Radcliffe Camera Tours

Radcliffe Camera which includes heritage elements and heritage architecture
Radcliffe Camera featuring heritage elements
Radcliffe Camera showing heritage elements and heritage architecture
Radcliffe Camera which includes heritage elements
Radcliffe Camera which includes heritage elements and heritage architecture


This splendid 18th-century building was the first rotunda library in Britain and is one of the most recognizable Oxford landmarks.

Radcliffe Camera is an impressive neo-Gothic structure that currently houses the reading rooms for the Bodleian Library. It stands out from the surrounding architecture with its unusual cylindrical shape and its eye-catching dome.

The word camera derives from the Latin term for “room.” Since architect James Gibbs completed it in 1747, the building has had several uses, including as an independent library, although it is now part of the university.

From the outside, inspect the structure’s impressive architectural features, which make it a design icon. This is one of the University of Oxford’s most photographed buildings and is the earliest example of a circular library in the United Kingdom.

This part of the library can only be accessed by students or by those taking guided tours. Take the Upstairs, Downstairs at the Bodleian Library tour to access the interior. Upon entry, you’ll find that the interior is as majestic as the façade, with its Corinthian columns and pedimented windows adding to the grandeur. Note the balconies full of books that run along the circular walls of the library. The tour also leads through the subterranean tunnel running between the Radcliffe Camera and the Old Bodleian Library.

Climb up the nearby tower of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin to see the fascinating dome at eye level. Be sure to bring your camera along so you can take photos of the building from this excellent vantage point.

Radcliffe Camera is between the university colleges of Brasenose, All Souls and Exeter in the heart of the city. It is in an area full of intriguing attractions, including the Bodleian Library, the Sheldonian Theatre and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. Take a bus to the city center and walk east along the main high street for a few minutes to reach the site.

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Best Lodging Options Near Radcliffe Camera

The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton

The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton

5 out of 5
Beaumont Street, Oxford, England
The Randolph Hotel Oxford, a Graduate by Hilton
George Street Hotel

George Street Hotel

5 out of 5
15-19 George Street, Oxford, England
George Street Hotel
Malmaison Oxford

Malmaison Oxford

4 out of 5
3 Oxford Castle, Oxford, England
Malmaison Oxford
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre

Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre

4 out of 5
15 Paradise Street, Oxford, England
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre
The Store

The Store

5 out of 5
1-5 Broad Street, Oxford, UK, Oxford, England
The Store
Old Bank Hotel

Old Bank Hotel

4 out of 5
High Street, 92-94 0, Oxford, England
Old Bank Hotel
Vanbrugh House Hotel

Vanbrugh House Hotel

4 out of 5
20-24 St Michaels Street, Oxford, England
Vanbrugh House Hotel
Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel

Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel

4 out of 5
73 High Street, Oxford, England
Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel
voco Oxford Spires by IHG

voco Oxford Spires by IHG

4 out of 5
Abingdon Road, Oxford, England
voco Oxford Spires by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Radcliffe Camera

While visiting the Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by enjoying a theatrical performance nearby. Don't miss the chance to explore the Oxford Experience, which offers a captivating glimpse into the city's rich history and academic legacy. Whether you're strolling through the picturesque streets or savoring local cuisine, the area promises a memorable experience for every visitor.

Shopping

The Covered Market, just 0.1 miles from Radcliffe Camera, offers a vibrant local atmosphere with unique shops and eateries. Cowley Road, 0.7 miles away, features a mix of family-friendly stores and businesses. If you're up for a drive, Bicester Avenue is a great shopping mall located 10 miles away, blending entertainment and shopping.

Recreation

Explore Kassam Stadium, where you can enjoy thrilling sports events and soak up the energetic atmosphere. For a serene escape, head to Port Meadow, perfect for peaceful walks and relaxation amidst nature. Don’t miss the Oxford Ice Rink for a fun ice skating experience with friends and family.

Adventure

Explore the Thames Path National Trail, a scenic hiking trail located 6 miles from Radcliffe Camera, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a thrilling experience, visit High Ropes Oxford, a zipline ropes course found 7 miles away, offering an exhilarating adventure among the treetops.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Radcliffe Camera is vibrant and cultural, featuring venues like the Sheldonian Theatre, just 0.1 mile away, and New Theatre Oxford, 0.3 mile away. Enjoy family-friendly shows and romantic performances that capture the charm of this historic city.

Find the best attractions near Radcliffe Camera

When visiting Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, you'll find a blend of historic and modern colleges, as well as beautiful churches. This area offers a rich cultural experience perfect for families and travelers alike. Nearby attractions include Notley Abbey and various points of interest that enhance your visit to this iconic site. Don't miss the chance to explore the vibrant atmosphere surrounding Radcliffe Camera and enjoy everything Oxford has to offer.

  • University of Oxford: Located 0.3 miles from Radcliffe Camera, the University of Oxford is a historic institution that offers a rich tapestry of academic culture. Explore its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant atmosphere that has inspired scholars for centuries.
  • Christ Church College: Just 0.2 miles away, Christ Church College is not only an impressive church but also a key part of Oxford's cultural heritage. Admire the magnificent cathedral and the picturesque grounds, which have influenced many literary works and films.
  • Oxford Castle: Situated 0.4 miles from Radcliffe Camera, Oxford Castle is a captivating site that combines romance and history. Discover its medieval architecture and intriguing stories, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and romantics alike.

Best time to go to Radcliffe Camera

Visitor numbers around Radcliffe Camera is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Radcliffe Camera can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Radcliffe Camera falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Radcliffe Camera falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.1°F (4.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March43.0°F (6.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
December41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Radcliffe Camera

Visiting Radcliffe Camera can be budget-friendly with several saving tips. Enjoy free entry to the iconic site and consider traveling during cheaper months like January or late October to November for lower accommodation rates. Mondays tend to be the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Utilize Expedia's search tool to filter hotels by price and type, and consider package deals for savings on flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership grants exclusive discounts and allows you to earn cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Radcliffe Camera are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Radcliffe Camera is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Radcliffe Camera is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results from lowest to highest price to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type. For instance, if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Radcliffe Camera hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.