Experience a day of two contrasting but equally delightful adventures: exploring Oxford’s centuries-old colleges and strolls through stylish Bicester Village. For $518.59 per person, this private 10-hour trip combines history, architecture, and retail therapy, making it ideal for those craving an authentic taste of England beyond London’s busy streets. The tour offers a seamless way to enjoy Oxford’s timeless charm and high-end shopping at discounted prices without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating on your own.
What we love most about this experience is the serene drive through the English countryside—a chance to relax and soak in the pastoral views—and the chance to shop at Bicester Village, where discounts up to 60% give you access to top designers like Gucci, Alexander McQueen, and Armani. Both parts of the tour offer something memorable; Oxford with its historic university atmosphere, and Bicester Village with its picturesque shopping layout.
A potential consideration? Since the tour doesn’t include guided commentary or tickets, it’s up to you to do a little pre-planning for entrances or special exhibits you might want to see. Also, the 4-hour stop in Oxford means you’ll need to prioritize your sightseeing, especially if you’re a history buff or a college enthusiast.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, no-fuss day trip that balances culture, history, and shopping—perfect if you’re visiting London and craving a taste of the countryside and sophistication in one go.
Key Points
Flexible itinerary: The tour operates on availability with checkable starting times, offering convenience for varied schedules.
All-inclusive transport: Private vehicle and driver mean you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking, making the day smooth and comfortable.
Rich experience at Oxford: With 4 hours at Oxford, you’ll get a good taste of historic streets, iconic colleges, and beautiful architecture.
Luxury shopping: Bicester Village’s designer boutiques offer discounted prices, making it a worthwhile stop for fashion lovers.
No guided commentary: The tour doesn’t include a guide, so you’ll need to explore on your own or do some pre-visit research.
Price reflects exclusivity: For just over $500, you get a private group experience, transportation, and the flexibility to customize your day.
A Detailed Look at the Oxford & Bicester Village Tour
Starting from London, the journey begins with a private pickup, ensuring a stress-free start. You’ll be whisked away in a modern, clean vehicle—an important detail, as the reviews praise the vehicle’s comfort and cleanliness. This private setup offers the flexibility to customize your experience, and the driver is an English-speaking professional who’ll handle the navigation and timing.
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Oxford: A Walk Through Time
Once in Oxford, you’ll spend about 4 hours exploring. The itinerary includes a photo stop, a chance to stroll the ancient streets, and visits to notable colleges like Christ Church and Magdalen. These are some of the most iconic sights, showcasing the breathtaking Gothic architecture and historic university buildings that have inspired countless visitors.
What makes Oxford so captivating is the blend of stunning architecture, storied academic traditions, and a vibrant college town atmosphere. You might find yourself marveling at the quads and cloisters, imagining the centuries of students who have walked the same paths.
One review mentions, “We loved the way the streets felt timeless, and the colleges are even more impressive in person,” capturing how Oxford’s history and architecture can truly transport you.
The Drive Through the Countryside
After soaking in Oxford’s atmosphere, your driver will take you on a scenic drive through the English countryside—a highlight for many travelers. Expect rolling hills, patchwork fields, and perhaps a glimpse of quaint villages. This peaceful journey allows you to transition from the bustle of the city to the more relaxed pace of rural England.
Shopping at Bicester Village
The next stop is Bicester Village, where you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring. The village’s layout resembles a charming English country town, with cobblestone pathways and boutique storefronts. Here, you’ll find over 160 designer boutiques, offering discounts of up to 60%—a real treat for fashion lovers eager to pick up luxury items at reduced prices.
Brands like Gucci, Armani, Alexander McQueen, and others make this a shopper’s paradise. The reviews indicate that many visitors find the prices well worth the visit, especially if you’re looking to add a high-end piece to your wardrobe. The relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting also encourage leisurely browsing, meaning you can truly enjoy the shopping experience without feeling rushed.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Return to London
After your time at Bicester, you’ll be driven back to London, completing a 10-hour day filled with history, scenery, and shopping. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose to leave early or stay longer, depending on your interests.
Analyzing the Value
At a cost of $518.59 per person, this tour offers a luxurious, private experience that takes the stress out of planning transportation and logistics. The price includes pickup, drop-off, and private transport, which in London can be tricky and costly to arrange independently.
While the tour doesn’t include admission, tickets, or a guide, this isn’t necessarily a downside. Many travelers appreciate the freedom to explore Oxford’s colleges and shops at their own pace. You might want to purchase tickets ahead of time for certain colleges or exhibits, but the flexibility allows you to tailor your visit.
The 10-hour duration balances enough time at each stop with a comfortable pace, avoiding the rushed feeling common in larger group tours. The private setting means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience—good for travelers wanting an exclusive day out.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for culture vulture and shopping enthusiasts who value comfort and flexibility. It suits those who appreciate historic university towns, enjoy scenic drives, and want access to luxury brands at discounted prices. If you’re visiting London and looking for a day trip that combines history, style, and countryside scenery, this tour hits all those notes.
The Sum Up
For travelers eager to step outside London’s urban buzz and enjoy a well-curated day of sightseeing and shopping, this private tour strikes a fine balance. The combination of Oxford’s historic charm and Bicester Village’s designer boutiques offers a satisfying mix of education and indulgence. The private setup, comfortable transportation, and flexible itinerary make it an appealing choice for those seeking a relaxed, personalized experience—whether you’re a history lover, a fashion enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a day in England’s most picturesque spots.
While it’s not a guided tour, the freedom to explore at your own pace, combined with the scenic drive, makes this a valuable option—especially if you cherish comfort and exclusivity. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers who prefer a tailored, hassle-free day without sacrificing depth or authenticity.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is private, so traveling solo is perfectly fine. You’ll get the entire experience tailored just for you.
Are entrance tickets included?
No, the tour does not include admission or tickets. You’ll need to purchase separate tickets if you want to go inside specific colleges or exhibits.
What’s the duration of the entire trip?
The whole journey lasts around 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and shopping stops.
Can I customize my experience?
While the tour is scheduled, the private nature means you can discuss your preferences with the driver beforehand, like spending more time at Oxford or Bicester.
Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy food during your stops.
Do I need to share my pickup location?
Yes, you should share your precise pickup address to ensure smooth pickup arrangements.
What kind of vehicle will I be traveling in?
A modern, clean private vehicle with professional driver, praised for comfort and reliability in reviews.
Is this experience suitable for older travelers or those with mobility issues?
While the vehicle is comfortable, navigating Oxford’s historic streets and colleges might be challenging for mobility-impaired travelers. It’s best to consider personal comfort levels.
This private tour from London offers a well-rounded day that combines historic elegance and modern luxury shopping, making it an ideal choice for those who want a memorable, flexible, and stress-free outing.
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