Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Overview
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
Certified Uncomfortable Oxford™ Guide
Uncomfortable Oxford™ souvenir postcard
Tips
What to expect
Bridge of Sighs
10m
The tour begins under the fmaous Bridge of Sighs, providing an overview of medieval geography and how it impacted disease in the city.
New College
10m
The first stop is outside medieval New College, for a discussion of plague and historical epidemics.
Bodleian Library
15m
Enter the heart of the old libraries to learn about anatomical dissections and the early study of medicine in the University.
Clarendon Building
10m
The current office of the Vice Chancellor provides an interesting setting to learning about the history of prostitution and public health.
15m
Did you know that pubs served as the original place for inoculation in the city?
Oxford University Museum Of Natural History
15m
Outside the Museum of Natural Hisotry you will learn about how science and medicine transformed in the 18th century through imperialism.
War Memorial Garden
15m
At the St. Giles' Memorial Garden, participants will reflect on the major developments in medical practice that stemmed from First and Second World Wars.
15m
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.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Meet under the 'Bridge of Sighs' (Hertford Bridge) on New College Lane. The guide will be carrying a blue & white Uncomfortable Oxford tote bag.
End point
Tour ends at the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter.
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
