Oxford: Pre-Raphaelite Walking Tour with Exeter College

Oxford: Pre-Raphaelite Walking Tour with Exeter College

Discovering Oxford through the lens of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood offers a unique blend of art, history, and university charm. This private, 2.5-hour guided experience promises intimate access to some of the university’s most evocative sites, including Exeter College and the Oxford Union library—places rarely open to the public. Led by an award-winning local guide, you’ll learn about the movement’s return to detailed, vibrant art, and its connection to Oxford’s famed alumni like William Morris and Edward Burne Jones.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to step inside Exeter College, where Morris and Burne Jones studied, and enjoy spectacular views from the college’s Fellows Garden. However, since access to colleges can be affected by university schedules or graduations, there’s a chance certain sites might be closed — but the guide will advise beforehand and suggest alternative spots if needed.

If you’re passionate about art, history, or Oxford’s hidden stories, this tour offers a specialized focus that sets it apart from standard city walks. It’s a perfect fit for those who appreciate detailed storytelling and exclusive access, all in a small, private group setting.

Key Points

• Special Access: Visit Exeter College’s interior, gardens, and chapel (when open), and see inside the Oxford Union library—rare opportunities for visitors.
• Expert Guide: Led by a knowledgeable, award-winning local guide who offers engaging insights without overwhelming.
• Focus on Art & History: Learn about the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, their artistic ideals, and the lives of Morris and Burne Jones.
• Spectacular Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Oxford from Exeter’s Fellows Garden, with sights like Radcliffe Square and the Radcliffe Camera.
• Flexibility & Alternatives: If certain colleges are closed, the itinerary can include Keble College or other significant sites like the Ashmolean Museum.
• Value for Money: For around $135, you get a highly personalized experience with entry to key sites valued at a few pounds, combined with expert narration.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins outside the Oxford tourist info centre, located at 15 Broad Street. The guide, easily identifiable by a red lanyard, sets the tone for a comfortable, intimate experience. With a small private group, you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and this setup allows for personalized attention — ideal for those who prefer a tailored, conversational style.

Exploring Exeter College (When Open)

One of the tour’s highlights is access to Exeter College’s magnificent interiors, including its chapel and gardens. Exeter is one of Oxford’s oldest colleges, and its historic architecture and tranquil gardens provide a perfect backdrop to discuss the university’s influence on the Arts and Crafts movement.

Reviewers mention that when Exeter College is open, it offers some of the best views of Oxford, especially from the Fellows Garden. From here, you can see Radcliffe Square, the Radcliffe Camera, and other iconic university buildings. The view is not just picturesque but offers a glimpse into the university’s architectural grandeur and its historical layers.

Inside the Oxford Union Library

One of the tour’s unique selling points is access to the exquisite library at the Oxford Union, which is rarely open to visitors. When available, this visit is particularly memorable because of the frescoes depicting Arthurian legends—created by Morris and Burne Jones during their amateur days.

The library’s interior offers a tangible connection to the Pre-Raphaelite artists’ early work and their artistic experimentation beyond just paintings. Reviewers note that the entry, valued at around £5, is well worth it, especially for art lovers eager to see more than just the usual sights.

Learning About the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood

The core focus of the tour is the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a movement that aimed to return to the detailed, vibrant qualities of Italian Quattrocento art. Your guide shares stories about the movement’s ideals, its emphasis on rich detail, intense colors, and complex compositions, and how these ideals are reflected in Oxford’s art scene.

You’ll explore the lives of William Morris and Edward Burne Jones, two of the movement’s prominent figures, and their connection to Oxford. We loved the way the guide balanced art history with engaging anecdotes, making complex artistic ideas accessible and lively.

Alternatives and Flexibility

Since colleges may sometimes close for graduations or events, the tour includes flexibility. If Exeter College isn’t accessible, your guide might suggest visiting Keble College or the Ashmolean Museum instead. This adaptability ensures you still get a meaningful experience, even if your primary sites are unavailable.

Additional Sights and Views

The passage from Exeter’s Front Quadrangle to the Fellows’ Garden is a lovely stroll, offering one of the best views of the city. From this vantage point, you can spot notable buildings like All Souls College, the Radcliffe Camera, and the iconic Radcliffe Square—perfect for photos and contemplating Oxford’s layered history.

What to Expect and Practical Details

This private tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching excursion. It’s suitable for travelers who are interested in art, history, or university life, though not tailored for young children under 12. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guide’s award-winning status guarantees engaging storytelling.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, respecting the needs of diverse travelers. The starting point at Broad Street is central and easy to find, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

While the price is around $134.70 per person, it’s important to consider what’s included: entry to the Oxford Union library and Exeter College, valued at a few pounds, plus the expertise of a highly knowledgeable guide. The private nature of the tour means you get a tailored experience, often worth the premium over larger group options.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler praised guide Alisdair for his extensive knowledge of the Pre-Raphaelite movement and his personable approach. As they noted, “He took me to spots I would not have otherwise seen,” underscoring how this tour offers exclusive access and insider stories.

Another reviewer, despite Exeter College being closed due to a surge in Omicron, appreciated how the guide adapted the itinerary to include other intriguing sites. They described Alasdair as “enthusiastic and knowledgeable,” making the experience memorable even under less-than-ideal circumstances.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fascinating blend of art, history, and university architecture, all delivered in an intimate setting. The focus on Pre-Raphaelite art is especially relevant for art lovers or anyone curious about the movement’s roots and influence. The access to Exeter College and the Oxford Union library elevates this experience beyond a standard city walk, offering rare glimpses into Oxford’s cultural fabric.

While the cost might seem steep compared to regular walking tours, the inclusion of exclusive sites and expert narration provides good value, especially for those who appreciate detailed storytelling and personalized service. It’s a wonderful way to gain a deeper understanding of Oxford’s artistic and academic legacy in just a few hours.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy arts and architecture, crave authentic insider experiences, and value small-group intimacy. If you’re keen to uncover Oxford’s artistic side with an expert guide leading the way, this tour is a highly recommended choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not really aimed at children under 12 years, as the focus on art history and university sites may not engage younger visitors.

What happens if Exeter College is closed?
If Exeter College is closed on your tour date, the guide will inform you beforehand and suggest alternative visits, such as Keble College or the Ashmolean Museum.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a compact but enriching experience.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit inside Exeter College (if open), enjoy the Fellows Garden view, and see the Oxford Union library. Additional sites may include Keble College or other nearby attractions if Exeter is unavailable.

Is there an additional cost beyond the tour price?
Entry to Exeter College and the Oxford Union library is included, with a combined value of a few pounds, so there are no surprise extra fees.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a variety of mobility needs.

What language options are available?
The tour is conducted in English and Italian, catering to diverse travelers.

In the end, this private Pre-Raphaelite tour offers an intimate, insightful look at Oxford’s artistic historical side. With expert guides and rare access, it’s a rewarding experience for art buffs and curious travelers alike, wanting to see Oxford beyond its usual sights.