Inklings Walking Tour with Experience Oxfordshire
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels due to steady, low-impact walking on flat city streets.
Overview
Walk the streets where Tolkien and Lewis crafted their legendary tales with Experience Oxfordshire’s Inklings Walking Tour. Discover Oxford’s literary landmarks in an intimate two-hour journey.
C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Walking Tour
All Ages • 2 hours • A Must for Enthusiasts!
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About This Adventure
Embark on The Inklings Walking Tour and delve into the literary world of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Explore iconic Oxford locations, from the Eagle and Child pub to St Mary’s Passage, where their legendary tales were born. Perfect for fans eager to uncover the authors' inspiring stories and haunts.
The Inklings Walking Tour- explore the inspiration of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien
From earnest discussions of fantasy worlds in the Eagle and Child pub, to the first inspiration of Narnia in St Mary’s Passage, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpieces are interwound with Oxford and its university.
Having both studied and taught at Oxford University, the first seeds of their most well-known and beloved works began here. Follow in the authors’ footsteps around their favourite Oxford haunts and hear the stories of their time at the university.
Operating on selected Saturdays, this tour is perfect for those literarily inclined, fans of The Chronicles of Narnia, Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, and who want to learn more about these two greats of The Inklings Society, and see where they lived and learned.
Group Sizes
Group sizes are limited to 20 people for your safety and comfort.
Accessible Oxford
The city centre of Oxford is relatively flat and our easy paced tours can be tailored for most visitors. For more information please click here
Meeting Point
All Oxford Official Walking Tours meet at the Cool Britannia gift shop entrance on the corner of Turl Street and Broad Street (Broad Street Numbers 23-25, OX1 3DH). What3Words///Visit.Blues.Text
Your Guide will be holding an Oxford Official Walking Tours paddleboard.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Though the city center is relatively flat, cobblestones and uneven pavements require sturdy, comfortable footwear.
Arrive early for check-in
Meet at the Cool Britannia gift shop on time to ensure you don’t miss the start; late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
Bring a light rain jacket
Oxford’s weather can be unpredictable; a waterproof layer keeps you dry without weighing you down.
Limit group size for comfort
Tours cap at 20 participants to enable an engaging and personal experience with your guide.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban red squirrels in nearby parks
- Peregrine falcons nesting on university buildings
History
Oxford University dates back to the 12th century, with the city’s architecture reflecting centuries of academic tradition.
Conservation
Experience Oxfordshire promotes responsible tourism by emphasizing small groups and encouraging respect for historic sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Protect your feet during city pavements and uneven surfaces.
Rain jacket or umbrella
Stay dry amid unpredictable British weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water bottle
Keep hydrated during warmer days.
summer specific
Light backpack
Carry essentials comfortably without restricting movement.