What makes Ecclesia Tours stand out? We offer the best walking tours in Oxford, focused on the city’s Christian heritage. You will find plenty of free walking tours, but none provide you with the best tour guides, all of which are University of Oxford postgraduates.
EXPERIENCE OXFORD’S CHRISTIAN HERITAGE
WALKING TOURS
IN OXFORD
.
All our walking tour guides are
PhD & Masters students from the University of Oxford
Many people make the mistake of choosing a free or self-guided walking tour in Oxford. While some companies are great, nothing compares to being guided through Oxford by someone that knows the ins and outs of the city and university. If you want to get to know Oxford differently than the average tourist, then we are your perfect choice! Our tour guides are exclusively Masters or PhD students from the University of Oxford studying theology, history, or philosophy. This means they spend lots of time discussing big ideas, including Oxford’s religious heritage. All of us are passionate about our subjects and are committed to providing you with a thrilling tour experience.
Meet a guide
Alberto Solano is a PhD student of Theology and Research Assistant at the University of Oxford. He completed a Masters of Philosophy (MPhil) at Oxford in 2022. He studied a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theology and has a background in business administration. He is member of Keble College and the Canterbury Institute. When not studying or working, you’ll probably find Alberto sipping a cup of coffee and talking about a book he just read.
Make sure to check out one of our
Most popular oxford walking tours
CS LEWIS & TOLKIEN WALKING TOUR
Prepare to step into the enchanting world of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and the Inklings. This guided walking tour will take you to the legendary Eagle and Child Pub, where C.S. Lewis and fellow Inklings shared their tales. Imagine sharing pints of inspiration with literary giants. Wander to Magdalen College, where Lewis lived and taught. Immerse in their stories, a journey for every book lover. Feel the echoes of “The Chronicles of Narnia” and the epic realms of “The Lord of the Rings” as you explore the inspirations that birthed these timeless classics.
You’ll walk by
Eagle and Child Pub,
where the Inlkings would meet;
Magdalen College,
where CS Lewis was a Fellow;
Merton College,
where Tolkien was a Fellow;
Holywell Street,
where Tolkien lived and Lewis spend his first night in Oxford;
University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin.
Details
- Typically 2 hours
- Price £25 per person up to 5 people (minimum of 2 people). £10 for each additional person. Children 5 and under are free. Maximum of 20 people.
JOHN HENRY NEWMAN WALKING TOUR
Trace the rise of the Oxford Movement, the religious and intellectual revival that swept Oxford in the 19th century. Follow in the footsteps of the Tractarians— John Henry Newman, John Keble, and Edward Pusey—and uncover their profound impact in Oxford’s history. Visit the iconic Keble College, closely associated with the Movement, and walk by Oriel College, Christ Church, and University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin. Reflect on Newman’s relationship with the Oxford Movement and his journey to Littlemore and eventually to Rome.
You’ll walk by
Keble College,
college of the Oxford Movement;
Pusey House,
named after Edward Pusey;
Oriel College,
where Newman was a fellow.
Trinity College,
where Newman studied.
Oxford Oratory.
Details
- Typically 2 hours
- Price £25 per person up to 5 people (minimum of 2 people). £10 for each additional person. Children 5 and under are free. Maximum of 20 people.
ENGLISH REFORMATION WALKING TOUR
This guided walking tour is ideal to introduce you to Oxford’s Christian heritage. Follow the path of William Tyndale and John Wycliffe as they proposed a Bible translation in English. Stand on the spot where Thomas Cranmer, Nicholas Ridley, and Hugh Latimer, the Oxford Martyrs, were burned at the stake. Uncover the place where the King James Bible was crafted. Experience the early days of the Methodist movement with John and Charles Wesley and George Whitefield. Journey to the site where J.I. Packer uncovered the writings of John Owen.
You’ll walk by
The Martyrs Memorial and Cross;
Balliol College,
where John Wycliffe served as master;
Hertford College,
where William Tyndale studied;
Lincoln College,
John Wesley’s Holy Club meeting place;
Corpus Christi and Merton College,
where large portions of the King James Bible were written.
Details
- Typically 2 hours
- Price £25 per person up to 5 people (minimum of 2 people). £10 for each additional person. Children 5 and under are free. Maximum of 20 people.
