Tourist Information to the Carfax Tower

Stop off at the tourist information office, where you can find a variety of unique local souvenirs and pick up useful brochures about attractions and events in the area.rnrnThe friendly staff are always ready to offer helpful advice and recommendations to make your visit even more enjoyable.

Directions:

When exiting the Tourist Information office turn right and walk east along Broad St.

City Sightseeing Oxford offers an open-top bus tour covering 20 stops across key landmarks such as Christ Church, Magdalen College, the Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum and Carfax Tower. Options (at the time of writing 12/07/2025) include 24-hour or 48-hour tickets, with add-ons like access to Carfax Tower and walking tours in combo packages. Commentary via ear phones is available in around 14 languages. Great for flexible exploration—hop off at any stop and re-join when ready.

The Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford is a striking 17th-century building designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Completed in 1669, it serves as the official ceremonial hall of the University of Oxford, hosting events such as graduations, concerts, and lectures. Its distinctive circular design was inspired by ancient Roman theatres, and its painted ceiling and cupola offer impressive architectural and artistic features. Located in the heart of the city, it remains one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks.

The Weston Library is part of the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford. Located on Broad Street, it houses special collections, rare manuscripts, and archives. Originally opened in 1946 as the New Bodleian, it was extensively refurbished and reopened in 2015 as the Weston Library.

The building combines striking modern architecture with original features and includes public exhibition spaces, a café, and a shop. It’s a hub for research, learning, and public engagement in the heart of Oxford

Tickets for the Bodleian Library can be purchased here.

The Clarendon Building is a striking neoclassical structure located in the heart of Oxford, England.

Designed by renowned architect Nicholas Hawksmoor and completed in the early 18th century, it was originally built to house the Oxford University Press.

The building is named after Edward Hyde, the 1st Earl of Clarendon, whose legacy helped fund its construction. With its grand columns and symmetrical façade, the Clarendon Building stands out as a fine example of early Georgian architecture. Today, it is part of the Bodleian Libraries complex and serves as an administrative and ceremonial space for the University of Oxford.

Directions:

Turn right from Broad Street into Catte Street.

The Turf Tavern is one of Oxford’s most charming and historically rich pubs, tucked away down the narrow St Helen’s Passage—famously known as Hell Passage—just off Holywell Street. The pub dates back to at least the late 18th century, when it was known as The Spotted Cow.

Though the site’s origins go even further back to the 14th-century malt houses that lined the old city wall. Its ramshackle, low-ceilinged interiors, cosy courtyards warmed by braziers, and exposed timber beams evoke an air of “Olde England” charm.

The Bridge of Sighs in Oxford, officially known as Hertford Bridge, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It connects two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane and was completed in 1914. Despite its nickname, the bridge bears little resemblance to the original Bridge of Sighs in Venice, though its romantic design and picturesque setting have made it a favourite among tourists and photographers. The structure is often associated with Oxford’s historic charm and is a symbol of the university’s rich architectural heritage.

A peek into the Bodleian Library from the main entrance reveals doors decorated with the coats of arms of several Oxford colleges.

The Bodleian Library in Oxford is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and among the most important in the world. Founded in 1602, it serves as the main research library of the University of Oxford and holds over 13 million printed items. The library is a legal deposit library, meaning it is entitled to receive a copy of every book published in the UK.

The Bodleian Library, the heart of Oxford’s academic life, serves as the university’s main research library.

Its historic buildings, including the stunning Divinity School and Duke Humfrey’s Library, are architectural treasures that attract scholars and visitors alike. The Bodleian is not only a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage but also a vibrant centre for learning and discovery.

Note that just ahead is the Vault, a great place for coffee and food.

Directions:

Turn right into Radcliffe square then right again.

The Radcliffe Camera is one of Oxford’s most iconic buildings, located in the heart of the city. Designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1749, it was built to house the Radcliffe Science Library and funded by a bequest from Dr. John Radcliffe, a royal physician. Its striking circular design and grand dome make it a standout example of English Palladian architecture. Today, it serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library and is reserved primarily for students and researchers. Surrounded by cobbled lanes and historic colleges, the Radcliffe Camera is a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage and architectural beauty.

The Vault also has an outside seating area.

The Vaults is a charming coffee shop located inside the historic University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford. Set within a beautiful 14th-century vaulted stone interior, it offers a peaceful and atmospheric spot to enjoy ethically sourced coffee and wholesome, often vegetarian-friendly food. With its unique blend of history, stunning architecture. There is an outside area with views of the Radcliffe Camera.

Walking west along Brasenose Lane from the Radcliffe Square end, you’ll start on a lane lined with high-stone walls and medieval cobbles, graced centrally by an original drainage gutter or u0022kennelu0022—the only one left in Oxford. To your right (north side) is Exeter College’s historic boundary wall, a Grade II listed structure dating back to around 1485. On your left (south), the imposing stone façade of Brasenose College dominates, its architecture harking back to the early 16th century. As you continue, Lincoln College appears on your left near the Turl Street end—another medieval foundation shaping the street’s intimate corridor feel.

