The Oxford Ghost Tour: Haunting Histories of England's Medieval City
Step into Oxford’s shadowy past with a chilling nighttime ghost tour through medieval streets and haunted alleys.
The Oxford Ghost Tour offers an atmospheric nighttime walking experience through Oxford’s shadowy past, exploring sinister streets and haunted sites. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour reveals chilling tales of medieval murders, restless spirits, and eerie hauntings that linger in the city’s ancient alleys. Combining history with spine-tingling storytelling, it is a captivating journey into Oxford’s darker side, suitable for those aged 10 and above who can handle some gory details.
A brief summary to The Oxford Ghost Tour
- 44-45 High St, Oxford, OX1 4AP, GB
- +441865790522
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets during the nighttime tour.
- The tour is suitable for children aged 10 and above but contains some graphic descriptions.
- Book in advance for public tours or consider private tours for a more personalized experience.
- Tours run best in winter when darkness falls early, enhancing the spooky atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Oxford Bus Service routes 1 or 2 from the city center to High Street; journey times range from 10 to 20 minutes with frequent service. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£3.50 one way.
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Train
Oxford Railway Station is about 1.5 km from the High Street location. A taxi from the station takes around 5–10 minutes, costing £6–£10. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through central Oxford is possible.
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Walking
From central Oxford, the High Street is accessible by a 10–15 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets. Suitable for most mobility levels but cobblestones may require caution.
The Oxford Ghost Tour location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Oxford Ghost Tour
Exploring Oxford’s Haunted Legacy
The Oxford Ghost Tour delves deep into the city’s chilling and mysterious past, uncovering stories of gruesome deaths, executions, and supernatural encounters. Oxford, once known as the murder capital of medieval England, witnessed a turbulent history shaped by its unruly student population and dark events that left many spirits wandering. The tour navigates through the city’s shadowy back alleys and historic streets, where tales of burning bishops, enraged poltergeists, abandoned lovers, and even the devil himself come to life through vivid storytelling.A Walk Through Time and Terror
Taking place after dark to heighten the eerie atmosphere, the tour invites visitors to experience Oxford’s sinister side firsthand. The guides, often locals or experts steeped in the city’s history, narrate authentic accounts based on documented events and folklore. The combination of historical facts with ghostly legends creates a compelling narrative that balances fear with fascination. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, as the tour moves through open streets and can be cold, especially in winter months when darkness falls earlier.Guides Who Bring History to Life
The tour’s success lies in its engaging guides who combine passion, knowledge, and theatrical flair. Whether it’s Lady Gargoyle’s mix of spooky and humorous tales or other guides’ dramatic storytelling, the experience is both educational and entertaining. Guides often personalize the experience, sharing lesser-known local legends and answering questions, making each tour unique. The stories not only entertain but also honor the city’s full history, including its darker chapters.Suitable for Families and Curious Minds
While the tour contains descriptions of some graphic and gory events, it welcomes children from around age 10 upwards who are comfortable with such content. The blend of scary and funny moments ensures it remains accessible and enjoyable for families and groups. The tour is also popular with history enthusiasts, ghost hunters, and anyone intrigued by Oxford’s hidden narratives beyond its academic fame.Immersive Atmosphere and Setting
The cobbled medieval streets, dimly lit alleys, and historic landmarks provide a perfect backdrop for the ghostly tales. The tour’s route often includes locations reputed for paranormal activity, enhancing the immersive experience. The ambiance created by the setting and storytelling evokes a sense of stepping back in time, where the past seems to whisper through the night.Booking and Practical Details
Tours typically run in the evenings, especially in winter months when darkness arrives early, but can be arranged later in summer. Private tours are available at higher rates, while public tours offer affordable access. The tour’s location on Oxford’s High Street makes it centrally accessible. Visitors should be prepared for walking on uneven cobblestones and variable weather conditions, dressing appropriately for the night air.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2.1
0.3 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Brasenose College
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Bridge of Sighs
0.3 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Magdalen Bridge
0.4 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Clarendon Building
0.4 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.5 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Great Jewry Marker
0.5 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Tours UK
0.5 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.5 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Tom Tower
0.5 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
The painted room
0.5 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.5 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.7 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.7 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Sightseeing Oxford
0.0 km
Discover Oxford’s iconic landmarks and university heritage at your own pace with this flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour and guided walking experience.