STUDENT LIFE WALKING TOUR
Ever wondered what it’s truly like to be an Oxford student? Prepare to be enchanted as we invite you on an extraordinary journey through the hallowed halls of this prestigious university. This guided walking tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the world of Oxford. Prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of an Oxford college chapel, wonderful dining hall, and stunning gardens and courtyards. Your guide, who is a current student, will share his or her personal experience of life at a college, giving you a unique inside look into the daily lives of Oxford students.
You’ll walk by
The Old Bodleian Library;
Examination School;
Christ Church College;
Museum of Natural History;
University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin;
Ashmolean Museum.
Details
- Typically 2 hours
- Price £25 per person up to 5 people (minimum of 2 people). £10 for each additional person. Children 5 and under are free. Maximum of 10 people.
Here’s an idea
Plan your perfect Oxford Day
Embark on a captivating day trip from London to Oxford. Your journey begins at London Paddington Station, where a morning train at 9 AM whisks you away to the heart of Oxford.
Morning: Ecclesia Tour (10 AM – 12 PM)
Arrive in Oxford and dive into the city’s rich ecclesiastical history with Ecclesia Tours. Select one of our popular two-hour guided tour offers.
Lunch at the Covered Market (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
Post-tour and beaming with joy having seen Oxford’s most iconic sites, head to the bustling Covered Market for lunch. This historic market, nestled in the city center, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delightful array of eateries. Indulge in artisan sandwiches, traditional English pies, fresh salads, or international cuisines.
Early Afternoon: College Visit (1:45 PM – 3:00 PM)
After lunch, explore one of Oxford’s prestigious colleges not included in the morning tour. Wander through cloistered courtyards of Christ Church or Magdalen College, admire the elegant architecture, and feel the academic spirit that has nurtured some of the world’s greatest minds.
High Tea Experience (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Next, indulge in a quintessential English tradition with high tea at one of Oxford’s iconic tea houses. Enjoy a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of teas in a charming, historic setting.
Afternoon Stroll in a Park (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Before heading back, take a brief, relaxing stroll through some of Oxford’s picturesque parks, like University Parks or Port Meadow. Absorb the natural beauty and tranquility, providing a perfect end to your Oxford adventure.
Return to London (4:00 PM)
Conclude your day by catching the 5 PM train back to London Paddington, just in time for a lovely dinner in the city. This day trip to Oxford promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, leaving you with cherished memories and stories to share.
Walking Tours
Chose one of our iconic guided walking tours, such as our C.S. Lewis and Tolkien Walk, Newman and the Oxford Movement Walk, or Reformation Walk.
Your walk will be guided by a Master or PhD student from the University of Oxford.
Typically 2 hours
While many opt for a free walking tour in Oxford, there’s truly nothing quite like exploring the city with an expert guide, and when it comes to knowing the ins and outs of both the city and the university, a current student stands unparalleled.
£25
Per person up to 5 people (minimum of 2 people). £10 for each additional person. Children 5 and under are free. Maximum of 20 people.
Custom-Made Tour
Craft a tour that’s perfectly tailored to your interests. Intrigued by specific individuals? Past tours include specialized guided walks on the lives of John Wesley and John Owen. If colleges pique your curiosity, we could visit some of Oxford’s most prestigious colleges. If you’re drawn to specific historical periods, we could focus on significant periods like Medieval Christianity or the Methodist Movement.
Your walk will be guided by a PhD student from the University of Oxford.
Typically 3 hours
£210
For a group of 1 to 5 people depending on the location and tour length. £10 for each additional person. Maximum of 10 people.
Walking Tour Reviews
Great city and fantastic tour! So glad I did not chose a free walking tour. Highly recommend it.
Elena L., Germany
What truly impressed me was the genuine care and attention the tour guide showed. Her warmth and hospitality really made this the best walking tour in Oxford.
Anna P., California
Really worth it! From start to finish, the guide exceeded my expectations and made my day in Oxford super memorable!
Jose P., Mexico
So worth it! This is the best Oxford walking tour. Can’t wait to come back to Oxford and do a tour again!
Gian O., Tennessee
Ready to explore Oxford?
Get in touch
Ecclesia Tours UK