Inspector Morse in Oxford – Filming Locations, Walking Tours & a Night at the Theatre
20/01/2026 14:55PM

For many visitors, Oxford is forever linked with Inspector Morse. Long after the final episode aired, fans continue to arrive with a familiar aim – to see the streets, colleges, pubs, and corners of the city that brought the stories to life. Oxford was never just a backdrop to Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour. It was part of the mystery itself, and that is exactly why exploring the city through this lens remains so rewarding today.

Whether you are revisiting the much-loved series or discovering it for the first time, Oxford offers an atmospheric way to step into Morse’s world.

Oxford, the Unofficial Star of Inspector Morse

Inspector Morse, its spin-off Lewis, and the prequel Endeavour all share a common thread - Oxford itself. The city’s historic colleges, winding lanes, and riverside pubs appear again and again, quietly shaping the tone of each story. Grand architecture sets the scene for intellectual puzzles, while quieter streets and courtyards lend an air of contemplation that suits Morse’s methodical approach to crime.

Walking through Oxford city centre, it is easy to recognise locations even without a guidebook. Radcliffe Square, with the Radcliffe Camera and surrounding library buildings, frequently features in establishing shots. Nearby, the Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College is instantly recognisable to fans and remains one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Filming Locations You Can Visit on Foot

One of the pleasures of a Morse-inspired visit is just how accessible everything is. Many of the most familiar locations sit within a compact area, making Oxford ideal for exploring at a relaxed pace.

You may wish to include:

• Christ Church College, whose grand exterior and surroundings feature across all three series.

• The Bodleian Library area, often used to reinforce Oxford’s scholarly atmosphere.

• Exeter and Magdalen Colleges, which appear in various episodes and are easily spotted by keen-eyed fans.

Even without stepping inside the colleges, seeing these exteriors is enough to trigger memories from the screen.

Morse’s Oxford Pubs – A Proper Place to Pause

Inspector Morse’s fondness for a quiet pint is renowned, and Oxford’s pubs play an important role in the series. Visiting them offers a chance to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the city as Morse might have done.

The White Horse on Broad Street is one of the most frequently recognised filming pubs and remains a popular stop for visitors. The Randolph Hotel bar also appears in several episodes, providing a more refined setting that fits Morse’s character. Elsewhere, pubs such as the Turf Tavern and the Old Bank Hotel have strong connections to the wider Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour universe.

These are not just filming locations, they are living parts of Oxford’s social fabric and ideal places to take a break between sightseeing.

Discovering the City on an Inspector Morse Walking Tour

For those who want deeper insight, dedicated Inspector Morse walking tours are widely available and consistently popular. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours bring together filming locations, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and stories about how Oxford was transformed for television.

Walking tours typically last between 90 minutes and two hours and suit both devoted fans and general visitors interested in Oxford’s history and architecture. Many tours book up well in advance, particularly at weekends and during peak travel periods, so planning ahead is recommended.

Inspector Morse Takes to the Stage

Oxford’s connection to Inspector Morse extends beyond television and novels. In January 2026, fans can experience the detective in a new way with Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts, performed at New Theatre Oxford from 20 to 24 January 2026.

This stage production explores Morse’s character in a more intimate setting and offers a compelling evening for long-time fans. The New Theatre Oxford is located within easy walking distance of the Royal Oxford Hotel and the city centre, making it simple to combine an afternoon exploring Morse locations with a night at the theatre. For performance details and tickets, visitors should refer directly to the New Theatre Oxford website.

Turning Your Visit into a Morse-Inspired Weekend

An Inspector Morse break in Oxford lends itself perfectly to a short stay. Many visitors choose to combine:

• A self-guided walk past filming locations

• A guided Inspector Morse walking tour

• Visits to historic pubs seen on screen

• An evening performance at the theatre

With so much within walking distance, there is no need to rush. Oxford rewards unhurried exploration, especially when following in Morse’s footsteps.

Staying Centrally for Your Oxford Visit

When planning a Morse-themed stay, a central location makes all the difference. Being able to walk to colleges, pubs, walking tours, and the theatre allows you to enjoy Oxford without relying on transport.

The Royal Oxford Hotel offers a comfortable and practical base for visitors exploring the city. Located close to the train station and within walking distance of Oxford’s main attractions, it suits both leisure and cultural stays. Guests appreciate the convenience of returning to a calm, well-equipped room after a day spent exploring historic streets.

Experience Oxford Through Inspector Morse

Inspector Morse remains one of Oxford’s most enduring cultural touchstones. From the city’s grand colleges to its tucked-away pubs, the locations that shaped the stories are still very much part of everyday Oxford life.

Whether you are planning a dedicated Morse-inspired trip or simply want to add a literary and television twist to your visit, Oxford offers a rich and rewarding experience. With a little planning, you can explore the city just as Morse did – thoughtfully, on foot, and with time to enjoy the details that make Oxford so distinctive.