The Kilns (C S Lewis House)
Lewis Cl, Headington, Oxford OX3 8JD
Rating: 4.8 ★ (211 ratings)
Details
The Kilns (C S Lewis House) is the cherished former home of the renowned author C.S. Lewis, nestled in the quiet Headington suburb of Oxford. Acquired in 1930, this modest brick house, surrounded by lovely gardens, a lake, and wooded grounds, was Lewis's residence until his death in 1963. He famously described its eight-acre garden as "such stuff as dreams are made of." Today, it exudes a classic, warm, and inviting charm, feeling truly lived in, and stands out as the place where Lewis penned most of his enduring works, including the beloved *Chronicles of Narnia*.
Tours of the house are available by appointment on select days, offering a personal journey through Lewis’s world. Visitors can explore key rooms such as Lewis's study, living room, and kitchen, each containing artifacts that bring the author's stories to life. The upstairs study holds particular significance, being the very space where he spent countless hours crafting his theological themes and iconic narratives, with the pond and grounds inspiring elements of Narnia. It is maintained as a Christian study centre, encouraging an atmosphere of reflection rather than a conventional museum visit.
This unique location particularly suits fans of C.S. Lewis, literary scholars, and those seeking a profound, intimate connection with the author's legacy. It offers a meaningful experience for individuals and groups interested in the environment that shaped his spiritual reflections and storytelling genius. For a truly personal glimpse into the life of one of Britain's most beloved writers, a visit to The Kilns, arranged in advance, promises an evocative and memorable outing.
Location
Contact
http://www.cslewis.org/ourprograms/thekilns/kilnstour/
Comments
Even my husband, who is not as big of a fan as I am of C.S. Lewis, thoroughly enjoyed it and said it was very interesting!
Videos not allowed, but you can take as many photos as you like!
Also not as expensive as other tours in England. Highly recommend.
We were told that some rooms may be unavailable during tours because students currently live in the house. These areas can’t be accessed at those times, which may slightly affect the overall experience (but it also adds to the sense that the house is still alive and meaningful today).
I also highly recommend visiting Holy Trinity Church, about a 15-minute walk from the house. It’s where Lewis worshipped and is now buried. The grave is well marked, and the people in the church are incredibly welcoming. Each Tuesday (as of July 2025), they host a community café and even offered us a free coffee or tea. It was amazing to see their community in action!
The home is still a working residence for scholars studying at Oxford, which adds to the lived-in feel. It’s clear the foundation does the heavy lifting to maintain it, and you can’t help but wish the Lewis (Gresham) estate would invest more in preserving this important piece of literary history.
Our guide was kind, well-informed, and passionate about Lewis’s life and legacy. Highly recommended for anyone who has been shaped by his work—you will walk away with a greater sense of his humanity.