Since the 12th century, when its prestigious university was established, Oxford has been the cultural heart of southern England. However, the 'City of Dreaming Spires' (as poet Matthew Arnold nicknamed it) has a much longer history. The Anglo-Saxon settlement of Oxford was founded probably in the 9th century, and it soon became a flourishing town. Even if the Danes burned Oxford in 1009, the city recovered with magnificent buildings that are still perfectly preserved today. With so many landmarks to visit and such a long history to untangle, it might be difficult to decide on a sightseeing route! That’s why joining the best and most entertaining Essential Free Tour of Oxford will help both first-timers and enthusiasts of Oxonian culture to discover the best landmarks and best-kept secrets of this atemporal town.

Strolling along historical avenues will offer guests on the Essential Free Tour of Oxford a great opportunity to feel amazed by ancient Anglo-Saxon remains, Gothic monuments, Neoclassical churches, and the long history of kings, bishops, spies and scientists that helped shape the city as it is known today (did you know that the first coffee house in England opened in Oxford in 1651?). In particular, your guide will take you for a walk along High Street. This a busy commercial area, which runs from Carfax Tower (the striking remains of the 13th century St Martin's Church) to the Botanic Garden on the River Cherwell. Additionally, guests will discover modern Oxford at the Covered Market and stroll around charming Cornmarket Street.

Thanks to your charming local guide, guests on the Free Tour of Essential Oxford will discover why this world-renowned college town is a feast for the eyes where history and art lie around on almost every street. Of course, your tour will cover some of the most important college buildings that made this city famous, including the spectacular Sheldonian Theatre. This surprising building is not a theater in the modern sense of the term, but a ceremonial place where many rituals of the university still take place today. Along the tour, guests are encouraged to ask as many questions about Oxonian lifestyle as they wish. And your guide will also give amazing recommendations on what to do, where to eat and what to order in Oxford!