Crime, Death and Debauchery is an original and alternative history of the darker side of the city. No existing book on Oxford considers this in such a complete fashion with cases ranging from the 12th to the 20th century. It weaves macabre accounts into an entertaining criminal history accessible to all.

Featuring countless stories of infamous misdeeds and scandalous behaviour, the book includes duelling, sex, murder, gaol breaks, rioting, death, robbery, suicide, drinking, tension between town and gown, infanticide, gambling, fraud and executions. It is illustrated by a series of engravings, drawings, photographs and maps that help to paint this picture of historic Oxford’s seedier side.

Using material from the archives of individual colleges, The National Archives, Oxfordshire Records Office, Oxfordshire Studies and the Bodleian Library, as well as contemporary court records and newspaper accounts, Giles Brindley brings together a selection of tales to shock, scare and entertain.

Dr Brindley undertakes historical crime tours of Oxford which incorporates Oxford's historic centre and the historic landmark buildings of the city and University. Booking for groups of up to 20 may be made by phone or email: 0845 391 7966 giles.brindley@quartoperspective.co.uk for which the cost is £65.