The Harry Potter Experience Staying at Christ Church B&B, University of Oxford

Fans of Harry Potter would likely want to visit Christ Church in Oxford where its grand staircase and great hall were featured in the movies. Entry tickets are however on the expensive side at GBP20-25 as of 2026.

But if you are looking to stay overnight at Oxford, and don’t mind simple and spartan accommodation. A good option is staying in the student accommodation during university vacation periods such as easter and summer breaks.

Guests are given a badge to wear to identify to staff that you are staying at the college. I was able to access the grounds including the Picture Gallery. The gallery was under renovation but should be open again by April 2026. It has a small but high-quality collection with works by Lippi, Carracci, Tintoretto and Veronese.

Breakfast was served at the Great Hall. I was seated at the front table which was a very cool experience.

Bookings can be made directly from college website at https://www.chch.ox.ac.uk/ or through UniversityRooms https://www.universityrooms.com/. Note that they can only accomodate adults (18+) and do not permit kids sharing. Remember these are student accommodations so do not expect 5-star service or a pillow menu. There are rooms with or without bathrooms. My bathroom facility was a small flight of stairs up – but it was no big deal and the place wasn’t busy. Price I thought was comparable, may be a bit cheaper than local hotel. But you get to feel like part of the college and saved money to see the Great Hall.