Oxford for Literary Lovers: What to Do

Take a literary trip with this hotel in Oxford

When it comes to the home of literature in the UK, it’s hard to think of a more perfect pick than Oxford. The city oozes historic charm and its prestigious university has produced some of the best minds in the country. It’s no wonder it became a hotspot for some of the nation’s greatest writers – Exactly why it’s a perfect destination for literary lovers looking for a weekend trip. 

Around every corner, you’ll find the quaintest bookshops, or monuments to the literary greats that graced the streets. The city’s venues host incredible talks and readings, and the cafes are ideal for sitting and whiling away the hours with a good book. 

If you’re a lover of a good library, you’re in luck with Oxford as it’s home to some of the best-stocked and most stunning libraries you’ll ever find. 

For those looking for a trip that’s a little out of the ordinary, and perfectly suited for the cosy book collectors in your life, our Oxford hotel breaks down this city for literary lovers: what to do, where to go, and the history of the city. Why not read on and prepare for your next holiday? 

Oxford’s Literary History 

Lewis Carroll, J.R.R. Tolkien, Percy Shelley, Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis, Aldous Huxley – all incredible writers within their own forms and genres, and all previous Oxford dwellers. There are very few cities that can claim the number of legendary names as Oxford can. While some of these writers studied at Oxford University, many stayed and lived in Oxford, drawing inspiration from the surroundings for their work. 

Famous Romantic poet and husband of Frankenstein author, Mary Shelly, was commemorated with a memorial in University College Oxford. While the poet only attended the college for one year in 1810 before being expelled for declining to disavow The Necessity of Atheism, Shelley’s daughter-in-law Jane commissioned a grand memorial of her father-in-law to be placed in Rome where he was buried. 

When the memorial was found to be too large for the planned plot, it was offered to the college which agreed, inaugurating the Shelley Memorial in 1893. 

For the literary lovers who hold The Picture of Dorian Gray close to their hearts, Oxford offers the opportunity to feel a little closer to playwright and author Oscar Wilde. The writer’s life was very troubled and he once claimed that ‘the two great turning points in my life were when my father sent me to Oxford, and when society sent me to prison’. 

The writer attended Magdalen College in the 1870s, where he won the University’s Newdigate English verse Prize for Ravenna. But more than just his professional development, it was Oxford that introduced Wilde to the great love of his life – Lord Alfred Douglas. Without the city’s education, encouragement, and inspiration we may not have the great texts Wilde produced later in life. 

Literary introductions and connections that last a lifetime aren’t uncommon in the city. In fact, without the friendship of two writers who met in Oxford, the fantasy genre would be totally different today. C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien both attended Oxford University as undergraduates before meeting in 1926 as faculty of the university. They bonded over a shared love of medieval literature, mythology, and language. Soon they would form the Inklings, a group of like-minded individuals who would meet to share their recent work, and offer support and encouragement. C.S. Lewis went on to author the Chronicles of Narnia and with the support of the Inklings and his close friend, Tolkien created The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. 

At our Oxford hotel, we make knowing the history on our doorstep a priority so we can help you craft the perfect holiday. These are just a few of the writers whose history you can delve into in Oxford. But the story doesn’t end there. Luckily, we know a few great places and adventures if you’re interested in finding out more about Oxford’s literary past. 

Oxford Literary Tours 

If you’re looking for a way to spend the day, then Oxford has a wide variety of literary tours. Why not explore Literary Oxford with the Bodleian? This 90-minute tour takes you from Weston Library Steps around Oxford, telling tales of the city of books. It’s only £22 too. If you’re looking for a child-friendly way to introduce your kids into the city that birthed Narnia and Alice in Wonderland then you can even take the Children’s Stories: Family Walking Tour! 

There are also regular literary tours departing from outside Blackwell’s Bookshop on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 1 pm as well as a special C.S. Lewis and Tolkein tour exploring the haunts of the Inklings. For more information, check out this website: https://www.oxfordwalkingtours.com/literary-tour. 

Fancy a more personal and luxury tour? This walking tour for two, following in the footsteps of the two writers comes with an experience gift pack including a personalised voucher. An expert guide will greet you and share stories of the Inklings and the sights that shaped the incredible work of Lewis and Tolkien. For £56, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Take a look at the tour and book now. 

If guided tours aren’t your thing, you can always take yourself on a tour of the history of literary Oxford. We’d recommend making sure you stop by the Botanic Gardens which are said to be the inspiration for much of Alice in Wonderland’s settings. The Bodleian Library is a must-see for fans of the All Souls trilogy by Deborah Harkness which has now been turned into a popular television series, A Discovery of Witches. Even Harry Potter fans are in for a treat with a visit to Christ Church College. Here you can visit the actual steps used in the Harry Potter films. Make sure to finish your tour with a stop in House of Wonders where you can treat yourself to merchandise from the wizarding world. 

Bookshops in Oxford 

Want to spend your visit to literary Oxford stocking your bookshelves? The city is packed with incredible book shops you could get lost in for hours. Here are some of our hotel in Oxford’s favourites: 

• Blackwell’s Bookshop – While you may dismiss Blackwell’s as the go-to spot for university students to purchase their reading list, you’d be missing out on this institution. Blackwell’s in Oxford is comprised of three stories on Broad Street, making it a labyrinth of treasures. The Norrington Room is the largest single room selling books in the world. 
• Gulp Fiction – The ideal location for a bookworm to spend an afternoon, Gulp Fiction mixes a well-curated bookshop and a super comfy coffee shop. Curl up on one of the vintage armchairs with your new paperback and relax. 
• St Philip’s Books – Hidden in a small alleyway by Alice’s Shop (the real-life shop Alice visits in Lewis Carroll’s Alice Through The Looking Glass), you’ll spot St Philip’s Books. If you’re a collector of rare and vintage editions then a visit here is a necessity when you’re in the city. 
• The Last Bookshop – Just outside of the city, you’ll find a real gem. The Last Bookshop is a wonderland of bargains. Two books for £5? You’ll be stuffing your suitcase with paperbacks. 

Events in Literary Oxford

As the city of books, it’s no wonder that there are plenty of literary events taking place every week in Oxford. No matter when you take your trip, you’re likely to find something. Take a look at the Oxford Literary Festival website for more. Their 2023 literature events calendar can be browsed by category or date, meaning that if you’re a budding Huxley you’ll even be able to find spoken word nights!

Your Trip to Literary Oxford 

Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a history buff, or just a booklover, Oxford is the go-to destination for a literary trip away. If you’re planning your trip, why not consider booking a stay at our hotel in Oxford?

Vanbrugh House Hotel is located in the heart of Oxford, meaning you can visit all these incredible sites with ease. You can walk just seven minutes and get to the Bodleian Library for the start of your walking tour. Plus, with rooms designed with that special Oxford charm and flair, you’ll feel right at home, reading about the literary greats who have walked this street. Who knows, you might be joining them one day. 

Get in touch now to organise your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you.