'His Dark Materials’ Self-Guided Tour: A Guide to Lyra’s Oxford
Description
Oxford is a city where real and fictional worlds collide in Philip Pullman’s beloved fantasy series. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll explore the real Oxford locations that inspired Jordan College, discover filming spots from The Golden Compass and BBC’s His Dark Materials adaptation, and step into scenes straight from the pages of Pullman’s novels. From ancient college quadrangles to atmospheric lanes, you’ll experience Oxford through the eyes of Lyra Belacqua and her daemon Pan. The tour starts at Exeter College on Broad Street, the real-world inspiration for Lyra’s Jordan College. You’ll pass through the Covered Market where Roger would buy vegetables for Jordan College kitchens. You’ll also visit the magnificent Bodleian Library where the alethiometer is kept in Lyra’s world, and pass under the photogenic Hertford Bridge where Lyra and Roger were filmed fleeing from Gyptian children. You’ll see where many scenes from the adaptations were filmed.
Tour Options
Itinerary
You’ll pass by Exeter College, one of Oxford’s historic colleges, admired for its grand quadrangle and classical architecture. Please note that entry to the college is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass by the Bodleian Library, one of Europe’s oldest libraries and a centre of scholarship for centuries. Please note that entry to the library is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass by the History of Science Museum, home to collections that trace the development of scientific thought and discovery. Please note that entry to the museum is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass by the Hertford Bridge, often called the Bridge of Sighs, linking two parts of Hertford College above New College Lane. Please note that entry to any buildings associated with the bridge is not included in this tour.
You’ll pass by the Radcliffe Camera, one of Oxford’s most recognisable landmarks, admired for its circular design and domed roof. Please note that entry to the building is not included in this tour.
Highlights
What's included
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
