Oxford Walking & Punting Tours with Alumni Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires light walking and sitting during punting.
Overview
Discover Oxford through the eyes of university alumni on a combined walking and punting tour. Dive into storied landmarks before drifting peacefully along the river for a full sense of this historic city.
Shared Spanish • Combined Oxford University Walking & Punting Tour Led By University Alumni
2.5 - 3.5 hours
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey through Oxford's rich history and vibrant student life. Guided by alumni or current students, explore iconic landmarks, from the lamp-post that inspired Narnia to the meadows of Alice in Wonderland. Conclude with a serene punting tour, soaking in the beauty of this enchanting city.
ONLINE RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED
Duration 2.5 hours without extra college access 3.5 hours with extra college access
Meeting point 11-12 Broad Street, next to the pillar mailbox.
LIVE THE HISTORY
Take a fascinating walk through Oxford, where pivotal moments in history come alive. Explore landmarks like the lamp-post that inspired Narnia and the architecture that influenced His Dark Materials. Visit the meadows where Lewis Carroll first told the story of Alice in Wonderland, and marvel at some of the world's finest Gothic and Baroque architecture. Oxford is a city brimming with intriguing stories waiting to be discovered.
THE STUDENT’S STORY
Oxford's vibrant student life adds a unique touch to our tours. Our guides are either Oxford alumni or current students who blend their personal experiences with their passion for the city's history and architecture. They offer insights into student life, from BOPS to secret societies, and reveal which colleges are the oldest, the poshest, and the most quirky. Experience the true essence of Oxford.
Our classic 90-minute tour covers highlights like, Balliol College, Trinity College, Sheldonian Theatre, Bridge of Sighs, Old Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Square, with Radcliffe Camera, All Souls College, St Mary’s Church, Merton College, Christchurch Meadows, Christ Church College South Wall.
This shared walking tour is conducted in English and takes place outdoors. Indoor access to structures is not included unless specifically booked as an additional option. For possible entry to specific colleges, we recommend arranging this option request in advance.
After your walking tour you will be directed to the starting point of our punting tour. As you set off south from the boathouse you will be chauffeured gently past Oxford’s famous Botanic Gardens, Magdalen College School fields, Christ Church Meadows where Lewis Carroll was teaching students in the mid 19th century when he wrote the famous Alice Through the Looking Glass and Alice in Wonderland. Then past St Hilda’s College gardens and back to the Boathouse.
What to bring Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour covers historic streets and punting docks, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential.
Dress for Variable Weather
Oxford’s weather can shift quickly; layering is key to stay comfortable outdoors throughout the tour.
Arrive Early for Meeting Point
The tour starts promptly at 11-12 Broad Street next to the pillar mailbox, so plan to arrive 10 minutes early.
Book Indoor College Access in Advance
Indoor tours require prior arrangement; without it, visits remain outdoor-only.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding gracefully on the River Cherwell
- Seasonal migratory birds in Christchurch Meadows
History
Oxford’s literary landmarks, from Lewis Carroll’s inspiration to C.S. Lewis’s lamp-post, connect the city’s academic legacy to world literature.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the riverbank ecosystems and maintain historic college grounds help sustain Oxford’s scenic and cultural heritage.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes ensure comfort over cobblestones and pavements.
Weather-Appropriate Layers
Layers help adapt to Oxford’s often unpredictable weather.
all specific
Rain Jacket or Umbrella
Stay dry and comfortable during sudden showers common in cooler months.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture Oxford’s striking architecture and serene river views.