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Oxford: Where centuries of tradition meet literary dreams and every cobblestone whispers a story.

Two Ways to Rediscover Oxford

A first taste of the best stories the city has to offer. Many more tours are waiting for you.

Through the Oxford Glass: The Real Magic of Alice, Harry, and Lyra – Oxford Audio-Tour
Tour 01
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Pic by Philip Halling on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Through the Oxford Glass: The Real Magic of Alice, Harry, and Lyra

Step beyond the veil of reality and discover the hidden Oxford that birthed the world's greatest fantasy epics. On this whimsical and nostalgic redthread tour, you'll trace the footsteps of Lewis Carroll, J.K. Rowling's cinematic wizards, and Philip Pullman's parallel universes. From a 15th-century sweet shop to the gritty canals of Jericho, we'll reveal how ancient academia, gothic architecture, and overlooked local spaces transformed into Wonderland, Hogwarts, and Lyra's Oxford. Join us to find the magic hiding in plain sight.

7 Stops
120 Min
Oxford's Dreaming Spires: The Architecture of Ambition – Oxford Audio-Tour
Tour 02
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Pic by Dmitry Djouce on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Oxford's Dreaming Spires: The Architecture of Ambition

Step into a world where intellect is carved into stone. This immersive journey through Oxford reveals the hidden narratives behind its world-famous skyline. You will discover how bloody street riots birthed the iconic collegiate quadrangles, why a classical master faked a medieval tower, and how the 'city of dreaming spires' became a battleground for architectural supremacy. Join us to decode the magnificent, the romantic, and the fiercely contested built environment of one of the world's greatest universities.

8 Stops
96 Min

Discover Oxford – Stories Worth Hearing

Red Thread is an iOS and Android app with over 1,500 guided audio tours through cities worldwide - including in Oxford.

Oxford possesses a unique spirit – a blend of venerable scholarship and youthful energy. You feel history in the air as you wander through alleys where generations of thinkers and dreamers have walked.

From the majestic towers of the colleges to the settings of immortal stories, the architecture here is a testament to human ambition. Our audio tours, like 'Through the Oxford Glass,' invite you to experience these facets firsthand and see the city with new eyes.

Oxford Highlights
  • Immerse yourself in literary worlds from Alice to Harry
  • Marvel at the Gothic grandeur of the 'Dreaming Spires'
  • Discover hidden alleyways and secret gardens
  • Perfect for visitors and locals seeking new perspectives

Start for free – Premium from €12.99/month. Compare all plans →

Learn more about Red Thread

Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford

General questions about the app, pricing and features are answered in our full FAQ on the main page.

How long do the Oxford tours last, and what places are explored?
Our tours range from 96 to 120 minutes. 'Through the Oxford Glass' takes you to seven magical locations, including settings from Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter. 'Oxford's Dreaming Spires' explores the impressive college architecture at eight stops.
Are the tours suitable for children, especially the literary ones?
Yes, 'Through the Oxford Glass' is particularly family-friendly, delving into the literary worlds of Alice and Harry, which often delights children. For 'Dreaming Spires,' an interest in architecture is beneficial.
Can I create my own tours in Oxford?
Yes, with the XL or Unlimited subscription you can use our AI-powered tour creator to build your own personalized tour in Oxford on a topic of your choice.
Can I use the Oxford tours offline?
Yes, with an XL or Unlimited subscription you can download tours for offline use.
Can I do Oxford tours together with friends?
Yes – with Together Mode (from XL plan) the whole group listens in sync on their own devices. Up to 4 people on XL, up to 10 on Unlimited.
In which other cities does Red Thread offer tours?
Further tours are available in nearby cities like London, or international destinations like Berlin, Las Vegas, Zürich and many more. All cities can be found here.
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