Oxford Castle & Prison

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Commissioned by William the Conqueror, Oxford Castle & Prison’s ancient stones chart a remarkable millennium-long journey from a formidable Norman stronghold and royal residence to a seat of justice and, until 1996, a working county jail. Costumed guides bring this incredible history to life, sharing tales of infamous criminals, daring escapes, and pivotal moments. Your exploration can take you deep into the 900-year-old crypt of St. George's Chapel, an area linked to Oxford's earliest academic roots, and then high up St. George’s Tower, one of the city's oldest structures, for breathtaking panoramic views across the historic skyline and its famed dreaming spires.

Beyond the standard tours revealing the evolution of crime and punishment, you can delve into the stark 18th-century Debtors' Tower and the austere Victorian Prison D-Wing, stepping inside original cells. The formidable 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle mound offers a tangible link to the site's earliest defences. Oxford Castle & Prison also hosts a vibrant calendar of events, including spooky seasonal tours, family-friendly activities like Knight School, and open-air Shakespeare performances in the Castleyard. After your journey through time, a unique gift shop within the old prison walls and the welcoming Castleyard Café provide perfect spots to reflect on this dramatically different facet of Oxford's rich history, all just a short stroll from the train and coach stations.

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Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM