Oxford of Morse, Lewis and Endeavour

Imagine walking through a city where every cobblestone, pub, and alleyway could be the scene of a murder, or at least a memorable episode of a beloved detective series. That’s exactly what this 2-hour walking tour offers—an immersive experience into the filming locations of Oxford’s own crime-solving heroes, Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour. If you’re a fan of British detective dramas or just love discovering hidden corners of historic cities, this tour is a promising choice.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a chance to walk in the actual footsteps of your favorite fictional sleuths, with the added bonus of exploring some of Oxford’s most charming and historic spots. Second, you’ll get behind-the-scenes insights into the filming process and learn about the city itself—beyond just the crime stories.

One potential drawback? It’s a relatively short, two-hour tour, so if you’re craving an in-depth history of Oxford or a more leisurely exploration, you might find it a bit brisk. Still, for those seeking a thematic, focused experience with a good dose of local flavor, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for TV crime fans, history buffs, or visitors wanting a unique way to see Oxford’s streets. It also offers a small-group, accessible format, making it a personalized and intimate way to spend a couple of hours in this historic university city.

Key Points

• Focus on film locations from Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour.
• Walk in the detectives’ footsteps, visiting key pubs and streets.
• Learn behind-the-scenes stories and filming secrets.
• Pass iconic pubs and buildings that feature in episodes.
• Small-group tour ensures a more personal experience.
• Accessible and wheelchair friendly for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Glimpse into Oxford’s Detective World

We love the way this tour combines film location sightseeing with local history, making each stop meaningful. It’s not just about snapping photos; it’s about understanding how Oxford’s streets have become part of television lore. The tour’s two-hour length is just right for those wanting a quick, engaging overview without a full-day commitment.

Starting outside the historic Randolph Hotel, the tour sets a classy tone. This grand hotel is a familiar sight in the series, often used for key scenes. As you walk along Broad Street, you’ll get a sense of the city’s bustling academic and social life, which provides the perfect backdrop for the detectives’ investigations.

The tour then takes you to Holywell Music Room, one of Oxford’s oldest concert venues, and the nearby Turf Tavern, a pub famous for its appearances in the series. These stops aren’t just scenic—they’re integral to the stories, often serving as the detectives’ favorite watering holes or meeting spots.

Radcliffe Square and Merton Street come next, framing the iconic university buildings that have doubled as crime scenes or detective offices on screen. Walking through these historic squares helps you appreciate how Oxford’s timeless architecture makes for a convincing TV backdrop.

The Oxford Covered Market offers a lively, authentic local flavor, and it’s fun to imagine the detectives navigating its busy stalls. This area is a favorite for fans who want to see where the city’s everyday life intersects with its fictional detective stories.

The tour ends back at the Randolph Hotel, leaving you with a collection of vivid images and insights about how Oxford’s streets and pubs have contributed to the series’ success.

What to Expect on Your Tour

This guided walk is led by a live English-speaking guide, who offers explanations, stories, and behind-the-scenes tidbits. The tour is designed to be small and intimate, limited to 10 participants, which means plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

The stops are mainly outdoor and involve walking at a relaxed pace, making it suitable for most mobility levels, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible. Expect to spend about two hours strolling through the city, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and listen to stories.

The tour does not include food or drink, so plan to have a snack or beverage beforehand or afterwards. The meeting point is conveniently outside the main entrance to the Randolph Hotel, on Beaumont Street, directly opposite the Ashmolean Museum—a central and easy-to-find location.

Analyzing the Value and Practicalities

At a price that is likely quite reasonable, especially considering the small group size and the expert guiding, this tour offers good value for fans of the series or curious travelers wanting a thematic experience in Oxford. The focus on filming locations makes it a different experience from more general city tours, appealing to those with a specific interest in television.

The 2-hour duration strikes a balance between being thorough enough to see the highlights, yet short enough not to overextend your schedule. The tour’s flexibility, with options to reserve now and pay later, adds a layer of convenience for planning. Plus, the full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance reduces the risk for those unsure about their plans.

While the tour doesn’t delve deeply into Oxford’s entire history, it’s a fun and engaging way to see some of the city’s most photogenic spots with a detective-themed twist. If you’re after a relaxed, themed walk with authentic local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

Authentic Experiences in a Famous City

Participating in this tour means you’re not just visiting Oxford’s sights—you’re walking through the scenes of some of Britain’s most beloved detective stories. It’s a chance to see the city from a slightly different perspective, imagining Morse, Lewis, Hathaway, and Endeavour strolling down the same streets.

The combination of filming locations, historic pubs, and university landmarks makes for a well-rounded experience. The guide’s storytelling helps bring the series to life, making each stop more memorable. It’s clear from reviews that guides like Renate bring enthusiasm and local knowledge, which enhances the experience—one reviewer even noted how “despite the bad weather, we had a very successful Morse tour.”

For avid fans, this tour offers a nostalgic trip down TV memory lane. For casual viewers, it’s an engaging way to connect with Oxford’s urban fabric and learn about the filming process behind some iconic scenes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for TV crime aficionados and those curious about filming locations who want a condensed yet engaging overview of Oxford’s detective side. It’s ideal for small groups seeking personalized attention and accessible for most travelers. If you’re short on time but still want a themed, memorable activity, this tour is a good pick.

It’s also a great way to see the city’s highlights without the need for a full day. However, if your focus is purely on exploring Oxford’s history or architecture, you might prefer other tours. For dedicated fans of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour, this walk offers a perfect mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes insights.

The Oxford of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour walking tour offers a unique blend of film location sightseeing and local flavor. Its focus on iconic pubs, university landmarks, and city streets makes it more than just a TV-themed stroll—it’s an engaging way to explore Oxford’s atmosphere through the lens of beloved detective stories.

Thanks to the small-group format and enthusiastic guiding, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that’s both fun and informative. It’s particularly suited for fans of British detective dramas or anyone wanting a brief, themed glimpse into Oxford’s scenic and cinematic sides.

While it’s a shorter tour, the wealth of stories and locations covered means you’ll leave with plenty of memorable images and new insights. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just looking to see the city from a different angle, this experience offers real value and charm.

If you love a good story and enjoy walking through historic streets, this tour stands out as an entertaining, well-organized way to spend a couple of hours in Oxford.

• Where does the tour start? It begins outside the main entrance of the Randolph Hotel, on Beaumont Street, opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
• How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity.
• Is it suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
• How many participants are in each group? The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.
• What’s included in the price? The tour includes a guided walk and explanations but does not cover food or drinks.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start to receive a full refund.
• Is there a specific dress code? No special dress code is required, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Can I join the tour if I don’t know the series? Absolutely. While fans will enjoy the references, the tour is engaging even for those unfamiliar with Morse, Lewis, or Endeavour.
• What should I bring? Just your curiosity, a camera, and perhaps a raincoat if the weather forecast predicts rain.
• Is it a guided tour? Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the walk, providing stories and behind-the-scenes insights throughout.

This walking tour offers a charming glimpse into Oxford’s streets, film history, and detective tales—an experience that both entertain and inform.

You can check availability for your dates here: