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Top 10 Oxford University Colleges to Visit

The University of Oxford is the oldest University in the English speaking world, and to date one of the best and most prestigious in the world with countless famous figures and great minds who studied there. Plan your trip to Oxford and check out our Top 10 University of Oxford colleges to visit.

Christ Church College

The castle-like Christ Church is arguably the most impressive Oxford college, and one of the most popular colleges to visit. The college is home to Christ Church Cathedral, and several Harry Potter filming locations.

New College

New College has it all – an impressive chapel, the oldest dining hall in the English-speaking world, beautiful gardens, castle-like cloisters, and the tree where Mad Eye Moody turns Draco Malfoy into a ferret in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire!

All Souls College

All Souls  is the most elusive Oxford College and it takes no undergraduate students. In order to get in, graduate and postgraduate students apply for examination fellowships through “the hardest exam in the world”. Best view from University Church’s tower.

Magdalen College

Magdalen College is one of the biggest Oxford colleges, and its grounds are enormous. Magdalen Tower, one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, looms over the college’s deer park, where a herd of deer have lived for over 300 years.

Exeter College

Exeter College , on Turl Street, is home to the most unique medieval chapel in Oxford. It’s one of the smaller Oxford colleges, but it has beautiful gardens and numerous literary connections. JRR Tolkien studied at Exeter, as did Philip Pullman.

Trinity College

On Broad Street,  Trinity College  is tucked away in its beautiful grounds, bordered by its extensive lawns. It is made beautiful by the intricate details of its architecture and statues, making this college look shyly majestic in the centre of the city.

Worcester College

Worcester College is one of the largest Oxford colleges, but is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect hidden gem. It boasts beautiful buildings, with walls covered with flowers, and even has an idyllic lake in its grounds.

Balliol College

Balliol College  is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford, dating back to 1263. The college boasts a stunning chapel and large landscaped gardens that always seems to be tranquil and calm. Did we mention they have a collection of prized tortoises?

Keble College

Keble College was established in 1870 in memory of John Keble, a leading member of the Oxford movement and is now one of the biggest colleges at the University of Oxford with 800 students.

Lady Margaret Hall

Founded in 1879, Lady Margaret Hall is a relatively new Oxford college. The Hall prides itself on boldly breaking boundaries, so its striking red brickwork suits the college’s personality! The imposing and grand architecture is a sight to behold.

More great things to do

Ashmolean Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Pitt Rivers Museum

Bodleian Library

History of Science Museum

The University of Oxford Botanic Garden

City Sightseeing Oxford Open-Top Bus Tours

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Prettiest Oxford Colleges To Visit, Prices + Map

Table of Contents

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Thinking of visiting the Oxford colleges? The city is built around 38 of them, each with different entry prices and opening times. Since it’s slightly confusing, I’ll let you in on the prettiest colleges in Oxford as well as the cheaper ones to enter. With almost 800 years of history, the Oxford colleges make the city a captivating place to explore. Stick your head around a door on the High Street and find a whole little world, sometimes with a field of deer or the Harry Potter Great Hall inside. There are many famous Oxford colleges as well as plenty of hidden gems. If you’re spending a weekend in Oxford and want to see the best of the city, you won’t want to miss them. Even if you’re just visiting Oxford as a day trip , you can squeeze a couple into your itinerary. After living and working in the city for years, here are the best colleges to visit in Oxford …

OXFORD ESSENTIALS Oxford & Cotswolds Pocket Lonely Planet guidebook Accommodation:  Booking.com Activities:  GetYourGuide Getting there: Trainline / Busbud

Oxford University colleges map

Check out this Oxford University map which shows you all the Oxford colleges and university buildings spread across the city.

FAQ – are all Oxford colleges open to the public? The answer is no. You cannot freely wander into any college. However, all the ones included in this guide are open to the public. Stick to these and you won’t have any problems, plus they’re the prettiest colleges in Oxford anyway!

Visiting the prettiest Oxford colleges

Unless you have a month in Oxford, you probably won’t have time to explore them all . I’ve collated the most beautiful Oxford colleges to visit including their opening times and entrance fees. Be sure to plan your trip around these. Here’s my full visitor’s guide to the Oxford University colleges…

Want a local hand? Take this Oxford University colleges tour with a local guide !

Magdalen College (#1 prettiest Oxford college)

Magdalen College is one of the most traditional and pretty Oxford colleges to visit. Inside you’ll find an Instagrammable phone box and a whole field of deer inside the massive grounds. For an escape from the busy city, this is the perfect place for a leisurely walk.

Read next: 20 Instagrammable spots in Oxford

Magdalen’s grand nature is because of the ex-Bishop of Winchester who was Lord Chancellor of the University in the 1450s. He desired a grand college with room for 40 fellows and a choir. He got what he wanted: to this day, Magdalen is one of the most impressive colleges to visit in Oxford. Nine Nobel Prize winners and C.S Lewis (author of the Narnia series) have studied at Magdalen. Magdalen College is set slightly away from Oxford city centre, just beside Magdalen Bridge. The 10-minute walk is well worth it since not many tourists stray so far from the centre. When you visit Magdalen College Oxford, you’ll get the grounds almost to yourself!

Where: Towards the end of the High Street, beside Magdalen Bridge Boathouse. Entrance: £6, June-September 1pm-7pm, rest of the year until 6pm.

Balliol College (the second prettiest Oxford college)

Balliol College quibbles with Merton and University College about who is the oldest. While no one is quite sure, it’s known that Balliol was built in the 13th century. People also quibble over which is the prettiest Oxford college. IMO, it’s probably Magdalen then Balliol. Have you seen the wisteria window display? This Oxford college was founded by John de Balliol, a rich landowner from County Durham. It’s of the most famous Oxford colleges because of its alumni including Boris Johnson and John Wycliffe, the man who translated the Bible into English, who was the college master in the 1360s.

When visiting the Oxford colleges, Balliol is a must for its beautiful gardens. In spring months, wisteria wraps its way around golden window frames while daffodils and wallflowers grow below, giving the college a yellow and red colour pop. Balliol College has lots of quirky traditions although many of them have come to a halt in the modern day. It was one of the last Oxford colleges to compete in the annual tortoise race and was previously home to a society that saw students living one day of each term backwards. Balliol’s central location means it’s one of the best Oxford colleges to visit if you’re short of time. If you’re making your way down Broad Street, you can easily pop inside for a quick lap of the quad. Where: The entrance is on Broad Street near to the junction of St Giles and Cornmarket. Entrance: £3, 10am-5pm.

Christ Church College (the most famous Oxford college)

No guide to visiting the Oxford colleges would be complete without a little Oxford Harry Potter history! Christ Church College is the most famous Oxford college to visit, apparently because of a movie about a boy who goes to wizard school? To set the record straight, only a couple of Harry Potter scenes were filmed at Christ Church. The most famous is the scene in the Philosopher’s Stone when Harry, Ron and Hermione are greeted at the bottom of the staircase by Professor McGonagall. However, the dining hall at Christ Church is thought to be the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall in the Harry Potter movies.

Read next: A self-guided Harry Potter Oxford tour

In other Oxford University facts , the real Alice in Wonderland (her father was the Dean of the college) actually lived at Christ Church, as did Alice and Wonderland author, Lewis Caroll. Christ Church is one of the largest Oxford colleges with over 600 students and its own cathedral where you can catch a daily evensong, one of the best free things to do in Oxford during your visit. Like many of the top Oxford colleges, it was male-only for centuries and only started accepting female students around 40 years ago. Where: St Aldates. Entrance: £15, usually between 10am-5pm depending on the season. See Christ Church rates and times . Yup, this is the most expensive college by a long shot.

University College

University College is another of the best Oxford colleges to visit due to its long history and pretty outside quad. The website declares they’re Oxford’s oldest college, however the main University website says they share the title with Balliol and Merton. We may never know the truth! Don’t miss the opportunity to wander the symmetrical quad at University College, knowing that famous alumni Stephen Hawking and Bill Clinton did the same during their studies. You can also pay a visit to nearby pub, the Turf Tavern, where Clinton allegedly smoked a spliff but famously ‘didn’t inhale!’. Where: High Street. Entrance: £2, 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm outside of uni term time only.

New College

This is another famous Oxford college, full name The College of St Mary of Winchester in Oxford. With a mound island in the middle of the grounds, it makes you wonder how all the colleges fit in such a small city centre.

A little-known fact about New College is that Hugh Grant and Kate Beckinsale both studied there. Who could blame them? It’s easily one of the most beautiful colleges in Oxford. More recently, the TV show His Dark Materials was filmed at New College. Author Philip Pullman studied at Oxford and based the novels in alternative universe Oxford so it only makes sense that the TV adaptation was filmed locally. In episode two, you’ll see the characters take off in airships from what they call Jordan College (a fictional place not named after any real Oxford college). The scene from Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire  where Harry turns Malfoy into a ferret was filmed beside New College Cloisters (the semi-covered walkways around the edge of the college). For fans of Harry Potter and His Dark Materials, New College is a must-visit Oxford college. Where: Enter on Holywell Street or Queen’s Lane. Entrance: Free from 2pm-4pm, October-March (Holywell Entrance), £5 from 11am-5pm the rest of the year (Queen’s Lane entrance).

Worcester College

Built in 1714, Worcester College is practically a brand new Oxford college! Actually, a college has stood on this patch of land since the 13th century but it used to be called Gloucester college, somewhere that no longer exists. Emma Watson, who played Hermione in the Harry Potter movies, studied at Worcester College just a few years ago. There are many contenders for the most beautiful college in Oxford but Worcester College has 26 acres of gardens, a wood and a lake. Who could argue with that? Since it’s just a 10-minute walk from the main bus and train station, it’s an easy Oxford college to visit and enjoy before heading home. Where: The corner of Worcester, Walton and Beaumont Street. Entrance: Free, 2-4pm.

Merton College

Merton College has its own chapel, loads of gargoyles and an apparently ‘haunted’ alley called Dead Man’s Walk. Sound similar to your uni halls? (NOPE).

Merton is another of the oldest and prettiest Oxford colleges, built to house 20 original fellows. During its 750 years of history, it’s hosted famous alumni like American poet, T.S Elliot, and author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, J.R.R Tolkien. Merton College is hidden away on Merton Street (which runs adjacent High Street) making it one of the quietest and peaceful Oxford colleges to visit. This street is a personal favourite of mine with red and golden leaves lining the walls come autumn. Where: Merton Street. Be sure to check out some of the quirky buildings and doorways along the way. Entrance: £3 from 2pm-4.30pm, Mon-Fri and 10am-5pm at weekends.

Lincoln College

Lincoln College is one of the smallest and cosiest Oxford colleges. It may not be as impressive as Magdalen or Christ Church but it’s still worth popping inside especially since it’s free. Lincoln College can be found on Turl Street, one of the most photogenic streets in Oxford. Bikes lean against grand doorways and golden window frames. Make sure to grab a coffee at the Missing Bean, one of my favourite coffee shops in Oxford , just outside Lincoln College. Where: Turl Street. Entrance: Free, 2-5pm, Mon-Fri and 11am-5pm at weekends.

All Souls College

A final contender for the prettiest college in Oxford is All Souls. Founded by the King of England at the time, All Souls College is one of the grandest and wealthy colleges. Apparently, the entrance exam for students is one of the hardest in the world.

While a visit inside is awesome, I still think the best view is this aerial one from the top of University Church on High Street. Where: Catte Street. Entrance: Free from 2-4pm on weekdays and Sundays.

Tips for visiting Oxford colleges

• In winter, the colleges will shut when it gets dark – even if that’s before closing time.
• Remember that not all Oxford colleges are open to the public.
• Check for closure dates like Christmas on the individual colleges’ websites.
• Christ Church is busy and touristy so plan your visit early or late in the day, especially during summer and weekends.
• Budget more for the more famous Oxford colleges as they have higher entrance fees (listed above).
• Don’t wave a selfie stick around. Even in the prettiest Oxford colleges, the staff and students won’t be impressed!
• The list above isn’t a complete one – for all the colleges you can visit, see the Oxford University website .

Thanks for reading

I hope my guide has given you a good idea of the prettiest Oxford colleges to visit. Remember to use my Oxford University colleges map to navigate around. Have a fantastic trip!

Check out my other Oxford posts:

• Guide to backpacking the UK & spending tips
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• The perfect Oxford day trip
• Where to eat in Oxford
• The best restaurants in Oxford with outdoor seating
• A self-guided Harry Potter Oxford tour
• 32 free things to do in Oxford
• Guide to Gloucester Green Oxford Market
• Oxford Covered Market visitors guide
• A guide to the food markets in Oxford
• Cafes and coffee shops in Oxford
• 12 best Oxford pub gardens
• 10 amazing Asian restaurants in Oxford
• My top 20 Instagrammable spots in Oxford
• Neighbourhood guide to Jericho, Oxford
• Jericho food guide, Oxford
• Where to find the best brunch in Oxford

See you next time for more adventures,

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Ps. Liked my guide to visiting Oxford colleges? Pin it for later!

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Visiting Oxford Colleges – The Ultimate Guide

Don’t tell me – you’re making a special trip to Oxford to see the Headington Shark right? The towns random piece of art reflecting some emotions of Chernobyl (a giant shark sculpture sticking out of a roof).

NO, OF COURSE NOT – YOU CAME TO OXFORD TO SEE THE COLLEGES.

The one with the famous dining room, the one with that Venetian-like bridge, the one with the wisteria? Oxford has been turning up on tv screens for years and immortalised in books for even longer. It’s the most beautiful city in the UK and I can totally understand why you would want to visit.

Choosing The Best Oxford Colleges To Visit

But, choosing the best colleges to visit in Oxford can be a time-robbing conundrum and if you’re only here for a short period you’re going to need a little help. Let’s face it – you’ll be kicking yourself later if you learn you were literally the other side of a wall or doorway and you missed an incredible piece of Oxford.

But worry not, we have been visiting Oxford for decades and we think we’ve worked out which colleges you ought to be putting on your bucket list.

There are 38 Oxford Colleges in total but we have you covered for the prettiest ones, the ones you can see for free, Harry Potter filming locations and other famous Oxford colleges with impressive alumni or fascinating histories. And to avoid any unconscious walk-by’s we’ve added a map of ‘ Oxford Colleges ‘ at the bottom to make your visit easier – just click the drop-down menu at the top left to save to your device.

Here’s our list of the best Oxford colleges to visit…

pin for later…

Christ Church College

CALLING ALL POTTER FANS…

Many people with a penchant for wizardry make the day trip from London to Oxford just for the Harry Potter locations. This makes Christ Church College the most popular and most recognisable spot in town. The Dining Room inspired the Great Hall at Hogwarts and the cloisters and the Bodley tower were actually used in the filming.

But make no mistake – all this Potter-patter makes Christ Church undoubtedly one of the busiest places to visit in Oxford and if you are interested in stopping by you might want to consider booking ahead. (See their website for details and booking info )

However, even before Harry had us hurrying to investigate, Christ Church has always been a popular place to visit in Oxford for several reasons…

The Dining Room especially stands to impress, with its walls of hung portraits of notable alumni like King Edward VII, Albert Einstein the Winklevoss Facebook twins, John Wesley and over a dozen English Prime Ministers. But as you walk into Christ Church make sure you take note of Tom Tower – the grand entrance designed by Christopher Wren, of St Pauls Cathedral fame. Signalling that the Great Doors are about to close, the Bells of Tom Tower go off 101 times every evening at 9.05pm, and you don’t need to be bound to the building to hear it!

Being one of the wealthiest Colleges of Oxford, Christ Church also has its very own picture gallery with works of art by Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Raphael no less. Amazingly, the students are allowed to borrow certain pieces to hang in their dorm-rooms for their duration – can you just imagine falling over last nights empties and straight into a Da Vinci!?

But my favourite fact of all about this wonderful Oxford college is that the real Alice of Alice in Wonderland lived here! Her family (her father was the Dean) were friends of Lewis Carroll and regularly took trips on the river together, where the tale of Wonderland began and Alice became the main character. Top tip : look out for the Alice stained glass in the dining room.

Just outside of Christ Church College is the sweet shop where Alice bought her sweets as a child ( Alice’s Shop ) and also a cute little cafe called Cafe Loco which gives a little nod to Alice and her far-out friends.

Where is Christ Church College? Tickets can be bought at Meadow Gate on the Broad Walk. At the Magdalen Bridge end of the High Street.

New College

Not new at all actually, unless you’re the type of person who has medieval mead in your amazon basket. New College is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford, completed in 1386, older than the Azteks, China’s Forbidden City and Cher. And, I’ve got to say, if you’re the type of person who writes a tick-list of goals on January the first, or own a clip-board full-stop, in terms of a check-list, this is one of the Oxford colleges to visit that has it all.

For just £5 (the chapel is free to visit) you get to see some of the prettiest insta-worthy Oxford university gardens, Harry Potter locations, a stunning chapel, famous artworks, beautiful architecture and it even has its own mountain. It’s value for money for definite.

Pretty herbaceous borders line the ancient city wall (built 1200’s) and climbers and Wisteria enhance the already gorgeous college buildings – it’s an English-Garden postcard. Head to the New College cloister courtyard quadrangle to see the old Oak tree used as a seat for Malfoy in Harry Potter – The Goblet of Fire.

The ancient dining room is a highlight, Jacob Epstein’s ‘Lazarus’ statue stands in the chapel and so does an original El Greco (St James The Greater) – as far as colleges at Oxford go, this one has so much to take in. Plus, Hugh Grant went here, now what greater reason do you need?

Where Is New College?  Access is by Hollywell Street. See their website for opening times and ticket prices.

Magdalen College

Pronounced Mawd-lin, Magdalen is definitely one of the prettiest Oxford colleges you could visit. If you’re arriving in town via the High Street it’s also one of the first colleges you’ll see on your trip to Oxford. Being one of the wealthiest colleges in Oxford you can easily see why many a notable King or Prince have chosen it as their Bed and Breakfast for the night, it’s pretty impressive!

Magdalen also has a notable literary alumnus: Oscar Wilde, C.S Lewis and J.R.R Tolkein all walked these old cobblestones. In fact, if you take a stroll along the college’s Addison’s Walk it’s just a little bit awesome that you are literally following in the footsteps of good friends Tolkein and Lewis who used to promenade together – how cool is that!

Adjacent to the river, Magdalen often throws out an epic scene of low lying mist across its very own Deer Park. It’s a beautiful picture and if you are visiting Oxford in winter or spring you might want to make this your early morning stop-off for the best chances of seeing this beautiful scene. The deer are more likely to be in the riverside meadows during summer but have been rutting here for over 300 years.

Included in your ticket price (£7) is the opportunity to see the Dining Hall, Medieval Chapel, Old Kitchen Bar and the Cherwell riverside walk. By the way, the Old Kitchen Bar is the riverside seating area you can see from Magdalen Bridge and is a beautiful place to sit and watch the world go by with your beverage – I’m giving you that tidbit for free, it took me years to work out how to get access to that terrace!

Where is Magdalen College?  Entrance is via the lovely Victorian tower gateway on High Street.

Balliol College

Balliol is one of those Oxford colleges where history seems palpable. It reminds me of Christ Church and I’m sure if Christ Church wasn’t available, Balliol would have been the second choice for certain filming locations. It’s grand, it’s beautiful and it’s impressive, but with considerably fewer crowds than others.

Founded in 1263 it’s one of the oldest colleges in Oxford and also a great place to retreat from the crowds out on the pavement – there are more than a handful of nooks and crannies in the Balliol gardens and some very pretty spots amongst the wisterias.

The ticket price is only £2 but it has great Quads, a Great Hall and a great chapel – it’s a handsome all-rounder.

Where is Balliol College? Entrance is on Broad Street.

Which Oxford Colleges Are Free To Visit?

Several colleges at Oxford open their doors to the public for free at certain times of the day or week. They may not be as impressive as some of the ones with a ticket price but some have features that are definitely worth a little peek if you find yourself in the area. Here’s our recommendations and a few reasons why they are worth a visit…

All Souls College

The poet Matthew Arnold once labelled Oxford; 

‘that sweet city with her dreaming spires’

Because from places like Boars Hill, just west of the metropolis, the tall steeples are what fashion the Oxford skyline and All Souls College is the show-stopper.

In order to get in you have to take the hardest exam in the world, or just turn up between 2 and 4pm on week-days (all day on Sunday) and entry is free! 

Access includes a visit to the college front, the Great Quadrangles and the Chapel and it is definitely worth a look as you will more than likely find yourself at this popular Oxford location at some point anyway (it’s next door to the Radcliffe Camera). However, it’s the spires which make it glorious and you’ll get the best views of these from the top of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin across the way. (The church tower makes our list of Top Things To Do In Oxford and you can find out more details here )

The Gothic chapel of All Souls College is a particular highlight as are the unique angles of the Radcliffe Camera through the foliage of the gardens. You might not spend too long here but it’d be a shame to just walk on by.

The main entrance is on Oxford High Street.

Keble College

A little bit controversial, Keble College isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. It’s been called a Zebra, a humbug and a lasagne – but in my books, the latter is definitely not an insult! In any other town though, this Victorian piece of architecture in the Neo-Gothic style would receive the attention it actually deserved. In short, it looks nothing like the rest of the Oxford Universities!

Photo credits; Holly Hayes, Keble College – Flickr

For starters, it’s way younger, but that shouldn’t deter you from a quick peek. You’re more than likely going to be stopping by the Pitt Rivers Museum over the road if you’re visiting Oxford for the day (and if not, why not!?), so you may as well visit Keble.

Check out the Dining Hall and Common Room, both a bit reminisce of a posh grand-mothers house and easy to imagine a soiree with Queen Victoria. However, Keble is anything but stuffy – it’s probably the friendliest college you will visit and the more laid back atmosphere is noticeable. Meal-times are a big deal in this place; the University keeps food prices low and in turn students make it a priority to eat here, including 3 formal dinners a week. Rumour has it that Keble is the envy of other Oxford Colleges when it comes to dining.

The College also has a rather beautiful chapel too. And, all for free – just make sure you plan your visit between 2 – 5pm.

Entrance is on Parks Road, opposite the Pitt Rivers Museum

Exeter College

Exeter is the 4th oldest college at Oxford and has a few famous alumni including William Morris, Tolkein and Roger Bannister of 4-minute-mile fame.

Check out the pretty Fellow’s Garden and the spot where Inspector Morse had his heart attack on the lawn! It’s also a filming location for some scenes in The Golden Compass . The hall and chapel are also great too, the latter where a William Morris tapestry of Christ’s Birth hangs. Open for free between 2-5pm.

Entrance is on Turl Street.

Lincoln College

Worth a stop in Autumn-time just to see the beautiful red Virginia Creeper vines in the Quadrangles. Famous alumni – John Le Carre and Emily Mortimer and John Wesley.

Entrance on Turl Street.

Worcester College

A bit off the beaten path in Oxford, Worcester is a little hidden gem. It’s like a blend of stately home and quaint chocolate-box cottages, all set to a beautiful backdrop of gardens. Throw in a lake for good measure and you’ll find yourself in a city-centre secret place of calm. The college has won Oxford in Bloom a few times over the years – that should tell you something. And don’t miss the mosaics in the church, there’s a distinct Byzantian temple feel to it.

Entrance on Worcester Street, just along from the Ashmolean.

Corpus Christi College

The smallest College of Oxford University but also one of the cutest, Corpus Christi is famous for is annual Tortoise Fair, held in May. Over a thousand fans turn up to see the race between the college tortoises across the gardens. Don’t miss the Pelican sundial in the Quad and the scenic vista’s over Merton’s Field.

Entrance is on Merton Street and it’s open to visitors every day from 1.30 – 4.30pm.

TIPS FOR VISITING OXFORD COLLEGES

Open Doors Oxford is an event which takes place over a weekend in mid-September every year and makes several Oxford colleges open to visitors that usually charge an entrance fee. It’s a good time to visit if you want to see as many colleges as possible.

When you visit Oxford colleges it may be wise to check ahead of time to see if all the areas are open, sometimes libraries or halls are closed for events or other reasons. Also, some Oxford college tours need to be booked in advance.

Here’s our map of Oxford colleges worth visiting. Remember, if you want to save this map just click on the arrow in the top left corner and star or save.

More Places To Visit In Oxford

Of course, there is more to Oxford than the university. The city has a fascinating royal and political past which you can learn more about. Plus, it’s not short on great places to eat and a good handful of historically famous pubs. We’ve come up with a list of the best things to do in Oxford if you’d like to take a read – stuff you really shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting Oxford for a day.

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Home » Visiting Magdalen College

Visiting Magdalen College

Opening times.

Magdalen College is open every day from 2 January to 19 December between 10am and dusk or 5.00pm, whichever is the earlier, with the exception of July, August and September when the college will close at 6.30pm

(These are subject to occasional change which will be advertised on this website, or our noticeboard outside the main entrance. The College will be closed to all visitors on 20 December – 31 December, all dates inclusive, but see below for New Year’s Day 2025) .

Admission Charges

Adults: £9.50 Over 65s, children, students: £8.50 Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children aged 7 or over): £28

Free admission is available to:

• Children under 7
• Those who live locally and one guest
• Those who hold an Oxford University card, an OUP card, or an alumni card and one guest
• Prospective students and their families
• Pathway to Success alumni

Joint tickets for Magdalen and the Oxford Botanic Garden are available at either location for: Adults: £15 Concessions: £13 (family and group joint tickets not available). These tickets remain valid for one entry at the each venue within 12 months of purchase.

Tickets can only be bought on the day of the visit, there are no advance tickets available.

Payment will be by card only, no cash. For details of charges and times for Guided Tours please see the section below on Summer Tours. Where applicable, prices include VAT. The last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.

We welcome groups subject to a maximum of 20 people , larger groups may split. A 30 minute interval is required between the admission of each group. Groups should book in advance using the group booking form . Payment will then be taken by card when you arrive. We do not accept payment by cheque or voucher. Please note, groups of under 21 year olds must be accompanied by a responsible person throughout their visit.

You may wish to consider arranging your own qualified guide. For details, please see the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides .

Or, to book on a scheduled public tour, go to the Bodleian website .

If you are booking on behalf of a fee-paying programme, eg. international schools, summer schools or languages courses , you will be asked to pay for admission, regardless of whether there are prospective applicants in the group.

If you have any enquiries about your group visit booking, please email [email protected], or telephone the Lodge at 01865 276000.

If you are booking on behalf of any UK school (excluding fee-paying programmes), then please contact [email protected] prior to booking your visit. If you are booking for a UK state school in one of our outreach link regions (Brent, Westminster, Nottingham/Nottinghamshire, Sheffield, Barnsley or Rotherham), please visit the Outreach section of the website.

Printed Information

You can download a map from our website here.

Leaflets with a map and illustrations are provided at the Porter’s Lodge in several languages. Copies can be purchased at 50p each.

An illustrated short history of the College is available at the Porters’ Lodge, price £5.

You are asked not to enter staircases, College rooms and areas marked as private. The Hall may be closed over lunchtime. Dogs, except guide dogs, are not allowed in the College. Please do not walk on the grass or picnic in the grounds. In the interests of security, random bag searches may be carried out; CCTV is in use throughout the grounds. Supervised children are welcome. We regret we are unable to provide parking.

Drones may not be used anywhere in the College grounds. Wedding and engagement photography is not permitted, except when the ceremony is taking place in the College.

Please read our accessibility information for disabled visitors . Smoking is only permitted at seven designated smoking areas in the college grounds; the locations can be found on the Smoking Areas Map. Smoking is not permitted inside any of the buildings, cloisters, or elsewhere in the grounds. E-cigarettes and vaping may not be used in public rooms.

The University’s Open Days for prospective undergraduate applicants will be on the 26th and 27th June and 20th September 2024 .

To see Magdalen’s Open Days timetable and to request support with accommodation or with travel expenses, please see our Open Days page.

Bed and Breakfast

Magdalen College offers Bed and Breakfast accommodation. Please visit speedybooker.com to check whether a room is available.

Summer Tours

On some days in the summer hours period (see above) a Guided Tour is offered at 11am and 3pm, subject to a minimum of 4 persons and a maximum of 20. There is a charge of £13 for this which includes the admission fee; the tour includes areas of the College, such as the Longwall Library Quad, which are not open to the general public. Information and tickets may be obtained from the Visitor Desk on the day.

Refreshment

Refreshments, including morning coffee and snacks, light lunches and afternoon teas are available in the Old Kitchen Bar and Riverside Terrace Monday-Saturday from 10am to 5.30pm (closed on Sunday). Recordings of the College choir, various publications on the College, and some items of College merchandise are available to purchase from the Visitors’ Desk.

Alumni Visits

Old Members of College should visit our useful information for alumni page.

Special Opening Times

New Year’s Day : On Wednesday 1 January 2025 the college will be open to the public from 10am to 3.30pm. There will be no admission charge. The Old Kitchen Snack Bar will not be open.

National Gardens Scheme : On Sunday 7 April 2024 the College and Grounds will be open for the National Gardens Scheme. Charges are as above; as all proceeds go to the NGS there are no free admissions on this day. The Old Kitchen Snack Bar will be open for light lunches, refreshments and teas.

Oxford Open Doors : On Saturday 14 September 2024 the College and Grounds will be open as part of the Oxford Open Doors weekend. There is no charge for admission. The Old Kitchen Snack Bar may be open as usual. Various events may be organised and information will be provided here nearer the time.

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Visit the College

Prospective applicants are always welcome to have a look around the College on a self-guided tour. Just ask the porters when you arrive!

There are plenty of ways you can visit Queen’s, whether that be on an Open Day , on one of our Outreach Programmes , or on a visit with your school . If you can’t come and visit us, you can also watch our Virtual Tour .

Sign up to our Access & Outreach mailing list to keep up to date with the opportunities to visit us at the college.

During the university’s Open Days, we welcome prospective students into Queen’s to look around and attend talks. For our link regions, limited accommodation is available around the Open Day period.

Virtual Tour of Queen’s

Watch a Virtual Tour of the College and find out more about what life is like as a student here at Queen’s.

Outreach Programmes

We have a multitude of outreach programmes and initiatives that we run here at The Queen’s College for students in all age groups.

School Visits

Queen’s welcomes school groups into the College on a regular basis and our Schools Liaison, Outreach and Recruitment Officer also regularly travels to our link areas of Cumbria, Blackpool, Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire, Lewisham and Sutton to visit schools.

Where next?

Accommodation and meals

Library and your studies

Undergraduate subjects and courses

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Explore over 1,000 years of history from Saxon England and the evolution of Oxford University through to the modern day. See historic colleges and the city’s famous buildings including the Radcliffe Camera, Sheldonian Theatre and the Bodleian Library. You may even spot your favourite scenes from Harry Potter, Inspector Morse and many more.

Our tours are easy paced, flat and accessible with tour sizes limited to 20 people for your safety and comfort.

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The best way to explore Oxford is on foot with your friendly and expert guide, who will share stories about this beautiful city and its famous university.

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View the most famous Oxford landmarks that have been immortalised on screen, from the Radcliffe Camera in Emerald Fennel’s Saltburn to the Bodleian Library in Harry Potter .

C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Walking Tour

This is the specialist Oxford walking tour for all fans of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien. Explore their work and key Oxford locations with an enthusiastic guide.

Oxford Ghost Tour

Meet the ghosts of Oxford on this evening ghost tour! Hear the spookiest, most well-known tales from around the city and learn about its most famous spirits.

Discover Oxford with a skilled and knowledgeable Oxford Official Walking Tour Guide

Explore over 1,000 years of history from Saxon England and the evolution of the University.

You will see the stunning colleges and most famous buildings of Oxford, like The Radcliffe Camera, Sheldonian Theatre, and the Bodleian Library. You may even see spot your favourite scenes from Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, and many more.

