E-Bike Tour of Oxford
Description
Begin in Oxford’s historic heart, cycling past iconic landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and Bridge of Sighs. Hear stories of the city’s famous figures, from world leaders to writers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Leave the center for peaceful riverside paths along the Thames, where rowing boats and tree-lined banks reveal a quieter side of Oxford. Continue to the charming village of Iffley, home to stone cottages and a beautiful Norman church. Ride onward to Port Meadow, an ancient landscape of grazing horses and open skies. With the ease of an e-bike, explore far beyond a walking tour at a relaxed pace. All sites are viewed externally.
Tour Options
Itinerary
One of Oxford’s oldest colleges (1263), known for producing prime ministers and political thinkers. A great place to introduce the power and prestige of Oxford.
The densest concentration of colleges in Oxford—Exeter, Jesus, and Lincoln. A perfect example of how the university and city are intertwined.
Named after a brass door knocker (“nose”). Classic example of Oxford’s quirky traditions.
The most exclusive college—no undergraduates, only fellows. Famous for its notoriously difficult entrance exam.
The birthplace of the university itself. This is where Oxford’s earliest teaching began in the 12th century.
Known for its deer park and May Day traditions. One of Oxford’s most beautiful and wealthy colleges.
Where students sit their final exams—often described as some of the most stressful moments in Oxford life.
One of the oldest colleges with one of the oldest libraries in Europe. A blueprint for the collegiate system.
Associated with figures like Cecil Rhodes and early movements that shaped the British Empire.
One of Oxford’s oldest pubs, famous for its collection of thousands of neckties from past patrons.
Oxford’s most iconic building. A circular reading room at the heart of the Bodleian Library—symbol of knowledge and tradition.
Oxford’s version of Venice’s bridge—actually connects parts of Hertford College. A favorite photo spot.
One of the oldest libraries in Europe and a legal deposit library. Every published book in the UK can be found here.
Designed by Christopher Wren. Used for university ceremonies, including graduations.
Hidden alleyway linking historic pubs—gives a sense of Oxford’s medieval street layout.
Famous meeting place of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis—the Inklings literary group. A storytelling highlight.
Ironically not “new” (founded 1379). Known for its medieval walls and Harry Potter filming locations.
A more modern, local side of Oxford—cafés, restaurants, and student life beyond tradition.
Once a working-class area, now one of Oxford’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Shows the city’s evolution.
Ancient grazing land unchanged for thousands of years. A rare open landscape next to the city.
The River Thames (called the Isis here) has shaped Oxford’s geography, trade, and student life.
A peaceful, almost timeless village with a stunning Norman church. Feels like stepping out of the city and back in time.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Suitable for riders 5'4" and taller
Reviews(4)
It’s a three hour electric bike guided tour of Oxford’s famous university buildings plus lots of other little back streets, riverside and canal pathways - Our guide - Charlotte was fabulous and very knowledgeable of Oxford as she has been a student at Queens College. There are a maximum of four people on each tour plus the guide. We were lucky to be the only two people on the tour. The bikes are fabulously comfortable and make the tour accessible for most ages - we loved it and would highly recommend it
George was our guide and he managed to pack a lot of background into a beautiful story.
My teen daughter and I learned so much from our tour guide Ross today on our Footprints e-bike tour of Oxford. He explained the history of Oxford University and told us what it is like for students. We were lucky to see some graduates walking around in their gowns- and learned all about this special ceremony conducted in Latin. It was cool to bike along the rivers and see all the boat houses, but my favorite part was getting a little off the beaten path - to see more of Oxford. Ross never ran out of stories from every era. Thanks for being such a great guide today! We were impressed. He also recommended great local places to eat and explore after the tour on our own.
George was epic. Incredible knowledge, the Brian Cox of Oxford. One of the best days ever!