The lane’s narrow, enclosed nature, with its cobbled surface and central gutter, gives a strong sense of stepping through time. At the easternmost point, turning the corner just shy of Radcliffe Square, the view dramatically opens to reveal the Radcliffe Camera—its circular form curving elegantly into view, accompanied by the Bodleian Library and Clarendon Building. It’s a moment of discovery that underscores the charm and historic resonance of this tucked-away Oxford passage.

Directions:

Turn left from Radcliffe Square into Brasenose Lane.

A view of Turl street from Brasenose lane.

As you step onto Turl Street, you’ll immediately feel the historic charm of Oxford. To your left, you’ll pass Lincoln College, with its sandstone buildings and discreet entrance. On your right, you’ll see Exeter College’s back gate—its quad and chapel hidden behind high stone walls. Turl Street is narrow and gently curving, lined with a mix of elegant academic buildings, quirky shops, and small cafés.

Further along on your right, you’ll come across the Missing Bean, a bustling independent coffee shop popular with students and locals. Across the street, there are more boutique shops and college offices nestled in centuries-old stone façades.

At the southern end of Turl Street, just before it meets the High Street, you’ll find the elegant All Saints Church on your left. With its striking Baroque tower and graceful portico, it’s a distinctive landmark on the Oxford skyline. Originally built in the early 18th century, the church was deconsecrated in the 1970s and now serves as the Lincoln College Library. Step inside (if you’re lucky enough to be allowed in), and you’ll find an airy, light-filled reading space beneath the original dome — a beautiful example of how Oxford blends history with modern academic life.

Directions:

Turn left into Turl St. and walk the short distance southwards to the High St.

The Missing Bean is a popular independent coffee shop in Oxford, originally opened on Turl Street in 2009. Known for its commitment to high-quality, ethically sourced coffee, it roasts its own beans at a micro-roastery in East Oxford. The café has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and is a favourite with students, locals, and visitors alike. With excellent espresso, single-origin brews, and a small selection of pastries and light bites, it offers a genuine alternative to the big coffee chains. The strong sense of community and consistently great coffee make it a much-loved spot in the city.

The High street viewed from Turl street in the direction of the Carfax

Turning right from Turl Street onto the High Street, you’re immediately greeted by one of Oxford’s most iconic views. The street gently curves, lined with grand historic buildings in Cotswold stone. The street is lively with buses, bicycles, and pedestrians. You’ll pass an array of independent shops, bookshops, and eateries.

Further down on the right, you’ll the Covered Market, a vibrant 18th-century arcade filled with independent food stalls, florists, butchers, cafés, and quirky shops — a favourite with both locals and visitors.

Eventually, you reach Carfax Tower, a medieval structure marking Oxford’s historic centre, where the High Street meets Cornmarket, Queen Street, and St Aldate’s in a bustling crossroads of city life.

Tucked away on Alfred Street just off the High Street, The Bear Inn is one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 13th century. Renowned for its low ceilings, timber-framed charm, and cozy atmosphere, the pub is especially famous for its unique collection of over 4,500 snippets of neckties, donated by patrons from around the world since the 1950s. Whether you’re after a pint of traditional ale or a taste of local history, The Bear offers a quintessentially English pub experience in the heart of Oxford.

The Covered Market in Oxford is a bustling, historic arcade tucked just off the High Street, with entrances on several nearby streets including Market Street and the corner of Turl Street.

Established in the 1770s, it was originally designed to bring street traders under one roof in a more orderly setting. Today, it’s a lively mix of traditional and modern, with butchers, bakers, greengrocers, and florists trading alongside cafés, gift shops, and street food stalls. The market’s glass-covered walkways and colourful storefronts create a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a favourite stop for locals, students, and visitors alike. Whether you’re after a handmade sandwich, a fresh bunch of flowers, or just a wander through Oxford’s living history, the Covered Market is not to be missed.

The Carfax in Oxford marks the historic heart of the city, where four major roads—Cornmarket Street, Queen Street, High Street, and St Aldate’s—converge. Its name comes from the Latin quadrifurcus, meaning u0022four-forked,u0022 a nod to this ancient crossroads.

Towering above the junction is the Carfax Tower, all that remains of the 12th-century St Martin’s Church, once Oxford’s official city church. The tower offers panoramic views over the city’s rooftops and spires and is a popular landmark for both locals and visitors. Surrounded by shops, cafés, and buskers, the Carfax remains a vibrant meeting point and a symbolic centre of Oxford life. For £4.00 (at the time of writing – 16/06/2025) you can go to the top of the tower. Be warned the winding staircases are narrow and steep but there are passing points on the way up.