Oxford: Pre-Raphaelite Walking Tour with Exeter College

Discovering Oxford’s Artistic Heart: The Pre-Raphaelite Walking Tour with Exeter College

If you’ve ever been curious about the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and how their vivid, detailed art left a mark on Oxford’s historic colleges, this private walking tour is a fantastic way to explore both. For about two and a half hours, you’ll walk through some of Oxford’s most iconic sites, with local guides who bring art, history, and university life to life. At $134.70 per person, it’s a focused, intimate experience that balances access, storytelling, and a touch of exclusivity—perfect for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone eager to see a different side of Oxford.

What we particularly love are the inside visits to Exeter College—where William Morris and Edward Burne Jones studied—and the view from the Fellows’ Garden that offers one of the best panoramas of the city. The chance to see inside the Oxford Union Library and view the frescoes painted by these artists adds a layer of access most visitors don’t get.

A possible consideration is that college entry isn’t guaranteed on all days, especially during graduations or closures, so flexibility is key. Also, this tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a somewhat niche focus; it isn’t aimed at children under 12 or travelers seeking a broad city overview.

If you appreciate expert guides who combine storytelling with insider access, and you’re intrigued by the art and architecture of Oxford’s colleges, this tour will suit you well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit Exeter College and inside the Oxford Union Library—rare opportunities for most travelers.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about Oxford’s art and history.
• Focused Experience: Special emphasis on the Pre-Raphaelite movement, William Morris, and Edward Burne Jones.
• Flexible Visiting Options: Alternative venues like Keble College may replace college visits if closed.
• Authentic Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of Oxford’s connection to art and literature, beyond just the buildings.
• Value for Money: Includes tickets worth up to several pounds, offering good value for the access provided.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Setting the Scene: Oxford’s Historic Roots and the Collegiate System

We start outside the Oxford Tourist Info Centre, where your guide, clad in a red lanyard, welcomes you for this private tour. The walk is designed to be manageable—about 2.5 hours long—so you won’t find yourself exhausted after a whirlwind. As we stroll through the city, your guide shares engaging stories about Oxford’s famous alumni, colleges, and traditions. It becomes clear quickly that this isn’t just a walk through beautiful architecture but a journey into the university’s artistic and cultural legacy.

Visiting Exeter College: Studying the Arts and the Magi Tapestry

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit inside Exeter College—home to William Morris and Edward Burne Jones during their student days. While access may depend on college schedules, when open, you’ll get to see the chapel and the gardens, including the famed Fellows’ Garden. We loved the view from the garden, which offers a sweeping vista of Radcliffe Square, the Radcliffe Camera, and All Souls College, giving that quintessential Oxford photo backdrop.

Inside Exeter, your guide will point out features like the Magi tapestry, a fine example of medieval craftsmanship that connects the college to the broader artistic movements of the time. This detailed storytelling enriches the experience beyond just admiring the architecture.

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Inside the Oxford Union: A Treasure Trove of Art and History

A special part of this tour is the inside visit to the Oxford Union library. Normally closed to the public, this exclusive access allows us to see the frescoes created by the Pre-Raphaelite artists Arthur Hughes and others. These murals depict scenes from the Arthurian legends, painted when the artists were amateurs, yet they radiate the same quality as their professional work. Entry to this library, valued at around £5, adds real value to the tour.

Exploring the Pre-Raphaelite Movement

Throughout the walk, your guide shares insights into the Pre-Raphaelite movement—a reaction against the industrialized art of their time, emphasizing detail, vivid color, and complex symbolism. You’ll learn about William Morris, whose work extended into textiles and design, and Burne Jones, famous for his mythological and medieval-themed paintings. These stories deepen your appreciation of their works and influence.

Alternative Visits and Flexibility

Because college schedules and closures can vary, your guide will alert you in advance if Exeter College isn’t accessible. In such cases, the itinerary might include visits to Keble College or the Ashmolean Museum, ensuring the experience remains rich and worthwhile.

Why This Tour Matters for Your Oxford Visit

This private, small-group tour offers a deep dive into the intersection of art and academia. Instead of a broad overview, you get a carefully curated look at how the Pre-Raphaelites influenced and were influenced by Oxford’s environment. The personal attention from a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference—your guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling help turn static sites into stories you’ll carry home.

You’ll love the way the tour combines architectural beauty, artistic significance, and university history—delivered with a good sense of humor and plenty of interesting anecdotes. The access inside college buildings and the Union library makes it feel like a privileged glimpse behind the scenes.

However, be aware that college access isn’t guaranteed on every day, and the tour is not designed for children under 12. It’s best for those who appreciate art history, literary connections, and meaningful historical context.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

Art and history enthusiasts will find this especially rewarding, but it also suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and expert guides who can answer detailed questions. If your interest in Oxford is more than just the surface, and you enjoy stories behind the buildings and artworks, this tour hits the spot.

It’s ideal for visitors who want a focused, meaningful experience rather than a generic city tour. If you’re curious about the Pre-Raphaelite movement and how it links to Oxford’s storied colleges, then this is a well-priced, engaging way to enrich your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join the tour if I’m not staying near the city center?
Yes, the meeting point is at the Oxford Tourist Info Centre on Broad Street, which is centrally located.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time for meaningful visits without feeling rushed.

Is it suitable for children?
This tour is generally not aimed at children under 12, given the focus on art and university interiors.

What if Exeter College or other sites are closed?
Your guide will inform you beforehand, and alternative venues like Keble College or the Ashmolean Museum may be substituted.

How much does the tour cost?
Per person, it’s $134.70, which includes access to the Oxford Union library and Exeter College when open.

What is included in the price?
A local, award-winning guide, entrance to the Oxford Union library, and entry to Exeter College when open are included.

Are the guides knowledgeable about more than just art?
Absolutely, guides also share Oxford’s broader history and anecdotes, making the experience well-rounded.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some college interiors may have limited access depending on the day.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, reservations are recommended as this is a private, small-group experience with limited availability.

Final Thoughts

This Oxford Pre-Raphaelite Walking Tour offers a rare peek into the artistic souls of William Morris and Burne Jones, set within the storied walls of Exeter College and the Oxford Union. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that blends art, architecture, and university history into a manageable, engaging walk.

The small-group format ensures personalized storytelling, making complex artistic movements accessible and memorable. Access to interiors and exclusive murals makes it a special treat for those hungry for deeper connections with Oxford’s academic and artistic past.

While it’s not for those seeking a broad city overview or traveling with young children, for art lovers, history buffs, or devotees of the Pre-Raphaelite style, this tour offers exceptional value and insight. It’s an excellent way to see Oxford through a different lens—one that highlights the city’s creative spirit and scholarly heritage in a way few standard tours can match.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Oxford, this experience will leave you with a richer understanding of the city’s artistic influences and the stories behind some of its most beautiful sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: