Oxford: Civil War History Guided Walking Tour

Discover Oxford’s Civil War Past with a Focused Guided Walk

The Oxford: Civil War History Guided Walking Tour offers a compelling dive into England’s turbulent past, all within a 2-hour journey through the city’s historic heart. Priced at $61 per person, this tour is a well-balanced blend of storytelling and site visits, led by a knowledgeable guide from Contrada Ltd.. With a 5-star rating, it promises an engaging experience that brings to life Oxford’s crucial role during the British Civil War.

This tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, or the story of Oxford’s political significance during the 17th century. It covers notable locations such as the Bodleian Library, New College, and Merton College, along with an optional visit to Christ Church Cathedral for Evensong. While the tour provides excellent value and expert commentary, it does not include a full visit to the Bodleian Library. Overall, it offers a comprehensive and accessible look at this turbulent chapter in Oxford’s history.

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Key Points

• Price: $61 per person, for a 2-hour guided walking experience
• Highlights: Visit Bodleian Library, New College, and other historic sites linked to the Civil War
• Educational focus: Learn how Oxford served as the royalist capital during the conflict
• Optional addition: Attend Evensong at Christ Church Cathedral after the tour
• Small group size: Limited to 12 people for a personal experience
• Provider: Contrada Ltd., rated 5 stars for quality and knowledge

Starting Point Near the Italiamo Cafe on Broad Street

The tour begins at the meeting point near the Italiamo Cafe on Broad Street, right beside a classic red telephone box. This central location makes it easy for visitors to find and gather before setting off on the city’s streets. The small group limit of 12 people ensures an intimate setting where the guide can tailor insights and answer questions comfortably.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the tour involves walking around some of Oxford’s most notable sites. The experience is suitable for adults and teens, with no children under 12 allowed, making it a good choice for history buffs or curious families with older children.

Visiting New College: Medieval Walls and Civil War Secrets

One of the tour’s central stops is New College, a historic Oxford college where the guide explains its significance during the Civil War. Visitors see the front quadrangle, chapel, hall, and garden quadrangle. The garden area offers a glimpse of the medieval city walls and the mound, which are some of the best-preserved remnants from that era.

The cloisters and medieval bell tower reveal how parts of the college were used historically to store weapons and ammunition during the war. The guide shares stories about how this location was tied to the conflict, making it more than just an academic site—it’s a part of Oxford’s wartime story.

Trinity College Gates and the Legend of the Stuart Gates

Next, the tour highlights the Stuart Gates of Trinity College, famous for the legend attached to them. The monumental Clarendon Building, now serving as the administrative hub of the Bodleian Library, is also admired. This building’s architecture reflects the grandeur of Oxford’s role in the Civil War period.

The visit to Old Schools Quadrangle and the 15th-century Divinity School provides insight into Oxford’s academic history. The guide explains how the old university library was rescued and endowed by Thomas Bodley, emphasizing the connection between education and the city’s wartime history.

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Exploring the Role of Key Figures: Charles I and Oliver Cromwell

Throughout the tour, stories about Charles I, the reigning monarch during the Civil War, and Oliver Cromwell, the Parliament leader, are woven into the narrative. Visitors learn how parliamentary meetings took place at Oxford, specifically in 1625 and 1644, illustrating the city’s political importance during the conflict.

This contextual background helps visitors understand why Oxford was a strategic and symbolic location during these turbulent times, with sites tied directly to these historical figures.

Visiting St John’s College and William Laud’s Influence

St John’s College is another historically significant stop, particularly the Canterbury Quad. The guide discusses William Laud, a prominent student of St John’s, whose religious policies in the 1630s contributed to the conflicts leading up to the Civil War. This connection enriches the understanding of the religious and political tensions that fueled the unrest.

This site provides a personal angle on the broader political landscape, illustrating how influential figures from Oxford shaped the history of the period.

Civil War Artifacts at the Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum hosts exhibits connected with the Civil War, including coins from that era and a death mask of Oliver Cromwell. These artifacts add tangible depth to the historical story, offering visual evidence of the period’s events and personalities.

A quick visit here enhances the overall understanding of Oxford’s Civil War history, complementing the storytelling from the guide.

The Role of the University Church of St Mary

The University Church of St Mary plays an important part in the city’s history, especially during the Civil War. The guide explains how the church was involved in controversies throughout the centuries, including the conflict period. Its longstanding presence emphasizes the deep-rooted traditions and challenges faced by Oxford during turbulent times.

Merton College: Queen Henrietta Maria’s Stay

The tour includes a stop at Merton College, one of Oxford’s oldest colleges. It’s notable as the place where Queen Henrietta Maria stayed during her time in Oxford. This connection highlights the royalist presence in the city and the personal stories intertwined with the Civil War.

Optional Visit to Christ Church Cathedral for Evensong

After the main tour, travelers can enjoy an optional visit to Christ Church Cathedral to attend Evensong, starting at 6 p.m. Oxford time. This service lasts about 45 minutes and is free of charge. The cathedral’s significance is highlighted by its role as the royalist headquarters during the Civil War, making it a fitting end to a day immersed in Oxford’s wartime history.

Practicalities: Group Size, Booking, and Accessibility

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a more personal experience. It departs from Broad Street, easily accessible from central Oxford. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves walking outdoors. The experience is best suited for adults and teenagers, with no children under 12 permitted. The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides who excel at storytelling.

Comparing Similar Tours and Value for Money

For those considering other options, similar experiences include university city tours and college entry tours that also explore Oxford’s history and architecture. However, this Civil War-focused walk provides a specific historical narrative tied directly to Oxford’s strategic role during a pivotal conflict.

At $61, the tour offers a well-rounded package of site visits, storytelling, and an optional cathedral service. The 5-star rating from Contrada Ltd. attests to its quality, and the small group size ensures an engaging and intimate exploration.

Why Choose This Civil War Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to understand Oxford’s role in the British Civil War. Its highlights, such as the Bodleian Library, New College, and St John’s College, are rich with stories about influential figures and events.

The inclusion of artifacts at the Ashmolean Museum and insights into religious and political tensions make it a comprehensive look into a complex period. The optional Evensong adds a cultural touch, deepening the connection to Oxford’s religious heritage.

Final Thoughts on the Oxford Civil War Walking Experience

This tour stands out for its expert guides, well-chosen stops, and focus on Oxford’s pivotal Civil War moments. While it doesn’t include a full Bodleian Library tour, the site visits and storytelling compensate well, offering a rich and educational experience within a manageable timeframe.

It suits adults and teens interested in history, architecture, or the city’s royalist past. The small group size and flexible booking options make it accessible and comfortable. If you want an insightful, well-organized walking tour that brings Oxford’s Civil War history to life, this experience is a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a full visit to the Bodleian Library included?
No, the tour includes a visit to the Bodleian Library, but it does not cover a full tour of the library itself.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from near the Italiamo Cafe on Broad Street, by the red telephone box.

How long does the optional Evensong last?
The Evensong service at Christ Church Cathedral lasts about 45 minutes.

Can children under 12 join the tour?
No, the experience is not suitable for children under 12.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as walking outdoors is involved.

Is the group limited in size?
Yes, the group is limited to a maximum of 12 people for a more personal experience.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour available in other languages?
No, the tour is conducted in English only.

What makes this tour different from other Oxford city tours?
This experience specifically focuses on Oxford’s Civil War history, providing detailed insights into the city’s political and military role during that period.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details, but as it involves walking around historic sites, some physical limitations may apply.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby