Explore the history of Oxford Castle and Prison with a guided tour that brings the site’s 1,000-year legacy to life. Guided by costumed characters, you'll delve into the rich past of this formidable building and learn about the famous figures that were incarcerated here. Discover tales of great escapes, medieval crime, punishment, and the daily life of a prisoner. As you walk through the centuries-old corridors, you'll get a glimpse of the original Saxon stone-built St. George's Tower, the 18th-century Debtors' Tower and the Prison D-Wing, and climb the Saxon St George’s Tower for a breathtaking view of Oxford.
King of the Castle is a family-friendly event that transforms the castle into a medieval arena of fun and learning. Step back in time and immerse in historical activities, meet characters from the past, and engage in interactive exhibits. Youngsters can learn about knighthood, heraldry, and even partake in a mini ‘knight school’ where they’ll discover the skills and chivalry required in medieval times. Parents and children alike can marvel at displays of armor and weaponry, and maybe witness a mock battle or jousting tournament, contingent on the season and event programming of the castle.
Oxford Castle and Prison hosts the chilling Ghost Fest, where the bravest souls can explore the supernatural side of this historic location. Ghost Hunts provide a spine-tingling experience, as professional ghost hunters guide you through the castle's most haunted areas, armed with ghost-detecting equipment. You'll hear stories of unexplained phenomena and maybe encounter the spirits that still linger behind these ancient walls. This thrilling activity is not for the faint-hearted but is a must for anyone interested in the paranormal and the castle's darker past. The event usually occurs around Halloween and is a seasonal highlight at the castle.
Test your wits and teamwork skills in the 'Escape The Castle' experience—an adventure that challenges participants to solve puzzles and crack codes to escape a historically-themed room within the castle grounds. The activity is set within the historical context of the castle and designed to provide an engaging and mentally stimulating encounter. With the clock ticking, participants must work together quickly and efficiently, harnessing history and logic to secure their freedom before time runs out. This activity is excellent for friends, families, or team-building exercises.
As one of Oxford's oldest buildings, the Saxon St. George's Tower offers visitors the chance to gaze out over the cityscape from its top. The Tower Tour involves climbing a series of steps to reach the viewing platform, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of historic Oxford. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the tower's history, its architectural significance, and its role within the castle complex. This is the perfect opportunity for those interested in architecture and historic buildings, as well as photography enthusiasts looking for the perfect snapshot of Oxford's skyline.
For the curious and the courageous, Castle After Dark offers an exclusive evening experience that unveils Oxford Castle and Prison under the shroud of night. Attendees will be taken on a tour highlighting the castle’s eerie history, punctuated with stories about the castle’s prisoners and their fates. The atmosphere of the castle at night lends an extra layer of intensity to the tales being told, making it a visceral experience. Be prepared for some chilling encounters as the event promises a mix of history, storytelling, and potentially otherworldly interactions.
Add a touch of intrigue to your visit with a Murder Mystery Evening. These interactive experiences invite you to solve a fictitious crime set within the walls of Oxford Castle and Prison. As a guest detective, you'll interview characters, follow leads, and try to unmask the culprit before they slip away. Each event has a unique theme or storyline, making it a fresh experience even for return visitors. This social and engaging activity is an ideal choice for those who love puzzles, storytelling, and a bit of theatrical flair. The Murder Mystery Evening provides a mix of entertainment, dining, and sleuthing.
Medieval Mayhem is a day-time family event that encompasses various activities designed to educate and entertain, all with a medieval theme. Kids can try their hand at traditional crafts, handle replica armor and weapons under supervision, and take part in period games. The event often includes demonstrations of medieval combat, storytelling sessions, and interactive history displays. It's an excellent way for children to learn about the past in an enjoyable and interactive setting, making education feel like an adventure.
Adjacent to Oxford Castle is the ancient motte or mound, which visitors can climb for a modest fee. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the castle complex and its surroundings. The mound is what remains of the original motte-and-bailey castle that once stood on the site, making the climb not just a physical activity but also a journey through history. Information boards on the mound's peak provide historical context and identify various landmarks visible from this vantage point.
The Prison Life Exhibition allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the history of imprisonment at Oxford Castle. Through a series of displays and interactive elements, you'll learn about the evolution of the penal system, the daily lives of inmates, and the reforms that have shaped modern prisons. The exhibition is informative and engaging, designed to provide insights into the social history of Oxford and the significant movements that have led to the change in penal practices. It's an enlightening journey through the darker chapters of the castle's past.
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