Private tour in Oxford Sophie D
5.0
(3) reviews
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Sophie D.
4.9
Guide rating
48
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8 hrs
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After completing my BA (Hons) in Art History and History at Oxford Brookes University, I moved to France, where I spent over 20 years restoring a medieval château and welcoming guests from around the world. In 2009, I co-founded a highly acclaimed tour company, offering seamless multi-day experiences that combined historic sites, handpicked accommodation, and exceptional guiding. I now bring those same skills and passion to my work in Oxford. Returning to Oxford felt like a natural continuation of my work with travellers. The city offers a captivating window into the past, with its rich collection of artefacts, stories, and architecture all within easy reach. The University, its colleges, and the city together offer a unique opportunity to explore British history in one of its most beautiful settings. My tours are often described as 'surprising and insightful.' Areas of expertise include art history, the English Civil War, literary tours (notably Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien), and religious history in Oxford. Popular destinations include colleges, Radcliffe Square, and the Bodleian Library. As a member of the Oxford Guild of Guides, I can arrange access to colleges not usually open to the public and am one of the few guides accredited to lead tours inside Christ Church. Tours can typically accommodate groups of up to 19 participants, though some sites may have smaller group limits. Outside of guiding, I enjoy theatre, travel, and writing. I recently published my first book about rural France. Associate of the Institute of Tourist Guiding Member of the Guild of Guides Co-founder of Cathar Country Tours (Langue d’Oc, France) BA (Hons) in Art History and History, Oxford Brookes University Certified to guide in French If your preferred date isn’t showing as available, feel free to get in touch. As an Oxford resident, I love creating custom tours tailored to specific interests and schedules.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Sophie D.
Oxford’s compact scale offers an unparalleled closeness to its cultural gems, allowing you to experience a rich range of eras and techniques in situ. Iconoclasm ravaged England in the 16th and 17th centuries, but in Oxford, devotional treasures were shielded from zealots. Picture scholars navigating theological riddles, providential threats, and occasional bribes while waves of soldiers and zealots roamed. In a fourteenth-century college, we’ll admire medieval craftsmanship, 18th-century academic grandeur, and amusing Victorian prudery. At a 17th-century college, we’ll explore the Northern Renaissance in Oxford. The University Church boasts remarkable examples of the Gothic Revival, born from the Oxford Movement, inspired by sermons delivered within its walls. On this tour, I’ll guide you to Oxford’s oldest stained glass windows and introduce you to the city’s architectural and historical riches.
New College, founded after the 14th century plague. Its chapel has outstanding stained glass, and what's arguably the finest collection of misericords in Britain. The monastic cloister, manor-like dining hall with its portraits and oak panels, and the fortified medieval city wall will take you back in time. On the High Street treasure from 17th to 19th century.. ·Later, the Rose garden dedicated to the Jewish community banished in 1290. ·Next, Deadman's walk across Christchurch's Meadows to Merton College. ·Near the University Church we'll see a site that was a huge inspiration to CS Lewis, ·Next, Oxford's 1st science library and the elite All Souls College. ·After seeing the Bodleian Quad, we'll finish at the Weston Library via the 15th century Divinity school, showcased in a Harry Potter scene.
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Transportation is not required for this walking tour. If your accommodation is in the city centre I will collect you with no extra charge.
Oxford, England, United Kingdom
,ByGuide: Outside Weston Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 2PH Most on street parking in Oxford city centre is limited to two hours. Underground car parking is more flexible. There are several Park & Ride on the outside of the city with regular buses into the city centre.
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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