Oxford Castle & Prison

Explore 1000 years of history at Oxford Castle and Prison. Step back in time on a costumed guided tour and hear fascinating stories come to life. Find out about medieval sieges, infamous trials and famous inmates and discover how crime and punishment changed through the centuries. Step inside the padded jail cell and meet the notorious ‘Black Panther’, a vicious prisoner held here in the 1970s.

Discover gorgeous views from the top of St. George’s Tower and the Castle Mound and then descend into the atmospheric Norman crypt. Explore the austere confines of the prison’s D-Wing and Debtors Tower where you can wander through the cells and learn about their youngest inmates.

During the summer children can join a popular Knight School session: a medieval inspired workshop which trains children to become little warriors. Oxford Castle and Prison also hosts the Annual Oxford Shakespeare Festival with a series of productions in the Castleyard and runs Spooky Tours and Potion Making workshops during the Halloween season and festive lantern lit tours and a family Christmas Trail in December.

Shop

Visit the unique gift shop which is built into the walls of the castle and prison. Open daily from 10.00am-5.30pm, come and browse their selection of local Oxfordshire products, replica weaponry, mead, books, children’s toys and more. You can also purchase your own Hall of Names or Mugshot product.

Open daily from 10.00am to 5.30pm

Please note, prices are subject to availability and restrictions apply. Please book in advance at Online Booking.

Prices

Adult from £16.20
Child (5-15) from £10.35
Student (with valid ID) from £15.30
Carer FREE
Child (under 5) FREE*

*Visitors under 5 years of age will not be permitted access to St George’s Tower due to health and safety regulations.

Admission is via guided tour only.