Tour sizes are limited to 20 people for your safety and comfort. Our tours are easy paced, flat and accessible .

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Really interesting tour covering a wealth of Oxford history and architecture, and including a visit to Wadham College. Really enjoyed the tour!

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Our Guide was a fabulous guide taking us to so many beautiful locations in the city and the various colleges. He shared many historical and humorous stories with our group! I highly recommend this tour to help orient yourselves in Oxford and provide an overview of the history of this incredible city!

The whole college vs university concepts of Oxford had me confused prior to this tour. Appreciated all that our guide shared about the structure of the colleges and university system. Then he added all the historical details of the city itself. Well worth the fee to make the day in Oxford even more memorable.

Wonderful packed 2 hours with excellent guide. Very good and hugely informative commentary and discussion. David soon appraised our level of knowledge and interests, and consequently not a minute was without interest. He was very knowledgeable about the city and university, and its history.

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Visiting Oxford Colleges: The Best Colleges to Visit in Oxford

The gorgeous city of Oxford draws in academics and tourists alike for visiting Oxford colleges, exploring the city’s cobbled streets, and enjoying its hallowed halls of learning .  With over 40 colleges and Permanent Private Halls as part of the University of Oxford, there are plenty of beautiful and unique buildings and grounds to explore while in this university town.  But with so many options, how do you know which are the best colleges to visit in Oxford?

While there are many to choose from, there are several colleges that you should definitely make sure to see during your time in this city!  Some of these colleges require a fee to enter; others are free to visit.  But regardless of cost, seeing the colleges of Oxford will be an experience you will never forget.  Here are some of the most beautiful Oxford colleges to visit!

12 of the Best Colleges to Visit in Oxford

1. Christ Church College

When visiting Oxford, seeing Christ Church College should definitely be at the top of your list!  It is one of the best Oxford colleges to visit (and is definitely on the list of the most fun things to do in Oxford if you have kids with you !)

Besides being one of the grandest colleges at Oxford, Christ Church is as close as you’ll get to a real-life Hogwarts and was used as a filming site for the  Harry Potter movies .  Of particular note is the dining hall (which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall) and the entrance to the dining area (which is where Professor McGonagall met the first years in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ).

But of course Harry Potter isn’t the only literary connection here; long before Harry Potter even existed, a man called Charles Dodgson called Christ Church his home.  You may recognize his pen name, Lewis Carroll, and you will certainly recognize his most famous work— Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland .  While this is certainly a work of imaginative fiction, after exploring Oxford you will discover that echoes of Oxford infiltrate every corner of Alice’s adventures.

Yet even if you aren’t a literary fan, you will still stand in awe of Christ Church’s splendor.  Wander and explore the grounds for a small fee, or attend Evensong  in the beautiful cathedral for free…either way, this college will leave you with a sense of wonder!

Opening Times | Ticket Information | Cathedral Schedule | Location

2. Exeter College

On Turl Street you will find Exeter College—the fourth oldest college at Oxford University—which was established in 1314 by Walter de Stapledon.  Like most colleges here it was originally intended for religious purposes and educating clergymen.

This college provides excellent views of the nearby Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library…and has a lovely chapel with stained-glass windows that wrap around the walls.  You won’t want to miss these views—and bonus, this is a free college to enter!

Exeter is also a special college because of its literary alumni, including  J.R.R. Tolkien  and  Philip Pullman —both authors whose books are closely tied to the world of Oxford.  If you’re interested in learning more about the literary world of Oxford , this college is a good place to start.

Opening Times & FREE entry | Chapel Schedule | Location

3. Trinity College

This college, founded in the sixteenth century, originally chose its location because of its rural setting.  Now, ironically, Trinity stands in the heart of Oxford’s city center.

Trinity has a lot of open space, but is a relatively small college when measured by student numbers.  Their chapel is also unique with a beautiful scrolled floor that makes it stand out among the many chapels throughout Oxford.

Opening Times & Ticket Prices | Chapel Schedule | Location

4. Corpus Christi College

This college has one of the smallest student populations in Oxford, but it is still cute to see.  If you are around in May you will want to come here for the biggest event of the Oxford year—the Corpus Christi Tortoise Fair.  At this event, all the colleges across the university come together to race their tortoises (yes, many of the colleges keep tortoises as college pets!)  If you’re interested, check out more about this exciting event alongside other amazing  free things to do in Oxford !

Visitor Information & FREE entry | Chapel Schedule | Location

5. Magdalen College

When thinking of famous Oxford colleges, Magdalen is definitely high up on the list!  It is one of the prettiest and most memorable colleges and is definitely worth a stop during your time here.

Like many of the colleges, Magdalen is well-represented by famous literary minds.  In this case, the most famous author associated with Magdalen is  C.S. Lewis .

Lewis lived and worked here, and Magdalen is also home to one of his favorite walks (Addison’s Walk) which he frequented with his friend  J.R.R. Tolkien .  A visit to Magdalen allows you to literally walk in the footsteps of these great authors!

Make sure to stop by the chapel, which contains many intricacies that are delightful to see.  The wood-paneled dining hall is worth a stop as well.  Students and fellows still dine in this hall today!

Although there is a small fee to enter, it is worth the money to get to see these beautiful grounds and explore in the footsteps of some literary greats!

Opening Times & Ticket Information | Chapel Schedule |  Location

6. St. John’s College

St John’s takes the title for the wealthiest college in Oxford, and was officially founded in 1555.  If you decide to visit this college, look out for the super symmetrical arches and quadrangles!  St. John’s is free to visit and located close to the heart of Oxford, so you can stop by here easily during your time in the city center.

7.  Merton College

Merton College was founded in 1264 and is one of the three oldest colleges at the university—and the first fully self-governing college.  Interestingly, J.R.R. Tolkien taught here as a Professor of English Language and Literature during part of his Lord of the Rings period.

Another famous author and literary critic, T.S. Eliot , studied philosophy here as a graduate student. (And yes, he’s that T.S. Eliot whose poetry collection Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats inspired the famous musical  Cats !)

There is plenty to see and do here at this historic college, and many fascinating and famous alumni to remember as you walk the grounds!

Opening Times & Ticket Information | Chapel Schedule | Location

8. Balliol College

Another of the oldest colleges at Oxford, Balliol was founded around 1263 and can certainly hold its own with the other amazing colleges at this university!

Although John I de Balliol was the original founder, when he died in 1269 his widow Dervorguilla—an independently wealthy woman—continued setting up the college, writing the statutes, and giving a permanent endowment to assure this college’s legacy.  This officially made her a co-founder of the college…and perhaps even a more important founder, as she clearly turned it into the college we know today!

Balliol has consistently shaped great minds and is a veritable treasure trove of famous alumni.  Alumni range from the bible translator John Wycliffe , to the political economist Adam Smith , to romantic poets like Robert Browning and Gerard Manley Hopkins , to authors like Aldous Huxley , and countless Noble Prize winners, politicians, and ambassadors.  (This is also the college of fictional detective  Lord Peter Wimsey !)  If you want to walk in the footsteps of people who have shaped our world, this is certainly one of the best places to do that!

9. The Queen’s College

Queen’s College is imposing and impressive, and so worth a visit.  The neoclassical architecture is a treat to see and some of the buildings inside were designed by the famous architect Sir Christopher Wren.

Unlike the other colleges, this college requires members of the public to be accompanied by a guide from the Visitor Information Center .  So make sure you set up an appointment ahead of time so you are not disappointed when you want to visit this beautiful place!

Visiting Information | Chapel Schedule | Location

10. Keble College

Keble is one of the colleges that feels larger because of its remarkable amount of space in the main quads.  It is particularly distinctive because of its 1870s neo-gothic brick buildings that give it an almost gingerbread-house appearance.

This brick design has always been somewhat controversial, but it makes this college stand out as strikingly different from all the others in Oxford.  The chapel is also exquisite, with its use of elaborate mosaics and tiled floors!

This college is located near the Natural History Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum, so make it a priority to stop by here on your way to explore these amazing collections!

11. All Souls College

All Souls College is one of the most exclusive and wealthiest colleges at Oxford, and is a gorgeous place.  It also has a really cool library that is only occasionally open to the public, but the quads and the chapel are usually open for visitors.

