Oxford's Historic Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Oxford’s historical streets are full of interesting and unusual pubs, some of which have been providing refreshment for over 700 years. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll visit a few of the oldest and quirkiest pubs the city has to offer. Starting at the Head of the River pub near Folly Bridge, you’ll wind through cobbled lanes and hidden passages to discover ten of Paul Coyne favourite pubs, each with a story to tell. The audio guide will lead you through the ancient streets where students and townspeople have all enjoyed an ’Education in Intoxication’. You’ll see where a Tuesday afternoon pub brawl took 600 years to be finally reconciled, and learn which pub had a camel. You'll also see a few historical landmarks like Hertford Bridge, Carfax Tower, and Radcliffe Square. By the end of the tour, in front of the Grapes on George Street, you’ll have learnt the differences between an alehouse, a tavern, and an inn.

1. 1

   Stop 1

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   The start of the Oxford Historic Pub Tour, with a lovely riverside garden. Learn about the Oxford University eights races & how the pub got it's name.

2. 2

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   Discover if The Bear is truly the oldest pub in Oxford dating from 1262. Learn more about The Bear's collection of over 4,500 snipped neckties.

3. 3

   Carfax Tower

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   Learn about the St. Scholastica Day riot which started with a pub brawl at the Swindlestock Tavern.

4. 4

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   William Shakespeare was a frequent visitor to the The Crown Inn and it's alleged that he became very friendly with the landlord's wife.

5. 5

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   A hidden gem of Oxford that can be difficult to find, but our clear audio directions will lead you right there. The Turf has many stories of celebrity drinking exploits.

6. 6

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   Learn about the Kings Arms' reputation of having the "highest IQ per square foot of any pub in the world". A very atmospheric pub with back rooms and a real log fire in the winter.

7. 7

   Oxford Covered Market

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   Trading since 1774 the Covered Market has modernised in recent years with many craft ale bars and shops. Well worth a visit to soak up the historic atmosphere and perhaps have a craft ale & some food.

8. 8

   Stop 8

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   Probably the smallest pub in Oxford and has appeared in Colin Dexter's Inspector Morse series many times.

9. 9

   Stop 9

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   Hertford Bridge links two parts of Hertford college in Oxford. It's commonly known as 'The Bridge of Sighs' and is a great place for picturesque photos when touring Oxford.

10. 10

    Stop 10

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    The last pub on the Oxford Historic Pub Tour, a time to reflect on the ten pubs you will have visited. A Victorian pub in style with over 40 keg & 8 cask ales to enjoy.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.