Oxford, the historic city that has inspired generations of writers, poets, and thinkers, is now the stage for an immersive journey into the lives of two literary giants – C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. This captivating 2.5-hour guided walking tour invites you to explore the hallowed halls of their alma maters, Magdalen College and Exeter College, and uncover the profound Christian roots that shaped their iconic works. As you stroll through Oxford’s most iconic sights, you’ll explore the city’s rich history, including the inspiring story of the Oxford Martyrs. Prepare to be enthralled as knowledgeable guides unveil the captivating connections between these literary legends and the city that nurtured their creative genius.
Key Points
- This 2.5-hour guided walking tour explores the lives and influences of renowned authors C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien in Oxford.
- The tour includes entry to Magdalen College, where C.S. Lewis studied, and an optional visit to Exeter College, J.R.R. Tolkien’s alma mater.
- Participants can discover the Christian influences that shaped the works of these literary giants and visit the historic St. Mary’s University Church.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, and multiple tour times are available with flexible ‘reserve now, pay later’ and cancellation options.
- Visitors can explore Oxford’s rich history and most iconic sights, seeing the literary legacy of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
Tour Overview
The C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Guided Walking Tour in Oxford offers a captivating exploration of the lives and influences of these renowned literary giants.
Spanning 2.5 hours, the tour is led by a knowledgeable live guide and provides wheelchair accessibility for a comfortable experience.
Guests will venture inside C.S. Lewis’ Magdalen College, whose entry fee is included, as well as J.R.R. Tolkien’s Exeter College, with a small additional fee.
Along the way, they’ll uncover the iconic sights of Oxford University and explore the Christian history that inspired these authors, including a visit to St. Mary’s University Church.
This immersive tour promises an unforgettable journey through the worlds of these literary luminaries.
Highlights of the Tour
Guests on the C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Guided Walking Tour can expect to visit the iconic Magdalen College, where they’ll step inside the hallowed halls that once housed the legendary C.S. Lewis.
The tour also takes visitors to Exeter College, where J.R.R. Tolkien studied and worked.
Along the way, you’ll explore Oxford University’s rich history and witness the city’s most iconic sights.
One of the highlights is the chance to go inside St. Mary’s University Church, where both Lewis and Cardinal Newman once preached.
Throughout the tour, you’ll explore the Christian influences that shaped the lives and works of these two renowned authors, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for their legacies.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes the entry fee to Magdalen College, where visitors can step inside the hallowed halls that once housed the legendary C.S. Lewis.
Plus, the tour provides access to Exeter College, where J.R.R. Tolkien studied and worked, though this incurs an optional up-to-£3 per person fee when the college is open.
Beyond the iconic academic institutions, the tour also takes guests inside the historic St. Mary’s University Church, where both C.S. Lewis and Cardinal Newman once delivered their thought-provoking sermons.
With an enthusiastic live guide leading the way, travelers can enjoy the rich Christian history and literary legacy that define Oxford’s timeless charm. The tour package is truly a must-do experience for any fan of these beloved authors.
Not Included in the Tour
Aside from the included entry fees and tour guide, visitors are responsible for covering the cost of any food, drinks, or optional gratuities during the experience.
While the tour provides an immersive look into the lives of literary legends C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, guests are free to explore Oxford at their own pace and indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Whether it’s a cozy pub lunch, a traditional afternoon tea, or a pint of local craft beer, the opportunities to refuel and recharge are endless.
Plus, visitors may choose to express their appreciation for the tour guide’s expertise through a voluntary tip at the end of the experience.
Booking and Cancellation
Flexibility and convenience define the booking and cancellation policy for this captivating C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien walking tour. Guests can cancel their reservations up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund, allowing for last-minute schedule changes or unforeseen circumstances. On top of that, the tour operator offers a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, empowering visitors to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.
| Booking Options | Cancellation Policy |
|---|---|
| Reserve Now, Pay Later | Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund |
| Check Availability | Flexible scheduling |
| Multiple Tour Times | Affordable entry fees |
| Small Group Tours | Wheelchair accessible |
This flexible and hassle-free booking system ensures a seamless experience for those eager to enjoy the literary legacy of these renowned authors.
Exploring Magdalen College
C.S. Lewis’ Magdalen College stands as a captivating focal point of the walking tour, inviting visitors to step inside the hallowed halls that nurtured the renowned author’s intellectual and spiritual journey.
Exploring the college’s stunning architecture and verdant grounds, the tour provides a unique glimpse into Lewis’ formative years, when he wrestled with questions of faith and honed his skills as a writer.
Visitors can envision the young Lewis strolling these very pathways, his mind alight with the ideas that would eventually shape his beloved Chronicles of Narnia.
The entry fee, included in the tour, grants access to this pivotal setting, allowing participants to enjoy the inspiring legacy of one of literature’s most influential figures.
Visiting Exeter College
The tour then takes visitors to explore Exeter College, the esteemed institution that shaped the young J.R.R. Tolkien‘s literary genius.
As participants step through the college’s historic gates, they’ll uncover the vibrant academic environment that nurtured the future creator of Middle-earth, catching glimpses of the very corridors and quadrangles that witnessed Tolkien’s scholarly pursuits.
Among the highlights is the opportunity to visit Exeter College’s iconic chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that would have been familiar to the young Tolkien.
Throughout the experience, the guide shares captivating anecdotes and insights into the formative years of this literary giant, bringing the past to life in vivid detail.
Christian History and Oxford Martyrs
As the tour explores the literary giants’ Oxford, it also uncovers the city’s rich Christian heritage, including the stirring story of the Oxford Martyrs. These three religious reformers – Latimer, Ridley, and Cranmer – were tried and executed for heresy right here in the heart of the university town, their dramatic fates forever etched into the history of this hallowed ground. Visitors can feel the weight of their sacrifice and the tumult of that era through the artifacts and memorials found throughout the city. The tour brings this chapter to life, offering a moving glimpse into the courage and conviction that shaped Oxford’s enduring legacy.
| Latimer | Ridley |
|---|---|
| Prominent Protestant reformer | Bishop of London |
| Burned at the stake in 1555 | Burned at the stake in 1555 |
| Cranmer | |
|---|---|
| Archbishop of Canterbury | Burned at the stake in 1556 |
| Influential figure in the English Reformation | His death marked a pivotal moment in the English Reformation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour offers small group options for a private experience. Customers can book the tour exclusively for their party, allowing them to explore the sights at their own pace with a dedicated guide.
Is There a Student Discount Available for the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers a discounted student rate. Students can explore the lives and influences of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien at a reduced price, making it an engaging and affordable educational experience.
Do You Provide Any Additional Resources About the Authors?
The tour provides a wealth of resources to enhance visitors’ understanding of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Guests receive an informative guidebook and can explore exhibits with fascinating insights into the authors’ lives and literary works.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to take photographs during the tour, capturing the stunning architecture and historic sights that inspired these beloved authors. Just be mindful of others and follow any guidance from the enthusiastic tour guide.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 12 Years Old?
The tour can accommodate children under 12, though the content may not fully engage younger participants. The walking pace and duration could be challenging for some kids, so parental discretion is advised to ensure an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Recap
This captivating guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the lives and influences of renowned authors C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
Explore their alma maters, witness Oxford’s iconic sights, and discover the Christian roots that shaped their iconic works.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this immersive experience is a must-visit for literary enthusiasts, providing a comprehensive and wheelchair-accessible exploration of the city’s rich history and literary legacy.
