The Reformation Oxford Christian History Tour offers private groups a rare chance to uncover the profound religious and intellectual heritage of one of England’s most iconic cities. Delving into the lives of influential figures like John Wycliffe and Thomas Cranmer, guests will explore historic churches and colleges that played pivotal roles during the Reformation. With a customizable itinerary, this tour ensures a rich and engaging journey through Oxford’s enduring Christian influence. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the city’s religious past, this tour promises to reveal the captivating stories that have shaped Oxford’s enduring legacy.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Historical Tours In Oxford.
Good To Know
- The private tour offers an in-depth exploration of Oxford’s Christian heritage, including visits to historic churches and either an Oxford college or the Divinity School.
- The tour highlights Oxford’s central role in the Reformation, showcasing the influence of figures like John Wycliffe and Thomas Cranmer on the university and its institutions.
- The flexible itinerary allows for customization based on group preferences, ensuring an engaging and personalized experience of Oxford’s Christian landmarks and history.
- The tour includes access to filming locations from the Harry Potter series, providing an additional layer of interest for visitors.
- The tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility and value for the participants.
Pricing and Availability
The Reformation Oxford History Tour starts at a price of $263.02 per group of up to 4 participants.
Customers can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Flexibility is offered with the Reserve now, pay later option.
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, providing a personalized experience as it’s a private tour.
Access to top attractions like New College and the Divinity School is included, along with visits to historic local churches.
However, Christ Church College and the Bodleian medieval library are excluded from the tour.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oxford.
Tour Highlights
Private tour allows for a personalized experience, providing insight into Oxford student life and city history. Highlights include visiting top attractions like New College and the Divinity School. For Harry Potter fans, the tour offers access to filming locations. The itinerary is customizable based on group preferences.
Highlight | Description |
---|---|
New College | Explore this 14th-century college with its Gothic architecture. |
Divinity School | Discover the stunning medieval school of theology. |
Student Life | Gain insight into the daily lives and traditions of Oxford students. |
Filming Locations | Visit sites featured in the Harry Potter films. |
Customizable Itinerary | Tailor the tour to your group’s interests. |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes entry to either an Oxford college or the Divinity School, as well as visits to one or two historic local churches.
However, it excludes access to Christ Church College and the Bodleian medieval library. Specific graduation dates in 2024 may restrict college access.
Requests for Dutch tours require a minimum of 2 days’ notice on weekdays.
The tour ensures a private experience for the group, with a customizable itinerary based on preferences.
While wheelchair accessibility is moderate, strollers and service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate in the tour.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the tour is 15-16 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK.
Participants can identify the guide by their red lanyard and sign outside the Oxford tourist information center.
The tour typically ends at Broad Street, Oxford OX1.
At the end of the tour, guests receive a free Oxford map.
The tour starts at 11:45 AM.
Confirmation is provided at booking, unless within 2 days of the travel date.
The tour is wheelchair accessible with moderate walking involved, and strollers and service animals are allowed.
Most travelers can participate in this private tour, which ensures only group members take part.
Additional Information
Confirmation is received at booking unless within 2 days of travel.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though there’s moderate walking involved. Strollers and service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate in the tour.
The private tour ensures only group members take part, providing a personalized experience. Specific graduation dates may restrict college access in 2024.
Requests for Dutch tours require at least 2 days’ notice on weekdays. At the end of the tour, guests receive a free Oxford map.
Oxford’s Christian Landmarks
Oxford’s Christian Landmarks
Oxford’s rich Christian heritage is on full display during this private tour. Visitors will explore the city’s historic churches, including one dating back to the 11th century.
The tour also provides access to either an Oxford college or the renowned Divinity School, offering insight into the university’s Christian roots. While Christ Church College and the Bodleian medieval library are excluded, the tour still delivers a comprehensive look at Oxford’s Christian landmarks and their significance in shaping the city’s history.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, theology, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this tour promises an immersive experience that illuminates Oxford’s enduring Christian influence.
Reformation Influence on Oxford
During the Reformation era, Oxford University found itself at the center of religious and intellectual upheaval. As the birthplace of influential thinkers like John Wycliffe and Thomas Cranmer, Oxford became a hotbed of Protestant ideas that challenged the Catholic Church’s authority. This tumultuous period saw the university’s colleges and chapels become the stage for fiery debates, theological disputes, and even violent confrontations. The lasting impact of the Reformation can still be felt in Oxford’s architecture, traditions, and the enduring legacy of its scholars who helped shape the course of European history.
Reformation Figures | Impact on Oxford |
---|---|
John Wycliffe | Pioneered vernacular Bible translations |
Thomas Cranmer | Architect of the Church of England |
Cranmer Quadrangle | Named after the influential Archbishop |
Customizing the Tour Experience
The tour’s flexible itinerary allows guests to customize their Oxford experience.
Based on the group’s preferences, the guide can adjust the visit to focus on specific attractions or areas of interest.
Whether it’s exploring additional colleges, delving deeper into the city’s history, or tailoring the tour for Harry Potter fans, the private format ensures a personalized experience.
Travelers can request to visit churches not included in the standard itinerary, or opt to skip certain sights to allocate more time at their favorites.
This adaptability caters to diverse interests and ensures an engaging tour that leaves a lasting impression on each participant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Yes, children can participate in the tour. The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows strollers, making it suitable for families with young children. Most travelers, including those with children, can participate in the tour.
Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour. However, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions in certain locations and follow the guide’s instructions. Most participants find the opportunity to capture the historic sites quite useful.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for the tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate walking. Participants should dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
Can the Tour Be Modified for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour can accommodate guests with disabilities. It is wheelchair accessible, though moderate walking is involved. Strollers and service animals are allowed to provide flexibility for those with special needs.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. Strollers are allowed, making the tour accessible for families with young children.
Sum Up
The Reformation Oxford Christian History Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the profound religious and intellectual heritage of the city. Participants can explore the lives of influential figures, visit historic churches and colleges, and tailor their experience to focus on specific interests. With a customizable itinerary, this tour provides an engaging journey through Oxford’s enduring Christian influence and history.
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