This college was founded in 1438 by King Henry VI of England and the Archbishop of Canterbury at the time.  Interestingly, All Souls has been a graduate college from its very beginning with only a few exceptions to accept undergraduates.

If you want to see this college, you’ll be delighted to learn it is free!  So at least pop by while you visit the central attractions in Radcliffe Square.

12. Worcester College

Worcester College has extensive grounds and is a lovely place to visit if you need to get away from the main city for a bit.  Sit by the large pond and watch the ducks swimming past, or wander along the paths.  This is the perfect place to while away the day!

Famous Worcester alumni include Richard Adams, of  Watership Down  fame, as well as producer and screenwriter Russell T. Davies of the  Doctor Who 2005  revival.  Definitely stop by for a leisurely stroll during your time in Oxford!

Tips for Visiting Oxford Colleges

While these are my top picks for the best colleges in Oxford to visit, there are so many more that you could see! Brasenose College, New College, Hertford College, University College, Lady Margaret Hall… the list goes on and on .

Being prepared and having a plan for which colleges you want to see when you visit Oxford is very important.  You can use the map links above with each of the colleges to help you navigate, or check out the University of Oxford’s searchable map .

It is also fun to take a free walking tour  led by real Oxford students.  These student tour guides know the ins and outs of the university workings, as well as lots of cool facts about the city and all the different colleges.  Taking walking tours can be an excellent way to learn about the history of the university as a whole and about some of the colleges in particular!

While in Oxford, you may also want to attend evensong at one or more of the colleges.  Evensong is a traditional evening church service and is held throughout the week at college chapels and cathedrals.  These are free to attend—so check out the chapels linked with each college to decide where you want to participate!

Looking for a place to stay in Oxford? Check out these great options!

• The Old Bank – Best views of Oxford
• Macdonald Randolph Hotel – Elegance in the city center
• Malmaison Oxford – Unique stay (converted Victorian prison)
• Old Parsonage Hotel – Boutique/luxury stay near the city center
• Rewley House – Budget-friendly stay

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The 6 Most Beautiful Oxford Colleges (UK)

By: Author Ella

Posted on Last updated: 17th January 2024

If you’re visiting Oxford, I’m going to guess it’s for one thing – exploring its world-famous university and its delightful colleges! There are 45 Oxford colleges in total, and each has its own unique history and charm. From colleges like Balliol and Merton, established in the 13th century, right up to Reuben College, established in 2019, there are so many factors to consider when choosing which colleges to visit that it can get a bit overwhelming!

Of course, in an ideal world, you’d be able to visit them all, but realistically most visitors only have time to see a handful of them. When choosing which Oxford colleges to visit, you’ll need to keep a few different factors in mind. These include the entry price, how beautiful it is, how busy it gets and whether or not the college will be open to visitors when you plan to visit.

I spent a full week at Oxford when I applied for an undergraduate palace there, and my best friend also attended Oxford for four years. Needless to say, I’ve visited a respectable amount of the colleges and know which ones are the best to visit! Not all Oxford colleges are created equally, and I’m here to help you with your search for the ones that you can’t miss out on.

What are the Oxford Colleges?

The University of Oxford , unlike most universities in the UK, has no central campus. Instead, numerous colleges collectively form the university. On being accepted at the university, a student is assigned a college. It is here that they will live, socialise and usually take the majority of their classes.

Each college usually has its own dining hall, a common room and of course, student accommodation. Some colleges are more exclusive than others (there’s a big debate around certain Oxford colleges which accept almost exclusively privately-schooled students), and some colleges are for graduate students only.

How to get to Oxford from London

Presumably, you’ll be visiting Oxford from London, which is a really easy day trip! On any given weekday, there are around 118 trains from either London Marylebone or London Paddington train station to Oxford.

The journey takes around 1 hour, and return tickets purchased on the day cost £28.10. If you book in advance, you can score return tickets for as little as £10! From the train station, all the colleges in Oxford are within walking distance. If you’re in a rush, use the City Sightseeing bus to get around the top tourist sights.

Phew! Now that that’s out of the way, here are the prettiest colleges in Oxford which you absolutely need to visit!

1) Magdalen College

Founded in 1458, Magdalen is one of the wealthiest colleges in Oxford. This isn’t surprising when you first see its immaculately kept lawns and gorgeous grounds. For literary fanatics, Magdalen was the college of such icons as J.R.R. Tolkien, Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis!

Entrance to the college costs £7, but you can easily spend ages exploring its gorgeous grounds and taking in its breathtaking architecture, so the entry price is well worth it. The large Magdalen Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Oxford, and is an essential photo stop !

Once you’ve admired the buildings of Magdalen, take a stroll along Addison’s Walk, a tranquil footpath along the river inside the college grounds.

Magdalen’s position opposite the river offers an amazing opportunity to sit on the grass and watch the world go by. Magdalen also has its very own Deer Park! The deer have been roaming this area for over 300 years, but you have the best chance of seeing them in summer when they tend to hang out in the riverside meadows.

Don’t be caught out – you should (confusingly) pronounce Magdalen as  Mawd-lin . Mispronouncing it is the easiest way to reveal yourself to be a tourist! It is open from 10 am to 7 pm or dusk, whichever is earliest.

2) Balliol College

My personal favourite of all the colleges, Balliol is one of the oldest and most centrally located colleges in Oxford. Its ancient charm is nothing but alluring! Stepping through the gates of the college, it’s hard to imagine all the hustle and bustle happening on the other side of the walls in Oxford city centre. The grounds of Balliol feel like their own peaceful world!

The college was founded in 1263 and has produced many UK Prime Ministers, including Harold MacMillan, Edward Heath and Boris Johnson. Literature fans will want to know this college was also home to authors Aldous Huxley and Graham Greene, and the poets Matthew Arnold and Gerard Manley Hopkins.

Balliol is imposing, impressive, and (thankfully) less crowded than traditional favourites such as Christ Church college. Another perk of visiting Balliol college is that entrance costs only £3. This is a veritable bargain in comparison to the more popular colleges! Entry is from 10 am to 5 pm or dusk, whichever is earliest. Here’s a great walking tour of the Oxford Colleges with a guide.

3) Christ Church College

Undoubtedly the most iconic college, Christ Church is THE Oxford college to visit if you only have time for one. It’s gorgeous, it’s impressive, and it’s huge! That being said, given its popularity you’ll probably have to compete with hundreds of other tourists to get those sought-after perfect photos!

There’s a chance you might find Christ Church familiar, and that will be because it was used as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies. The most popular place to visit for Potter fans is the dining hall, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall.

You’ll also recognise the steps up to the dining hall, which is where Professor McGonagall welcomed the new first years when Harry arrived at Hogwarts. Harry Potter aside, Christ Church is also home to the iconic Tom Tower, an Oxford landmark designed by world-renowned architect Christopher Wren (who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral).

Of course, everywhere you go in Christ Church will blow your mind with its staggering beauty, so you should plan to spend an hour here at the very least! To explore in full, you’ll have to pay to enter the college, which costs between £7-9 (depending on what time of year you visit).

Opening times can often change at short notice, so it’s best to check their website for up-to-date information. You can also take a Harry Potter walking tour of the colleges and city which also includes a visit to the Bodleian Library.

Since the college is so popular with visitors, there’s an option to buy your tickets online in advance. I highly recommend doing this as the ticket queue, especially in summer, can be intense. Besides, if you’re only visiting Oxford for one day you don’t have time to lose!

4) Worcester College

To get off the beaten path in Oxford, take the stroll out to Worcester College . As it’s not as centrally located, you’ll escape the manic tourist crowds at the more popular Oxford colleges. That isn’t to say Worcester College doesn’t have just as much to offer visitors!

It’s another one of the larger Oxford colleges, boasting 26 acres of grounds. The college’s gardens have also frequently won the Oxford in Bloom competition. What’s more, entry to Worcester College is completely free, and visitors are welcome between 2-4pm daily. 

