Bridge of Sighs Tours
4 Reviews

Linking the two halves of Hertford College, the Bridge of Sighs (formally known as Hertford Bridge) arcs above New College Lane in the heart of Oxford. Despite its ancient-seeming exterior and leaded windows, it’s only a little over a century old. While it shares a name with the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, it actually looks much more similar to that city’s Rialto Bridge.
The Basics
Hertford College, of which the Bridge of Sighs forms part, is closed to visitors, with the exception of alumni, students’ guests, and prospective applicants, so there’s no way to cross the Bridge of Sighs itself. It’s easy enough to admire it from street level when exploring downtown Oxford, either independently or on an Oxford walking or cycling tour. Although New College Lane is narrow, plenty of Oxford tours include a photo-stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A stop at the Bridge of Sighs is a must on any photography tour of Oxford.
- The official name of the Bridge of Sighs is Hertford Bridge.
- New College Lane is wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
The Bridge of Sighs spans New College Lane in central Oxford, a stone’s throw from the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera. Almost everyone explores central Oxford on foot, or occasionally by bicycle, and it’s easiest to arrive by bus or train. Most London trains start from Paddington, while the popular Oxford Tube coach service stops at Shepherd’s Bush, Notting Hill Gate, Marble Arch, and Victoria.
When to Get There
As one of the University of Oxford’s signature sights, and within easy reach of the Bodleian Library, the Bridge of Sighs attracts plenty of visitors, especially over the summer peak (roughly late June through August). Your best chance at an uninterrupted shot of the structure is to visit either early or late in the day, before or after the group tours leave.
The Many, Many Bridges of Sighs
It’s not clear how Hertford Bridge acquired its nickname, but it joins a host of other Bridges of Sighs, from Nevada to Stockholm. Venice’s Bridge of Sighs got its name because it linked a prison and an interrogation room, and Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs was likely named for the Venetian original, although some associate the sighing with the rigors of university examinations.
Address: Oxford, United Kingdom, England
27 Tours and Activities to Experience Bridge of Sighs
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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.
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From
$27.89
From
$27.89
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.
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From
$69.73
From
$69.73
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

2-Hour Cycle Tour of Oxford
See more of Oxford in less time, and get up close and personal with its world-famous scenery, on this small-group biking tour of the city and its major landmarks. Meet your guide in the center of Oxford, and climb on your cycle. Begin by discovering the Bridge of Sighs and other historical landmarks in the city center before heading to the Port Meadow and cycling along the Thames River. Finally, see the former residences of famous Oxford denizens like J.R.R. Tolkien.
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From
$41.85
From
$41.85
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

'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.
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From
$27.90
From
$27.90
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.
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From
$34.86
From
$34.86
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

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.
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From
$34.86
From
$34.86
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Bespoke Oxford Walking Tour with a Private Guide
Explore the university city of Oxford with your own private guide, and discover the history behind its standout sights such as the Bodleian Library, Bridge of Sighs, and the Sheldonian Theatre. With your guide, you’ll also see some of the famous university colleges, and learn about the institution’s history from its humble roots to its worldwide prestige today.
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From
$200.30
per group
From
$200.30
per group
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

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.
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From
$69.73
Price varies by group size
From
$69.73
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.
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From
$107.31
Price varies by group size
From
$107.31
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

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.
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From
$69.73
Price varies by group size
From
$69.73
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 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.
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From
$139.49
per group
From
$139.49
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 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.
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From
$146.47
per group
From
$146.47
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

