Oxford: Historic Pubs and Taverns Guided Walking Tour

Exploring Oxford’s Historic Pubs and Taverns: A Guide to the Best Local Spots

If you’ve ever wandered through Oxford, you know it’s more than just a city of prestigious universities. It’s also a place steeped in stories, centuries-old taverns, and a lively pub scene that’s been welcoming locals and visitors alike for hundreds of years. A guided tour focusing on Oxford’s historic pubs offers a fantastic way to soak up the city’s past—and its lively drinking culture—without the stress of navigating on your own.

We’re looking at a tour that’s quite well-reviewed (a perfect 5-star rating from one traveler!) and features a mix of guided storytelling and optional self-guided exploring via a sightseeing app. The best part? It costs just about $20, making it an accessible way to add some local flavor to your Oxford visit.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, sharing everything from famous patrons like Tolkien to local rumors. Second, the blend of old and hidden pubs means you’re not just visiting the well-trodden tourist spots but also discovering those tucked-away alleyways and less crowded haunts. A small, potential drawback? The tour lasts about an hour and a half, so if you’re looking for a more in-depth pub crawl, this might be on the shorter side.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, local stories, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially great if you want a taste of Oxford’s drinking spots but prefer a guided, curated experience rather than wandering aimlessly.

Key Points

• Atmospheric Experience: Walk through Oxford’s historic streets and explore some of the city’s oldest, most iconic pubs.
• Expert Commentary: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing rich stories about patrons, legends, and local rumors.
• Self-Guided Flexibility: Includes a sightseeing app for exploring at your own pace, ideal for customizing your visit.
• Affordable Price: At just over $20, it offers good value for a mix of history, local culture, and sightseeing.
• Short Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy day.
• Accessible Location: Starts at Carfax Tower, right in the heart of Oxford, near public transportation.

A Detailed Look at the Oxford: Historic Pubs and Taverns Tour

Starting Point: Carfax Tower

The tour kicks off at the iconic Carfax Tower, which is quite a sight in itself. Not only is it the highest point in the city with six bells ringing on special occasions, but it also offers a sense of history—it’s all that remains of the old St Martin’s Church, demolished in the early 20th century. This central location makes it easy to find and a natural starting point for exploring the city’s historic core.

Strolling Along Oxford’s Streets

Once gathered, your guide will lead you along Oxford’s main street, lined with shops, cafes, and, of course, the city’s most famous pubs. The walk itself is pleasant and offers a chance to get your bearings while soaking in the lively atmosphere of this university city. Expect to pass by lively areas where students and locals mingle, setting the perfect scene for some pub-hopping.

Historic Pubs and Hidden Gems

This tour shines when it comes to visiting pubs that tell stories of centuries past. One of the stops is a pub that dates back over 500 years, tucked away down a medieval alley—imagine the centuries of stories that have unfolded within its walls. Another notable spot is a lively, two-storey pub known for hosting rock gigs today, but with a history that includes being a favorite for students and local residents.

You’ll also see some of Oxford’s most renowned pubs, like the one famous for its collection of over 4,500 ties and its appearance in the 1984 film Oxford Blues. These places aren’t just about drinks—they’re living pieces of the city’s history, full of character and stories.

Stories of Famous Patrons

Part of what makes this tour memorable is hearing about the famous fans of Oxford’s pubs. Writers like Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were known to spend time in some of these pubs, and fans of the TV series Inspector Morse will recognize several locations from the show. The guide’s storytelling adds color and context, making each pub feel like a chapter in Oxford’s ongoing narrative.

Cultural Stops and Landmarks

The tour isn’t solely about pubs; it also includes visits to some of Oxford’s cultural sites. Pass by the Ashmolean Museum, the Sheldonian Theatre designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and the Bodleian Library’s Clarendon Building—places that highlight the city’s scholarly history. The memorial to the Oxford Martyrs, burned for heresy in 1555, also makes an appearance, reminding visitors of the city’s historic religious conflicts.

The Turf Tavern: The Grand Finale

No pub tour in Oxford would be complete without a visit to the Turf Tavern, a legendary spot that dates back over 600 years. Historically, it was located just outside the city walls and was known for its reputation for illegal activities in the past. Today, it’s an iconic, lively pub where many famous alumni have gathered over the centuries. You can also spot remnants of the old city wall beside it, adding an extra layer of historical charm.

Self-Guided Exploration Post-Tour

Once the guided part concludes at the Turf Tavern, the sightseeing app becomes your companion. It includes self-guided walking routes that let you explore at your own pace, whether you want to revisit certain pubs or explore other parts of Oxford. The app supports multiple languages, making it accessible if you’re traveling with international friends or want to practice your language skills.

What Travelers Are Saying

The only review available gives a perfect rating and highlights the rich stories and local rumors shared by the guide. One reviewer mentions, “We were lucky enough to get an intimate tour of just the three of us. The guide was clearly very knowledgeable and interesting, and we particularly enjoyed the local rumors and stories that accompanied the taverns and town history.” This personal touch and insider knowledge seem to be what makes the experience stand out.

Another aspect travelers appreciate is the value for money—for just over $20, you get a well-rounded experience of Oxford’s pub scene, with plenty of history and local lore. The short duration makes it a good option for those who want a taste of the city without committing to a lengthy tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: About $20.67 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the mix of guided stories and self-guided exploration.
• Duration: Approximate 1 hour 30 minutes—perfect for fitting into an afternoon.
• Meeting Point: Carfax Tower on Queen Street, with the guide identifiable by a dark blue ‘Vox City’ uniform.
• Start Time: 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive a little early.
• Includes: Live commentary, sightseeing app with multilingual options, and access to some of Oxford’s most historic pubs.
• Not Included: Entry to attractions, food, or drinks, which you’ll pay for separately.

This tour is suitable for most travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, local stories, and a blend of history with lively pub scenes. It’s not specifically targeted at families or children, but there’s no reason older kids or teens interested in history wouldn’t enjoy it.

The Sum Up

This Oxford pub and tavern tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s lively, centuries-old drinking culture. With guides that bring stories of famous patrons and local legends to life, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Oxford’s social history. The inclusion of a sightseeing app for self-guided exploration means you can customize your visit, giving you some flexibility in how long you linger at each spot.

If you’re someone who appreciates history, enjoys local storytelling, and wants to experience the cozy, character-filled pubs of Oxford without the hassle of planning every stop, this tour is a solid choice. The price point makes it accessible, and the small group size (or even a private experience) can make it feel intimate and special.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth pub crawl or want to explore every corner of Oxford’s historic pub scene, you might find this tour somewhat brief. Still, for a quick, engaging, and affordable introduction to the city’s pub culture, it hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the experience focuses on history and pub visits, which might appeal to older children or teens interested in stories and local legends. Keep in mind the late afternoon start and that some pubs are quite traditional.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it easy to slot into an afternoon or early evening itinerary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Carfax Tower on Queen Street and concludes at the Turf Tavern on Bath Place.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transportation, which makes it convenient for most visitors.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get live commentary in English, access to the sightseeing app with multilingual options, and visits to historic pubs and landmarks.

Are drinks or food included?
No, drinks and food are not included, so you can choose to enjoy a pint or snack at your leisure during or after the tour.

What is the price for this experience?
It costs about $20.67 per person, offering good value given the storytelling and sightseeing elements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if needed.

If you’re planning a trip to Oxford and want a fun, storytelling-driven peek into its pub culture, this tour would make for an enjoyable, informative addition. Just remember to arrive a little early and bring your curiosity and love for local stories!