St Aldate’s Street is steeped in history, much like the rest of Oxford. It has been a central thoroughfare in the city for centuries, with many historic buildings and landmarks lining the street. These buildings often have ties to the University of Oxford, which dominates much of the city’s architectural landscape.
This is one of the main streets in the historic city of Oxford, England. It runs from the Carfax intersection, which is often considered the heart of the city, down to Folly Bridge, crossing the River Thames. The street is named after St Aldate, a local saint whose name is also associated with the nearby St Aldate’s Church.
What Makes St Aldate’s Street Special
The atmosphere on St Aldate’s Street is a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The street, with its mix of ancient buildings and contemporary life, encapsulates the essence of Oxford—a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Given its proximity to many University of Oxford buildings, St Aldate’s Street is often filled with students and academics. The street is close to several other colleges, including Pembroke College and Corpus Christi College, and is near the main university library, the Bodleian Library.
Today, St Aldate’s Street is a bustling part of Oxford, frequented by both locals and tourists. The street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants catering to the city’s diverse population. It’s also a key route for buses and other traffic moving through the city center.
At the southern end of St Aldate’s, you reach Folly Bridge, which spans the River Thames. The bridge offers picturesque views of the river and leads to a quieter, more residential part of Oxford. It’s also near the start of some popular walking and boating routes along the Thames.
Colleges and Landmarks Around St Aldate’s Street
Christ Church College: One of the most famous landmarks on St Aldate’s Street is Christ Church, one of Oxford’s largest and most prestigious colleges. The college is not only an academic institution but also a major tourist attraction, known for its stunning architecture and the beautiful Tom Tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Town Hall: Oxford’s Town Hall is another prominent building on St Aldate’s. This historic building serves as the city’s administrative centre and houses a museum that provides insights into its history.
St Aldate’s Church: This church is one of the oldest on the street, with roots going back to Saxon times. It has served as a place of worship for centuries and remains an active parish church today.
Visiting Oxford's St Aldate’s Street
Getting to St Aldate’s Street in Oxford is relatively straightforward, given its central location within the city. St Aldate’s Street is about a 15-20 minute walk from Oxford Station. After arriving at the station, exit onto the main road (Park End Street) and head southeast.
What to See on St Aldate’s Street
St Aldate’s Street in Oxford is rich in history and full of interesting sights. Here are five things you definitely should see while exploring this iconic street:
Christ Church College
One of Oxford’s most famous landmarks, Christ Church is both a college and a cathedral. The college is known for its stunning architecture, including Tom Tower, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Great Hall, which inspired the dining hall in the Harry Potter films.
Oxford Town Hall
Located midway down St Aldate’s Street, Oxford Town Hall is an impressive Victorian Gothic building. It houses a museum and an art gallery, offering a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. The building itself is worth admiring for its ornate architecture and grand design.
St Aldate’s Church
This historic church, from which the street takes its name, dates back to Saxon times. It’s an active parish church with a warm community atmosphere. The interior is peaceful, with beautiful stained glass windows and a sense of deep history.
The Museum of Oxford
Housed within the Oxford Town Hall, the Museum of Oxford provides an insightful look into the history of the city. It’s a small but informative museum that tells the story of Oxford through exhibits on its people, architecture, and development over the centuries.
