Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Overview
Why is being ‘medieval’ seen as an insult? Why are we fascinated with the idea of 'horrible histories'?
Modern media has fostered the stereotype that people in the Middle Ages were uniquely backwards, superstitious, violent, and dirty.
Join us on a tour that delves into medieval Oxford, uncovering the complexity of life in the past, while debunking the many myths of 'medieval' times. This tour will explore long-lasting similarities with how people acted centuries ago, while discussing how historic tensions have lasted to this day.
This tour lasts for about 1.5hrs.
Our tours are academically researched and led by experts. They incorporate active discussion and ask questions about historical memory, controversial histories, and the impacts of discrimination on the city and university.
ACCESSIBILITY: Wheelchair accessible, but please note some mild uneven pavement in the city centre. Distance walked is less than 2km.
What's included
Trained Guide
What to expect
Oxford Castle Prison
15m
Begin tour at the Oxford Castle and learn about its long history as a fortification and prison.
10m
Pause to learn about medieval life and humour outside the castle of Oxford.
15m
Follow the edge of the medieval city wall to Greyfriars Place and discuss the long history of heresy and prosecution in the city.
10m
Cross Brewer Street to learn about medieval begging laws and student funding in the past.
Christ Church
15m
Stop at the grand entrance to Christ Church College and learn about the historic Jewish communities who used to occupy the city centre.
Oriel College
10m
Out side of Oriel College, learn about historic divisions of labour in the city and the inherent tensions between the Town and the Gown.
St. Michael At The North Gate
15m
Finish the tour outside the Anglo-Saxon tower of St. Michael at the North Gate to engage with topics of historical memory and the fascination with horrible histories.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Meet our guide outside of the main entrance to the Oxford Castle & Prison. Guide will be wearing a vest and holding our company tote bag.
End point
Tour finishes on Cornmarket Street in central Oxford.
Additional information
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
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
