44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY
Oxford Castle is a large, partly ruined medieval castle on the western side of central Oxford in Oxfordshire, England. Most of the original moated, wooden motte and bailey castle was replaced in stone in the late 12th or early 13th century and the castle played an important role in the conflict of the Anarchy.
Oxford Castle & Prison is a unique attraction that offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the history of England. Located in the heart of Oxford, this medieval castle has stood for nearly a thousand years, and its walls have witnessed many important moments in English history.
For tourists interested in history, Oxford Castle & Prison is a must-visit destination. The castle was built in the 11th century by Norman baron Robert D'Oyly, who was rewarded with the land after the Norman Conquest. The castle was designed to serve as a defensive structure, protecting the surrounding area from potential invaders.
Over the centuries, the castle served a variety of purposes, including a royal residence, a prison, and even a court. The castle's prison was particularly infamous, with its cramped and unsanitary conditions that held prisoners for years or even decades. Visitors can explore the prison and learn about the harsh conditions that prisoners faced during their confinement.
Today, Oxford Castle & Prison is a popular tourist attraction that offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and stunning views of Oxford from the top of St. George's Tower. The tours provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the castle's rich history and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked there.
One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the preserved underground crypt. This eerie space was used for storing wine and beer, but it was also the site of several gruesome executions. Visitors can also walk along the castle's ramparts and explore the castle's keep.
For those who love ghost stories, Oxford Castle & Prison is a perfect destination. The castle is said to be haunted by the spirits of former prisoners and guards, and visitors have reported seeing unexplained phenomena throughout the castle.
In addition to its historical significance, Oxford Castle & Prison is a great destination for families. Children will love the interactive exhibits, which provide a hands-on look at life in medieval times. The castle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including reenactments and festivals.
Overall, Oxford Castle & Prison is an excellent destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the supernatural. The castle's rich history and stunning views of Oxford make it a must-visit attraction for tourists from around the world.
Oxford Castle & Prison is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Oxford, England. This historic site has been standing for over 900 years and offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the city's fascinating past. But the castle and prison are not the only things to see and do in the area. In this article, we will explore some of the best places and things to do nearby Oxford Castle & Prison from a tourist perspective.
1. Oxford University Museum of Natural History
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is located just a short walk from Oxford Castle & Prison. This world-renowned museum boasts a collection of over 7 million specimens, including the famous Oxford Dodo. The museum's stunning architecture and extensive collection make it a must-visit attraction for tourists.
2. The Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world and is also just a short distance from Oxford Castle & Prison. The museum's collection includes art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as works by European masters like Michelangelo and Rembrandt.
3. Carfax Tower
Located in the heart of Oxford, Carfax Tower offers stunning views of the city from its top. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in panoramic views of Oxford's spires, parks, and streets.
4. Christ Church College
Christ Church College is one of the most famous and picturesque colleges at the University of Oxford. The college's impressive architecture has been featured in many films, including the Harry Potter series. Visitors can take a tour of the college's grounds and explore its stunning buildings and gardens.
5. The Covered Market
The Covered Market is a historic shopping arcade located in the heart of Oxford. The market dates back to the 18th century and offers visitors a unique shopping experience. Visitors can browse the stalls and shops, sample local food and drink, and purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
6. Punting on the River Thames
Punting on the River Thames is a popular activity for visitors to Oxford. This traditional method of transportation allows visitors to see the city from a different perspective. Punting tours are available throughout the year, and visitors can even hire their own punts for a self-guided tour.
7. Oxford Botanic Garden
The Oxford Botanic Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world and is located just a short walk from Oxford Castle & Prison. The garden boasts a collection of over 5,000 plant species, including rare and endangered plants. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In conclusion, Oxford Castle & Prison is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and architecture. However, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the area, including visiting museums, colleges, and markets, punting on the river, and exploring beautiful botanical gardens. With so much to see and do, visitors to Oxford Castle & Prison will find themselves spoilt for choice.
| Tuesday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–6 pm |
| Monday | 10 am–5:30 pm |
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