Carfax Junction Tours
The junction of High Street, Cornmarket Street, Queen Street, and St. Aldgate’s, Carfax is a major meeting point in the heart of Oxford. The lofty St. Martin’s Tower (Carfax Tower), which offers some of the best views of the “city of dreaming spires,” sits at the intersection.
The Basics
A useful navigation landmark and one of Oxford’s busiest intersections, Carfax Junction was once the site of St. Martin’s Church, built in the 12th century and demolished in 1896 to widen the roads. Its tower, which stands 74 feet (23 meters) high, was constructed in 1818 and is the only remaining vestige of the church. Visitors willing to climb its 99 steps are rewarded with views of the surrounding cityscape.
Given its central location, Carfax can be glimpsed on city tours, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, and private taxi journeys. It is also an accessible public landmark that can be visited independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to look at Carfax Tower’s eastern facade, where two decorative figures chime bells every 15 minutes.
- The Carfax Tower is central Oxford’s tallest point, so it's both a highly visible landmark and an ideal vantage point for sightseeing.
- Carfax Tower has ticketed entry, though admission is priced affordably.
How to Get There
Located as it is in Oxford’s center, Carfax can be reached on foot (it’s a 15-minute walk from the Oxford train station), by taxi, or by bike. It’s also served by the 1 and 5 buses and hop-on hop-off bus tours.
When to Get There
Carfax itself is always accessible, and those wishing to visit the Carfax Tower can do so daily, with reduced hours in the off-season, especially November–February. The tower is closed on Dec. 25–26 and Jan. 1.
Nearby Attractions
Carfax is conveniently located within walking distance of most of Oxford’s major attractions. The Oxford Covered Market, Museum of Oxford, Christ Church College, Magdalen College, Ashmolean Museum, and more are just steps away. Sightsee on your own or with a guided private or group tour for ease.
Address: Oxford OX1 1ET, England
Admission: Varies
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Carfax Junction
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3-Hour Private Tour of Oxford With University Alumni Guide
Building upon the success of our 2-hour tour, this extended 3-hour version now includes entry into one of the oldest colleges at Oxford University. It also incorporates visiting the world-famous Bodleian Library, one of the best examples of Medieval architecture in Europe, and a Harry Potter film site. As always, this is done uniquely with our Oxford University student guides.
…More
From
$153.14
Price varies by group size
From
$153.14
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Self-Guided Treasure Hunt around Oxford - Towers and Taverns
A fun and different way to see Oxford!
Solve satisfying clues and follow beautiful maps sent to your phones.
Spot things other people take for granted!
You’ll learn interesting facts and stories.
Everything is outdoors and you can do social distancing.
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From
$13.91
From
$13.91
Private Tour, Highlights of Oxford including entry to one College
Join us for this 3 hour tour of England’s must see city, home for over 800 years to both Royalty and Scholars. Your private guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey around one of the 38 colleges that make up Oxford University. You can marvel at the amazing architecture, learn what it’s like to study here and discover the most famous alumni.
We will then wind our way through the city learning about the foundation of the University, as well as more modern history in the shape of Harry Potter. Your private Blue Badge guide is full of facts and stories to engage and entertain you during the tour making for a terrific experience.
…More
From
$264.17
Price varies by group size
From
$264.17
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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