Top Oxford Literary Tours in 2026

Follow in the footsteps of two of Oxford’s best-known literary luminaries—and learn much more than you could if exploring on your own—on this small-group walking tour. Follow your guide to locations across the historic university city associated with J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and learn all about their lives, work, and the city that inspired them. Then, cap off your tour with a visit to Magdalen College.

Walk in the footsteps of two of the most famous authors from Oxford: CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien. Learn about the authors’ lives and works as you walk around past key sites in their lives, including Exeter College (where Tolkien studied), University Church (where Lewis preached) and the Eagle & Child Pub (where the two met weekly as part of The Inklings).

Oxford is a city where real and fictional worlds collide in Philip Pullman’s beloved fantasy series. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll explore the real Oxford locations that inspired Jordan College, discover filming spots from The Golden Compass and BBC’s His Dark Materials adaptation, and step into scenes straight from the pages of Pullman’s novels. From ancient college quadrangles to atmospheric lanes, you’ll experience Oxford through the eyes of Lyra Belacqua and her daemon Pan. The tour starts at Exeter College on Broad Street, the real-world inspiration for Lyra’s Jordan College. You’ll pass through the Covered Market where Roger would buy vegetables for Jordan College kitchens. You’ll also visit the magnificent Bodleian Library where the alethiometer is kept in Lyra’s world, and pass under the photogenic Hertford Bridge where Lyra and Roger were filmed fleeing from Gyptian children. You’ll see where many scenes from the adaptations were filmed.

Follow in the footsteps of famous former residents like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis—and discover many of Oxford’s top landmarks in just a couple hours—on this introductory walking tour. Meet your group in central Oxford, and set off on foot. You’ll see key attractions like the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre, will explore the university area, and you will see many of the elegant colleges from the outside. Note: book an afternoon tour to tour inside the colleges (subject to availability).

Walk the halls of one of the world’s oldest and most famous universities on this walking tour of Oxford University. Get a glimpse of student life as you peek inside the famous Bodleian Library and see landmarks like the University Church of St. Mary, Radcliffe Camera, and Trinity College. Learn about the prestigious university’s famous alumni, hear fascinating stories and anecdotes about its history, and see on-campus locations used in the Harry Potter films.

Discover the rich literary heritage of Oxford on this private guided tour. Learn about Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien, and see many of the sites featured in Harry Potter, including the Divinity School of Bodleian Library. Afterwards, explore Christ Church College, where many Harry Potter scenes were filmed, on a self-guided audio tour, with guaranteed entry and up to £30 in included entry fees.

This is the essential tour for Harry Potter fans. Spend the afternoon discovering Oxford sites from the Harry Potter movies, including the Divinity School inside the Bodleian Library, and learn behind-the-scenes secrets about the actors and J. K. Rowling. Afterwards, explore Christ Church College, which inspired Hogwarts' Great Hall, on a self-guided tour with guaranteed entry included up to £30 per person.

Immerse yourself in the world of Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Hathaway during this 2-hour walking tour in Oxford. Listen to stories about the city's most famous detectives and stop at landmarks such as Broad Street, the White Horse pub, and the Randolph Hotel.

How does studying at Oxford University compare with studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Fun tour for Muggles of all ages. Guide will cater tour according to everyone's interests, introducing also Oxford heritage. Join tour to find out why we have over 1,000 reviews recommending this tour online! Calling all fans of the world’s favourite wizard, this Oxford walking tour takes you to recognizable locations of the Harry Potter films. During this family-friendly tour, see the grand buildings of Oxford University and see inside the Divinity School—which featured as the infirmary & classroom space in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Learn of other literary legends that attended Oxford University. Tour includes entry worth £3 per person inside the Divinity school at the Bodleian Library. Tour lasts average 90-120 minutes. Notice: on dates when Divinity school is closed - see closures notices under What's not Included section- we instead visit New college.

Discover the charm of the North Cotswolds on a private antiques and interiors tour led by expert Natasha Kennerley. This bespoke experience is tailored for collectors and enthusiasts alike, allowing you to explore decorative antiques, folk art, and unique furnishings across iconic towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden. With a local driver, enjoy a comfortable journey in a Mercedes V-Class and engage in personalized shopping that suits your tastes. Optionally, visit Natasha’s private collection for an exclusive look at her treasures. - Private tour for up to six guests, ensuring a personalized experience - Explore antique shops and galleries with insights from a seasoned expert - Flexible itinerary based on your interests; enjoy time to browse and ask questions - Optional visit to Natasha’s private collection with refreshments included