Oxford University

Oxford University is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and it is still one of the best and most prestigious universities in the world. Numerous famous figures and great minds have studied here, and visitors are undoubtedly walking in the footsteps of many of them, seeing the same views they did. "Where is the famous Oxford University?" many visitors wonder. The answer is: all over! The University is comprised of 39 independent colleges, whose quads and buildings can be found throughout the city.

Many universities allow visitors into their buildings for at least a few hours daily. Some of them have a small admission fee, but many are free to visit. Opening times are subject to change without notice, and the most current schedule can be found in each college's porter's lodge.

Visitors to the colleges can usually explore the college quad, gardens, and chapel. Some colleges, such as Wadham College and Christ Church, open their dining halls to visitors, as did Hogwarts' Great Hall in the Harry Potter films.

Choral Evensong is a wonderful opportunity to experience a choir service in the heart of some of Oxford's University Colleges. Every day during term time, between 17:15 and 18:45, many Oxford college chapel choirs and some parish churches sing beautiful music in Choral Evensong, a free and open to all service. The 45-minute service's words and music can inspire people of all faiths and none. Take a walking tour to learn more about the history, architecture, and traditions of Oxford University.

When you stay in one of Oxford's famed college quads and eat breakfast in one of the grand dining halls, you'll feel just like Harry Potter and his friends. You are following in the footsteps of countless great minds here; who knows, maybe a world leader in politics, a Nobel laureate, a well-known author, or an Olympic medalist once resided in your room.

Fun Facts

• Oxford University topped the Times Higher Education world university rankings in 2016, a first for a UK university.
• Oxford University educated 27 British Prime Ministers.
• Each year, up to 2000 scientists visit the Diamond light source.
• Oxford has more published writers per square mile than any other city in the world.
• The first colleges of Oxford were built in the 13th century, but it wasn't until 1878 that women were admitted to the university.
• The term Oxford Comma comes from the Oxford University Press, where the use of the comma is standard.
• Percy Shelley, a poet, was expelled from Oxford University for writing The Necessity of Atheism.

Location: Oxford