Oxford Highlights Small Group Tour
Explore the university city of Oxford on a tour that showcases its highlights in just a couple of hours. The walking tour introduces you to many of Oxford's famous colleges and university buildings as you stroll around the city with a guide. Get recommendations for things to do and see in the city in your own time, and hear insider tips for Oxford's many restaurants. The experience includes a visit inside one college and either the Divinity School or the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.
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From
$26.50
From
$26.50
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Spencer’s Tour for Oxford (Private, all proceeds to Oxford charities)
100% of your booking fee will be donated to two Oxfordshire-based charities, supporting vulnerable individuals facing homelessness and addiction in the city.
The city of Oxford is commonly considered as being divided into two groups: the Town (local residents) and the Gown (students of the University). While I am certainly a ‘townie’, both my girlfriend and sister are studying doctorates at the University of Oxford. This gives me a unique perspective on both sides of the community and the city, and I will share it with you in a tour so entertaining and memorable that you will wish you lived here, or your money back!
We’ll cover as much as we can in 90 minutes. If you wish to continue the tour, I’m happy to discuss extending it where possible. Please note that entry fees are not included, though they are not necessary for a fantastic tour.
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From
$83.70
per group
From
$83.70
per group

Costumed Ghost Tour of Oxford with Special Guests
A spooky adventure packed with the most chilling and torturous deaths seen anywhere in England. Complete with surprise appearances from a range of vengeful and disgruntled spirits. Bring an open mind, courage and a spare pair of underwear!
Venture through the dark alleyways and haunted squares while enjoying mysterious tales of ghosts, horror and sinister happenings. This tour has been designed to bring across the drama of Oxford’s terrifying history with equal attention to making you laugh both nervously and contagiously. Our expertly trained actors will play out before you some of the most barbaric and brutal punishments ever exacted.
This tour should not be taken by the faint-hearted as it includes the surprise appearance of multiple wild beasts! Side effects may include sleepless night, potential whiplash and euphoric exultation. Luckily this tour ends next to one of the most historic and famous pubs in Oxford, should you require assistance to regain your spirits.
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From
$23.70
From
$23.70

TWO DAYS TOUR of Oxford City plus Cotswolds Cycle Tours
Day 1: See the city of Oxford's most well known & less known best sights as locals do on 2 wheels. Includes visit inside colleges.
Day 2: Make use of an electric bike to enjoy an adventurous ride of approx 40km, taking in scenic views & picturesque villages in the Cotswolds
Tour officially starts from March 30th but if you have a request for earlier dates, please ask viator to contact us!
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From
$557.97
Price varies by group size
From
$557.97
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

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.
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From
$107.31
Price varies by group size
From
$107.31
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 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.
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From
$209.24
per group
From
$209.24
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 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
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From
$278.98
Price varies by group size
From
$278.98
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
$278.98
Price varies by group size
From
$278.98
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 River Cruise + Walking Tour to Iffley village
Fall in love with Oxford by joining a relaxing 20 minute Thames river cruise to Iffley village. Then walk or take the cruise back again Thames path. We'll see the Norman chapel & medieval homes in Iffley village. Special focus on Alice in Wonderland heritage and the Oxford rowing tradition.
This tour includes about 1 mile walk at start of tour past famous university sights introduced briefly by the guide. After the cruise ends, we have one hour in Iffley village and then a 3 mile walk along the scenic Thames river path back to Oxford city.
For anyone who has mobility walking issues, please let us know when booking as alternatively we could just replace the walk back from Iffley with either a return trip on the river cruise or a taxi back to the city.
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From
$104.62
Price varies by group size
From
$104.62
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!
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From
$8.36
From
$8.36
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.
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From
$104.62
From
$104.62
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Social Distancing Specialised Oxford University Walking Tour With Student Guides
Designed to see the best of Oxford in a safe environment with the smallest group sizing we have ever done. With this specialised tour we take important measure to protect your health, and those around you. All our Oxford University student guides wear medical masks. In addition to this, group sizing is inline with Social Distancing Rules (currently we have the smallest group sizing of any tour company in Oxford). Furthermore, all guides must submit their temperature before providing the tour.
This tour has all the most famous sites in Oxford, with our unique guides providing a fun and entertaining insight into one of the most important cities in the world. See the world-famous sites such as the Bodleian Library and Christ Church – both of which were Harry Potter film sites! Get the inside story on Oxford ceremonies, student life, college rivalries and much, much more!
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From
$27.90
From
$27.90
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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