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Offered languages
- English
Join a tour that dissects the long history of medical research and practice in Oxford!
The history of medicine is always a bit uncomfortable. This tour walks you through medical history in the city from medieval plagues, to the founding of the medical school, and the first trials of penicillin.
Far from a straightforward linear progression, Oxford’s medical history is a complicated conversation about health equity, medical ethics, and continued clashes over the control of the body.
All our tours are led by university researchers who have completed our official Uncomfortable Oxford training programme. Our guides combine expert knowledge and performance, ensuring each tour is a fun and educational experience.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet under the 'Bridge of Sighs' (Hertford Bridge) on New College Lane. The guide will be carrying a blue & white Uncomfortable Oxford tote bag.
Tour ends at the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter.
Itinerary
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1Bridge of Sighs
The tour begins under the fmaous Bridge of Sighs, providing an overview of medieval geography and how it impacted disease in the city.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2New College
The first stop is outside medieval New College, for a discussion of plague and historical epidemics.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Bodleian Library
Enter the heart of the old libraries to learn about anatomical dissections and the early study of medicine in the University.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Clarendon Building
The current office of the Vice Chancellor provides an interesting setting to learning about the history of prostitution and public health.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Did you know that pubs served as the original place for inoculation in the city?
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Oxford University Museum Of Natural History
Outside the Museum of Natural Hisotry you will learn about how science and medicine transformed in the 18th century through imperialism.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
At the St. Giles' Memorial Garden, participants will reflect on the major developments in medical practice that stemmed from First and Second World Wars.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
The tour finishes outside the former city hospital for a discussion on the early trials of penicillin in the city, and the founding of the NHS.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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