Contrada Tours - Oxford

Discover one of England's most beautiful, historic and fascinating cities with a knowledgeable local guide. Enjoy an in-depth experience that stays with you long after you return home! We highly recommend visiting one or more of the Oxford Colleges. Your guide will explain why these institutions play such a vital role in students' lives here, giving you insight into both current and historical aspects of campus living. As Britain's oldest university town, Oxford has countless tales to share! Choose your preferred walking route(s) from among several options on offer. First-time visitors should opt for our classic 'City & College Tour'. This well-liked walk introduces participants to the history, architecture and culture of the city as well as its famous universities - ideal not only for newcomers but anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what makes Oxford so special. The Literature Walk takes us through sites associated with authors like JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, Lewis Carroll, JK Rowling amongst others; exploring each writer's connection to the place where they lived and worked. History & Architecture focuses specifically on religious influences throughout Oxfordshire over centuries plus examines specific examples within Oxonian buildings (particularly chapel interiors), illustrating changes across various periods represented architecturally around the region. Finally, The Great Rebellion Trail offers insights into civil unrest during mid-seventeenth century when it all went haywire politically speaking... Our journey traces events leading up to conflict between Royalists vs Parliamentarians culminating ultimately in Oliver Cromwell establishing his Commonwealth government post execution King Charles I back in January 1649 until restoration monarchy under Charles II came about nearly fifteen years later. During these tumultuous times, Oxford served twice as temporary seat of power serving firstly loyal supporters then briefly becoming republican stronghold before returning once again allegiance towards monarchical rule thereafter marking end chapter Anglo Saxon era definitively ushering modern constitutional democracy upon nation forever changed.