Oxford: Jericho and Port Meadow Guided Walking Tour

The historic city of Oxford offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich cultural heritage. One popular tour takes guests through the charming Jericho neighborhood and along the picturesque Oxford Canal, culminating at the scenic Port Meadow. This guided walking tour promises an engaging exploration of Oxford’s landmarks and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to appreciate the city’s captivating atmosphere, this tour provides an opportunity to uncover the unique stories that have shaped this renowned university town.

Key Points

• A guided 3-hour walking tour exploring the historic Jericho and Port Meadow neighborhoods in Oxford, including visits to notable landmarks and scenic natural settings.

• The tour begins at the historic Eagle and Child pub, linked to J.R.R. Tolkien, and concludes back in Jericho with options for lunch or a canal walk.

• Highlights include St Barnabas Church, Radcliffe Infirmary, The Blavatnik Building, the Oxford Canal, and the centuries-old grazing land of Port Meadow.

• The tour provides insights into the historical and cultural significance of the Jericho neighborhood, including its role in the Oxford Movement and connections to the fictional Inspector Morse.

• The tour is suitable for a wide range of participants, with comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This guided walking tour of Oxford offers a 3-hour exploration of the Jericho and Port Meadow neighborhoods.

Priced from $193.54 per group (up to 15 participants), it’s a private group experience led by an English-speaking guide. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s a reserve now & pay later option.

The tour starts at The Eagle and Child in Jericho and covers key stops like St Barnabas Church, university buildings, the Oxford Canal, and Port Meadow with its stunning River Thames views.

Explore Jericho and Port Meadow neighborhoods with stops at St Barnabas Church, university buildings, Oxford Canal, and River Thames views.

It concludes back in Jericho, allowing for lunch or a canal walk to the city center.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at The Eagle and Child in the Jericho neighborhood, a historic pub with ties to literary figures like J.R.R. Tolkien.

From there, the tour visits St Barnabas Church, the Radcliffe Infirmary, and The Blavatnik Building, showcasing Oxford’s notable university architecture.

Participants will then stroll along the scenic Oxford Canal and admire the grazing land of Port Meadow, which has been used for that purpose since the Middle Ages.

The tour concludes back in Jericho, offering options for lunch or a 20-minute canal walk to return to the city center.

Historical Context

Jericho, one of Oxford’s oldest neighborhoods, dates back to the 12th century and has a rich history.

It’s home to The Oxford University Press and notable university buildings.

The tour discusses the Oxford Movement, which played a crucial role in the Anglo-Catholic revival of the 1800s.

Participants will also have the opportunity to retrace the steps of the famous Inspector Morse, a beloved fictional detective from the books and TV series.

This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of this vibrant Oxford neighborhood.

Natural Attractions

Along With the historical charm of Jericho, the tour also showcases the area’s natural attractions. The centerpiece is Port Meadow, the largest common land in Oxford with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can stroll through the grazing land and take in the stunning views. The tour also includes a scenic walk along the Oxford Canal, opened in 1790, offering picturesque waterway vistas and glimpses of the River Thames. These natural wonders provide a tranquil contrast to the urban university buildings explored earlier in the tour.

| Natural Attractions | Description |

| — | — |

| Port Meadow | Largest common land in Oxford with grazing since Middle Ages |

| Oxford Canal | Scenic waterway opened in 1790 |

| River Thames | Glimpses of the iconic British river |

| Grazing Land | Centuries-old pastoral landscapes |

| Stunning Views | Panoramic vistas across the natural settings |

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Participant Information

Although the tour is designed for a wide range of participants, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

This tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, despite its wide range of participants.

Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended items to bring. Participants should also wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves an outdoor walking experience.

Lunch and drinks at The Perch are available for purchase but not included in the tour price.

The meeting point is at the front door of The Eagle and Child, where the guide will be waiting to greet the group.

The Eagle and Child

The Eagle and Child, a historic pub in the Jericho neighborhood, serves as the starting point for the guided walking tour.

Established in the 17th century, this iconic venue was a favorite haunt of famous writers like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, who were part of the literary group known as the "Inklings."

Participants will meet their tour guide outside the pub’s front entrance, ready to embark on a journey through Oxford’s rich history and scenic landscapes.

The pub offers an opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere before setting off on the 3-hour walking adventure.

St Barnabas Church

One of the first stops on the guided tour is St Barnabas Church, a remarkable example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture.

Constructed in the 1860s, it features an imposing spire, detailed stone carvings, and stained glass windows.

The church played a significant role in the Oxford Movement, a 19th-century religious revival that sought to bring the Church of England closer to Catholic traditions.

Visitors can admire the church’s impressive interiors and learn about its historical importance during the tour.

The guide provides insights into the church’s architecture and its connections to the Anglo-Catholic revival movement.

University Buildings and the Oxford Movement

As the tour continues, visitors will have the opportunity to explore several noteworthy university buildings that played a pivotal role in the Oxford Movement.

This 19th-century revival of Anglo-Catholicism influenced the architecture and design of structures like the Radcliffe Infirmary and The Blavatnik Building. Guests will learn about the Oxford Movement’s impact on the university and its lasting legacy.

The tour also provides a chance to retrace the steps of the iconic fictional detective, Inspector Morse, as you discover the rich history and significance of these iconic Oxford landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. However, the guide recommends wearing comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing to fully enjoy the walking tour through Jericho and Port Meadow.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so it’s likely not accommodating for pets either. Tour participants should focus on enjoying the walking experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for participants. The tour is suitable for all ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult. The guide can accommodate guests of varying mobility levels.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests, such as focusing on particular areas of interest or adjusting the pace. Guests should contact the tour provider to discuss any specific needs or preferences.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

The tour operates rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, the guide will adjust the route and timing to provide the best possible experience. Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the conditions.

The Sum Up

This guided walking tour offers an engaging exploration of Oxford’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors will discover the charming Jericho neighborhood, stroll along the picturesque Oxford Canal, and explore the ancient grazing lands of Port Meadow. With its mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty, this tour provides a unique and memorable experience for individuals and groups alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: