Oxford University: Tour with a Former Student

Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, founded in the 12th century. After disputes between students and Oxford townsfolk in 1209, some academics fled north-east to Cambridge where they established what became the University of Cambridge. The two "ancient universities" are frequently jointly referred to as “Oxbridge". The university is now made up 38 colleges and a full range of academic departments. Being a city university, it does not have a main campus and instead its buildings and facilities are scattered throughout the city centre and we will see historic buildings dating from the 13th to 19th centuries on our walk. We will also learn about Oxford’s amazing history and meet some of the famous people who were students here.

10 stops

27 mins

0.8 km

Oxford

University

1

Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean was the world's first university museum, founded in 1678–83.
2

Martyr’s Memorial

The Martyr’s Memorial was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1838.
3

Memorial Cross

The Memorial Cross in the road marks the actual site of the martyrdom.
4

Balliol College

Balliol College, one of Oxford’s oldest colleges, was founded in 1263.
5

The Sheldonian

The Sheldonian Theatre, constructed in 1669, is the ceremonial hall of the University of Oxford.
6

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian, founded in 1602, is one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
7

Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera was designed by James Gibbs in neo-classical style and built in 1737–49.
8

All Souls College

All Souls College was founded in 1438 by King Henry VI. It only admits post graduates as members.
9

St Mary the Virgin

St Mary the Virgin was the first building of Oxford University and the seat of university govt.
10

The High Street

The High Street has been described by Nikolaus Pevsner as "one of the world's great streets".