Blavatnik School of Government
The Blavatnik School of Government is one of the University of Oxford’s newest and most prestigious academic institutions.
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.
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’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.
The Blavatnik School of Government is one of the University of Oxford’s newest and most prestigious academic institutions.
Trinity College is one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford in England. It was founded in 1555 by Sir Thomas Pope.
Hertford College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford in England located on Catte Street in the centre of Oxford.
Founded in 1879 and granted college status in 1959, St Anne’s College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford in England.
Nuffield College is an English graduate college that specializes in the social sciences, especially economics, politics, and sociology.
Saïd Business School is a department of the university dedicated to business, management, and finance education. Learn more here.
Green Templeton College (GTC) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford located on Woodstock Road next to the Observatory.
St Edmund Hall (or Teddy Hall) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford and claims to be “the oldest surviving academic society”.
University College (colloquially known as “Univ”) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford in England and possibly the oldest.
Balliol College is one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford and one of its oldest. It was founded around 1263.
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.
The Romanes Lecture is an annual public lecture held by the University of Oxford. In it, a distinguished figure is incited to talk.
Oxford University is renowned for its excellence across a wide range of disciplines, although a few subjects are especially well-regarded.
The Tortoise Race is the chance for Oxford University Colleges pets to prove their mettle against rival schools. Facts, history, how to see one.
The University of Oxford’s academic year for 2026-2032 is structured into three terms. Learn more about them in this guide.
The rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge is one of the most storied and enduring in the world of academia and sports.
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).
The Gladstone Link is an underground library connecting the Bodleian Library with the Radcliffe Camera. It opened to readers on 5 July 2011.
Humphrey of Lancaster, 1st Duke of Gloucester, founded the Duke Humfrey’s Library in 1447 after donating 281 books to the library.
The Vere Harmsworth Library is part of the Bodleian Libraries and houses a collection relating to the history of the United States.
The Sackler Library, is one of the Bodleian Libraries’ principal research libraries. It focuses mainly on the study of archaeology and art.
The Rewley House Continuing Education Library is a library of the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education.
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.
One of the six Permanent Private Halls of Oxford University, St Stephen’s House is an Anglican theological college.
Blackfriars is a Permanent Private Hall (owned by an outside institution) of Oxford University. It houses three distinct institutions.
Wycliffe Hall is named after the Bible translator and reformer John Wycliffe, who taught at Balliol College, Oxford in the 14th century.
St Benet’s Hall is one of Oxford’s Permanent Private Halls. Its principal building is located on the side of St Giles.
Located in central Oxford, just off St Giles’, Regent’s Park College is a permanent private hall of the University of Oxford.
OVADA is a creative space in Oxfordshire, dedicated to supporting artists of all backgrounds in exploring social and political issues.
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 is one of Oxford’s longest-established specialist art galleries. They showcase modern, contemporary and old masters.
If you’re based in Oxford and looking for a charming and culture-rich escape, Bath makes for an ideal day trip or overnight getaway.
The Oxford Examination Schools were designed with a specific purpose in mind: to host university exams in a dedicated, controlled environment.
Bicester Village is a luxury shopping destination just outside of Oxford with high-end designer brands at discounted prices. How to visit.
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.
OVADA is a creative space in Oxfordshire, dedicated to supporting artists of all backgrounds in exploring social and political issues.
The Rose & Crown is a historic and characterful pub established in 1863. The pub’s interior retains a traditional layout.
All about Heythrop Park Hotel, a Grade II listed country house set within 440 acres of picturesque parkland near oxford.
The Oxford Ice Rink, located on Oxpens Road, is a popular spot for winter fun in Oxford, especially during the holiday season.
The Oxford Victorian Christmas Market features artisan stalls with handcrafted gifts, festive treats, and captivating street entertainment.