The main quad of the college is next to a set of medieval cottages which are the remnants of Gloucester College, which was active between the 13th and 16th centuries. Further into Worcester, you’ll find a lake where students gather around to study, catch up with friends or just get away from the pressure of their studies for a while.  Again with the weird pronunciation, pronounce Worcester as Wuss-ter .

5) All Souls College

The most mysterious and most exclusive of Oxford colleges, All Souls is also one of the wealthiest of Oxford colleges. Taking no undergraduates, and granting all accepted applicants with instant fellowship, getting a place at All Souls is like finding a golden ticket.

The gruelling admissions process is regularly referred to as “the hardest exam in the world”! It’s no surprise so many people want a coveted place in All Souls though – the college is drop-dead gorgeous!

Luckily, visitors to the college can easily side-step that admission ordeal by simply turning up to the college between 2-4pm on weekdays, or anytime on Sunday. Surprisingly, entry is free! Many visitors are intimidated by the exclusivity of All Souls, but there’s a certain thrill about exploring such a greatly revered college!

Fans of the beloved All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness will probably realise that the trilogy is named after this college, which is where one of the main characters, Matthew de Clairmont, is a fellow.

Read More : Amazing Cambridge Bookshops and Cafes

6) New College

New College is another Harry Potter filming location, which draws a decent amount of visitors, but it’s also much more than that! Despite its name, the college was actually founded in 1379, making it a piece of living history. Just don’t be surprised if you see visitors wearing the iconic red and yellow Harry Potter scarves!

Like a lot of Oxford colleges, New College looks pretty small and unassuming from the outside. It’s only when you enter that you get an idea of its sheer size and grandeur! For Insta-worthy settings from start to finish, you don’t need to look any further than New College. Entry is £5, and entry to the college chapel is free.

The college chapel has exceptionally lavish interiors, and countless statues! It’s definitely worth stopping by before you pay your entry fee. Inside, the gates welcoming you to the college gardens were inspired by Paris’ Gates of Versailles! The college is open to visitors from 10.30 am-5 pm Easter-October, and 2-4 pm in winter.

Of course, as you may have noticed by now, Oxford has  a lot  of beautiful colleges. What makes New College unique, though, are the stretches of the old town wall which run through the grounds. For another unique experience , you can even stay overnight in the college when the university is on a break!

There are so many beautiful colleges which didn’t make this list but are definitely worth your time. Merton, Brasenose and Jesus colleges, to name just a few, are also especially gorgeous. This means that you really can’t go wrong when choosing which college to visit.

No matter where you go, I’m sure you’ll be blown away by how beautiful Oxford colleges are (St Catherine’s college aside). You’ll also come away trying to imagine what it must be like studying there. I bet it’s a lot more enjoyable exploring the colleges with no essay deadlines, though!

I hope you enjoyed this list of prettiest Oxford colleges, if you enjoyed it then please consider sharing.

T: +44 (0)1865 279 379 Visiting Contact Log in

Members of the public are welcome to visit the College Front and Great Quadrangles and Chapel as individual visitors or in small groups (up to six) free of charge from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on weekdays and Sundays when the College is open.

The main entrance to the College is on the High Street near Catte Street. See the map of the College on the University of Oxford website , and details of road access restrictions below. Other entrances are kept locked. 

However, the College is primarily a place of research and teaching and applications for visits by individuals or larger groups with specific interests in the College's history or architecture must be arranged in advance with the Domestic Bursar. Please contact the College .

Please note that the College is closed to the public over Easter, Christmas, and for the whole month of August.  

Access Arrangements for Disabled Visitors

The College welcomes disabled visitors and will do its best to assist them, although, unfortunately, not all parts of the College are accessible to wheelchair users or those with significant mobility problems. A wheelchair for visitors' use is available from the Lodge.

Access via the main entrance involves two steps. Wheelchair users and others with mobility problems are asked to alert the College in advance of their visit so that ramps can be set up or special access arrangements made to shorten the journey within the College: for example through the Library Gate in Catte Street for access to the Wharton Room.

Contact the Lodge by email , or by telephone on 01865 279379.

Access Arrangements and Disabled Facilities

Old library (front quadrangle).

Main access is via steep stairs but arrangements can be made for those with limited mobility to use a stairlift and a Fellow’s room to gain access. Those wishing to use this facility are asked to contact the Lodge by email (or by telephone on 01865 279379) at least 48 hours in advance of the lecture or event to confirm details so that this can be arranged.

Hovenden Room (Kitchen Quadrangle) and Seminar Rooms 1-3

Access involves several steps or stairs. Unfortunately they are therefore not suitable for wheelchair users or those with very limited mobility.

Members of seminars and classes scheduled to be held in these rooms who might find it difficult to access them should contact either the organiser of the seminar or lecture or the Domestic Bursar as soon as possible so that the feasibility of using alternative venues within the College can be investigated.

Wharton Room (Great Quadrangle)

Access involves three steps but ramps can be put down on request. Arrangements can also be made for the gate on Catte Street to be opened where this would ease access for seminar participants. The Wharton Room is also fitted with an induction loop.

Library  access involves one step. A temporary ramp, with which College staff assistance will be required, is stored near the Catte Street entrance. Readers should contact the Library on 01865 279318.

Disabled Parking

The College has very limited parking facilities and a bus gate across the High Street immediately to the East of the main College entrance prevents through access by ordinary passenger vehicles from 7.00am to 6.30pm. Between these hours cars may approach from either the East or West but must not pass the barriers.  

Limited blue badge parking may be possible on the High Street as follows:

a) to the East near the Queen's Lane Coffee House; or 

b) to the West of the bus gate opposite the entrance to King Edward's Street or for up to three hours on the double yellow lines immediately to the East of the loading bay outside the lodge except when loading restrictions are in force (7.30 to 9.30am and 4.00 to 6.30pm);

c) when loading restrictions are not in operation, i.e. after 6.00pm, in the loading bay immediately outside the Lodge to the East of the bus gate.

It may also be possible to arrange access for disabled visitors who need a parking space:

a) in the Warden's Drive, the entrance to which is immediately East of the bus gate; or

b) in Radcliffe Square.

Disabled visitors wishing to use these facilities should contact the Lodge (see above) well in advance of their visit to request the reservation of a place.   

Disabled Toilet Facilities

Toilet facilities for wheelchair users are located off the Front Quadrangle in the passage by the Bursary. A second toilet for wheelchair users is available to Readers in the Library.

• Organisation of the College
• The Categories of Fellowship
• Visiting the College
• History of the College
• Architecture of the College
• Books about the College
• Academic Facilities and Accommodation
• College Governance and Policies

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Visiting Oxford, its University, Pubs, and Museums

Are you planning a visit to the beautiful city of Oxford ? Perhaps you’re ready to start University. Or you like Harry Potter , Inspector Morse , and ghost stories . Or you’re just looking for day trips around the Oxfordshire area. On this site, you can explore Oxford’s history, find tours, and research what to do and see in this incredible city. 

Oxford in the Autumn: Top Activities for 2024

Take a scenic walk through the University Parks as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, perfect for an autumn stroll or picnic.

Visit Oxford’s famous colleges like Christ Church and Magdalen College to admire their stunning architecture and explore cloisters and courtyards framed by autumnal colors.

Autumn is a peaceful time to go punting, with the river lined by trees in rich autumn hues. Cozy blankets and warm drinks can make it even more enjoyable.

In October, enjoy world-class classical music during this annual festival, which brings together renowned artists for performances across the city.

Oxford’s Botanic Garden is especially beautiful in the autumn, with seasonal plant displays and peaceful riverside views.

Visit the historic Covered Market for seasonal treats, or attend local autumn fairs and markets for artisanal goods and traditional Oxford delicacies like hot chocolate or pies.

Must-See Oxford Attractions

Explore Oxford’s iconic sights, including the historic Bodleian Library and the stunning Radcliffe Camera. Visit Christ Church College, famed for its cathedral and Harry Potter filming location. 

Oxford Castle & Prison

Oxford Castle is a partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the centre of Oxford. The castle then became a prison which closed in 1996.

The Sheldonian Theatre

The Sheldonian Theatre was designed by Christopher Wren for the University of Oxford. The building is named after Gilbert Sheldon.

