Discover another side of Oxford beyond the famous colleges and historic landmarks, with a new walking tour exploring the city’s hidden streets, stories and neighbourhoods.
Launching this summer, the Oxford Beyond the Dreaming Spires Walking Tour invites visitors and residents to see Oxford from a different perspective, uncovering the lesser-known places, people and stories that have shaped the city.
Operated by Experience Oxfordshire through Oxford Official Walking Tours, the two-hour experience explores the characterful streets, green spaces and neighbourhoods that sit beyond Oxford’s iconic skyline.
Beginning in Jericho, one of Oxford’s most distinctive neighbourhoods and a former home of the city’s bookbinders, the tour reveals the connections between Oxford’s academic, cultural and social life.
Guests will discover the historic surroundings of Summertown, explore the redeveloped Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and learn how Oxford continues to balance its heritage with its future.
The route also takes in peaceful waterside paths and the Oxford University Parks, before moving through lively areas filled with independent cafés, historic pubs, restaurants and hidden corners connected with generations of scholars, writers, scientists and creatives.
Whether you are visiting Oxford for the first time or have lived in the city for years, this walking tour offers a chance to experience a side of Oxford that is often overlooked.
Experience details
Duration: 2 hours
Availability: Mondays and Thursdays at 11.00am
Group size: Maximum 20 people per tour
Meeting point: Outside Cool Britannia gift shop, corner of Turl Street and Broad Street, Oxford (OX1 3DH)
Suitable for: Visitors, residents, families and private groups
Private and group tours are also available, with options to tailor the experience around specific interests.
Good to know
- Explore Oxford beyond the traditional university highlights
- Discover hidden streets, neighbourhoods and local stories
- Includes Jericho, Summertown, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and University Parks
- Small group experience with a maximum of 20 guests
- Gift cards are available
