Oxford: Official CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien Walking Tour

Oxford’s literary legends come to life on the Official C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien Walking Tour. Through the city’s winding streets, this immersive experience unveils the iconic authors’ legacies, from Exeter College where Tolkien studied to the Eagle & Child pub, a favored gathering spot for the Inklings. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests explore the rich cultural heritage that has long inspired writers and readers alike. Whether you’re a devoted fan or simply curious, this tour promises to enchant and enlighten – but the true adventure lies in discovering what secrets Oxford still holds.

Good To Know

• This guided walking tour explores the literary legacies of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien in Oxford, focusing on key sites that inspired their work.
• The tour visits significant locations like Exeter College, University Church, and the Eagle & Child pub, providing an immersive experience of the authors’ impact on Oxford.
• Highlights include the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Ashmolean Museum, showcasing the cultural landscape that shaped the literary creations of Lewis and Tolkien.
• The tour is accessible for families and individuals, with infant seats, service animal accommodations, and wheelchair-friendly routes.
• Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available and an option to reserve now and pay later for the best price guarantee.

Tour Overview

The tour provides a guided walking experience focused on the literary legacies of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, two of Oxford’s most renowned authors.

Visitors will explore key sites associated with the writers, including Exeter College, where Tolkien studied, the University Church, where Lewis preached, and the Eagle & Child pub, a hangout for the literary group known as the Inklings.

Other highlights include the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Ashmolean Museum, offering insights into Oxford’s rich literary history.

Through this immersive experience, you will gain a deeper understanding of how these influential figures left their mark on the city and its cultural landscape.

Meeting Details

The walking tour begins at 23-25 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK, right outside the Cool Britannia Gift Shop.

Participants will then return to this meeting point at the end of the experience. The tour starts promptly at 11:30 am.

It takes visitors on a journey through Oxford’s rich literary history, with a focus on the lives and works of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien.

Along the way, the group will pass by key sites like Exeter College, where Tolkien had his study, and the University Church, where Lewis preached.

The tour also includes visits to the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Ashmolean Museum.

Accessibility and Participation

Infant seats are available for the tour, ensuring families with young children can participate comfortably.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, though service animals are allowed.

Public transportation is nearby, and the tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, though strollers may need to be left at the Porters Lodge during the college visit.

Wheelchair accessible visits can be arranged in advance.

Tour groups are limited to a maximum of 20 travelers.

This accessibility and participation information ensures the Oxford walking tour focused on CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien is inclusive and accommodating for a wide range of visitors.

Booking Information

Guests receive confirmation at the time of booking and can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

They’ve also got the option to reserve now and pay later, ensuring the lowest price is guaranteed. This flexibility allows travelers to plan their trip with ease, knowing they can make adjustments if needed.

The tour operator is confident in the value they provide, promising the best deal available. Customers can book the tour hassle-free, secure in the knowledge that their reservation is confirmed and they’ve the freedom to cancel or reschedule as necessary.

Reviews and Ratings

Tourists provide overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Oxford Walking Tour, with 25 reviews earning an impressive 5.0-star overall rating.

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s enjoyable, entertaining, and informative nature. One traveler noted they ‘enjoyed the additional background knowledge of Oxford and how CS Lewis/Tolkien influenced its history.’

The tour’s focus on key literary sites like Exeter College, the University Church, and the Eagle & Child Pub resonates strongly with visitors, providing them with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s rich literary heritage.

Literary Significance of Oxford

Why is Oxford so deeply rooted in the literary legacies of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien? The city’s rich academic and architectural heritage provided the influential authors with a profound source of inspiration, shaping the fantastical worlds of Narnia and Middle-earth that have captivated readers worldwide.

Oxford’s timeless charm and storied past can be felt in:

• The hallowed halls of Exeter College, where Tolkien penned his seminal works.

• The grand spires of the University Church, which Lewis used as a pulpit to preach his Christian beliefs.

• The cozy confines of the Eagle and Child pub, where the Inklings literary group gathered.

• The vast collections of the Bodleian Library, which fueled the imaginations of these legendary writers.

• The picturesque cobblestone lanes that evoke a sense of timelessness and wonder.

Exploring Exeter College

Nestled within Oxford’s historic heart, Exeter College stands as a testament to the university’s rich literary heritage. Its hallowed halls have inspired generations of scholars and writers, including J.R.R. Tolkien.

As the site of Tolkien’s former study, the college offers a glimpse into the legendary author’s creative process. Visitors can stroll through the college’s picturesque quadrangles, imagining the moments when Tolkien’s imagination was kindled by the timeless architecture and serene atmosphere.

The college’s connections to other literary luminaries, such as Oscar Wilde, further underscore Oxford’s enduring appeal as a hub of intellectual and artistic brilliance. Here, the greatest minds have converged to shape the course of literary history.

Visiting the Eagle & Child

As visitors explore Oxford’s literary landscape, no tour would be complete without a stop at the iconic Eagle & Child pub, a beloved haunt of the Inklings literary group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.

This historic hotel, dating back to the 17th century, played a crucial role in the lives and discussions of these renowned authors.

Visitors can:

• Soak in the warm, cozy atmosphere that inspired the Inklings

• Discover the famous ‘Rabbit Room’ where the group gathered

• Peruse memorabilia and photos celebrating the pub’s literary legacy

• Savor a pint of ale in the very same spot where Lewis and Tolkien once convened

• Imagine the lively debates and creative exchanges that took place within these walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour allows photography to capture the historic sites and provide visual mementos of the experience, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the guide or other travelers.

How Long Is the Walking Distance Covered?

The tour covers a walking distance of approximately 2 miles, allowing visitors to explore key sites associated with C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien during this 1.5 to 2-hour guided experience. The pace is leisurely, with plenty of opportunities to take photos.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?

The tour is offered in English only. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate other language requests with advance notice, depending on tour guide availability. Visitors should inquire about language options when booking the tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. Typically, these groups can save up to 15% off the regular price. Customers are encouraged to inquire about available discounts when booking the tour.

Can I Leave the Group During the Tour?

Yes, participants can temporarily leave the group during the tour. However, they should inform the guide beforehand and be mindful of the tour schedule to rejoin the group at the appropriate time.

Sum Up

The Oxford: Official C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien Walking Tour offers an immersive literary experience.

Participants explore significant sites, including Exeter College and the Eagle & Child pub, enhancing their understanding of Oxford’s rich literary heritage.

With a maximum group size of 20, the tour ensures accessibility for families and individuals, providing an engaging journey through the legacies of these iconic authors.