How to Plan your Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour

Are you planning a trip to Oxford and looking for a unique way to explore the city? The Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour might be just what you need. This is the perfect tour for those who are interested in learning more about the city’s past from a new perspective. Here’s how you can plan your tour:

Experience

The Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour is an engaging experience for anyone looking to learn more about the city’s history. You will have the opportunity to engage with an expert researcher who specializes in uncomfortable subjects. They will help you discover how the University of Oxford gained power locally and globally. You will also learn about the historic tensions between the town and the gown. Most importantly, you will get to explore Oxford’s urban landscape and understand the past that shaped it.

Highlights

This walking tour covers histories of empire inequality, race, class, and gender discrimination. It highlights how these legacies have an enduring impact on our modern lives. You will visit iconic city sights and go beyond the traditional narrative. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

1. Carfax Tower
2. Rhodes Statue
3. All Souls College
4. Weston Library
5. Sheldonian Theatre
6. Balliol College
7. Faculty of History
8. Bonn Square

Please note that the itinerary can vary slightly depending on time and tour guide.

Full Description

The Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour is a perfect introductory tour of Oxford. Its focus is on engaging with the politics of memory in the city and university. You will learn about the histories of empire inequality, race, class, and gender discrimination. The tour covers a range of topics including how the University of Oxford gained power locally and globally, the historic tensions between the town and gown, and the past that has shaped Oxford’s urban landscape. The tour also includes visits to iconic city sights such as Carfax Tower, Rhodes Statue, and the Balliol College. You will get to explore these sights from a new perspective and learn about their historical significance.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but please note that some mildly uneven terrain may be encountered.

Booking

The Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour is available through GetYourGuide. To book the tour, click here.

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The Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore the city from a new perspective. Its focus on engaging with the politics of memory in the city and university is unique and informative. By learning about the city’s past, you will gain a deeper understanding of its present. So, plan your Oxford Guided Decolonial Walking Tour today and see the city in a whole new way!

FAQ about the City of Oxford

Oxford is a renowned city located in the southern part of England. The city is known for its prestigious university, historic buildings, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors from all over the world come to Oxford to explore its unique attractions and immerse themselves in its rich history. If you are planning to visit Oxford, this FAQ guide provides answers to some of the commonly asked questions about the city.

1. What is Oxford famous for?

Oxford is famous for its prestigious University of Oxford, which is one of the top-ranked universities in the world. The city is also renowned for its historic buildings, including the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Oxford Castle. Additionally, Oxford is known for its literary and cultural heritage, being the birthplace of authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll.

2. How do I get to Oxford?

Oxford is accessible by road, rail, and air. If you are arriving by air, the nearest airport is London Heathrow, which is approximately 50 miles away. There are frequent trains from London Paddington to Oxford, and the journey takes about an hour. If you are driving, Oxford is easily accessible from the M40 motorway.

3. What is the best time to visit Oxford?

The best time to visit Oxford is during the spring and summer months, from March to August when the weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom. This period is also popular with tourists, so be prepared for crowds. If you prefer a quieter time, visit Oxford during the autumn or winter when the crowds have dispersed.

4. What are the top attractions in Oxford?

Oxford is home to a plethora of attractions, such as:

– University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is the most popular attraction in the city. Visitors can explore the various colleges, libraries, and museums that make up this prestigious institution.

– Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, with a collection of over 12 million books, including rare manuscripts and historic texts.

– Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera is a stunning neoclassical building that serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library.

– Oxford Castle and Prison

The Oxford Castle and Prison is a historic building that was used as a prison until the 20th century. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the castle’s fascinating history.

– Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest university museum in the world, with an extensive collection of art and artefacts from around the globe.

– Pitt Rivers Museum

The Pitt Rivers Museum is a fascinating museum that showcases the history of anthropology and ethnography, with over 500,000 objects on display.

5. What is the Oxford University tour?

The Oxford University tour is a guided tour of the various colleges, libraries, and museums that make up the University of Oxford. The tour takes visitors through the hallowed halls of this historic institution, giving them an insight into the university’s rich history and culture. Visitors can also see famous landmarks such as the Bridge of Sighs, the Sheldonian Theatre, and the Radcliffe Camera.

