Free self-guided walk · Oxford

Colleges and libraries

A free self-guided walk through central Oxford, from the Martyrs' Memorial along Broad Street to the Radcliffe Camera, the Bridge of Sighs and Christ Church.

Distance
1.4 km
Walking time
18 min
Allow
About 2 hours with stops
Stops
6

Open the route in Google MapsOxford city guide

About this walk

This walk passes Oxford's most famous university buildings in under an hour.

Many colleges open to visitors at set times.

  • Terrain: Flat and paved.
  • Best time: Morning, when colleges more often open.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Martyrs' Memorial

    Start at the memorial on St Giles.

  2. Sheldonian Theatre

    Wren's ceremonial hall.

  3. Bridge of Sighs

    Hertford College's bridge.

  4. Radcliffe Camera

    The domed library.

  5. Carfax Tower

    The central crossroads.

  6. Christ Church

    Finish at Tom Tower.

Tips

  • Check college opening times on the day.
  • The Radcliffe Camera is open only to readers or on tours.
  • Christ Church Meadow is free.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.