Bodleian Library. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to see other city sites at your leisure. Day trips from London often feature a stop here and can also be combined with visits to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, the Cotswolds, or Stratford-upon-Avon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bodleian Library is a must-visit for book lovers and Harry Potter fans.
- Photography is not permitted in working areas of the library.
- Bags, including handbags, must be left in lockers during guided library tours.
- Guided library tours are not wheelchair-accessible, as there are stairs involved.
- Children under the age of 10 are not permitted on guided library tours.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the Bodleian Library’s Weston Library.
How to Get There
The Bodleian Library is located in central Oxford. Of the six entrances, the recommended entrance is the main entrance on Catte Street, using the Great Gate, which provides direct access to the Old Schools Quadrangle.
When to Get There
The Bodleian Library is open daily during the school term and closed on Sundays during vacations. It is usually closed from around December 20 to January 2, over the Easter holidays, and for the August bank holidays. Short and standard tours are offered daily, while extended tours are offered only certain days of the week.
The Bodleian’s Collection
In addition to printed items, the Bodleian Library also houses special collections, which include rare books and manuscripts, classical papyri, music, art, and maps. A portion of the collection can be viewed online through the Bodleian Library’s image portal or in the exhibition galleries at the Bodleian Library’s Weston Library.
Address: Broad St., Oxford OX1 3BG, England
36 Tours and Activities to Experience Bodleian Library
Sort by:Featured
Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide
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.
…More
From
$27.84
From
$27.84
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford Including Bodleian Library
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.
…More
From
$30.35
From
$30.35
Harry Potter Insights Oxford PUBLIC Tour with entry to Divinity School film site
Calling all fans of the world’s favorite wizard, this Oxford walking tour takes you to recognizable locations of the Harry Potter films. During this family-friendly tour, explore the grand buildings of Oxford University, including New College and Divinity School—both featured as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Learn of other literary legends that attended Oxford University and admire the Bodleian Library, home to more than 11 million books. This small-group tour is limited to 15 Harry Potter fans to maintain an intimate atmosphere. If you prefer, choose the private tour of New College with just your party and guide.
…More
From
$34.81
From
$34.81
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Oxford City and University Walking Tour with Entry to Harry Potter Film Site
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.
…More
From
$27.84
From
$27.84
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Oxford Walking Tour for the Discerning Traveler
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.
…More
From
$139.29
per group
From
$139.29
per group
'Inspector Morse,' 'Lewis,' and 'Endeavour' Walking Tour of Oxford
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.
…More
From
$27.86
From
$27.86
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Inspector Morse Filming Locations Walking Tour in Oxford
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.
…More
From
$34.81
From
$34.81
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
PUBLIC Morning Christ Church Harry Potter Film Site Tour
Fans of fantasy books won’t want to miss this 1.5-hour tour of Christ Church College, the setting and inspiration behind novels such as Alice and Wonderland and Harry Potter. By booking your ticket in advance, you’ll avoid the long lines outside of the prestigious Oxford University building, home to the Bodleian Library and adjoining Divinity School. Visit recognizable filming sites and learn about Lewis Carroll’s time at England’s oldest university.
…More
From
$69.63
From
$69.63
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Public Afternoon Christ Church Harry Potter Film Sites Tour
This is the essential tour for Harry Potter fans. Spend a day discovering the sites of Oxford associated with the Harry Potter movies. See Christ Church College which inspired the Great Hall of Hogwarts, and learn behind-the-scenes secrets about the Harry Potter actors, and J. K. Rowling.
…More
From
$69.63
From
$69.63
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Improve your confidence in speaking English on 2-weekend courses in Oxford, UK.
English speaking course designed especially to improve your confidence in the real world.
8 hours spread over two weekends for you to boost your language skills.
Experienced, highly-qualified teacher to provide professional help and feedback for future self study.
Competitive price for excellent service.
…More
From
$156.01
From
$156.01
Oxford Christian History Tour
See a different side to popular Oxford during this comprehensive walking tour which provides a great introduction to the city itself, while also emphasizing the city’s Christian legacy and history, something few travelers get to explore in depth. Listen to stories from your guide about the Oxford Martyrs, Queen Mary Tudor, and even Harry Potter, as you pass by significant buildings.
…More
From
$45.45
From
$45.45
Private Oxford City & University Walking tour with Entry to Divinity School
Oxford is home to one of the world’s most famous and prestigious colleges, and this private 2-hour walking tour unveils all the secrets of the university city. Marvel at landmarks including the Bodleian Library and Christchurch, peek inside Oxford University buildings like New College or the Divinity School; and follow in the footsteps of British legends such as J.R.R Tolkien, CS Lewis, King Henry VIII, and Harry Potter.
…More
From
$146.26
per group
From
$146.26
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
PRIVATE Harry Potter in Oxford tour -Includes entry to Divinity school film site
See two of the three Hogwarts filming locations in Oxford (access permitting) on this private Harry Potter tour. With a guide, you'll visit New College and the Divinity School at the Bodleian Library. Ponder how studying at Oxford University compares to being a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and learn a bit about Oxford's history as your guide tailors the tour to the interests of everyone in your group.
…More
From
$139.29
per group
From
$139.29
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Oxford Food and Sightseeing Tour
Discover Oxford’s diverse foodie scene with a private introduction to one of England’s most cosmopolitan cities. This 2.5-hour tapas tasting tour will introduce you to some of the city’s best cuisine, stopping at street food stalls, artisan shops, and markets, where you can sample an array of regional delicacies and international foods.
