Literary Oxford Walking Tour

Event information

‘I envy you going to Oxford. It is the most flower-like time of one’s life. One sees the shadow of things in silver mirrors.’ - Oscar Wilde

Oxford has been home to numerous great writers through the ages. But what is it about the city of dreaming spires that has inspired such creativity and birthed so many beloved stories?

On this tour we will dive down the rabbit hole to learn about many of Oxford’s literary inhabitants and some of their most enduring creations. We will also hear excerpts from their writings that give us a deeper understanding of the city of dreaming spires itself.

From early links with Chaucer, Shakespeare and Donne, through flawed and fascinating figures like Shelley, Wilde and Auden, we will encounter brilliant literary women, beer-drinking Inklings and outstanding crime fiction writers, as well as being introduced to some of the most exciting authors connected to the city today.

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What people are saying:

'Fantastic literary tour of Oxford! *****

My students and I spent a full day with Jess. She is an absolute wealth of knowledge on the history, places, and literary figures of Oxford. She has a tremendous amount of knowledge to offer on her tours (even to those of us that think we know a thing or two about literature). She is also very personable and accommodating to requests and questions. I absolutely recommend her for students, families, or solo travelers that want to know more about the sites and authors of Oxford. Jess is incredible.

- Leslie S, June 2024'

Photo credit: Hugh Warwick