The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour – Private Groups Daily

The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour offers an engaging, personalized experience into the lives of legendary writers C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Priced at $138.02 per person, this private tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours and is perfect for those interested in literary history and Oxford’s university landmarks. The tour departs daily from 15-16 Broad Street and visits key sites like Exeter College and Magdalen College, with entry tickets included — £3 for Exeter and £10 for Magdalen.

This tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 89 reviews, and 96% recommend it. It often books out 53 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among visitors eager to explore Oxford through the eyes of its famous writers. While the focus is on literary history, the tour’s flexibility with departure times and private setup make it suitable for small groups seeking a detailed, intimate experience.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience exploring Oxford’s literary sites.
• Includes entry tickets to Exeter College (£3) and Magdalen College (£10).
• Runs daily with various departure times for flexibility.
• Focuses on J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, with some stops related to their personal and professional lives.
• Walking route covers significant locations linked to the Inklings, with some stops outside venues like the Bodleian Library.
• Expert guides provide detailed stories, lore, and insights about the writers and Oxford.

Exploring Oxford’s Literary Roots with The Inklings Tour

The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour places you right in the footsteps of some of the most beloved fantasy authors of the 20th century. Priced at $138.02 per person, it offers a private, tailored experience that allows for a flexible schedule and an intimate group size. The tour is designed for those who want to understand the personal and academic backgrounds of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, both of whom studied and taught at Oxford, shaping their famous works.

The tour’s main appeal lies in the in-depth visits to colleges such as Exeter College, where Tolkien studied, and Magdalen College, where Lewis taught and later inspired the Narnia stories. With entry tickets included, visitors can explore these historic sites without extra cost, although admission to Exeter College depends on its open status on the day of visit. The tour lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet comprehensive window into Oxford’s literary scene.

From Exeter College to Oxford’s Historic Streets

The first stop is Exeter College, where Tolkien studied and which now charges £3 for entry, included in the tour price. Visitors get to go inside this historic college, learn about Tolkien’s time there, and see the environment that influenced his Middle-earth stories. Since the college has limited opening days, it’s worth noting that access isn’t always guaranteed, and the tour will inform guests of potential closures.

Next, the group visits Magdalen College, where C.S. Lewis taught and where the iconic deer park is located. Entry here is valued at £10 and is also included. If Magdalen is not open, the guide may substitute a visit to Merton College, where Tolkien taught, or another nearby site. The guide offers to walk past Merton College to introduce Tolkien’s teaching location if requested, giving flexibility to customize the experience.

Inside the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin

A key highlight is the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, where C.S. Lewis preached. Inside the church, guests can see references to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and learn about Lewis’s sermons and influence. The tour stops outside the church, providing stories and context without entering the interior, offering a balance between sightseeing and storytelling.

The Randolph Hotel, also part of the tour route, is where Lewis first met Joy Gresham, his future wife. While the group doesn’t go inside, the guide discusses the significance of this site in Lewis’s personal life. This focus on stories and connections makes the experience richer, even from the outside.

Literary Sites and Famous Landmarks

The Bodleian Library is another notable stop, where the guide introduces the library’s importance in Oxford’s academic life and its connection to the writers. Although the tour doesn’t include inside visits here, the exterior architecture and the stories shared offer insight into the scholarly environment that shaped the Inklings.

Additional stops include iconic Oxford sights such as various colleges and the city streets, which the guide walks past while sharing fascinating tales about the writers’ lives and works. The route provides a good mix of academic sites, historical landmarks, and personal stories, all within the compact Oxford city center.

The Guide’s Expertise and Personalization

Based on reviews, the guides are highly praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and ability to tailor the tour to individual interests. Guides like Ray, Tom, and Mikiel receive glowing praise for their friendliness and depth of understanding. They answer questions thoroughly, providing insights into Oxford’s history, the Inklings, and related topics, making each tour uniquely engaging.

Many reviews highlight the length and pacing of the tour, with guides taking care to include longer walks of up to 4 miles and ensuring participants see all relevant sites. The guides’ storytelling style makes the experience lively, often including personal anecdotes and details not found in guidebooks.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Accessibility

The tour starts at 15-16 Broad Street, a central location in Oxford, and ends near Magdalen College in the city center. The route involves walking on Oxford’s historic streets, which may be uneven in places, and the total distance can be substantial. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility concerns should be prepared for some walking.

The tour operates daily, with various departure times to choose from, providing flexibility for planning the rest of your day. It’s a private experience, meaning only your group participates, enhancing the personalized nature of the visit.

Cost and Ticket Inclusions

For $138.02 per person, the tour includes entry to Exeter College (as available) and Magdalen College, which are valued at £3 and £10 respectively. This makes the tour a good deal considering the access to historic sites and expert guiding. However, admission availability depends on the colleges’ open status, especially during holidays and closures from Dec 20 to Dec 31 in 2024, or on specific days when colleges are closed.

The tour provides mobile tickets for ease of access and group discounts may be available, making it suitable for families or small groups.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for literary enthusiasts eager to learn more about Tolkien and Lewis, with many reviews emphasizing the guides’ expertise and storytelling. It suits those interested in Oxford’s academic history, fantasy fiction, or British literary culture. The personalized, private format makes it a good choice for small groups or families seeking a flexible, in-depth experience.

Despite its focus on Lewis and Tolkien, guides often share broader stories about Oxford’s university life, giving a well-rounded perspective of the city’s rich literary heritage.

The Sum Up: A Literary Journey Through Oxford

The Inklings Oxford Writers Tour delivers a well-rounded, engaging exploration of Oxford’s connections to Lewis and Tolkien, with included college entries and expert guides. Its private format allows for customization, making it suitable for those interested in literature, history, and Oxford’s famed scholars.

While the tour’s itinerary depends on college open days, the flexible approach and knowledgeable guides ensure a meaningful experience. It’s perfect for dedicated fans of the Inklings or anyone curious about Oxford’s literary past, especially in groups or small parties who value personal attention.

This tour offers excellent value, combining insightful storytelling with access to historic sites, making it a highlight for visitors wanting a deep dive into Oxford’s literary history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are welcome, the tour is not tailored for young attention spans. It’s best suited for teenagers and adults interested in literary history.

Are the college entries included in the price?
Yes, the tour price includes entry to Exeter College (£3) and Magdalen College (£10), depending on their opening status that day.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, guides are praised for their flexibility and can tailor stops based on your interests, including additional landmarks like Merton College.

What if colleges are closed on my preferred date?
The tour operator will inform you in advance about any closures, especially during holiday periods like Dec 20-31.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, walking through Oxford’s historic streets and university sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 15-16 Broad Street and ends near Magdalen College, with the route designed to be walkable and accessible.

Is transportation provided between sites?
No, the tour is on foot, but the compact layout of Oxford makes it easy to navigate.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private, tailored experience combined with expert guides and included college tickets offers a rich, in-depth look at Oxford’s literary figures.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 53 days in advance to secure your preferred departure time.

What if I need to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.