HUNDREDS of Oxford’s famous buildings and companies will open their doors to the public for the sixth annual free visiting event.

Oxford Open Doors, which is organised by the charity Oxford Preservation Trust (OPT), will celebrate the city’s heritage with free activities at hundreds of venues from today until Sunday. The full list of venues is at the bottom of this story.

Up to 20,000 people are expected to visit 180 venues and events over the next four days, including Oxford University colleges and tours of famous landmarks that usually require an entrance fee.

OPT director Debbie Dance said the aim was to “mirror” what life is like in Oxford.

She said: “It’s wonderful to have everything open but it’s more about mirroring all the types of communities in Oxford.

“We want people to come who reflect the city for it to be a real cross-section.

“It’s great that people will be able to see things they might not have seen before, such as Pembroke College’s new flying glass bridge.”

Last year’s event saw thousands explore the city and Ms Dance said that 70 per cent of the visitors were Oxfordshire residents.

It costs around £50,000 to put on each year and is funded through membership fees and grants, with the biggest donation coming from its main partner, Oxford University.

Prof Andrew Hamilton, vice-chancellor of the university, said: “The university is delighted that so many of its buildings and collections, as well as those of the colleges, will be opening their doors to the local community and other visitors.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to reach out to our existing friends and to gain new friends, and show them some of Oxford’s hidden treasures.”

One of the key themes this year is the legacy of Lord Nuffield who founded Morris Motors in Cowley 100 years ago.

Lady Tanya Field, whose great-grandfather, the 7th Earl of Macclesfield, was Lord Nuffield’s financial backer in 1912, is organising a special display of Morris vehicles outside Oxford Castle on Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

Among the nine vehicles, which include a Morris Marina and a 1984 MG Maestro, is the oldest surviving Morris Bullnose dating from 1913.

Mrs Field said: “I think events like this are really important.

“There’s a complacency around what Lord Nuffield has done simply because he has done so much, so it’s great to open up events like this to the public.”

Highlights of the Oxford Open Doors weekend also include tours of the Old Library in the newly restored University Church of St Mary the Virgin in High Street.

There will be a science fair at Magdalen College and water-based activities with sea cadets at Donnington Bridge.

 

Open Doors venues

D = Disabled access; FA = Family-friendly activities

Thursday, September 12

  • Cherwell Boat House, 50 Bardwell Rd, OX2 6ST, 2-5pm. A celebration of the art of punting at this authentic working Edwardian boat house and long-established fine dining restaurant on the River Cherwell. Test your punting skills with a free half hour trial. Also exhibition on history of punting, fun facts & quiz. Tea hut, bar & café.
  • MINI Plant Oxford, OX4, Tour 6pm. MINI Plant Oxford is celebrating 100 years of making cars in Oxford this year and visitors will have the opportunity to see the plant’s new centenary exhibition following a tour of its assembly hall. Participants must be aged 14 or over. Booking essential.
  • Museum of History of Science, Broad Street. Tours 2.15 & 3pm. Unrivalled collection of early scientific instruments and the world’s oldest surviving purpose-built museum building (1683). First come, first served. Just turn up.
  • University Church of St Mary the Virgin, High St, 10am-4pm. Tours 11am & 3pm. Guided tours of this magnificent church. A chance to hear about its role in the founding of the University and the people and events that have shaped its history. First come first served. Trails available at Welcome Desk. D (ramps no access to tower, lift to Clore Old Library)
  • University College, High St, 11am-4pm. University College (or Univ as it is known) was founded in 1249. Visitors will be able to see the stunning van Linge windows in our chapel, our Hall with its hammer beam roof, the monument to Percy Byshe Shelley and our formal quadrangle gardens. D (access via Logic Lane (cobbled)
  • Friday, September 13
  • Bagley Croft (Oxford Architects LLP), Hinksey Hill, Oxford, OX1 5BS. 2-5pm. Large Victorian House in mature grounds, formerly the home of the Gillman Family, now the offices of an architectural practice. Tours and history of the house. Just turn up.
  • BBC Oxford, 269 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DW. Tours 10am-12.30pm. Visit the home of BBC Radio Oxford and South Today (Oxford) TV news to see how we broadcast to the people of Oxfordshire - and maybe even appear on air yourself! Booking essential.
  • Bodleian Law Library. Tours 3pm & 5.30pm. The largest law library in the United Kingdom, housed in a landmark modern building by Leslie Martin and Colin St John Wilson, completed in 1964 and now listed at Grade II*. Booking essential. Age 11+
  • MINI Plant Oxford, OX4, Tour 6pm. MINI Plant Oxford is celebrating 100 years of making cars in Oxford this year and visitors will have the opportunity to see the plant’s new centenary exhibition following a tour of its assembly hall. Participants must be aged 14 or over. Booking essential.
  • Osney Mill, Mill St, OX2 OAN. Tour 10am. Visit to Osney Mill site, the remains of Osney Abbey built in 1410, the archimedes screw that powers the site and the restoration of Osney Mill. Booking essential.
  • Riach Architects, 65 Banbury Rd, 1-4.30pm. Architectural practice in the North Oxford Victorian Garden Suburb. See some of their recent work. Booking essential.
  • Saïd Business School, Frideswide Square. 11am. Guided tour of this iconic modern building & gardens. Information on archaeology of site (Rewley Abbey) and architecture opportunity for people to see inside the new West Wing. First come, first served. D
  • St Thomas House (GBS Architects) 6 Becket St. 10am-5pm. Tours of the premises and the work of the architects in this charming former Rectory to St Thomas’s Church now a modern architecture practice. Just turn up.
  • University Church of St Mary the Virgin, High St, 10am-4pm. Tours 11am & 3pm – Guided tours of this magnificent church. A chance to hear about its role in the founding of the University and the people and events that have shaped its history. First come first served. Reminiscence session 2-4pm in Clore Old Library – share & record your memories of St Mary’s over tea & cake. Booking essential 01865 279110. Trails available at Welcome Desk. D

 

Saturday, September 14

  • Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont St. Tours 10am, 12pm & 3pm. Rare opportunity to go behind the scenes in the Western Art Print Room to see highlights from the collections not on display and hear about their care and storage. Booking essential education.service@ashmus.ox.ac.uk or 01865 278015(16+). Open Doors Oxford Family Trail, at the Information Desk. D(but partial to Western Art tour) FA
  • Balliol Historic Collections Centre at St Cross Church, St Cross Rd, 12-4pm. One of the oldest buildings in the city of Oxford (chancel from 1180) now restored to house Balliol archives, its medieval manuscript treasures and rich modern paper collections. See display boards, leaflet for self-guided tour, staff on hand to answer your questions. D (wheelchair access via north door)
  • Bartlemas Chapel, lane alongside 271 Cowley Rd, OX4 2AJ, 12-6pm. One of Oxford’s hidden gems; this Grade 1 listed 14th century Chapel was originally part of the earlier St Bartholomew’s leper hospital. (No car access up the lane)
  • Bate Collection, Faculty of Music, St Aldate’s, 10am-2pm. See historical musical instruments including Handel’s harpsichord and a serpent that was played at Waterloo. A chance to play instruments in the collection including a theremin. D (no ramp to upper gallery)
  • Blackfriars, 64 St Giles, 2-5pm. See Priory church, refectory and garden learn about the work of the Dominican friars and one of Oxford’s oldest ecclesiastical establishments. D
  • Blackwell’s, 50 Broad St. Tours at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm. A tour through 134 years of Blackwell’s Bookshop. See the “Gaffer’s Office” - the study used by Sir Basil Blackwell. Booking essential 01865 333606 or email: oxford@blackwell.co.uk
  • Bodleian Law Library. Tour 11am. The largest law library in the United Kingdom, housed in a landmark modern building by Leslie Martin and Colin St John Wilson, completed in 1964 and now listed at Grade II*. Booking essential. Age 11+
  • Brasenose College, Frewin Hall Annexe, St Michael’s Street, 1-4pm. Enjoy our gardens an oasis of calm in the city centre. Leaflet on Frewin Hall, an Augustinian Priory in 1430, a poor house for Oxford City in 1560, a place of study for Prince of Wales (Edward VII) in 1859 and now Brasenose undergraduate accommodation since 1946. D
  • Campion Hall, Brewer St, 10am-12pm & 2-4pm. Visit the gardens and small but exquisite building designed by Lutyens (1936), run by the Society of Jesus.
  • Central Oxford Mosque, Manzil Way (off Cowley Road), OX4 1DJ 12-5pm. Discover more about Islam and its history. Rooms on show & display. D
  • Chemistry Research Laboratory, 12 Mansfield Rd, 2-4pm. Curious about chemistry? Come on a lab tour to see how we are contributing to fields including human health, cancer research, and sustainable energy. Visit some incredible machines, and learn about the latest cutting-edge research. Tours end with an interactive solar fuels exhibit.
  • Christ Church, St Aldate’s, Open Day, 10am-4.30pm. Visit the Great Hall, the Cathedral, the Upper Library, the quads and gardens. Tours of College and Cathedral, and talks in the Library available see website www.chch.ox.ac.uk for info and to book. Exhibitions and events in the Cathedral and a special cafe for refreshments in Tom Quad. Join us at 5pm for Choral Evensong in the Cathedral. (Open Day entry via Meadow Gate, the Visitors’ Entrance) D (Tom gate, ramps to cathedral, lift to Great Hall)
  • Citizen’s Advice Bureau, 95 St Aldate’s. 10am-1pm. Find out about the work of the CAB in their city centre office and the history of this organisation which started in WWII. Dispays, leaflet, video, demonstration of telephone advice management system. (No advice can be given on day) D
  • Eagle Works, Walton Well Rd, 10am-4pm. Enjoy the canal side piazza on the site of Lucy’s foundry. D (Some steep slopes without handrails.)
  • Exeter College, Turl St, 10am-4pm. Chapel & the rarely-open Fellows’ Garden and Dining Hall (latter subject to change). See College’s Antony Gormley sculpture, on the roof in Broad Street! D partial
  • Faculty of History, Old Boys’ High School, George St. Tours 9am-1pm. Built to a notable design by T G Jackson. Members of the Old Boys Association present. Booking essential. D (New Inn Hall St & via Main Entrance (at rear)
  • Fire Station, Rewley Rd, 9-5pm. Bring the children to see fire engines and find out what happens at the stationm and appliance bay demos & displays of equipment and fire safety and wider work. D, FA
  • First Church of Christ Scientist, 36A St Giles’ Visit Church, Garden and Sunday School, 10am-4pm. Informal tours. Sit in garden and eat your lunch. D (no access to Sunday school, disabled loo)
  • Green Templeton College, 43 Woodstock Rd. Tours 1-5pm. Enjoy a slide show of the history and development of College and tour of Observatory. Booking essential. email katarzyna.sikora@gtc.ox.ac.uk D (gravel paths, steep steps)
  • Greyfriars St Edmund and Frideswide Roman Catholic Church, 182 Iffley Rd, OX4 1SB, 9.30am-11.30am & 2-5pm. Self-guided tour of this unusual flint stone Norman style church and Garden. The Greyfriars (Franciscan order) were established in Oxford in 1224. D
  • Headington Junior School, 26 London Rd, OX3 7PB. 2-4pm. Visit school incorporating ‘Brookside’(1886) the house built for the Head Post Master for Oxford. Informal tours of the newly rebuilt / refurbished school & afternoon tea. Parking available at Senior school (Headly Way entrance). D
