Here’s a self-guided walking tour inspired by Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” that takes you through some notable locations associated with the author and the story in Oxford, England.
Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Oxford Railway Station
Alice In Wonderland Free Self-Guided Walking Tour
The map below (which can be downloaded using this link) shows the most significant locations linked to Lewis Carroll and Alice in Wonderland in Oxford. If you want to read about these places in some more detail, please refer to the following article: Lewis Carroll’s Oxford: A Thorough Guide to Alice In Wonderland.
Alice in Wonderland Inspired Oxford Walking Tour
1. Oxford Railway Station: Begin your journey at the Oxford Railway Station, where Lewis Carroll, whose real name was Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, frequently travelled to and from Oxford. It was during one such trip that he told the story of Alice in Wonderland to Alice Liddell, the inspiration for the character of Alice.
2. Christ Church College: Walk to Christ Church College, one of Oxford University’s most famous colleges. This is where Lewis Carroll worked as a mathematics lecturer and where he met the real Alice. The college’s Great Hall is said to have inspired the setting for the Mad Hatter’s tea party.
3. Alice’s Shop: Head to St. Aldate’s and visit “Alice’s Shop,” formerly known as “Alice’s Day Nursery,” where Alice Liddell used to buy sweets. This shop still sells Alice in Wonderland memorabilia and is a must-visit for any fan.
4. The Story Museum: Walk to Pembroke Street and visit “The Story Museum,” which often hosts exhibitions and events related to Lewis Carroll and Alice in Wonderland. Check their schedule for any Alice-themed activities or displays.
5. University Parks: Stroll through the University Parks, which are believed to have inspired the Queen’s Croquet Ground in the story. Imagine playing a game of croquet with flamingos as mallets!
6. Magdalen College: Magdalen College boasts a beautiful deer park where Lewis Carroll took Alice Liddell and her sisters for outings. The college’s serene surroundings might remind you of the tranquil moments in Wonderland.
7. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Stained Glass Window: Head to the Lewis Carroll Room in the Oriel College. Here, you can find a stained glass window depicting characters from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” a tribute to Lewis Carroll’s time in Oxford.
8. Botanic Gardens: Finish your tour at the University of Oxford Botanic Gardens, which may remind you of the garden scenes in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” The garden offers a peaceful and colourful escape.
