Walk in the footsteps of Oxford’s literary giants and enjoy a serene punting ride guided by University alumni. This private tour offers a distinctive view of Oxford’s historic heart and waterways.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves gentle walking and sitting during punting
Wildlife
History
Oxford University dates back to the 12th century, building layers of history that influenced England’s broader cultural and literary legacy.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain the Cherwell’s natural habitat and limit river traffic keep this historic waterway healthy and serene.
Alumni Tours
Walk in the footsteps of Oxford’s literary giants and enjoy a serene punting ride guided by University alumni. This private tour offers a distinctive view of Oxford’s historic heart and waterways.
Alumni Tours is a guided-tour provider based in Oxford, England, offering curated walking and punting experiences across Oxford and Cambridge. The company specialises in tours led by current students and university alumni, delivering firsthand insights into college life, architecture, literature and local traditions. Tours include private and shared options, family-friendly punt trips, extended punting, ghost walks, and themed walks such as Harry Potter film location tours.
Guides draw on lived experience at their universities to highlight iconic sites — from King’s College, the Mathematical Bridge and the Corpus Clock in Cambridge to Christ Church Meadows, the Botanic Gardens and the Narnia lamp-post in Oxford. Several experiences include on-board or on-route photography options and the private punting tour accommodates up to twelve guests for family celebrations or small groups. Multilingual options are offered for Spanish and Mandarin speakers on select shared and private tours.
Alumni Tours is featured on The Adventure Collective, where its experiences are presented to travellers seeking authentic, student-led perspectives. Booking options are clearly listed for private or shared departures, and many itineraries can be customised to focus on architecture, literary history, university life or cinematic connections. The provider operates from Oxford and runs tours across both university cities, emphasising knowledgeable local guides and immersive storytelling for visitors of all ages.
Tours Offered
29 experiences
Variety of Oxford and Cambridge tours
Base Location
Oxford, England
Operating from Oxford across both cities
Guides
Student & alumni
Local university-led storytelling
Languages
English, Spanish, Mandarin
Multilingual shared and private tours
Choose Oxford or Cambridge tours led by student guides, select private or shared departures, and secure photography or multilingual options when available.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Oxford’s cobblestones and walking routes require sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the city streets and riverbanks with ease.
Book Private Tours Early
Due to the personalized nature and alumni availability, securing your spot well in advance is crucial for this exclusive experience.
Check Weather Forecast
Punting on the River Cherwell is weather-dependent; light rain gear or rescheduling plans ensures a pleasant tour.
Bring a Camera
Oxford’s iconic landmarks and tranquil river scenes provide fantastic photographic opportunities—don’t miss them.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is key for navigating Oxford’s historic walking routes comfortably.
Waterproof jacket
Light rain is common in spring, so a waterproof layer keeps you dry without adding bulk.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure during sunny punting and walking stretches.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the city’s distinctive architecture along with scenic river views.