15
ARTS, CULTURE & TOURISM
44-46 Oxford Castle
Oxford, OX1 1AY
Booking and
general enquiries:
01865 260666
Oxford Castle & Prison is a unique venue set in
the heart of one of the UK’s most beautiful cities.
Comprising a visitor attraction, state of the art
conference facilities and cafe, the castle provides
a truly unique setting for corporate hospitality and
private events. Oxford Castle offers both day and
evening hire options as well entertainment packages
to suit the nature of the event. Take a guided tour
of Oxford Castle and let the characters reveal their
fascinating stories entrenched in the building’s 1,000
year history. Led by one of the costumed character
guides, the rich history of Oxford and the castle will
be revealed as you climb the Saxon St George’s
Tower, one of the oldest buildings in Oxford, and
enjoy its stunning 360° panoramic views over the
historic city. You’ll also descend deep underground
into the dark atmosphere of the 900 year-old crypt,
the only surviving remains of St. George’s Chapel,
explore the austere confines of the 18th century
Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-Wing and scale the
Mound of the 11th century motte and bailey castle.
After your tour, you’ll be inducted into the castle’s
prison and wider site where you will be able to
explore at your own leisure. The castle is a large,
partly ruined Norman medieval castle, much of
whose original moated, wooden motte and bailey
was replaced in stone in the 11th century and played
an important role in the conflict of the Anarchy. Most
of the castle was destroyed in the English Civil War
and by the 18th century the remaining buildings
had become Oxford’s local prison. A new prison
complex was built on the site from 1785 onwards and
expanded in 1876; this became HM Prison Oxford.
In addition to touring the crumbling castle, look out
for ghost walking tours, themed gatherings and other
seasonal events throughout the year.
OXFORD CASTLE & PRISON
