Oxford is a city rich in literary history. After living there for a year, I had the chance to fully absorb its literary heritage and culture. Some of the greatest names in literature have called this charming university town their home. Walking down its cobbled streets, it’s easy to imagine the city as it was years ago when legendary authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were inspired by its surroundings.
One of the best things to do in Oxford is to simply stroll through the town, passing its impressive buildings and stopping by the timeless pubs where many authors once enjoyed a pint and dreamed up the novels we cherish today. As you walk up High Street, you’ll find a small side street leading into the heart of the University. Emerging from the darkness of the alley, the first thing you’ll see is the magnificent Bodleian Library. This dome-shaped building has been a cornerstone of Oxford University for centuries and is one of the oldest public libraries in the world.
Next, head to the cross street that brings literature lovers to Thomas Hardy’s famous novel, “Jude the Obscure.” In the book, Hardy refers to his fictional town, based on Oxford, as Christminster. At the junction of Broad Street and what is now called Parks Road, you’ll find Martyr’s Cross. This is where Jude and Sue Brideshead meet in “Jude the Obscure.”
From here, we move to one of Oxford’s busiest streets, St. Giles. By heading west on Broad Street and navigating a few winding alleys, you’ll find yourself on St. Giles. Our destination is one of the most famous literary sites in history, The Eagle and Child pub. This iconic spot was frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. From around 1933 to 1963, Tolkien (a professor at Merton College) and Lewis met with other authors every week at Lewis’ rooms at Magdalen College to discuss and read their unfinished works. They formed a group called the Inklings and had a standing lunch date on Tuesday afternoons at the Eagle and Child, affectionately known as the Baby and the Bird. They gathered in the back room of the pub, called the Rabbit Room.
I had the unique opportunity to dine in this very room. One year, while living in Oxford, a group of friends and I celebrated a friend’s birthday here, honoring his aspirations to become a famous writer. Entering the pub, the confined space is immediately apparent. The narrow hallway barely accommodates one person at a time, and it’s lined with small rooms where groups can sit and drink. Stepping into the main room from the hallway feels like emerging from a dark cave into a new world. If you continue straight, you’ll reach the Rabbit Room. It’s a quaint little dining area that fits about five people. My friends and I sat at the same table where the Inklings once gathered and celebrated our friend Aaron’s twenty-first birthday. It was truly a magical experience.
There are many other sites in Oxford associated with famous authors, but one more worth mentioning is Exeter College, known for its brilliant students. Fans of Phillip Pullman’s series “His Dark Materials” might recognize it. Part of the story is set in a fictional college called Jordan, which is based on Exeter College. It’s definitely a place to visit.
Oxford is a treasure trove for literary enthusiasts. If you wish to step into the pages of some of the most famous novels in history or walk in the footsteps of great writers, Oxford is the place to be. You never know what you might discover while exploring the winding alleyways of Oxfordshire.
Thinking about visiting Oxford? Know of any other famous authors connected to this beautiful city? Share your thoughts!
