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Oxford
Oxford's Pubs: Self-Guided Tour & Audio History
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Overview
Oxford's Historic Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour takes people through the city's old and interesting pubs. Some of these pubs have been around for over 700 years! This walking tour lets you see some of the oldest and most unusual pubs in Oxford. It's a fun way to learn about the city's history while visiting ten of Paul Coyne's favorite pubs, each with its own special story.
The tour starts at The Head of the River pub, near Folly Bridge. You'll walk through small streets and hidden paths. The audio guide tells you about the streets where students and townspeople have enjoyed drinks for a long time. You'll hear about a pub fight that took 600 years to solve and about a pub that had a camel! You'll also see famous places like Hertford Bridge and Radcliffe Square. By the end of the tour, near The Grapes pub on George Street, you'll know the difference between an alehouse, a tavern, and an inn.
Along the way, you'll stop at key places like The Bear Inn, known for its collection of ties, and the historic Swindlestock Tavern site. Other pubs include The Crown Inn, The Turf Tavern (hidden away and a favorite with students), The Kings Arms, and The White Horse. You can also explore The Covered Market and see The Blue Peter pub. This tour gives you lifetime access in English. You can use it offline with maps and audio. It works on Android and iOS. You can go at your own pace with the GPS guide. Just get to the starting point, and the tour begins! 
Highlights
Explore Historic Pubs: Discover Oxford's oldest and quirkiest pubs, some over 700 years old.
Self-Guided Adventure: Go at your own pace with a GPS-guided audio tour.
Hear Fascinating Stories: Learn about pub brawls, camels, and the difference between alehouses, taverns, and inns.
See Famous Landmarks: Visit Hertford Bridge, Radcliffe Square, and other historical sites.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers enjoyed the Oxford pub tour, finding it a fun and informative way to explore the city's history and unique pubs. The self-guided format and audio guide were particularly appreciated.
Customers loved learning about Oxford's history through its pubs.
The audio guide was very informative and easy to follow.
Visitors enjoyed the flexibility of the self-guided tour.
Many found the hidden pubs and stories to be a delightful surprise.
Some people wished there were more seating options along the route.
A few users had trouble with the GPS in certain areas.
The Journey
The Head of the River
Begin your Oxford pub tour at The Head of the River, a charming pub boasting a lovely riverside garden. Uncover the history of the Oxford University eights races while enjoying scenic views of the Isis (River Thames). Learn how this iconic pub got its distinctive name.
The Bear Inn
Step into The Bear Inn, rumored to be Oxford's oldest pub, dating back to 1242. Explore its quirky interior and marvel at the Bear's unique collection of over 4,500 snipped neckties, a tradition steeped in local lore.
Swindlestock Tavern (Historical Site)
Reflect on the tumultuous St. Scholastica Day riot of 1355, which ignited from a pub brawl at the historical site of the Swindlestock Tavern. This event marked a significant moment in the tense relationship between Oxford University and the town's inhabitants.
The Crown Inn
Follow in the footsteps of William Shakespeare at The Crown Inn, a historic pub where the playwright reportedly enjoyed frequent visits. Discover the tale of Shakespeare's alleged close friendship with the landlord's wife, adding a touch of literary intrigue to your pint.
The Turf Tavern
Venture off the beaten path to The Turf Tavern, a hidden gem with a storied past. Though somewhat difficult to find, follow the clear audio directions right to its door. Discover anecdotes of celebrity drinking exploits that have unfolded within its walls.
The Kings Arms
Test your intellect at The Kings Arms, a pub renowned for its reputation of possessing the 'highest IQ per square foot of any pub in the world'. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere and engage in stimulating conversation amidst a crowd of Oxford's brightest minds.
The Covered Market
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Covered Market, trading since 1774. Discover the market's evolution, featuring modern craft ale bars alongside traditional shops. Enjoy a craft ale and food while soaking up the historic ambiance of this unique Oxford landmark.
The Blue Peter
Discover the charm of The Blue Peter, known to be the smallest pub in Oxford, which has appeared in Colin Dexter's Inspector Morse series many times. Experience its cozy atmosphere and perhaps recall a scene or two from the detective drama.
Hertford Bridge (Bridge of Sighs)
Capture picturesque photos at Hertford Bridge, commonly known as the 'Bridge of Sighs'. This iconic landmark connects two parts of Hertford College and offers stunning views, making it a must-see for any Oxford tour.
The White Horse
Conclude your Oxford Historic Pub Tour at The White Horse, a Victorian-style pub with a vast selection of over 40 keg and 8 cask ales. Reflect on the ten pubs you will have visited, sharing memories and savoring the final stop on your journey through Oxford's pub scene.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided tour includes lifetime access to the tour in English, offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, and an app for Android and iOS. You can explore at your own pace with the GPS tour. Directions to the starting point are provided to start the tour. This tour does not include a smartphone or headphones, food and drinks, transportation, or tickets and entrance fees to attractions along the way. Make sure to bring your own smartphone, headphones, and any refreshments that you would like during the tour.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest bringing a portable charger for your phone, as the GPS and audio guide can drain the battery. Also, wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Some pubs may be crowded, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly!
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