6. What is the Bridge of Sighs?

The Bridge of Sighs is a stunning landmark in Oxford that connects two buildings of Hertford College over New College Lane. The bridge’s name is inspired by the Bridge of Sighs in Venice due to the similarity in design.

7. What is the best way to explore Oxford?

The best way to explore Oxford is on foot or by bike. The city centre is pedestrianised, making it easy to explore on foot, and there are several bike rental shops where you can rent a bike for a day or two.

8. What is the Oxford Covered Market?

The Oxford Covered Market is a historic market dating back to the 1770s. It is home to over 50 independent traders selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and vintage clothing.

9. What is the cost of living in Oxford?

Oxford is a relatively expensive city to live in. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is higher than the national average. However, visitors can find affordable accommodation options if they book in advance and make use of public transportation.

10. What is the best place to eat in Oxford?

Oxford is home to a range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, serving everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Some of the popular places to eat in Oxford include the Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant, The Old Bookbinders Ale House, and Gee’s Restaurant.

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In conclusion, Oxford is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of attractions to explore. From its historic university to its stunning landmarks and museums, there is something for everyone in Oxford. By using this FAQ guide, visitors can plan their trip to Oxford with ease and make the most of their time in this fascinating city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city located in central southern England. Known for its prestigious university, the city boasts stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful scenery. It attracts tourists from all over the world throughout the year. This guide will help you make the most of your time in Oxford and experience everything the city has to offer.

1. Explore the University of Oxford

As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, the University of Oxford is a must-visit destination in the city. You can take a walking tour of the campus and explore some of its famous colleges, including Christ Church, Balliol, and Magdalen. You can also visit the famous Bodleian Library, which is the second-largest library in the UK.

2. Visit Oxford’s Museums and Art Galleries

Oxford has several world-class museums and galleries that are worth a visit. The Ashmolean Museum is one of the most popular and is home to a vast collection of antiquities, art, and archaeological objects. The Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum are also popular attractions, featuring exhibits on natural history and anthropology.

3. Stroll through the City Centre

Oxford’s city centre is a beautiful area to wander and explore. The historic buildings, narrow streets, and stunning architecture make it a popular destination for tourists. Take a stroll down the High Street and explore the Covered Market, a bustling indoor market that has been in operation since the 1770s.

4. Visit Oxford’s Parks and Gardens

Oxford is known for its many parks and gardens, which offer beautiful green spaces to relax and enjoy the city’s scenery. You can visit the University Parks, which is a large public park that is home to various sporting fields and a beautiful lake. The Oxford Botanic Garden is another popular destination, featuring a diverse range of plants and flowers.

5. Go on a River Cruise

One of the best ways to see Oxford is from the river. You can take a boat tour down the River Thames, where you will see some of the city’s famous landmarks, including the Botanic Gardens and Christ Church College. The tours are available throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the summer months.

6. Visit Oxford’s Historic Churches

Oxford is home to several historic churches, including the famous Christ Church Cathedral. The cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, with its beautiful stained glass windows and famous bell tower. You can also visit St. Mary’s Church, which is the university church of Oxford and features stunning architecture and a beautiful interior.

7. Book a Punting Tour

Punting is a popular activity in Oxford, and it involves using a long pole to propel a flat-bottomed boat along a river. It is a relaxing way to see the city’s scenery, and you can learn about the history of Oxford as you drift along the river. You can take a guided tour or rent a punting boat and do it yourself.

8. Attend a Play at the Oxford Playhouse

The Oxford Playhouse is the main theatre in the city, and it hosts a variety of plays and performances throughout the year. It is located in the city centre and is easily accessible from most of Oxford’s major attractions. It’s a great way to experience the local arts scene and enjoy a night out in the city.

9. Visit Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a stunning 18th-century country house located just outside of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful gardens and architecture. You can take a tour of the palace and learn about its history, or you can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

10. Try the Local Cuisine

Oxford has a diverse range of restaurants and cafes, many of which serve local cuisine. The city is famous for its traditional British dishes, including fish and chips, roast beef, and pudding. There are also many international restaurants, including Italian, French, and Indian cuisine.

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Oxford is a beautiful city that is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. There are many things to do and see in the city, from exploring the university to enjoying a river cruise. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in Oxford and experience everything the city has to offer.