
Philip Pullman’s Oxford: How the City Inspired His Dark Materials and Other Work
Discover Oxford’s formative role in Pullman and how the city inspired the fictional setting of Jordan College in His Dark Materials.
Articles About Oxford:
Oxford has been a prominent setting in both literature and movies for many years. In fact, its stunning architecture, rich history, and academic atmosphere have made it an attractive backdrop for various works of fiction and cinema, including The Golden Compass, His Dark Materials, Good Omens, and A Discovery of Witches.
In this section, I invite you to explore literature landmarks and filming locations in Oxford and its surrounding areas. Delve into the world of Harry Potter, Tolkien, Lewis, Carrol, and many more.
Oxford’s timeless charm, academic aura, and architectural beauty continue to captivate both writers and filmmakers, making it a frequent and captivating setting in literature and cinema. To make things a little easier to explore, I’ve turned each of them into a separate article with images, maps, and how to visit these famous locations.

Discover Oxford’s formative role in Pullman and how the city inspired the fictional setting of Jordan College in His Dark Materials.

A guide for Slytherins who want to experience Oxford in their own way. Here are the top things this Hogwarts house might enjoy and why.

A guide for Hufflepuffs who want to experience Oxford in their own way. Here are the top things this Hogwarts house might enjoy and why.

Discover all the Oxford places mentioned in the Discovery of Witches books, as well as filming locations used for the hit TV series.

A lot of Harry Potter scenes were filmed in Oxford. Explore the exact locations, what they were used for, and how to visit them.

C. S. Lewis attended Oxford University in 1917. Find out more about his work and his relationship and rivalry with Tolkien.

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s The Great Hall in Christ Church, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.

The ultimate guide about Alice in Wonderland locations at Oxford, including Lewis Carroll’s favourite spots and the places that inspired him.

There are several excellent books that take place in Oxford and its surroundings. Here are my favourite picks and why you should read them.

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Hospital Wing or Infirmary, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.

Lacock Abbey was a major filming location for the Harry Potter movies. Here’s everything you need to see and how to get there from Oxford.

Many movies and TV series were filmed in Oxford. Explore the list of films, the locations used, and how you can visit them today.

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Staircase in Christ Church, Oxford. Tickets, opening times, and all the must-see details.

Remember the scene where Mad-Eye Moody turns Malfoy into a cute white ferret? This famous tree can be found in Oxford’s New College.

The celebrated playwright, poet, and novelist attended Oxford University. Explore the historic sites that shaped Wilde’s academic years.

Tolkien, creator of the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, taught English Language at Merton College in Oxford.

From J.R.R. Tolkien to C.S. Lewis, explore the rich literary legacy of Oxford’s famed Inklings group in this detailed article.

A guide for Gryffindors who want to experience Oxford in their own way. Here are the top things this Hogwarts house might enjoy and why.

A guide for Ravenclaws who want to experience Oxford in their own way. Here are the top things this Hogwarts house might enjoy and why.

Delve into the heart of one of the most iconic detective series set against the backdrop of the historic city of Oxford.

A thorough guide explaining how to visit the Warner Bros Studios (where the Harry Potter movies were filmed) from Oxford.
Our collection of articles with ideas for things to do and see, the history of this incredible city, the University, its museums, literature and movie inspirations, filming locations, and much more.

Do you think you know all Oxford has to offer? I bet you haven’t seen all these secret spots and hidden nooks in the city.

If you’re looking for work in Oxford (in particular, temp jobs or part-time positions) here are a few resources that might come in handy.

Looking for activities and events for Easter 2025 in Oxford and the surrounding area? Here’s an overview of everything available.

Oxford has many a hidden gem. Do you think you have seen everything the city has to offer? Check this list, you might be surprised!

If you’re over 21 years old when you start your Oxford course, you will be considered a mature applicant. The process is a little complex.

You can state a college preference in your University of Oxford application. But how do you choose it? Here’s a guide to help you make a pick.

Experience this quintessentially British afternoon meal in Oxford, and enjoy tea, sandwiches, or other light refreshments.

Are you planning a visit to Oxford but are wondering what the best time to go is? Check Oxford attractions by season and time of the year.

Formal Hall is one of the oldest University of Oxford traditions; one where students wear formal gowns and attend a three-course meal.

Explore our collection of historical postcards and photos of Oxford and its University Colleges and Museums – and download them for free.