The Original Uncomfortable Oxford™ Tour

4.8
(100 reviews)

1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover Oxford's beautiful landmarks, colleges, and statues while going beyond the traditional view of the dreaming spires. This unique walking tour run by Uncomfortable Oxford engages attendees through discussion with the politics of history and memory in the city and university.

It covers histories of empire, inequality, and race, class, and gender discrimination, highlighting how these legacies have an enduring impact on our modern lives.

This tour lasts for about 1.5hrs.

We will walk no more than two miles, but please be aware that cobble stones and uneven pavement may restrict the accessibility of this event.

What's Included

Uncomfortable Oxford™ Trained Guide

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point

This tour finishes near Balliol College on Broad Street.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Carfax Tower

    Begin the tour with an overview of the historic divide between the town of Oxford and the university.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    University Church of St. Mary the Virgin

    Discuss the controversies surrounding the statue of Cecil Rhodes

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    All Souls College

    Learn about the connections between All Soul's College and money from slave plantations.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Weston Library

    Hear the story of Christian Cole, Oxford's first black scholar.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Sheldonian Theatre

    Learn about the struggle for women to join as full members of the University.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Balliol College

    Take a look at historic Balliol College, one of the colleges with extensive direct ties to the former British Empire and a tradition of educating Prime Ministers - including Boris Johnson. Usually tour ends here.

    10 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 7

    optional stop - Sit in the gardens of the Faculty of History in the shadow of the old city wall and learn about Merze Tate, Oxford's first Black female scholar.

    10 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • (Pass by)

    optional stop - Finish at the Tirah Memorial across from the Westgate Centre to reflect on memories of empire and memorialisation.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Supplied by Uncomfortable Oxford

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Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.8 Based on 100 100 reviews
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