  • Hertford College, Catte St, 12-5pm. Visit the Old Quad, Chapel and Hall of this College known for its iconic Bridge of Sighs. Tea 3-5pm served in the Hall dating from the 1570s. D (partial no disabled access to the Hall)
  • Holywell Cemetery, St Cross Rd (behind St Cross Church), 2-5pm. Guided tours of this cemetery to see the graves of many famous and interesting Oxford people including Kenneth Grahame, author of The Wind in the Willows, as well as the flora and fauna of this beautiful wildlife preserve. Weather permitting Harp music and book stall. Leaflets. D
  • Inner Space, 21 Broad St, 11am-4pm. Inner space is a meditation centre in a historic building. Whole building is open to visitors. Free activities on demand: 10 mini-meditations in the quiet room, virtuescope readings, house tour with information about previous tenants. D (1 step to enter, steep staircase to upper rooms, disabled loo)
  • Jam Factory, 27 Park End St, 10am-4pm. Visit the old Frank Cooper Marmalade factory now a gallery, restaurant & bar. Small collection of memorabilia & 3 current exhibitions. Entrance in Hollybush Row. D
  • Kellogg College, 60 Banbury Rd, 10am-4pm. One of the newest and largest graduate colleges in the University with over 800 students. The Kellogg site contains a number of Victorian villas, most listed as special architectural or historic interest set within spacious gardens. D
  • The Kilns, Lewis Close, Headington, OX33 8JD, 10-4pm. The gardens and the library only. Home of CS Lewis the author of the ‘Chronicles of Narnia’.
  • Lady Margaret Hall, Norham Gardens, 12-5pm. LMH was born in 1879 as the first college to admit women. Buildings from the 1800s, 1900s and from this century (Pipe Partridge building) will be open, refreshments available. Enjoy one of the most beautiful college gardens in the city with riverside walks. D
  • LMS Swingbridge, Rewley Road, 2-4pm. Hear about Oxford Preservation Trust’s exciting restoration plans for this unique and nationally important (c.1851) hand-turned railway swing bridge.
  • Madina Masjid, 2 Stanley Road, OX4 1GZ. 3-5pm. See inside this mosque and learn more about Islam.
  • Magdalen College, High St, 12pm-6.30pm. Visit the magnificent gardens, Deer Park, Addison Walk (riverside walk), Chapel and Hall of this famous Oxford College founded in 1458. Organ recital in chapel 3pm by Tom Allery, College Assistant Organist. College Bells will be rung to mark the opening and closing of Oxford Open Doors. Information & display on the history of our bells and some ‘notable peals’ will be in the base of tower. Have-a-go handringing at 11am-12pm & 2-3pm with Members of the Oxford Society of Change Ringers. College is also hosting Nuffield Department of Medicine science fair. Old Kitchen and Riverside Terrace open for light lunches and afternoon teas. D (please ring bell, no access hall)
  • Magdalen Road Studios, Magdalen Road, OX4 1RE. 10.30am-5pm. Former lampshade & light bulb factory now art Studios. A Grand Day In – Exhibition by studio artists. Meet the artists, enjoy cake and tea and make new artwork. D (partial)
  • Museum of History of Science, Broad Street, 11.15am & 12 noon. Guided tour of this unrivalled collection of early scientific instruments and the world’s oldest surviving purpose-built museum (1683). First come first served.
  • New Road Baptist Church, Bonn Square, 10am-5pm. Charming 18th-century galleried church in the heart of the city. Come and find out about the origins of Baptists on this site and in Oxford. D
  • Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Magdalen College. William Morris, Lord Nuffield, was a substantial benefactor to medical research and hospital care in Oxfordshire. Join one of his many namesakes, the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, as we celebrate the breadth and diversity of our current work in basic and clinical research, both in Oxford and around the world. Science fair at Magdalen College, where you can learn about our work.
  • Old Fire Station, 40 George St, 10am-4pm. Explore behind the scenes at the Old Fire Station. Artists workshops open, works on sale, homeless artists exhibition and Playground performers. D (No access to Theatre, Balconies & Loft room)
  • Oxford Brookes University, Gipsy Lane, Departments of Planning & Architecture, OX3 0BE. 1-5pm. Visit our Abercrombie Building Extension with its impressive full-height atrium. Informal tours, displays of student work in the Glass Tank exhibition space. Hand-on activities 2-4pm. D, FA
  • Oxford Bus Museum, Bonn Square (& Queen’s Lane bus stop) 10am-4pm. Take a trip back in time celebrating 100 years of motor buses in the city. For timetable and bus stops see website.
  • Oxford Canal, Hythe Bridge, Pocket Park, 10am-4pm. Activities, stalls, crafts and colourful displays. Free Boat Trips with the Inland Waterways Association. Depart from Hythe Bridge Pocket Park, (please collect timed ticket). No disabled access. First come, first served. D (some steps)
  • Oxford Castle Quarter, New Rd, 11am-4pm. Oxford Castle Unlocked. Experience prison life through the ages with our gaolers. Free access to the Castle Mound, punishment cells and Norman Crypt.
  • Discovering Oxford Castle & prison. Explore the architecture, archaeology, history with the experts. Learn something about the wider WestEnd. Malmaison Tours 11-2pm. First come first served. Family Trails. Dig for treasure.
  • O3 Gallery. See inside former C Wing part of 18th-century prison now an art gallery. Special Oxford Open Doors Creation Station; add your insights and impressions of Oxford. D, FA
  • Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, Marston Rd, OX3. Tours 1-3pm. See this beautiful new building, which blends the traditional architectural features of Oxford with the classical period of Islam. 18+. Booking essential at www.oxcis.ac.uk.
  • Oxford Hub 16-17 Turl Street, 10am-12pm. Georgian building and early city coffee shop now the home of student volunteering and social action in Oxford. Come on up to the first floor to find out more about our activities, enjoy tea and cake in our relaxing living room or head to our social enterprise restaurant, Turl Street Kitchen, for lunch.
  • Oxford Oratory Church, 25 Woodstock Rd, 8am-6.30pm. Church (1875) by Joseph Aloysius Hansom. Small exhibition. New library and parish centre (2013) with a fine galleried room (Anthony Delarue architect) 11am Talk on Catholic Faith “vices and virtues”. Mass 10am & 6.30pm. (NB wedding in church at 2pm). D
  • Oxford Sea Scouts, Donnington Bridge Rd, 2-4pm. Oxford Sea Scouts, now in their 75th year invite you to come and find out more about our history and water-based activities, and have a go!
  • Oxford Town Hall, St Aldate’s, 10-4pm. 11am 1.30pm & 3pm tours of Oxford’s Magnificent Town Hall uncovering the history of this fascinating building at the heart of the community since it opened in 1897. First come first served. In the Main Hall Drop in family activity Build the City of your Dreams! with Oxford Preservation Trust.
  • 2pm, Main Hall Oxford Welsh Male Voice Choir part of Nuffield legacy celebrations.
  • Museum of Oxford, (Long Room) East Oxford from Above exhibition. Memories of East Oxford and responses to the area as it is now, inspired by a unique collection of aerial photographs from the 1920s and 30s including the car factory. D, FA (lift, loos)
  • Oxfordshire County Council, County Hall, Old County Court room, New Rd, 11am-4pm. Old County Hall the former County Courts of Oxford. Imposing building built in 1841. Come and see the Court Room with its grim tunnel to Prison. Try your hand at Toad in the Hole (Pub game) raising funds for Oxford Preservation Trust. Tea, Coffee available. D partial (Holding cells has steep steps) FA
  • Pegasus Theatre, Magdalen Rd, OX4 1RE, 10am-4pm. Free family drop-in at Pegasus for behind the scenes theatre tours, circus workshops and craft activities plus all-day refreshments in the cafe. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Last tours and activities start at 3pm. Box office 01865 812150 D
  • Playhouse, 11-12 Beaumont St, Tour 11am. Learn about the theatre’s history see how a show happens. Booking essential.
  • Private 20th Century Art Collection, Iffley, 2.30pm. Tour of works by Ben Nicholson, David Jones, Winifred Nicholson and other 19th & 20th century artists. Booking essential.
  • Queen’s College, High St, 11am-4pm. Visit the magnificent Chapel and Hall of this renowned Oxford College founded in 1341. View the fine Baroque architecture in the Front Quad and Cloisters. D (steps at front, ask at Porters’ lodge for level rear access)
  • Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road. Talk 10am. Join Mike Wigg, the University’s Director of Capital Projects & Property Management in the Mathematical Institute building, for an update on the exciting development of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter site followed by a short site tour. Booking essential annette.cunningham@admin.ox.ac.uk, 01865 614816. D
  • St Luke’s Chapel, 10am-3pm. See an exhibition on evolution of this stunning ten-acre site - one of the biggest development projects undertaken for more than a century by the University. D
  • Regent’s Park College, Pusey St, Tours at 11am & 1pm. Find out about our exciting outreach project showcasing the treasures of The Angus Library and the College - the national collection for Baptist history, including nonconformist history. Booking essential.
  • Real Tennis Court, Merton College, Merton St, 11am-3pm. Demonstrations of the sport on the hour, the ancestor of modern tennis, at the second oldest court in the world. D
  • Saïd Business School, Frideswide Square. 11am. Guided tour of this iconic modern building & gardens. Information on archaeology of site (Rewley Abbey) and architecture opportunity for people to see inside the new West Wing. First come, first served. D
  • SS Mary & John Church, Cowley Rd, OX4 1UR, 10am-6pm. Information on this notable church, whose first vicar was Father Benson. Wildlife trails through the churchyard and information and local history. D Partial, FA
  • St Alban the Martyr Church, OX4 3AH, 10am-6pm. A 20th century gem. Door carving of angels by John Henry Brookes; Stations of the Cross by Eric Gill.
  • St Barnabas Church, Cardigan St, Jericho, 10am-6pm. One of the finest Victorian churches in Oxford. Guide books and refreshments available.
  • St Francis of Assisi Church, Hollow Way, OX3 7JP, 10am-4pm. Information on Church History. D
  • St Frideswide Church, Botley Rd, OX2 0BL, 10am-noon & 3-4.30pm. Grade II* Victorian Church which contains the door carved by the real Alice - Alice Liddell (Alice in Wonderland Afternoon teas 3-4.30pm. D (& loo)
  • St Hugh’s College, St Margaret’s Road, 10am-4pm. Visit one of the prettiest gardens in Oxford with the Head Gardener. D (some areas on garden tour not accessible)
  • St James, Beauchamp Lane, OX4 3LF, 10am-4pm. Information on Church History. D (side door)
