Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Besides introducing Oxford heritage, this tour is led by one of Oxford's most experienced local guides and it introduces the best college gardens off the beaten route of most tourists visiting Oxford. For anyone interested in herbalism, this can be a focus interest too, if made known in advance before the tour. You will visit inside at least one or more college -see details of which colleges in the main tour description. This tour is suitable for all ages but it will appeal especially to anyone who has a special interest in gardening.
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Entry inside at least one or more colleges such as St Johns, Exeter, Balliol or Wadham
Magdalen college entry ticket for £10 is not included in tour & is an optional add
Colleges may be closed on graduation dates- see dates below...
May 16 + 17 + 31, July 19 + 29, Aug 1 + 2 + 9, Sep 26 + 27, Nov 7+ 8+9+14 +15 of 2025
Exeter College
This is easily one of Oxford's college gems, founded in 1314 and the student college of Tolkien plus of the pre Raphaelites artists, William Morris & Edward Burne Jones. The chapel is gorgeous & so is the Old Fellows Garden. This college is also where they often filmed Inspector Morse & Lewis shows. This college is usually closed to the public but as a guide, I can get you access with me.
Balliol College
This college dates back to 1263! We usually visit this college too- unless it's closed. This college has an amazing dining hall which looks like Hogwarts hall! This college is where Adam Smith studied plus four prime ministers. Entry worth £5 per person included
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
weynmady,
Mar 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing Morse/Endeavour/Lewis tour with our guide Tom. He made our walk in Oxford come alive with his extensive commentary on Oxford history, authors, life in college, filming locations, etc. We selected the Morse/Endeavor/Lewis tour but got so much more. Beautiful details inside and outside buildings were pointed at, which we would have otherwise overlooked. Tom is a very good story teller and gives you plenty of time to ask questions. We can only recommend to take this tour with Tom as you will enjoy Oxfor even more.
ACN13,
Nov 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
OK, an overcast November day may not seem ideal for a garden tour. Nevertheless our amiable and knowledgeable guide flexed the route and built in other elements to ensure we had a rich, realxed and varied couple of hours. A perfect way to discover and digest parts of the history, flora and vibe of Oxford that we'd never have managed alone. Thanks Harvey.









B1053NYgaila,
Sep 29, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
The tour was beyond my wildest expectations. That my guide clearly understood my lifelong long of Lewis, resonated with me. I would not hesitate to recommend him. He was honest, informed, and funny!
Operated by Visit Oxford Tours