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Bodleian Library, Oxford

4.5
#3 of 20 in Historic Sites in Oxford
Architectural Building · Hidden Gem · Library
Meander through the 400-year-old stacks of Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford. As one of the oldest libraries in Europe, the five-building cluster boasts original architecture and represents the university’s fascinating history. Visit the university’s oldest teaching room or admire the ornate decor of the main study halls. Take a guided tour for a complete interior and exterior viewing and to learn more about the university’s history. Plan to eat before or after your visit, as food and drinks are not served at the library. Plan to visit Bodleian Library and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Oxford attractions using our Oxford trip itinerary app.
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Tours to Bodleian Library

FROM $28 BOOK WITH VIATOR Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide
4.6
Duration: 2 hours
Tours from $28 »
FROM $28 BOOK WITH VIATOR 'Inspector Morse,' 'Lewis,' and 'Endeavour' Walking Tour of Oxford
4.9
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Tours from $28 »
FROM $35 BOOK WITH VIATOR Harry Potter Insights Oxford PUBLIC Tour entry to Divinity School - from May 17
4.4
Duration: 90 to 120 minutes
Tours from $35 »

Bodleian Library reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
2,261 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • By mariemZ364RR
    We have chosen the option "visit with a guide" with a duration of 30 minutes. Jessica, who is passionate about the history of the library, had great pleasure in immersing us in history and answering.....  more »
  • By Gillian L
    In many ways this is the building I consider to be the most iconic when thinking of Oxford, The architecture of this ancient university city is quite remarkable and has contributed to this city's...  more »
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Google
  • By Lil' Marmite
    This library is absolutely amazing and contains almost every book ever published do you will never be disappointed in the amount of choice. Another thing is that is is a national treasure and has so much history behind it, anyone wanting to know about the history of Oxford should definitely visit.
  • By Sasha Lyon
    We went for a tour of the Bodlian Library and as two history buffs and book obsessives, this was WONDERFUL! Seeing all those old books brought tears to my eyes I absolutely loved it! I wish I could have held them and opened them, but I understand why it was forbidden. Truly magical experience and our tour guide was great!
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