How to Plan Your Literary Tour in Oxford

Do you love classic British literature? Are you a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll? Then you’re in luck because Oxford is a treasure trove of literary landmarks and legends. Follow this guide on how to plan your self-guided audio tour and discover the city’s rich literary history.

Overview

The Oxford’s Literary Legends and Landmarks audio tour is a self-guided walking tour that takes you on a journey of the places that inspired some of the greatest writers of the English language. The tour lasts around 2 hours and covers approximately 2 miles. You can start, pause, or restart the tour at any time and complete it at your own pace.

What’s Included

Your tour includes lifetime access to the audio tour in English through the VoiceMap app for Android and iOS. You will also have offline access to audio maps and geodata. Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route are not included, so be sure to check the availability and the cost of each site before starting the tour.

You will be required to bring your smartphone and headphones to listen to the tour.

Transportation

The tour is a walking tour, so no transportation is required. However, if you are arriving from outside Oxford or are unfamiliar with the area, it is recommended to use public transportation.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point is located at the Carfax Tower on Queen St. Oxford OX1 1ET, UK. Before your arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Start Time

Confirm the start time with the local provider in advance of your experience.

Opening Hours

The tour is available to start at any time, as it is a self-guided tour. However, please be mindful of the opening hours of any attractions you will visit along the way.

End Point

The tour ends in front of The Eagle and Child pub on St Giles’ Street.

What to Expect

During the tour, you’ll visit some of the most notable landmarks that have inspired some of the most famous pieces of literature in the world. You’ll see the pub where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis met to discuss writing, the house where Alice in Wonderland was born, and the inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series. The tour will take you through Oxford’s streets and alleyways to discover the city’s long-lasting literary influence.

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. No pickup or drop-off service is included.

Book the Tour Here

Don’t miss out on discovering Oxford’s rich literary history. Book the Oxford’s Literary Legends and Landmarks audio tour here today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful and historic city located in southern England. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that visitors have a lot of questions about this fascinating place. Here are the top frequently asked questions about Oxford, along with informative answers.

1. What are the must-see attractions in Oxford?

Oxford has several world-class attractions that you shouldn’t miss. These include:

– The University of Oxford: The oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. You can take a guided tour of several colleges and marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture.

– Oxford Castle and Prison: This 11th-century castle has been turned into a museum, where you can learn about the history of the city and explore the castle’s underground crypt.

– Ashmolean Museum: The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest public museum in the UK, and it houses a stunning collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

– Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a must-see for book lovers. You can take a guided tour of the library and admire its stunning architecture.

2. What is the best time to visit Oxford?

The best time to visit Oxford is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The weather is warm and sunny, and the city is bustling with students and tourists. However, keep in mind that this is peak season, so expect large crowds and higher prices.

If you prefer to avoid crowds, you might consider visiting Oxford in the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October. The weather is still pleasant, and the city is quieter.

3. How do I get around Oxford?

Oxford is a compact city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, Oxford has an excellent bus network that covers the entire city. You can purchase bus tickets online or from any bus stop in the city.

Alternatively, you might consider renting a bicycle to explore Oxford’s many bike-friendly routes. There are several bike rental companies in the city, and you can easily rent a bike for a day or longer.

4. What are the best places to eat in Oxford?

Oxford has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with everything from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Oxford:

– The White Horse: This traditional English pub serves excellent pub food and has a great selection of local beers.

– The Rickety Press: This gastropub serves delicious food made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

– The Cherwell Boathouse: This riverside restaurant serves excellent British cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood.

– Alpha Bar: This cozy cafe serves excellent coffee and homemade cakes, as well as a selection of sandwiches and salads.

5. What are the best day trips from Oxford?

Oxford is located in the heart of England, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Here are some of the best day trips from Oxford:

– Blenheim Palace: This stunning palace was the birthplace of Winston Churchill and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

– Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of William Shakespeare, this charming town is located just 45 minutes from Oxford and is well worth a visit.

– The Cotswolds: This stunning area of natural beauty is located just a short drive from Oxford and is home to charming villages and picturesque landscapes.

Conclusion

Oxford is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring its many historic attractions or simply enjoying its vibrant food scene, there’s something for everyone in Oxford. By following the tips and advice in this post, you’ll be well on your way to having an unforgettable visit to this charming city.