Plan your visit

Take a walk around the Sheldonian at your own pace with a self-guided tour.

Simply pick up a leaflet at reception and take yourself around. Our friendly team will be on hand to answer any questions that you might have! 

Are you curious to find out more about the University’s extraordinary, majestic, violent and surprisingly peculiar story?

You can book a guided tour with our preferred tour guide, Oxford City Walks, which not only takes you inside the theatre, but also walks around the nearby buildings to explain how their significance.  A unique opportunity to hear stories from the Sheldonian's past, step inside and uncover it's secrets! Find out more below.

There are plenty of reputable general walking tours of Oxford which you can book or join on the day, many of which stop by the Sheldonian Theatre. Head over to Trip Advisor for a list of tour options to choose from. 

As one of Oxford's most iconic tourist attractions, the Sheldonian is a fantastic place to visit as a group, whether for educational purposes or a day trip out. 

A warm welcome is extended to group visits for both self-guided and guided tours, such as schools, students, societies, businesses, group travel organisers, tour guides and other organisations. Tour leaders, blue badge guide holders and coach drivers can enjoy free admission with their group.

Schools or groups bringing children or young children into the theatre are required to complete a full risk assessment prior to their visit. Teachers and group leaders are requested to contact the Sheldonian Team in advance on +44 (0) 1865 277299. 

The charge of a group tour is dependent on group requirements and our team will be pleased to help with your enquiry. 

We aim to make your visit to the Sheldonian Theatre as comfortable as possible and will do our best to support you when visiting. Due to the historical nature of the building, it does not meet modern day building regulations and all accessibility requirements. Whilst the main theatre is accessible, some areas (Cupola, Attic area, Cecil Jackson room and basement) are currently inaccessible to wheelchair users or those with significant mobility problems. Children visiting the theatre should be supervised at all times. 

If you think you will need additional support, please do read our Accessibility information before your visit to help make the most of your day.

Accessibility Guide

Please take a read of our accessibility guide.

Sheldonian Theatre Seating Plan

If you are attending an event at the Sheldonian Theatre, please take a moment to view the seating guide below. The accessible door is Door E. The theatre has steep steps so we would recommend that anyone with mobility concerns should call the Oxford University Event Venues team on +44 (0) 1865 276905 prior to the event. They will then be able to advise you where best to book a seat, or give directions for when you arrive.