History Features

For around a thousand years the Oxford Castle has stood in the heart of the city, walled off and largely closed to the public, but now you can explore its unique and varied history by visiting Unlocked, a visitor attraction.

From the top of the tower with the tale of the Empress Matilda’s dramatic escape during the war of allegiances, to the mysteries of the ancient crypt, it has a myriad of hidden tales for you to discover.

The centre uses state of the art portable video displays as well as real guides to help you enjoy the experience to the maximum and learn all you need to know about the events that took place there over the years.

To get a sampler of what you can expect to see when you visit join BBC Oxford’s Tim Bearder on his three part tour of the Oxford Castle.

Part 1
Kat and Tim ascend the tower and admire the view of the city.

Part 2
Seb and Tim enter the crypt below the tower to examine the unusual plant life that grows down there.

Part 3
Tim is joined by Yvonne and Tracey for a journey through time and around the prison. Along the way you’ll hear about John Lilburne, Mary Blandy, Anne Green and her escape from anatomisation, Giles Freeman Covington’s skeleton, and Prison Governor Daniel Harris.