Visiting Oxford University

Stepping into the hallowed halls of Oxford University is to enter a realm where centuries of academic excellence, architectural grandeur, and intellectual curiosity converge. As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, Oxford beckons visitors with its timeless charm and a palpable sense of history.

Explore the most incredible colleges, museums and halls of Oxford University. Plan your visit to the city and its University, and find ideas for walks and tours.

A Quick Oxford University Timeline

1096-1248

1200s

1642-1651

1854

2000s – Present

Foundation of Oxford University

The University of Oxford is established during the 12th century. While the exact founding date is unclear, teaching existed by 1096, and the university received its charter in 1248.

Academic Growth

Oxford University experiences significant growth during the 13th century. Founding of notable colleges like University College (1249) and Balliol College (1263) contributes to its development.

Civil War Impact

Oxford becomes a Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War. The city faces conflict and sieges during this tumultuous period.

University Reform

The Oxford University Act of 1854 brings about significant reforms in governance and curriculum, shaping the university’s structure in the 19th century.

Modern Developments

Oxford remains a global academic powerhouse in the 21st century thanks to research breakthroughs, technological advancements, and a commitment to excellence.

Oxford University Colleges

Oxford’s unique structure comprises a collection of colleges, each with its own distinct personality and history. From the storied halls of Christ Church to the intimate charm of Magdalen, exploring these collegiate enclaves offers a glimpse into the daily lives of scholars past and present. Many colleges welcome visitors to stroll through their gardens, chapels, and dining halls.

Oxford Colleges - Keble College. Image courtesy of David Nicholls.

Keble College

Keble College is one of the University of Oxford’s constituent colleges. It is located on Parks Road, opposite the University Museum.

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Articles About The University and Its Traditions

Explore the university traditions, and learn more about the different academic terms, the halls, common rooms, and beautiful medieval quadrangles. Discover ancient traditions and get a glimpse of what life is like for Oxford students, researchers, workers, and visitors.

Oxford University Libraries

If you’re a student or an academic visiting Oxford, there will always be a library to help you with your research. The Bodleian Libraries alone contain 28 libraries that serve the University of Oxford and visitors (it is, as you might have guessed, the largest university library system in the entire United Kigdom). 

Oxford University - Sackler Library. Image courtesy of Ralf van Buehren

Sackler Library

The Sackler Library, is one of the Bodleian Libraries’ principal research libraries. It focuses mainly on the study of archaeology and art.

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A view of Oxford Radcliffe Camera

Radcliffe Camera

Radcliffe Camera is a neo-classical style building inside Oxford University, built from 1737 to 1749 for the Radcliffe Science Library.

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Oxford Permanent Private Halls

There are six permanent Private Halls that belong to the University of Oxford. Permanent Private Halls are owned and governed by an outside institution and not by its fellows. Find out whether you can visit the Halls and what you shouldn’t miss if you do.

Oxford University - Champion Hall. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Campion Hall

There are six Permanent Private Halls at the University of Oxford in England. Campion Hall is run by the Society of Jesus.

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Oxford University Halls - Wycliffe Hall. Image courtesy of David Howard.

Wycliffe Hall

Wycliffe Hall is named after the Bible translator and reformer John Wycliffe, who taught at Balliol College, Oxford in the 14th century.

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Museums & Art Galleries

Antiques on High - Oxford Museums, Art Galleries and Antiques Shops

Antiques on High

Antiques on High is an antiques and art shop from Oxford founded in 1997 and open seven days a week. It has won several awards.

Aidan Meller Gallery - Oxford Museums and Art Galleries

Aidan Meller Gallery

Aidan Meller Gallery is one of Oxford’s longest-established specialist art galleries. They showcase modern, contemporary and old masters.

Historical Places

Oxford Examination Schools. Image courtesy of David Nicholls LRPS via Flickr Commons.

Oxford Examination Schools

The Oxford Examination Schools were designed with a specific purpose in mind: to host university exams in a dedicated, controlled environment.

Oxford Historical Bridges: Magdalen Bridge

Magdalen Bridge

Magdalen Bridge plays a significant role in Oxford’s cultural life, particularly during the annual May Morning celebrations.

Things to Do in Oxford

Are you looking for other things to do while visiting or living in Oxford? Here are a few ideas for great pubs, bars, restaurants, historical places, museums and art galleries, and beautiful parks. 

Oxford Hotels: Heythrop Park Hotel. Image courtesy of Geograph.

Heythrop Park Hotel

All about Heythrop Park Hotel, a Grade II listed country house set within 440 acres of picturesque parkland near oxford.

Oxford Breakfast Locations: Brown's Cafe

Brown’s Café

Brown’s Café is a well-established spot in the Oxford Covered Market, serving traditional British fare since 1924.

Covered Market - Cardews of Oxford

Cardews of Oxford

Cardews of Oxford is a long-established, family-run tea and coffee specialist located in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.