Experience Oxfordshire

New walking tours of Oxford’s watering holes will offer an insight into the city’s drinking traditions from medieval to modern times.

Led by an expert blue or green badge guide the fortnightly excursions through fascinating alleyways and cobbled streets stop off at traditional taverns and inns across the city.

The Purely Pubs Tour of the City, which can cater for groups of up to 14, has been launched by Experience Oxfordshire.

They describe it as a modern twist on a conventional walking tour and a great way to explore the rich heritage of the City of Dreaming Spires.

Plus there is the bonus of being able to enjoy a pint at the end.

The tours run on alternate Wednesday evenings at 7pm until the end of September, departing from one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, the Mitre, on the High Street.

Tours team leader Annie Macdonald said: “You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an early evening in Oxford and raise a glass to some of those most celebrated Oxford figures - including literary greats such as Shakespeare, JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis.

“Not forgetting of course famous TV detective Inspector Morse, who was often heard offering his sidekick a ‘pint, Lewis?’. 

“It is an exciting new tour for us.”

Hayley Beer-Gamage, CEO of Experience Oxfordshire, said: “This is a fantastic new way to explore the City of Oxford. I am sure it will be very popular with both locals and visitors and is a great new addition to our growing Oxford Official Walking Tours portfolio.”

The tour can be booked by private groups on request, at a time to suit.

There is no coach parking available in the city centre, except for drop off and pickups. However, Redbridge Coach and Lorry Park can be used by coaches which is located in South Oxford.

For tickets visit www.experienceoxfordshire.org/product/official-pubs-oxford-tour/

Photo credit: Experience Oxfordshire.