Ghost Tour of Oxford

Explore Oxford’s Most Haunted Streets with a 1.5-Hour Ghost Tour

The Ghost Tour of Oxford offers a fascinating journey into the darker side of this historic city. Priced at $246.37 per group (up to 15 people), this 1 hour 30 minutes walking experience takes you through Oxford’s most sinister streets and back alleys. Led by an engaging guide from Lady Gargoyle Oxford Tours, the tour is designed to appeal to those intrigued by ghost stories and local legends, especially during the dark hours from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

This tour stands out for its detailed itinerary, visiting famous historical sites associated with ghostly tales, murders, and supernatural activity. Perfect for adults and children alike, it combines entertainment and education—though it does include some gory details. Visitors should be prepared for cold and possibly wet conditions, making suitable clothing a smart choice. The tour’s limited size ensures an intimate experience, and the free cancellation policy adds flexibility for spontaneous plans.

Why Oxford’s Haunted Reputation Sparks Curiosity

Oxford’s reputation as one of the most haunted places in Britain stems from its grim past as the murder capital of medieval England. The city’s badly behaved student population contributed to numerous violent events and deaths, many of which are said to have left restless spirits wandering its streets. The tour captures this eerie history, bringing it vividly to life through storytelling.

The city’s haunted reputation is reinforced by local legends of burned bishops, poltergeists, abandoned lovers, and even the Devil himself. These stories have been passed down through centuries, and the guides bring them together in an engaging, atmospheric way. The tour’s reviewed as “fantastically atmospheric” by participants, making it clear that the storytelling style and setting create a memorable spooky vibe.

Starting Point: The Historic St. Michael’s at the North Gate

The tour begins at St Michael At The North Gate, the oldest building in Oxford, featuring a Saxon tower on Cornmarket Street. Historically, this site was used to display decapitated heads of prisoners, serving as a grim warning to visitors and residents. The guide shares stories about this macabre past as the first stop, setting the tone for the tour.

The free admission allows visitors to appreciate the historical significance of this ancient site before moving on to the haunted streets. The location’s dark history makes for a compelling start that immediately immerses participants into Oxford’s haunted ambiance.

The Bloody Past of Broad Street and Its Ghostly Legend

Next, the tour moves to Broad Street, where three bishops were burned by Bloody Mary. This tragic event took place in a time of religious turmoil, and the site is still associated with ghostly apparitions and whispers of that violent past. The guide narrates the story, offering insight into the historical context and the spirits said to linger nearby.

This stop offers a short but powerful glimpse into historic executions and their lasting echoes. Visitors should expect a 7- to 10-minute visit that emphasizes the chilling stories tied to this prominent city location.

The Haunted Bridge of Sighs and Its Overlooked Pub

The Bridge of Sighs is an iconic sight in Oxford, but it’s also linked to supernatural tales. The tour visits a haunted pub located beneath this famous bridge, which is overlooked by a haunted tower. The pub’s reputation for ghostly activity adds a lively yet eerie element to the sightseeing.

Participants learn about the ghost stories associated with the pub and tower, which are said to be haunted by spirits linked to the building’s long history. The stop lasts around 10 minutes and features stories that blend Oxford’s architecture with its spooky legends.

Medieval Lane and Its Poltergeist Activity

New College Lane takes center stage as a spooky medieval street with two college hauntings and dramatic poltergeist activity. The guide explains how these supernatural occurrences are still felt today, with reports of objects moving and unexplained noises.

This area’s dimly lit, atmospheric setting enhances the sense of stepping back in time. The 10-minute stop allows for storytelling about the specific hauntings, making it a highlight for those interested in paranormal phenomena.

Merton College: Ghosts of a Famous Writer and a Civil War Colonel

The next stop, Merton College, features stories of a famous author’s ghost who leaves behind a whiff of tobacco smoke, and a Civil War colonel’s spirit still seeking justice. The 15-minute visit offers rich storytelling about these spirits, connecting Oxford’s literary and military history with ghostly legends.

The stories of these spirits are rooted in local legend, with the guide painting a vivid picture of the haunted college grounds. This stop provides a compelling mix of literary and historical ghost stories.

The Tragic Death at Christ Church

At Christ Church, the tour covers the story of a poor student who died in a possibly gruesome manner. This haunting story adds a layer of tragic mystique to the college, which is famously linked to literary figures and historic events.

The 10-minute stop offers a chilling narrative that complements the college’s reputation as a place of both learning and ghostly activity. The story’s gruesome details are part of what makes this stop particularly memorable.

The Devil’s Visit to Brasenose College

The final stop is Brasenose College, where the Devil himself is said to have come to Oxford, with grisly consequences. This dark legend is a staple of Oxford’s supernatural tales, and the guide recounts the story vividly.

This 10-minute segment rounds out the tour with a tale of demonic visitation, blending myth and history. The story’s dramatic nature leaves a strong impression as the tour concludes.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Duration, and Group Size

The tour starts at St Michael at the North Gate on Cornmarket Street and ends back at the same location, creating an easy loop. The group size is kept small, with a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience. The duration of around 90 minutes makes it a manageable evening activity.

This tour runs every day from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM between November 11, 2025, and March 31, 2026, aligning with the need for darkness to enhance the spooky atmosphere. The mobile ticket format simplifies access, and service animals are allowed.

The Guide’s Style and Atmosphere

Participants consistently praise the guide, Lady Gargoyle, for her engaging storytelling and atmospheric narration. The tour’s dark alleyways and cobblestone streets create a fittingly eerie setting, bringing Oxford’s haunted history vividly to life.

The guide’s ability to balance spooky stories with historical context and handle questions from lively teens makes the experience accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience. The reviews highlight great flair and a fun, atmospheric tone that elevates the experience beyond just reading ghost stories.

Cost and What’s Included

The price of $246.37 covers the entire tour for up to 15 participants, including all fees and taxes. The tour does not include coffee or tea, so planning for refreshments beforehand is advisable. The free cancellation policy allows for flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Ghost Tour of Oxford is ideal for those interested in history, ghost stories, and local legends. It’s especially suited for families with children who enjoy spooky tales, though some details are quite gory. The small group size and engaging guide ensure a personalized, memorable experience.

While it may be chilly and wet, the atmospheric setting and compelling stories make it well worth the experience. Visitors seeking a dark, entertaining exploration of Oxford’s haunted past will find this tour both informative and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at St Michael at the North Gate on Cornmarket Street.

What is the price per group?
The cost is $246.37 for groups of up to 15 people.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy it, though some gory details are included.

Does the tour operate in winter?
Yes, it runs daily from November 11, 2025, to March 31, 2026, during evening hours.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What kind of stories are told?
Stories include historic executions, ghost sightings, poltergeist activity, and legends involving the Devil.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and for possible rain, as conditions may be cold or wet.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, providing an exclusive experience.