…More
From
$208.94
per group
From
$208.94
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Inspector Morse Private Tour Oxford with entry to Divinity School
Calling all fans of the iconic British TV programme, Inspector Morse, this 2-hour tour visit famous filming locations around Oxford. With a private guide, you’ll visit recognizable settings inside the Bodleian Library, Exeter College, and the Divinity School, all within the prestigious Oxford University campus. The tour concludes at a historic pub regularly featured in the Inspector Morse shows.
…More
From
$69.63
Price varies by group size
From
$69.63
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
Oxford Combined Cycle Walking Tour- Saturdays Only Minimum 3 persons to book
Explore more of Oxford’s University buildings, riverside parks, and picturesque countryside on this small-group half-day bike tour. Admire city landmarks such as the Bodleian Library and Christchurch; cycle along the scenic River Thames Path; and visit local villages such as Iffley, Binsey, and Old Marston.
…More
From
$69.63
Price varies by group size
From
$69.63
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
Private Oxford Bicycle Tour - available to book daily
COVID19 NOTICE:
Currently all university colleges are still closed to the public but you will see & hear lots about the colleges on the tour route.
The best way to see Oxford is on a bicycle on this private bicycle tour along the River Thames Path. In fact, bikes are the locals' favourite way to get around the city as the compact Oxford is not very car-friendly.
Default start time is 12.00 but you may request any start time from 12.00 until 14.30 start time. The tour lasts for 3-4 hours, including a guided tour plus bike set up time and a refreshments stop. The route covers both the city's sights and stories with a college entrance fee and a relaxing cycle along the River Thames to Iffley or Binsey Village.
…More
From
$107.16
Price varies by group size
From
$107.16
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
Walking Tour Combined with River Punting Rowing (2 hours plus)
This fantastic combination tour allows you to see the highlights of Oxford from the land and the water on the same day. You’ll save hours shortlisting the city’s top sites by having a guide to show you around instead. The guided walking tour takes you past top city sites including Oxford University, Harry Potter filming locations, and Christ Church Meadow. A highlight of the tour is a boat trip, where you can choose to row yourself or have a chauffeur to punt for you.
…More
From
$107.16
Price varies by group size
From
$107.16
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
The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour
Explore the world of ‘The Inklings’—the mid-20th-century writers’ group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien—on this private Oxford walk. Rather than researching locations yourself, let a guide show you where the writers worked and relaxed. Visit Exeter College where Tolkien studied; and see Lewis’ Magdalen College and other sights while learning history and literary tales you’d otherwise miss. A choice of departure times gives you flexibility.
…More
From
$69.63
Price varies by group size
From
$69.63
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
PRIVATE GROUP- Afternoon- Christchurch Harry Potter film sites tour
Find out how does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Find out on this 5 star rated popular walking tour about the making of Harry Potter in Oxford.
Your ticket includes up to £15 in entry fee per person plus (where & when open), it also includes £2.50 entry to Divinity school film site at Bodleian library. We can only gain entry by pre-purchasing entry tickets online so please book this tour ahead in order to not be disappointed if no tickets left available. If we cannot get entry tickets, you'll be refunded in full.
Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater the tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage. See Christchurch film site.
Christ Church Hall only closure dates 2020:
Oct 4 + 9
…More
From
$278.58
Price varies by group size
From
$278.58
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
PRIVATE GROUP- MORNING- Christchurch Harry Potter film sites tour
Covid19 Notice: Christchurch requires you to wear mask to enter & we can only enter with advance pre paid online entry tickets- which are limited- so please book ahead. If we cannot run the tour, you will be refunded or you may select to choose a rescheduled date.
This tour also visits the Divinity school film site at the Bodleian library- as & when this secondary venue is open. Pre paid entry fee is included for all venues.
Find out how does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Find out on this 5 star rated popular walking tour about the making of Harry Potter in Oxford. Your ticket includes up to £15 in entry fee per person.
Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater the tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage. See Christchurch film site.
Christ Church Hall only closure dates 2020:
Oct 4 + 9
NB all other film sites and university venues are closed to the public during Covid19
…More
From
$278.58
Price varies by group size
From
$278.58
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
Oxford Immersive Podcast: Discover its university, architecture & traditions
Love podcast? You'll love our immersive podcast tour of Oxford!
Join our local historians Katie and Josh, as they take you for a walk through the charming literary town of Oxford. We'll explore its most iconic architectural, historical, & literary spots, and learn the ancient tale that is rooted in its history. We create immersive audio experiences that are like podcasts. Download the app & your Oxford tour to explore the city independently and safely!
…More
From
$8.34
From
$8.34
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide
Building upon the success of our 2-hour tour, this extended 3-hour version now includes entry into one of the oldest colleges at Oxford University. It also incorporates visiting the world-famous Bodleian Library, one of the best examples of Medieval architecture in Europe, and a Harry Potter film site. As always, this is done uniquely with our Oxford University student guides.
…More
From
$153.21
Price varies by group size
From
$153.21
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Oxford In A Day With Student Guide - Christ Church Optional
See Oxford in one day with this small group, sight-packed, full-day tour with an authentic Oxford student to give you the inside scoop, along with the little known facts and locations off the beaten path! See inside the oldest Colleges in Oxford, including the largest in Oxford - complete with its own deer park. Break for a pub lunch, before entering the most historic part of England's most iconic library, which makes a regular appearance in Hollywood films. For entrance into a famous Harry Potter college, upgrade to include a ticket for Christ Church.
…More
From
$104.47
From
$104.47
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Things to do near Oxford
- Things to do in South East England
- Things to do in London
- Things to do in Bath
- Things to do in Birmingham
- Things to do in Southampton
- Things to do in Bristol
- Things to do in Horley
- Things to do in Stansted Mountfitchet
- Things to do in Cardiff
- Things to do in Manchester
- Things to do in Liverpool
- Things to do in York
- Things to do in Bruges
- Things to do in East of England
- Things to do in South West England