Oxford: CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien Tour

Discover the Literary Bond Between CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien in Oxford

This Oxford: CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien Tour offers a captivating look into the intertwined lives of two of literature’s greatest figures. Priced per ticket and lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours, this guided walk takes visitors through the scenic streets of Oxford, highlighting the stories behind the creation of The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the focus on their friendship and creative collaboration over more than three decades. The tour is suited for those with a love for literature, Oxford history, or fantasy stories, and is designed to be accessible with wheelchair-friendly options and small or private group options, making it flexible for different travelers.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Location: Starts on Broad Street outside Trinity College, Oxford
• Highlights: Visit Tolkien’s house, the inspiration behind Narnia’s lamppost, and meeting locations of the Inklings
• Includes: An expert guide who shares detailed stories and insights into Lewis and Tolkien’s friendship
• Not Included: Oxford college entry fees are not part of the tour
• Accessibility: Suitable for wheelchair users and small/private groups

Meet Your Guide at Broad Street Outside Trinity College

The tour begins at the Oxford Walking Tours sign, conveniently located in front of the blue gates of Trinity College on Broad Street. This central spot makes it easy to find and offers a clear starting point. The live guide leads the group through the city, sharing stories at each of the seven key locations covered during the walk.

The duration of about 2 hours makes this an engaging yet manageable activity, perfect for those who want a deep dive into Oxford’s literary scene without a lengthy commitment. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and hear fascinating anecdotes.

Exploring Oxford’s Central Literary Haunts

This tour takes you through Oxford’s charming city center, where Lewis and Tolkien spent much of their creative lives. The experience includes visits to sites where the Inklings met—an informal writing club that influenced many famous works. You’ll also see Tolkien’s house and other favorite Oxford haunts.

Walking through these streets, you get a sense of the environment that inspired their stories. The guide provides context on how Oxford’s historic architecture and academic atmosphere contributed to their writing, giving a sense of place to their legendary tales.

The Inklings’ Meeting Spots and Tolkien’s Home

One of the tour’s highlights is discovering where JRR Tolkien’s house is located, providing a glimpse into his personal space. The meeting locations of The Inklings—the literary group Tolkien and Lewis were part of—are also discussed in detail. These sites reveal the informal yet influential gatherings that sparked ideas for some of their most famous characters and stories.

The guide shares stories about Tolkien’s favorite haunts across Oxford, helping visitors understand the environment that nurtured his creative mind. The tour emphasizes the significance of these locations in the context of their friendship and literary careers.

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From the Towers to Narnia’s Lamppost

A particularly memorable feature is the visit to the Two Towers that inspired the towers in Lord of the Rings. Plus, the lamppost from Narnia’s entry point is highlighted, connecting Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia to real Oxford landmarks.

These tangible symbols serve as visual links between the stories and their real-world origins, making the tour both educational and inspiring for fans of either series. The guide explains the stories behind these iconic motifs, bringing to life the worlds these authors created.

The Expertise of the Guide and Storytelling Style

Throughout the tour, the expert guide offers engaging storytelling, sharing insightful details about the long friendship between Lewis and Tolkien. The guide’s knowledge helps to clarify how their personal bond influenced their writing and mutual inspiration.

This approach enhances the experience, making the stories accessible and compelling. The guide’s ability to weave historical facts with literary analysis provides a rich narrative that captivates fans and newcomers alike.

Practical Details: Booking, Accessibility, and Flexibility

Booking is straightforward with options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans. The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, offering peace of mind.

As a wheelchair-accessible activity, it accommodates visitors with mobility needs. The small and private group options ensure a personalized experience, perfect for those who prefer a more intimate setting or have specific interests.

Start and end points are the same location on Broad Street, simplifying logistics and making it easy to combine with other Oxford activities.

What’s Not Included: College Entry and Additional Costs

It’s important to note that entrance to Oxford colleges is not included in this tour. Visitors interested in exploring college interiors should plan for separate tickets or visits. The focus here remains on public sites, landmarks, and stories associated with Lewis and Tolkien.

This setup allows for a cost-effective exploration of Oxford’s literary sights, while still providing rich background and context about the authors’ lives and friendship.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?

This tour is ideal for literature enthusiasts, especially fans of Lewis’s Narnia and Tolkien’s Middle-earth worlds. It’s equally suited for history buffs interested in Oxford’s academic and literary scene. The short duration and accessible format make it a great choice for those seeking a focused and informative walk.

While not a full college tour, the storytelling and site visits provide plenty of context to deepen understanding of these authors’ connections to Oxford.

The Sum Up: A Literary Journey Through Oxford’s Streets

The Oxford: CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien Tour delivers a well-rounded look at two writers whose friendship and stories continue to influence readers worldwide. With expert guides, engaging stories, and visits to key sites—like Tolkien’s house, the Two Towers, and Narnia’s lamppost—this tour offers a meaningful insight into their lives.

The 2-hour duration balances depth and accessibility, making it a valuable addition to any Oxford itinerary. While it doesn’t include college entry, the focus on public landmarks and personal stories creates a vivid picture of the environment that shaped their legendary works. This tour is perfect for fans eager to connect stories to real places and explore Oxford’s rich literary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Oxford Walking Tours sign outside Trinity College on Broad Street.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the tour?
An expert guide shares stories and insights at seven key sites related to Lewis and Tolkien.

Are college visits included?
No, Oxford college entry fees are not included in the tour.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are small or private groups available?
Yes, the tour offers small group or private options for a more personalized experience.

What kind of stories will I hear?
The guide explains the friendship between Lewis and Tolkien, their creations, and the inspirations behind their stories.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour proceeds outdoors through Oxford’s streets.

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