  • St John the Evangelist Church, 109a Iffley Road, OX4 1EH, 10am-1pm. Visit the church and adjoining cloisters of this Grade 1 listed building designed by GF Bodley for the Cowley Fathers monastic order with particularly fine glass by Bodley and Charles Kempe now St Stephen’s House, theological college, now concert venue and exhibition space. D (ramp for church step and loo)
  • St Mary Magdalen, Magdalen St, 9.30am-5.30pm. Saxon foundation, north aisle and chancel rebuilt by George Gilbert Scott in 1841–42. (See also his Martyrs’ Memorial to north of the church.) First Victorian Gothic interior in Oxford. D (via south door)
  • St Michael at the North Gate Church, Cornmarket St, 10am-5pm. Visit Oxford’s City Church and climb its Saxon tower for wonderful views of the ‘dreaming spires’. See a working clock mechanism and the cell door of Cranmer, Ridley & Latimer imprisoned here. History displays. Children’s Quiz. See also www.smng.org.uk. D (not to tower), FA
  • St Thomas of Canterbury Church, Elsfield OX3 9TW, 2-5pm. 12th Century Grade II* see and hear about the recently restored wall mosaic dated 1860 of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper attributed to Antonio Salviati. Also of interest the grave of John Buchan. Teas available. D (via entrance on South side)
  • Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, South Parks Rd. Tours 10.30am & 11.30am. Presentation followed by a guided tour of the department showing historical displays on the pioneering medical research done in the department, especially in the development of Penicillin. Booking essential. D
  • St Giles Church, Woodstock Road, 10am-4pm. Information and display on our garden project.
  • Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire County Council, County Hall, New Rd, 11am-4pm. Bring the children to see inside our mobile police station. Bike marking, grab a free balloon, police bug & pens! D, FA
  • The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Trust, Christ Church Cathedral, St Aldate’s. Tour 10am. Guided tour of Regimental Chapel of the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry College, and other war memorials in the Cathedral and Cloister. Booking essential. D (no access cloisters)
  • South Central Ambulance Service, Oxfordshire County Council, County Hall, New Rd, 11am-4pm. Come and see inside an ambulance and the equipment we carry.
  • Story Museum, Pembroke St. Tours 2pm & 3pm. See behind-the-scenes at the former GPO building before a new chapter begins. Future plans and history of the site, from Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter to its future as a museum of stories. Booking essential info@storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790 050
  • University Church of St Mary the Virgin, High St, 10am-1pm. Visit newly restored building and discover its role in the founding of the University and the people and events that have shaped its history. Trails available at Welcome Desk. D (ramps)
  • University Museum of Natural History, Parks Rd. Tours 10am-4pm (on the hour). Join our behind-the-scenes tours. Get behind locked doors, meet experts and explore special Museum objects including zoology, entomology, archives and geology collections. Booking essential. www.oum.ox.ac.uk/visiting/whatson.htm
  • University of Oxford Old Road Campus, Tours 1-4pm on the hour. Home to c 1600 scientists across 26,000 square metres of specialised laboratory space, including the Nuffield Department of Medicine, other University departments and units in the Medical Sciences Division. Meet scientists and staff, and learn about our work in basic and clinical medical science. Booking essential. D
  • Wadham College, Parks Rd, 9am-1pm. Visit the Chapel and main garden of this College built 1610–13 by master mason, William Arnold. D
  • Wesley Memorial Church, New Inn Hall Street, 10am-3pm. The church and its origin, together with a brief history of the Wesleys in Oxford and the formation of the Methodist movement. D
  • Wolfson College, Linton Rd, 10am-5pm. Stroll in the secluded riverside gardens of this College designed by Powell and Moya. D
  • Wytham Woods: Oxford’s Ecological Laboratory OX2 8QQ, Tour 2pm. (2 hours) Hear about the research activities with Oxford University’s Conservator of one of the most researched areas of land in the world. Just turn up. Car Park (behind Keepers Cottage).
  • Walk: From David of Oxford to Einstein and the Refugee Scholars, 10am. Come and hear about the Jewish contribution to Oxford’s story through the ages with Victoria Bentata, Green Badge Guide. Booking essential.
  • Walk: Lord Nuffield and Morris cars in Oxford, 10.30am. Explore the Oxford of William Morris, later Lord Nuffield with Liz Woolley, local historian and author. Booking essential.
  • Walk: Rewley Road Swing Bridge, 10.30am. History and future development of the Railways in Oxford with David Mather former local railway manager. Booking essential.
  • Walk: Florence Park: The Interwar Suburb, 11am. Visit the suburb built for the car workers and other early council estates with local expert Frances Moody. Booking essential.
  • Walk: Hidden and forgotten histories in East Oxford, 11am. Discover a nineteenth century streetscape and the hidden histories of an east Oxford suburb with local historian, Dr Annie Skinner. Booking essential.
  • Walk: Walking in the Footsteps of Poets on Boars Hill, 3pm. Wonderful views and fascinating history led by Philip Stewart. Meet at the Oxford Preservation Trust’s land, Old Golf Course, Boars Hill opposite the Open University building. Just turn up.

