Oxford: Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of British detective stories or simply enjoy strolling through historic university towns, this Inspector Morse-themed walking tour in Oxford offers a charming and engaging way to see the city. It’s a lively 90-minute journey through the streets and colleges that have served as the backdrop for some of television’s most beloved detective series. Whether you’re into the intricate plots or just love Oxford’s architecture, this tour aims to bring the mystery and glamour of these crime dramas right to your feet.

What we particularly enjoy is how the tour balances film location sightseeing with a dose of local history. You’ll visit iconic spots like the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library, while also hearing behind-the-scenes stories that add depth to what might otherwise be just another scenic walk. The fact that it’s priced at around $34 makes it a reasonably affordable way to experience the city through the lens of your favorite detectives.

One consideration is that this tour runs for about an hour and a half, so travelers should be prepared for a moderate amount of walking—comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since it’s a relatively niche experience, it’s best suited for those who have at least a passing interest in the series or Oxford’s film history. If you’re craving a deeper, more detailed visit to Oxford’s landmarks or a more comprehensive tour of the city, this might be a complementary activity rather than your sole exploration.

This tour is ideal for fans of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour who want to see Oxford through the lens of their favorite detectives, enjoy stories and trivia, and take a leisurely walk through some of the most photographed spots in the city.

Key Points

• Focus on filming locations from popular detective series.
• Includes a friendly guide who shares insider stories and trivia.
• Offers great value at around $34 for a 90-minute tour.
• Suitable for all ages with moderate physical activity required.
• Small group size (max 19 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Perfect for fans of the series or visitors seeking a themed walk in Oxford.

This tour offers a well-crafted itinerary that takes you through Oxford’s streets and colleges linked to the beloved detective series. It’s a compact experience that packs in plenty of sights, stories, and a few mysterious tales that can make the city’s dark corners seem a little more intriguing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Oxford Tourist Information (Broad Street)

The tour begins promptly at 10:00 am, meeting at the Oxford Tourist Information center. From here, your guide—likely a local with a good sense of humor—is ready to lead you through the city’s most recognizable film locations.

University College

We start at University College, not only famous for its ancient architecture but also because it’s Morse’s alma mater in the series. Here, you’ll get a quick but fascinating peek at where Morse’s academic roots lie and why this spot keeps popping up on screen.

Exeter College

Next, we move to Exeter College, a versatile location used for both interior and exterior shots across multiple episodes. It’s a favorite among filming crews, thanks to its classic quads and cloisters that evoke a quintessential Oxford atmosphere.

Brasenose College and New College Lane

These historic colleges are featured often, with Brasenose’s quadrangle providing a picturesque backdrop and New College Lane being used in chase scenes. It’s fun imagining Morse or Lewis racing through these narrow streets.

Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera

No Oxford filming tour would be complete without these two landmarks. The Bodleian Library’s grand façade and the Radcliffe Camera’s domed silhouette are instantly recognizable and serve as perfect storytelling backdrops, reinforcing Oxford’s cinematic reputation.

Sheldonian Theatre & St John’s College

The majestic Sheldonian Theatre appears in wide shots, adding a sense of grandeur, while St John’s College is used for dramatic confrontations and college scenes, making it a site of tension and storytelling.

The White Horse & Turf Tavern

These iconic pubs are tucked away but featured in several episodes. The Turf Tavern, in particular, is a favorite among fans for its cozy atmosphere and history—plus, it’s where Morse might have unwound after a day’s investigative work.

The Bear Inn & Broad Street

The Bear Inn, one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, offers a glimpse into local life and has been seen in various episodes, adding authenticity to the detective stories. Broad Street, bustling and lively, anchors the tour with its vibrant university scene.

Turl Street & St Aldates Police Station

Turl Street’s walk-and-talk scenes are memorable, and the police station (standing in for Thames Valley Police HQ) adds an authentic law enforcement touch, bringing the detective theme full circle.

Christ Church Meadow & Oxford Covered Market

Your walk concludes at Christ Church Meadow, a tranquil spot often used for reflective or moody detective walks, then into the covered market, which sometimes appears in chase or meeting scenes. These final stops tie together the tour’s mix of peaceful scenery and vibrant city life.

The Guide

Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing behind-the-scenes trivia and stories from the filming of the series. They help connect the dots between the locations and the stories you may have watched on TV, making the experience more engaging.

The Pace and Group Size

With a limit of 19 travelers, the group feels intimate without being crowded. Expect a moderate pace—aimed at allowing time for photos and questions—making it suitable for most walking abilities.

Cost and Value

At $34, the price is reasonable considering the number of famous sites covered and the insider stories shared. It’s a sightseeing experience that emphasizes the connection between Oxford’s architecture and its role as the backdrop for crime-solving drama.

Duration

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a perfect morning activity or a nice break during your day in Oxford. It’s long enough to see many sights without feeling rushed.

We loved the way the tour reveals Oxford not just as a university city, but as a film set that’s recognizable around the world. Seeing the Radcliffe Camera or Bodleian Library in person offers a different appreciation compared to just viewing them in a program. The guide’s stories about how these spots are used in filming enrich your understanding of how Oxford’s historic beauty lends itself so well to storytelling.

The inclusion of pubs like the Turf Tavern and The Bear Inn adds a convivial touch, giving a sense of local life and history beyond the screen. You might find yourself looking more closely at the streets, knowing they’ve starred in iconic episodes.

Some reviews, like the one from h_h, highlight the fun aspect: “It was fun to see Oxford through the lens of favorite television shows. Martin was a skillful guide with a diverse group. Highly recommend!” This enthusiasm suggests the tour’s appeal isn’t just educational but also genuinely enjoyable.

• Wear comfortable shoes; expect a moderate amount of walking around college quads and city streets.
• The tour starts at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.
• Since it’s a small group, booking in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons.
• Remember, tips are not included, so if you enjoy the guide’s storytelling, a gratuity is appreciated.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness levels—there are no strenuous climbs but some uneven surfaces.

This tour is perfect if you’re a TV series fan eager to see the filming locations in person. It’s also well-suited for history and architecture lovers who appreciate Oxford’s iconic buildings, even if they’re not series aficionados. The small group setting makes it a good choice for travelers who want a more personalized experience without the crowds of large bus tours.

It works well for those looking for a light, entertaining activity that combines sightseeing, storytelling, and a chance to step behind the scenes of their favorite detective dramas.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity suitable for most travelers.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Oxford Tourist Information at 16 Broad Street, Oxford.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the moderate walking and interest level suggest it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in the series or Oxford’s architecture.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, booking ahead—average bookings are made 39 days in advance—ensures your spot, especially during busy times.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included, but if you enjoy the guide’s storytelling, a gratuity is customary.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Is this tour accessible for those with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking through university streets and historic sites, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

What’s the price?
It costs about $34.32 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the specialized content and small group size.

If you’re in Oxford and have even a mild interest in detective stories or the city’s filmography, this Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour walking tour offers a unique, engaging way to explore. It’s a perfect blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and nostalgic TV moments, all wrapped up in a friendly, manageable package.

Travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic city sights, and insider tales will find this tour both charming and worthwhile. It’s a chance to see Oxford’s most famous filming spots while learning some intriguing behind-the-scenes stories that will add a new layer of appreciation to your visit.

For those seeking a fun, themed way to experience Oxford beyond the usual historic walks, this detective tour delivers a memorable, lighthearted glimpse into the city’s cinematic and criminal side.