Hi, I’m Shane Sterling  magician, expert Oxford tour guide, and founder of Oxford Magic Walking Tours recognised as Oxford’s number one walking tour for its unique blend of history and live entertainment. We’re honoured to have been named Best New Tourism Business 2025 and to have received a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025/26

I’ve been fortunate to perform for remarkable audiences, including members of the Royal Family, but my true passion is sharing the magic of Oxford itself. I’ve lived, worked, and studied here for over 20 years, including completing a Master’s degree at Oxford University, and I know the city inside out. From hidden alleyways and ancient colleges to the traditions and stories that make Oxford unlike anywhere else in the world, I love bringing its history to life in a way that is entertaining, memorable, and accessible to everyone.

Before launching Oxford Magic Walking Tours, I studied Sports Science and spent many years competing in judo for Team GB, of which I remain an active member. I’m an 18-time national champion, a Commonwealth silver medallist, and the recipient of an Oxford University Full Blue in Judo  the University’s highest sporting honour, awarded only under strict criteria. I also continue to help teach at the Oxford University Judo Club, mentoring and supporting the next generation of student judoka.

Sport has shaped much of who I am. Judo has taught me discipline, resilience, humility, and the importance of never giving up qualities that I bring into every aspect of my life and my business.

Unfortunately, my competitive career was recently put on hold after I suffered a serious neck injury, damaging a vertebra in my neck. For a time, I genuinely didn’t know whether I would ever be able to compete again. It was one of the toughest challenges I have faced, both physically and mentally.

However, setbacks don’t define us how we respond to them does.

As of July 2026, I’m delighted to be back on the mat, carefully rebuilding my fitness and training once again. My goal is to represent Team GB at the 2027 European and World Judo Championships. It’s a long road back, but I’m embracing every step of the journey, and I’m excited to see where the next chapter takes me.

Most importantly, I’m a husband and a dad. My amazing wife keeps everything humming behind the scenes, and our two brilliant children make life full of wonder (and just the right amount of chaos). They are my biggest motivation and greatest supporters.

We’re incredibly proud to have earned hundreds of five-star reviews across Google, TripAdvisor, and GetYourGuide, and we’ve had the privilege of welcoming guests from every corner of the world. Among them have been members of the House of Lords, recipients of OBEs and MBEs, academics, celebrities, families, and visitors experiencing Oxford for the very first time.

If you’re one of the guests who has taken the time to leave us a review, thank you. Your kind words don’t just help our business they mean the world to us as a small, independent family company.

When you book with Oxford Magic Walking Tours, you’re not simply booking another walking tour. You’re joining me on a journey through one of the world’s greatest university cities with someone who genuinely lives and breathes Oxford. My aim is simple: to make sure you leave knowing more, laughing more, and with memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Whether you’re here for the history, the Harry Potter connections, the live magic, or simply a fantastic day out, I can’t wait to welcome you to Oxford.