Sunday, September 15

  • All Souls College, High St, 2-5pm. Open access to the Great Quad, Front Quad & Chapel as well as the wonderful Codrington Library (visit by small groups). Access via Hawksmoor Gates, Radcliffe Square. The Chalgrove Band will entertain visitors at selected times during the afternoon D (ramps for College,Chapel and Library)
  • Balliol Historic Collections Centre, St Cross Church, St Cross Rd, 12-4pm. One of the oldest buildings in the city of Oxford (chancel from 1180) now wonderfully restored to house 8 centuries of Balliol archives, its medieval manuscript treasures and rich modern paper collections.  See display boards on the building and Balliol’s Collections, leaflet for self-guided tour, staff on hand to answer questions about church the recent building project and the historic collections. D (wheelchair access via north door, ramp between nave and chancel)
  • Bartlemas Chapel, lane alongside 271 Cowley Rd, OX4 2AJ, 12-4pm. One of Oxford’s hidden gems, this Grade 1 listed 14th century Chapel was originally part of the earlier St Bartholomew’s leper hospital. (No car access up the lane)
  • Blackwell’s, 50 Broad St. Tours at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm.  A tour through 134 years of Blackwell’s Bookshop. See the “Gaffer’s Office” - the study used by Sir Basil Blackwell. Booking essential  01865 333606 or email: oxford@blackwell.co.uk
  • Bodleian Library, Broad St, 11am-5pm. See 3 magnificent ceremonial rooms in the Old Bodleian Library. Marvel at the beautiful carved stone ceiling in this masterpiece of English Gothic architecture.  Explore Convocation House, where Parliament was held during the Civil War. Don’t forget to look in Chancellor’s Court, formerly used as the University’s Court. Special Open Day 10% discount in shop. D (ramps)
  • Boundary Brook Nature Park, Boundary Brook Rd, (beside Larkrise School), OX4 4AN, 2-5pm.Continuous tours of the Nature Park or chance to ask questions – on history, habitats and wildlife, Pond-dipping & quizzes for children.  Book stall and info adapting your garden for wildlife attraction. D (most paths), FA
  • Brasenose College, Frewin Hall Annexe, St Michael’s Street, 1-4pm.  Enjoy our gardens an oasis of calm in the city centre.  Leaflet on Frewin Hall, an Augustinian Priory in 1430, a poor house for Oxford City in 1560, a place of study for Prince of Wales (Edward VII) in 1859 and now Brasenose undergraduate accommodation since 1946.  D
  • Campion Hall, Brewer St, 10.30-12.30pm. Visit the gardens and small but exquisite building designed by Lutyens (1936), run by the Society of Jesus.
  • Carfax Tower, Carfax, 10am-5pm. City Sightseeing Oxford invite you to climb this much loved city centre landmark for wonderful views over the city.  The tower is all that remains of the 13th century Church of St Martin.
  • Commonwealth War Graves, Botley Cemetery, North Hinksey Lane, OX2 9SG. 10-4pm. Self-guided tours, with information provided on the history of the cemetery and the War Graves Commission – see new interpretation boards. D
  • Conduit House, North Hinksey, 2-4pm. The Conduit House, built 1617 over a shallow well, to take clean water from the springs at North Hinksey to the Carfax Conduit, a fountain in the city centre. In 2013 English Heritage are celebrating 100 years of protecting the past. Located off track leading from Harcourt Hill.
  • Corpus Christi Barge, Meadow Lane, Donnington Bridge, 11-5pm. Former college barge, now an enchanting houseboat with exhibition and information.
  • Cyclox Bike Ride Following in the wheels of Lord Nuffield. 9.30-11.30am. 10 mile bike ride relating to the life and work of Lord Nuffield. Booking essential.
  • East Oxford Community Classics Centre, Cheney School, OX3 7QH, 9.30am-2pm. An opportunity to have a “sneak preview”  of a brand new Community Centre for Classics in East Oxford! View and handle some of the artefacts find out about our project. (Iris Project in association with the University of Oxford.)
  • Exeter College, Turl St, 10am-4pm. Chapel, the rarely-open Fellows’ Garden and Dining Hall (latter subject to change). Look out for the College’s Antony Gormley sculpture, on the roof of Blackwell’s Art & Poster Shop in Broad Street! D partial.
  • First Church of Christ Scientist, 36A St Giles’ Visit Church, Garden and Sunday School, 12-4pm. Sunday school room upstairs. We are happy to chat, take you on a tour or answer questions.  Sit in garden and eat your lunch. D (no access to Sunday school, disabled loo)
  • Hertford College, Catte St, 12-5pm. Visit the Old Quad, Chapel and Hall of this College known for its iconic Bridge of Sighs.  Tea 3-5pm served in the Hall dating from the 1570s. D (partial no disabled access to the Hall)
  • Hogacre Common Eco Park, Off Whitehouse Rd, OX1 4PA. 2-4pm. Find Oxford’s brand new Eco Park with young 1000 tree wood, community garden, wind turbine, bee hives and more, set in 11 acres of land for exploring. Chat to staff, take a tour or join in with a spot of gardening! (Follow signs from next to Grandpont Nursery School)
  • Holywell Cemetery, St Cross Rd (behind St Cross Church), 12-4pm. Guided tours of this cemetery to see the graves of many famous and interesting Oxford people including Kenneth Grahame, author of The Wind in the Willows, as well as the flora and fauna of this beautiful wildlife preserve. Leaflets. D
  • Inner Space, 21 Broad St, 11am-4pm. Inner space is a meditation centre in a historic building.  Whole building is open to visitors.  Free activities on demand: 10 mini-meditations in the quiet room, virtuescope readings, house tour with information about previous tenants. D (1 step to enter, steep staircase to upper  rooms, disabled loo)
  • Jam Factory, 27 Park End St, 10am-4pm. Visit the old Frank Cooper Marmalade factory now a gallery, restaurant & bar.  Small collection of memorabilia & 3 current exhibitions.  Entrance in Hollybush Row.  D
  • Jesus College, Turl Street, 2-4.30pm. Visit the quad, chapel and dining hall of this charming Tudor College. D
  • Kellogg College, 60-62 Banbury Rd, 10am-4pm. One of Oxford’s newest and largest graduate colleges where the Victorian gothic mingles with a dramatic 21st century extension and pretty gardens. D
  • LMS Swingbridge, Rewley Road, 2-4pm. Come and hear about Oxford PreservationTrust’s plans to restore this important reminder of Oxford’s industrial heritage.
  • Magdalen College, High St, 12-6.30pm. Visit the magnificent gardens, Deer Park, Addison Walk (riverside walk), Chapel and Hall of this famous Oxford College founded in 1458. Organ recital in chapel 3pm by Daniel Hyde, Informator Choristarum, Magdalen College Tutorial Fellow and Organist. College Bells will mark the opening and closing of Oxford Open Doors. Information & display on the history of our bells and some ‘notable peals’ will be in the base of tower. Have-a-go handringing at 11am-12pm & 2-3pm with Members of the Oxford Society of Change Ringers. College is also hosting Nuffield Department of Medicine science fair. Old Kitchen and Riverside Terrace open for light lunches and afternoon teas. D (please ring bell, no access hall) FA
  • Magdalen College School, Cowley Place, 12-4pm. Gardens only. Stroll through the beautiful school gardens crossing over the white Chinese bridges. Information and history available. Tea served in the hall. FA
  • Magdalen Road Studios, Magdalen Road, OX4 1RE, 10.30am-5pm. Former lampshade & light bulb factory now art studios.  Our new project space FILAMENT 14 presents  A Grand Day In – Exhibition by studio artists. Tour the 25 artist studios, meet the artists, enjoy creatively made cake with tea and participate in making new artwork. D (partial)
  • New Biochemistry Building, South Parks Rd. Tours 10.30am & 12pm. See inside the award-winning new Biochemistry building and Salt Bridges Art Commissions and hear about recent research. Booking essential.
  • Nuffield College, New Rd, 10am-4pm.  Explore this graduate college in fine mid 20th century Cotswold style as part of the commemorations to mark  the 50th anniversary of Lord Nuffield’s death. He founded Nuffield College and was a prolific benefactor of causes from the armed forces to medical research. Light refreshments available in the Dining Hall (10:30am-3pm). Guided Tours to the Chapel (1961) with alter & stained glass by John Piper,  & Senior Common Room (booking essential email events@nuffield.ox.ac.uk or 01865 278527). Information & artefacts on display from Nuffield Place (National Trust) his home until his death. Enter Worcester St gate. D (steps, 3 flights of stairs to tower)
  • Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Science Fair, Magdalen College, 12-5pm. William Morris, Lord Nuffield, was a substantial benefactor to medical research and hospital care in Oxfordshire. Join one of his many namesakes, the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, as we celebrate the breadth and diversity of our current work in basic and clinical research, both in Oxford and around the world.  We welcome you to a science fair held in the grounds of Magdalen College, where you can learn about our work and meet some of our researchers, in diverse fields such as genetics, drug discovery, vaccine development, and global health. FA
  • Oxford Bus Company, Bonn Square,11am-4pm. Come and see how far buses have come in a century with a visual tour through the ages on our latest electric hybrid. Part of the Nuffield Legacy celebrating 100 years of motor buses in Oxford.
  • Oxford Canal ‘Waterways are for everyone’ weekend, Hythe Bridge, Pocket Park, 10am-4pm. Activities and stalls and crafts and colourful displays and free Boat Trips with the Inland Waterways Association, depart from Hythe Bridge Pocket Park, (please collect timed ticket). Come and hear about the Oxford Canal Heritage Project.  No disabled access. First come, first served. D some steps.
  • Oxford Castle Quarter, New Rd, 11am-4pm. Oxford Castle Unlocked gaolers will be opening up the prison; bring the family and  experience prison life through the ages! Also access to the Castle Mound, punishment cells and Norman Crypt.  (No access to St George’s tower).
  • Oxford Castleyard. Celebrating the Nuffield legacy & One Hundred years of cars at Cowley a fine display of Morris Motors vehicles from every decade!  Children’s trail & I SPY quiz (pick up from Unlocked). Malmaison Tours 11-2pm. First come first served. Family Trails. Dig for treasure.
  • O3 Gallery. See inside former C Wing part of 18th-century prison now an art gallery.  Take part in our special Oxford Open Doors Creation Station; children and adults alike are welcomed to add their insights and impressions of Oxford. D (No wheelchair access to mound) FA
  • Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, Marston Rd. Tours 1-3pm. See the development of this beautiful new building, which blends the traditional architectural features of Oxford with the forms and styles of the classical period of Islam. NB this is a construction site with limited access. Sturdy footwear, 18+ Booking essential at www.oxcis.ac.uk
  • Oxford Historical Dance Society, Town Hall, St Aldate's, 11.30am-3pm. Demonstrations of Regency Dancing and other English traditional dances come and have a go! D, FA
  • Oxford Jewish Congregation, Oxford Jewish Centre, Richmond Rd (off Walton Crescent, Jericho), 1.30-5.30pm. Ground floor of Synagogue – sanctuary & displays of artefacts & information on the building. D
