Oxford Historic Pubs and Sightseeing Tour

While Oxford is known for its universities, it’s also an iconic destination for historic pubs. On this guided tour, you’ll visit the oldest, most famous and the hidden gems, all while hearing about famous patrons including American presidents and writers.
Start by meeting your tour guide at the iconic Carfax Tower. From there, you'll hit the streets and visit The Turf Tavern, which dates back to the 14th century. Pass by The Bear Inn, and The Lamb and Flag, and hear about the famous regulars over the centuries, including J.R.R. Tolkien.

Afterwards, continue exploring the city with a sightseeing app which includes self-guided walking routes. Go at your own pace from the convenience of your smartphone.

Meeting Point

Carfax Tower

Queen St, Oxford OX1 1ET, UK

Meet your tour guide at Carfax Tower, located at Queen St. Tours depart at the booked timeslot. Your tour guide will be wearing a dark blue uniform with our company name.

What's included:

• Multilingual audio commentary in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German and Mandarin
• Historic Pub and Taverns walking tour
• Sightseeing app, includes self-guided walking tours
• Live commentary in English

Not included:

• Mobile device
• Headphones
• Entry to attractions
• Food and drinks

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Carfax Tower

Corner of Carfax and Cornmarket, , Oxford, OX1

Meet your tour guide at Carfax Tower, located at Queen St.
The iconic tower is the highest point in the city, and features six bells which are rung on special occasions. Also known as St Martin's Tower, the structure is all that remains of the old St Martin's Church, which was demolished in the early 20th century.

Pass by without stopping

High Street

High St, Oxford OX1, UK

Stroll along the High Street of Oxford, lined with local shops, cafes and fantastic pubs.

Pass by without stopping

The Chequers

131 High St, Oxford OX1 4DH, UK

Parts of this pub dates back to over 500 years ago, which is tucked away from the High Street down a medieval alley.

Pass by without stopping

The Wheatsheaf

129 High St, Oxford OX1 4DF, UK

Head down the medieval passageway to this two-storey lively pub. Today, it's well-known for being a rock venue where you can catch local gigs.

Pass by without stopping

The Bear Inn, Oxford

6 Alfred St, Oxford OX1 4EH, UK

Some know it as one of Oxford's oldest pubs, while others will recognise it from the 1984 movie Oxford Blues. This beloved pub is known for its quaint timber frame and collection of over 4500 ties.

Pass by without stopping

St Aldates Tavern

108 St. Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1BU

At least two local ales are always on available at this Victorian tavern, which is well-frequented by students, locals and tourists.

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Museum of Oxford

St Aldate's, Oxford OX1 1BX, UK

Pass by this museum which holds collections that shine a light on the history, culture and people of Oxford.

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The Crown

59a Cornmarket St, Oxford OX1 3HB, UK

The only surviving pub in Cornmarket, the site of this pub was originally the stables for the now demolished inn.

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Cornmarket St.

Cornmarket St, Oxford, OX1 3HL

Walk along the buzzing shopping street, which also features the oldest building in Oxford, St Michael at the North Gate.

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Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

Ashmolean Museum Beaumont Street, , Oxford, OX1 2PH

The Ashmolean is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and is Britain's first public museum.

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Lamb and Flag

12 St Giles', Oxford OX1 3JS, UK

Famous members of the Inklings frequented this pub, including writers C. S. Lewis and J. R. R Tolkien. Fans of the show Inspector Morse will also recognise the iconic backdrop.

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Martyrs' Memorial

13 Magdalen Street, , Oxford, OX1 3AE

See the memorial to the Oxford Martyrs, who were accused of heresy in 1555 for their Protestant beliefs, and were subsequently burned at the stake.

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Sheldonian Theatre

Broad Street, , Oxford, OX1 3AZ

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian Theatre is a must-see attraction for any visitor. The theatre is used primarily for concerts, lectures and ceremonies.

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Clarendon Building

48 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AZ, UK

This neoclassical building housed the Oxford University Press until the early 19th century. Today, the Clarendon Building is part of the Bodleian Library and is used for administrative purposes.

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Turf Tavern

4 Bath Pl, Oxford OX1 3SU, UK

The Turf Tavern is over 600 years old and was located just outside of the city walls. Just out of reach of legal authorities, this pub originally had a reputation for its illegal activities.
Later, it became an iconic landmark frequented by several famous alumni.

Today, eagle-eyed visitors can spot the section of the old city wall running alongside it.

Pass by without stopping