Old library (Duke Humfrey’s)

Humphrey of Lancaster, 1st Duke of Gloucester, founded the Duke Humfrey’s Library in 1447 after donating 281 books to the library.

Christ Church College

Christ Church is college of the University of Oxford. It was founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII and is one of the larger colleges.

Top Free Oxford Attractions

Curated by Yisela A.

Oxford University University Museum of Natural History

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

Modern Art Oxford

Alice’s Shop

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

Free self-guided walking tours.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace and delve into the charm of Oxford independently, consider embarking on a free self-guided walking tour . I’ve created a few options based on places I enjoy visiting!

Oxford Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Plan a Visit at Your Own Pace

If you’re visiting Oxford just for the day, you might want to explore the city and its colleges and museums at your own pace. Here’s how.

Free Self-Guided Tour: Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum of Archaeology

The Ashmolean is one of the world’s most renowned archaeological museums. Plan your visit, what to see, best treasures, and when to go.

Oxford Free Self-Guided Museums Waking Tour (+ Map)

Oxford Neighbourhoods Self-Guided Walking Tour and Map

If you’re moving to Oxford (or within it) and you’re feeling adventurous, here are some walking tours to get familiar with the neighbourhoods.

Oxford City Centre Free Self-Guided Walking Tour to Explore at Your Own Pace

This Oxford City Centre walking tour will allow you to see the city’s highlights. An ideal self-guided tour if you’re in Oxford for just a few hours.

Other Tours and Experiences

If you enjoy a pre-planned wander, though, you will probably prefer some of these experiences offered by various reliable companies in Oxford. For instance:

Harry Potter in Oxford

If you love the Harry Potter books or movies, you’re probably well aware a lot of the latter were actually filmed in Oxford. And there’s little doubt Hogwarts takes enormous inspiration from the University, too. So, if you’re visiting and you like the series, you should definitely check these out:

All of Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations and How To Visit Them

A lot of Harry Potter scenes were filmed in Oxford. Explore the exact locations, what they were used for, and how to visit them.

Oxford Harry Potter Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

A free self-guided walking tour allows you to discover the enchantment of Oxford at your own pace. Includes colleges, shops, and more.

Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ The Great Hall

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s The Great Hall in Christ Church, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.

Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ Hospital Wing

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Hospital Wing or Infirmary, Oxford. Opening times, tickets, and all the must-see details.

Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations: Hogwarts’ Staircase

A detailed guide to visiting Harry Potter’s Staircase in Christ Church, Oxford. Tickets, opening times, and all the must-see details.

Oxford Ghost Stories

From haunted colleges to mysterious apparitions in public spaces, Oxford’s ghost stories reflect both the city’s historic significance and its darker, more mysterious side.

Oxford Ghost Stories: The Many Spirits of Merton College

Oxford Ghost Stories: Radcliffe Camera and Pacts with the Devil

Oxford Ghost Stories: Oxford Castle’s 1,000 Years of Haunting

Oxford Ghost Stories: The Grey Lady of University College

Oxford Ghost Stories: King Charles I Haunts Christ Church

Latest stories & articles about oxford.

We LOVE Oxford and everything it has to offer. People come to the city for different reasons, though, so we’ve created a few guides that can give you ideas to plan your visit. For example, you can explore Oxford Harry Potter filming locations or places that are ideal for a date. Or you can do a deep dive into the University and its traditions – some of which will probably surprise you (turtle racing? Yep. That’s a thing!). Take a look at some of our articles below.

Exploring All Options for Studying English Language (ESL/ESOL) at Oxford

If you need help navigating the different English as a second language courses (including intensive ones), here’s a detailed guide.

Cheese Shopping in Oxford (Where to Buy & What to Buy!)

Cheese is a thoughtful and delicious way to celebrate any occasion. Here is everything you need to know about buying cheese in Oxford.

Halloween in Oxford: All 2024 Events, Parties & Tours

Halloween in Oxford is a lively and diverse celebration, blending its rich historical backdrop with modern-day spookiness!

Oxford Celebrations: May Morning

A traditional celebration on the 1st of May, thousands gather at Magdalen Bridge to hear the Magdalen College Choir sing from the tower.

What’s the Oxford Lieder Festival? Best Performances for 2024

The Oxford Lieder Festival is an annual event that celebrates classical songs and art songs. This year the docus is on Cities of Song.

Everything About The Autumn Equinox in Oxfordshire

The Autumn Equinox marks the beginning of autumn in Oxfordshire. The countryside becomes especially picturesque — and worth a visit!

The University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the leading academic institutions in the world – and the home of many unique traditions. If you want to learn more about the University, its different colleges, fun facts, ceremonies, terms, and much more – follow the links below!

Oxford Quadrangles: What Are They and Why Are So Popular in Colleges?

Most Oxford University Colleges are built around one or more quadrangles. But what are they, exactly? And how did they become so popular?

What is the Oxford University Tortoise Race and Fair?

The Tortoise Race is the chance for Oxford University Colleges pets to prove their mettle against rival schools. Facts, history, how to see one.

What is it Like to Study at Oxford University (and Live in Oxford)?

Living and studying in Oxford is quite the experience. The city has a vibrant social life and endless activities and things to explore. Take a look!

J. R. R. Tolkien at Oxford – Hobbits, the Inklings, and the University

Tolkien, creator of the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, taught English Language at Merton College in Oxford.

How Do You Get Into Oxford University? Is It Hard? What Grades Do You Need?

A detailed guide to help you get into Oxford. The grades you need, how hard it really is, and everything you need to apply to the University.

Oxford University Formal and Informal Halls. What and When Do They Take Place

Traditional collegiate colleges like Oxford and Cambridge hold formal and informal dinners many times a year. Learn more about this tradition.

Oxford Colleges

The University of Oxford has 39 semi-autonomous constituent colleges and six permanent private halls . Some of them include:

University College

University College (colloquially known as “Univ”) is a constituent college of the University of Oxford in England and possibly the oldest.

St Antony’s College

St Antony’s College is one of the constituent colleges at Oxford University. Founded in 1950 by French merchant Sir Antonin Besse of Aden.

Merton College

As one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford in England, Merton College dates back to the 1260s by Walter de Merton.

Jesus College

Jesus College is in the centre of the city of Oxford, on a site between Turl Street, Ship Street, Cornmarket Street and Market Street.

Balliol College

Balliol College is one of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford and one of its oldest. It was founded around 1263.

Things to Do in Oxford

Bored and looking for something to do in Oxford? These are some of our suggestions and ideas for unique activities you can try:

Oxford Art Cafe Coffee Shop

Art Cafe Coffee Shop is a compact cafe in Oxford that offers paninis and salads and regularly exhibits local art.

The Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant

The Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant, operated by Malmaison, is a unique dining experience located atop the historic Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.

Bodleian Weston Library Shop

The Bodleian Weston Library Shop is a gem for book lovers and those interested in Oxford’s rich literary and academic heritage.

Alfonso Gelateria

Alfonso Gelateria is a delightful ice cream shop in Oxford, known for its authentic Italian gelato made with traditional methods.

Objects of Use

Objects of Use is a unique and thoughtfully curated shop located in central Oxford, offering a range of beautifully crafted everyday items.

Everything about Oxford and its surrounding areas, including places to see, things to do, and information about all the colleges, libraries, and museums. 

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Visiting students

If you are a student from overseas and wish to spend a period of up to three terms (one academic year) in Oxford on a course related to the degree you are studying in your own country, you can apply to a college for a place as a registered Visiting Student.

Visiting Student status

Visiting Student status is typically intended for undergraduate students taking a year abroad. Visiting Students should be enrolled in a home institution. If you are a graduate student at your home institution you will follow the curriculum of an undergraduate course while you are registered as a Visiting Student at Oxford.  Please note that there are no taught graduate courses available to graduate visiting students.

As a Visiting Student you do not matriculate at the University of Oxford but your name is entered on the University’s Register as a Visiting Student and you will be affiliated with a college, society or PPH (Permanent Private Hall).

Further information about Visiting Student status, fees and how to apply can be found on the Graduate Admissions website.

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