Private tour in Oxford Sophie D
5.0
(1) review
1
1
Sophie D.
4.9
Guide rating
46
Reviews
Tours delivered
6 hrs
Avg. response time
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.
An introduction to over 1,000 years of history in Oxford. Through both iconic and lesser-known sites, you’ll explore traditions, individuals, and legacies born in this city of wonders—many of which have shaped the world. Depart Oxford in a classic Bentley or Rolls Royce motor car and glide through the Cotswolds, with stops tailored to your interests. Whether it’s a postcard-perfect village, a hidden church, or a country inn, your route will be as memorable as your destinations. In the evening, take your seat at the renowned Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon for a masterful performance of English theatre in Shakespeare’s home town. Return to Oxford in luxury, reflecting on a day rich in story and scenery. This bespoke tour must be booked in advance to confirm theatre seat availability and customise your itinerary.
Begin with a guided orientation of Oxford’s architectural and historic highlights, including the Ashmolean Museum, the Protestant Martyrs’ Memorial, the Anglo-Saxon tower, a medieval college, the University Church, and Radcliffe Square. Discover the Old Bodleian Library, Divinity School, Sheldonian Theatre, and the Bridge of Sighs. Walk through C.S. Lewis’s Oxford and glimpse the gateway to Narnia. Learn about the University’s medieval foundations, the English Civil War, the Reformation, the Oxford Movement, and its role today. Depart Oxford by Bentley or Rolls Royce for a scenic drive through the Cotswolds. Optional stops include Shakespeare’s birthplace, grave, New Place, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, or Churchill’s grave. In the evening, arrive at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon for supper and a performance. Return to Oxford in comfort and style.
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 this tour
Oxford, England, United Kingdom
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: On forecourt of Ashmolean Museum, 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.
1 reviews
Who is this private tour in Oxford best suited for?
Can this private tour in Oxford be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
1
1
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works