Inspector Morse Tour of Oxford

On this guided Inspector Morse Tour of Oxford, the historic city becomes the stage for murder, mystery, and intrigue. While Oxford is world-famous for its University, dreaming spires, and centuries of scholarship, for fans of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour, it is equally known as the scene of countless on-screen crimes. Within its cobbled streets and medieval quadrangles, homicide, corruption, and vice flourish—at least on television.

Oxford was the birthplace of Colin Dexter’s celebrated detective, Inspector Morse, and it is here that the original novels and award-winning television adaptations found their perfect backdrop. From the 1980s onwards, audiences across the globe have been captivated by Morse’s brooding investigations, continued later by Lewis and Hathaway, and more recently by the young Endeavour. On this tour, you’ll step directly into their world.

Your experience begins in the very heart of Oxford, where your expert guide will lead you on a 1 hour 45 minute walk through the city. Along the way, you’ll explore famous filming locations, hear behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and learn fascinating facts about how Colin Dexter’s novels were transformed into some of Britain’s best-loved detective dramas.

Highlights of the tour include The Randolph Hotel, where Morse was often seen pondering cases over a pint, the White Horse pub, a favourite haunt of both the detective and his creator, and the Bodleian Library, one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks. You will also see Broad Street, the Sheldonian Theatre, Exeter College, and other atmospheric corners of the old city that featured across the three series.

No two tours are ever quite the same. The route changes slightly each week, ensuring that even returning visitors discover something new. At every stop, your guide will weave together Oxford’s rich history with memorable moments from the screen, offering an insider’s perspective on how the city itself became a character in the stories.

By the end of the Inspector Morse Tour, you will have uncovered the darker, fictional side of Oxford, and retraced the steps of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour in the very places where mysteries were solved and lives changed forever. For fans of Colin Dexter’s detective, this is the ultimate way to experience Oxford.

Departure from Central Oxford

Meet your guide in the heart of Oxford where your journey into the world of Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour begins.

The Randolph Hotel

Visit the iconic hotel where Morse was often seen contemplating cases, a setting that appears frequently throughout the series.

The White Horse Pub

Stop at one of Morse’s favourite pubs, also popular with creator Colin Dexter, and hear stories about its role in the series.

Broad Street

Walk along this historic street featured in numerous scenes, surrounded by some of Oxford’s most recognisable architecture.

Sheldonian Theatre

See this striking landmark used in the series, with its grand design adding to the atmosphere of Oxford’s on-screen mysteries.

Bodleian Library

Explore one of Oxford’s most famous institutions, featured in multiple episodes and central to the city’s identity.

Exeter College

Visit this historic college whose courtyards and buildings have appeared across the series, providing a perfect backdrop for investigations.

Oxford’s Historic Streets and Alleys

Wander through cobbled lanes and hidden corners used throughout Morse, Lewis and Endeavour, where many dramatic moments unfold.

Additional Filming Locations from the Series

Along the route your guide will reveal further locations featured across all three series, sharing behind-the-scenes insights and stories.

Tour ends in Central Oxford

Your tour concludes in central Oxford, leaving you free to continue exploring the city and its many connections to Inspector Morse.

Accommodation Suggestions

If you’re staying overnight, we recommend checking out Booking.com – click here for convenient hotel options nearby.

Travelling by Train

Oxford can easily be reached by train. To save money, we recommend booking your tickets in advance through trainline.

Is the tour accessible?
– This guided tour is not accessible for wheelchair users or parents with prams or buggies due to the uneven surfaces on the route. British Sign Language is not provided on the tour.

Do children need to be accompanied?
– All people under 18 (i.e. 17 years old and younger) must be accompanied by an adult (aged 18 years or over) on all tours

Is the tour suitable for children?
– Children aged 15 years or younger are not permitted to join this tour owing to its adult content.

Does the tour still go ahead if there is bad weather?
– Yes, unless on a very rare occasions when we have to cancel e.g Force Majeure

– Free Cancellations: Cancel for free up to 24 hours before departure—no questions asked.

– Unlimited Rescheduling: Change your tour date as many times as you need without extra charges.

– Hassle-Free Booking Experience: Get excellent customer service with your questions answered quickly and easily by our expert team who know the tours better than anyone.

– Inclusions: Professional guide

– Exclusions: Gratuities (optional)

• Owing to the nature of the locations visited, this Inspector Morse tour is not accessible for wheelchair users
• Children aged 15 years or younger are not permitted to join this tour owing to its adult content
• Guides reserve the right to turn away parties with children under 16 without a refund
• Adults who are 18 years and older must accompany anyone who is 17 years or younger on all tours
• Dogs are not allowed on this Morse tour of Oxford. If you have a guiding dog, please get in touch with us to get advice
• A min of 4 persons is required for the tour to operate
• For Private tour: College entry fees are not included in the price.
• Allow £5 per person payable in cash on the day direct to the establishment
• Private Tours also available in French, German and Spanish for an additional £20 per tour