Examination Schools, University of Oxford
0.0 km
A grand Victorian Gothic Revival building at Oxford’s heart, hosting university exams, lectures, and historic events with timeless academic tradition.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
0.0 km
Discover Oxford’s premier antiques centre with over 40 dealers offering unique vintage treasures in a historic High Street setting.
St Edmund Hall
0.0 km
Discover Oxford’s oldest academic society, St Edmund Hall, where medieval charm meets centuries of scholarly tradition in the city’s historic heart.
The Queen's College
0.1 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
University College
0.1 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition and medieval charm at University College, Oxford’s historic scholarly heart.
High St
0.2 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
All Souls College
0.2 km
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
Magdalen College
0.2 km
Explore Magdalen College’s medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and unique deer park nestled beside Oxford’s scenic River Cherwell.
Merton College
0.2 km
Explore Merton College, Oxford’s medieval academic pioneer with historic quads, literary heritage, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
New College
0.2 km
Explore New College, Oxford: a historic gem with stunning cloisters, the iconic 'Malfoy Tree,' and majestic medieval halls in the university’s heart.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
0.3 km
Historic heart of Oxford University with soaring Gothic spire, rich academic legacy, and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
Oxford Botanic Garden
0.3 km
Explore the UK’s oldest botanic garden, a compact urban oasis with 5,000+ plant species, historic walled gardens, and immersive global glasshouses.
Oriel College
0.3 km
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
New College Ln
0.3 km
Discover the serene charm and historic legacy of New College Lane, Oxford’s picturesque medieval passage lined by ancient walls and iconic landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Vaults & Garden
0.2 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.4 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
OLD TOM PUB
0.5 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
No.1 Ship Street
0.6 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
CuttleFish
0.6 km
Fresh, beautifully cooked seafood with a relaxed vibe in the heart of Oxford’s vibrant St Clement’s district.
Moya
0.6 km
Discover authentic Slovak cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy Oxford setting on St Clement's Street.
La Cucina
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Oxford at La Cucina, a family-run gem with a vibrant open kitchen.
Kazbar Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and North African tapas in a cozy Moorish-inspired setting on Oxford’s lively Cowley Road.
Pan Pan Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover vibrant pan-Asian flavors and casual dining charm at Pan Pan, Oxford’s hotspot for authentic small plates and bubble tea.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.7 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
The Alice
0.7 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Babylon Trading
0.1 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.3 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
The Varsity Shop
0.3 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.4 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Objects of Use
0.4 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Space Store Oxford
0.4 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Goodies Oxford
0.4 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Soctopus
0.5 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.5 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
The Crafters Emporium
0.5 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Cool Britannia
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Anthropologie
0.5 km
A beautifully styled boutique on Oxford’s High Street, offering women’s fashion, accessories, and unique home décor in a relaxed, bohemian-chic atmosphere.
Broad Canvas
0.5 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oxford Gifts
0.5 km
Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King's Arms, Oxford
0.4 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
All Bar One Oxford
0.4 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
White Horse
0.4 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The House
0.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Varsity Club
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
St Aldates
0.5 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
The Cape Of Good Hope
0.5 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
Hanks Bar
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.6 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Grapes
0.7 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Royal Blenheim
0.7 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Mad Hatter
0.7 km
A quirky bar and boutique hotel in Oxford offering creative cocktails, themed rooms, and lively nightlife in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Cow & Creek
0.7 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.8 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
OXO BAR
0.9 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
0.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
1.1 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
1.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
1.1 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
The Bridge Nightclub
1.1 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.9 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
The Venue, Bucks
36.9 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
37.0 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.0 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.1 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
38.3 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
39.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Night Tour
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
