Alice’s Shop is a little shop placed exactly where Alice Liddell (the “real” Alice that inspired the books) used to buy sweets. The shop is filled with all manner of curious things – so be ready to part with your money!
The History of Alice's Shop
The book “Through the Looking-Glass”, published in 1872, actually contains two illustrations of the shop. In the story, the dark little shop is run by an old sheep. Alice is mesmerized by the things on the shelves, which float away when she looks at them. Many have wondered if the sheep represents the then owner of the shop, an elderly lady who had a bleating voice! Another interesting thing: The shop was easily flooded – which might have been the inspiration for the objects flowing away.
Alice’s Shop was a local newsagent and sweetshop for over a hundred years. It kept its sign, “Alice’s Shop”, as a beacon to attract literature pilgrims.
Today, the shop has fully embraced its heritage and has officially become “the Alice in Wonderland shop”. It now houses a treasure trove of Alice gifts, souvenirs and memorabilia.
How to Visit Alice's Shop
If you’re in Oxford, this is a shop you should definitely visit. The one-of-a-kind sweet shop turned jewel is open every day of the week.
The shop is located on St. Aldates, across Alice’s childhood home.
