Private tour in Oxford Sophie D
5.0
(5) reviews
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Sophie D.
4.9
Guide rating
48
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Tours delivered
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.
Begin with an insightful introduction to Oxford, its university, and its iconic landmarks, including Radcliffe Square and the historic Old School Quad of the Bodleian Library. Explore several college buildings while gaining insight into student life today, alongside a focus on literary greats C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. At Magdalen College, admire its stunning chapel and stained glass, and remarkable architecture. The visit includes the medieval cloister, chapel, refectory, deer park and Addison's Walk. Visit the site of the medieval Jewish cemetery, the Penicillin Memorial Garden, and the University's Botanic Garden. An inspiration for Oxford’s literary figures and a beautiful river landmark in its own right.. This tour can be adapted for additional interests..
Martyrs' Memorial – Honouring Martyrs of the Reformation. St John's College – A 16th century college. St Giles – avenue lined with historic landmarks. The Bird and Babe & The Lamb and Flag –where the Inklings met. Oratory – linked to JRR Tolkien Keble College & Natural History Museum - Science in Oxford Bridge of Sighs – An iconic Oxford site. New College & Founder’s Tower – Medieval roots and historic cloisters. Queen’s Lane – The Examinations school Magdalen College – Cloister, Chapel, Hall, Quads, Deer Park, Addison’s Walk. Merton College – Tolkien’s last academic home. St Mary’s University Church Radcliffe Square – with Radcliffe Camera. All Souls College – Elite architecturally striking college. Bodleian Library & Schools’ Quad – A hub of library history. Oxford University Press – Where Tolkien contributed to the OED. Sheldonian Theatre – Oxford’s ceremonial hall. Divinity School – A masterpiece of medieval architecture and filming location.
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport is included in the price of this tour
Oxford, England, United Kingdom
At Martyrs Memorial or hotel pick-up Please be in touch if you are planning to drive and park in the city.
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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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