  • Oxford Oratory Church, 25 Woodstock Rd, 8am-6.30pm. Church (1875) by Joseph Aloysius Hansom small exhibition in adjacent room.  New library and parish centre (2013) in a fine galleried room (Anthony Delarue architect).  Join us Mass 8am (Latin), 9.30am (sung English), 11am, (sung Latin), vespers 5.30pm, mass 6.30pm. D
  • Oxford Town Hall, St Aldate's, 11am-3pm. Town Hall Tours 11am & 1.30pm. Join us for a  tour of Oxford’s magnificent Town Hall uncovering the history of this fascinating building that has been at the heart of the community since its opening in May 1897. (First come, first served.)In the main hall Build the City of your Dreams! Family Drop-in session all day with Oxford Preservation Trust & Oxford Brookes University. Add to our giant city of Oxford – what would you build? D (lift, loos) FA
  • Museum of Oxford. In the Long Room, see our East Oxford From Above exhibition of artwork and community research inspired by amazing aerial photos of East Oxford in the 1920s and 30s. Activities for all the family: make your own Mini, giant jigsaws and lots more. Pick up a free Morris Motors family trail around the City from the Town Hall Gallery. Final Morris Motors Centenary Reminiscence session 1-2pm. Drop in and share your memories of the car industry in Oxford and view historic photos and objects linked to Oxford’s car industry. Next door to Oxford From Above exhibition. D, FA
  • Oxford Preservation Trust, 10 Turn Again Lane, 2-4pm. Garden open. Come and relax in our secret city garden (with its own ancient city wall).Refreshments and display.
  • Oxfordshire County Council, County Hall, Old County Court rooms, New Rd,11am-4pm. Former County Courts  built in 1841. Come and see the Court Room with its grim tunnel to Prison. Try your hand at Toad in the Hole (Pub game) raising funds for Oxford Preservation Trust. Tea, Coffee available. D partial (Holding cells has steep steps) FA
  • Painted Room, Cornmarket St. Tours from 9.30am-12pm.  Booking essential 01865 251022. A remarkably preserved hidden gem with Shakespearean connections. Formerly the offices of Oxford Preservation Trust. (12+)
  • Park Town Gardens, 1-4pm. Built in 1855, Park Town is North Oxford’s first community residential development and classical in style in contrast to the gothic manner of the majority of buildings in the  North Oxford Garden Suburb. Amble through the peaceful crescents and enjoy the private central garden.  Information on the recent restoration of the Park Town arch and OPT’s railings restoration project.  Refreshments available. D (ramps)
  • Pegasus Theatre, Magdalen Rd, OX4 1RE, 10am-4pm. Free family drop-in at Pegasus for behind the scenes tours, circus workshops and craft activities plus all-day refreshments in the cafe. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Last tours and activities start at 3pm. Box office 01865 812150 D FA
  • Pembroke College, 1.30pm-4.30pm. See the newest bridge in Oxford and ‘Meet the Pembroke Fellows’ at an open forum Question Time session 2–3pm; Farthings Café serving Pembroke cream teas all afternoon. D
  • Private 20th Century Art Collection, Iffley, 11.30am. Tour of works by Ben Nicholson, David Jones, Winifred Nicholson and other 19th & 20th century artists. Booking essential.
  • Queen’s College, High St, 11am-4pm. Visit the magnificent Chapel and Hall of this renowned Oxford College founded in 1341.  View the fine Baroque architecture in the Front Quad and Cloisters. D (steps at front, ask at Porters’ lodge for level rear access)
  • Ruskin Hall, Dunstan Rd, Old Headington, OX3 9BZ, 9am-2pm.  Explore College buildings and see the splendid redevelopment (2012) and the walled garden with listed ‘crinkle crankle’ wall.  Information on Return-to-learn courses, refreshments in Café.
  • SS Mary & John Church, Cowley Rd, OX4 2AJ, 12-4pm. Information on this notable church, whose first vicar was Father Benson (Blue Plaque on St Stephen’s House, Marston St). Wildlife trails through the churchyard and  local history information. Join us for Parish Eucharist at 10.30am &  coffee. D, FA
  • St Alban the Martyr Church, OX4 3AH, 11am-4pm. A 20th century gem. Door carving of angels by John Henry Brookes; Stations of the Cross by Eric Gill. Join us for Eucharist at 9.30am & coffee. D
  • St Barnabas Church, Cardigan St, Jericho, 12-6pm. One of the finest Victorian churches in Oxford. Guide books & refreshments. D
  • St Clement’s Church, Marston Rd, OX4 1BG.  2-6pm.  The main interior of this 19thC neo-romanesque Grade II* listed building will be open.  Join us for a special service at 6.30pm which will explore the heritage of this church. D (ramp to side, loos)
  • St Edmund Hall, Queens Lane, 12-4pm. Visit the Old Dining Hall, Chapel and Library which was formerly the Church of  St Peter-in-the-East built around 1140 by Robert D’Oilly, NB visits to the library in small groups. D (partial)
  • St John’s College, St Giles, 10am-5pm. A self-guided tour of the College.  In the Library some of our treasure on display in an exhibition “the Path that Sinners Tread”: Tracking the Seven deadly Sins from the special collections of St John’s. D (no access to the library)
  • St John the Evangelist Church, 109a Iffley Road, OX4 1EH, 2-5pm.  Visit the church and adjoining cloisters of this Grade 1 listed building designed by GF Bodley for the Cowley Fathers monastic order with particularly fine glass by Bodley and Charles Kempe now occupied by St Stephen’s House, theological college.  The church is college chapel and flourishing concert venue, the cloister an exhibition space. D (ramp for church step and loo)
  • St Mary Magdalen, