Ashmolean Museum Tour - by Uncomfortable Oxford™
Explore the ‘uncomfortable’ side of the Ashmolean Museum.
This tour highlights the contentious histories within museum spaces, bringing forward discussions about colonial origins, object transferal networks, and requests for repatriation. It encourages critical thinking and engagement with the Ashmolean Museum, its collections, and its displays. Delving into the intricate layers of history behind the exhibits, this tour will provide insight into the imperial connections that led to the development of the first public museum in England.
Through the questioning of labels, displays, and exhibits, this tour asks participants: What is the purpose of a museum?
All our tours are led by university researchers who have completed our official Uncomfortable Oxford training programme. Our guides combine expert knowledge and performance, ensuring each tour is a fun and educational experience.
The tour has been developed in collaboration with the Ashmolean Museum staff and curators.
Options
Private tour - up to 6 people
Private Tour
What's included in Ashmolean Museum Tour - by Uncomfortable Oxford™
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
Take a full guided tour of the Ashmolean Museum with one of our Uncomfortable Oxford™ trained guides. Meet at the Statue Gallery, near the Main Entrance.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
We begin our tour in the Ashmoelan Story Gallery, discussing the historical origins of the museum and the legacies of early colonial collecting practices.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
In the Cask Gallery, we raise questions about the focus on Greek and Roman culture, enslavement practices, and esthetics in ancient sculpture.
Inclusions
- Uncomfortable Oxford™ Trained Guide
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Meet the guide in the Statue Gallery of theAshmolean Museum, just to your left when you enter. Guide will be wearing a blue vest and carrying a tote bag with the Uncomfortable Oxford Logo.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Show your electronic booking confirmation to the guide when you arrive.
