CS Lewis & Tolkien Tour with Magdalen Entry Public tour 11.45am

Explore Oxford’s Literary Legends and Iconic Sights in One Tour

This CS Lewis & Tolkien Tour in Oxford offers a fascinating look into the lives and works of two literary giants, with a focus on their connections to the city’s most famous colleges. Priced at $68.43 per person and lasting about 2 hours 30 minutes, this guided experience includes entry to Magdalen College, where CS Lewis once taught, making it a compelling choice for fans of literature, academic life, and Oxford’s history.

While it’s a public tour now listed officially on Viator, it’s been successfully operating for private groups for several years, garnering over 46 recommendations and consistently earning top reviews. The tour’s expert guides are praised for their knowledge and personalized approach, creating a vivid picture of how Lewis and Tolkien’s careers intertwined with Oxford’s historic colleges and inspiring landscapes.

A notable highlight is the Magdalen College visit, which includes a £10 value entry fee covered in the tour, featuring the medieval hall, chapel, gardens, and Addison’s Walk—the tranquil pathway where Lewis and Tolkien frequently strolled and discussed ideas. The tour also offers a look at key landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera, Bridge of Sighs, and Bodleian Library, giving a full picture of Oxford’s academic and scenic charm.

Key Points

• Includes entry to Magdalen College, where CS Lewis taught, worth £10.
• Duration of 2 hours 30 minutes, ideal for a half-day exploration.
• Guides are highly rated for their expertise and engaging storytelling.
• Tour covers major Oxford sights like the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library.
• When Magdalen is unavailable, the visit switches to Exeter College, Tolkien’s alma mater.
• Suitable for those interested in literature, Oxford history, and academic life, with group size limited to 20 for a personalized experience.

Starting at Broad Street and Visiting Oxford’s Most Recognizable Sights

This tour begins at 15-16 Broad Street at 11:45 am, a central location convenient for travelers arriving via public transportation or walking. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring an intimate atmosphere where guides can tailor the storytelling to your interests.

The itinerary moves through Oxford’s core landmarks, with the tour focusing on literary connections more than just sightseeing. The Radcliffe Camera and Bridge of Sighs are passed by and discussed briefly, emphasizing their significance in Oxford’s architectural and university history. These sights are included as photo-worthy stops and are free to view from the outside.

Inside Oxford’s Historic Colleges: Magdalen, Exeter, and Lincoln

The highlight of this experience is the inside visit to Magdalen College, where CS Lewis taught for many years. The medieval hall and chapel offer a glimpse into the college’s centuries-old traditions, while the gardens and Addison’s Walk provide a peaceful setting that inspired Lewis and Tolkien’s conversations about faith and storytelling.

Magdalen College’s entry fee is included in the tour price, but note that Magdalen may be closed on certain dates—specifically, from December 20 to December 31, 2024, and on June 21, September 27, and October 6, 2024. On such days, the tour switches to Exeter College, where Tolkien studied, with a £3 entry fee not included. The visit to Exeter is brief, about 5 minutes, but offers a meaningful connection to Tolkien’s Oxford life.

Lincoln College also features briefly, with a 5-minute stop at its entrance, where visitors can see the quadrangle and statue of John Wesley, providing context for Oxford’s religious and educational history.

Inside the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin and the Eagle & Child Pub

The tour also includes a 15-minute visit to the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, where CS Lewis preached and developed many ideas for his books. Outside, the Mr. Tumnus and Aslan figures are visible, believed to have inspired “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”.

The tour often passes by the famous Eagle and Child pub or the Turf Inn, where the Inklings writers’ group—including Lewis and Tolkien—met to discuss their work over drinks. Although brief, these stops connect visitors to the writing camaraderie that shaped some of their most beloved stories.

Detailed Look at Magdalen College and Its Literary Atmosphere

Spending about an hour inside Magdalen College, the tour offers an up-close look at one of Oxford’s most picturesque institutions. The medieval hall is grand, and the chapel reflects centuries of religious tradition. The gardens and Addison’s Walk provide a tranquil setting that Lewis and Tolkien frequented, offering insights into how nature and architecture influenced their work.

The £10 entry fee is paid by the guide, ensuring a smooth experience. The canopy coffee stop allows visitors to enjoy a drink while watching punts pass by outside—a classic Oxford scene. The tower and main quadrangle showcase the college’s historic architecture, making it a memorable stop for fans and newcomers alike.

Insider Stops and Exclusive Insights from Expert Guides

The guides are praised for their knowledge of literary history and ability to personalize the tour based on the interests of the group. They weave stories of Lewis and Tolkien’s lives with the city’s history, making the experience engaging and educational.

Their storytelling style helps visitors understand how Oxford’s environment fostered creative thinking and academic excellence. The tour’s pace is balanced, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, and the small group size enhances interaction and discussion.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Booking Tips

Meeting at Broad Street makes the tour easily accessible from most parts of Oxford. Arriving five minutes early ensures a prompt start. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and general accessibility considerations.

Since Magdalen College can be closed on certain dates, booking at least 30 days in advance is recommended for guaranteed entry. The tickets are mobile, simplifying check-in, and the tour operates most days with just a few exceptions.

Final Thoughts: An Engaging Journey Through Oxford’s Literary Heritage

This CS Lewis & Tolkien tour offers a well-balanced mix of literary biography, historic sights, and scenic outdoor walks. The expert guides, included college visits, and focused storytelling make it stand out among Oxford tours. It’s particularly suited for literature enthusiasts, fans of Lewis and Tolkien, and those interested in Oxford’s academic atmosphere.

The tour’s value is enhanced by the included Magdalen College entry, normally a £10 fee, and the personalized experience that small group sizes afford. The few possible closures for Magdalen are clearly communicated, ensuring transparency and planning ease.

This tour provides an informative, relaxing, and engaging way to explore Oxford’s literary connections and its stunning architecture—an experience that brings the stories and lives of Lewis and Tolkien vividly to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Magdalen College always open during the tour?
Magdalen College is typically included, but it may be closed on certain dates such as December 20-31, 2024, June 21, September 27, and October 6, 2024. In those cases, the tour visits Exeter College instead.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, providing enough time to explore key sights and learn about the writers’ lives.

What is included in the ticket price?
The £10 Magdalen College entry fee is included, covering the hall, chapel, gardens, and quadrangle. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who offer insights throughout.

Can I join the tour with children?
While not specifically aimed at young children, the tour may accommodate them if informed beforehand. Check with the provider for suitability.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 15-16 Broad Street and generally ends outside St. Mary the Virgin Church or back on Broad Street, with directions provided.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 30 days in advance is recommended, especially for guaranteed Magdalen College entry, as it’s limited to 10 visitors per guide.

What happens if Magdalen College is closed on my booking date?
The tour will be rescheduled, or you will be taken to Exeter College, where Tolkien studied, with a £3 entry fee not included in the ticket.

Is the tour accessible for all?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with options for service animals. Specific accessibility details should be confirmed when booking.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are available through Viator, with mobile tickets provided for convenience and a full refund available if canceled more than 24 hours before the tour.

Can I customize the tour?
The guides are known for their knowledge and ability to tailor the experience based on group interests, especially concerning Lewis and Tolkien’s legacies.