St Peter’s College is one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford, and it is located in New Inn Hall Street. The college sits on the site of two medieval halls, dating back to the 14th century. St Peter has many buildings, many that are older than the college itself (which adapted them to provide facilities like accommodation).
What's the History of St Peter's College?
St Peter’s College was founded in 1929, initially as St Peter’s Hall, by Francis James Chavasse, former Bishop of Liverpool. It was originally founded as a men’s college but became coeducational in 1979.
The college is built on what was the location of Trilleck’s Inn and Rose Hall. The inn had been founded in the 14th century by Bishop Trilleck, a medieval Bishop of Hereford. It merged into Balliol College in 1887, while Rose Hall was given to New College by William of Wykeham.
St Peter’s College was recognised as a full college in 1961, when it was granted a Royal Charter.
The Buildings of St Peter's College
Linton Quad
Linton House was a Georgian rectory built in 1797 (as “Wyaston House”) as the offices for the Oxford Canal Company. It stands on the east side of Linton Quad and it now serves as the porter’s lodge or entrance to the college. It also houses the college library. On the south side of the quad is the Church of St Peter-le-Bailey, college chapel. It was built in 1874 and has memorials for the Cavasse family.
Hannington Quad
The Hannington Quad includes the Hannington Hall, which dates back to 1832. The building was commissioned by John Cramer as student accommodation. When New Inn Hall was absorbed by Balliol College, the Cramer building survived the demolition of those around it that made space for the Central Girls School building.
Chavasse Quad
This building was designed by Leonard Stokes in 1901 and converted from the Central GIrls’ School to the Chavasse Building between 1984 and 1986. It now provides student accommodation and seminar rooms, as well as some conference spaces, a middle common room for postgraduates, and a music room.
Mulberry Quad
The Mulberry Quad provides direct access to the JCR. The building, which now provides student accommodation, was given by Lord Nuffield in memory of Emily Morris, his mother. Mulberry Quad also gives access to Bulwarks Lane.
Canal House and Annexes
St Peter’s has a Canal house that dates back from the early 19th century, and a few off-site accommodation blocks for the college students.
What is it Like to Study at St Peter's College, Oxford?
Students of St Peter’s have access to a variety of social events throughout the whole academic year. These range from formal events to themed parties. St Peter’s college also has its own arts magazine, called Misc.
The college has a student-run bar, which serves the popular Cross Keys cocktail.
St Peter’s sports include rowing, cricket, hockey, football, rugby and pool. It shares its sports field with Exeter College and Hertford College (two cricket pitches, two football and rugby pitches, a tennis court, a hockey pitch, and a squash court).
Where is St Peter's College?
St Peter’s College is located on New Inn Hall Street (OX1 2DL), Oxford. Tel 01865 278900.
Can you Visit St Peter's College?
Yes, St Peter’s College is open to the public.
- Open Times: 10.00-17.00.
- Charge: Free, donations welcome.
- Groups: Booking is required for groups of five or more.
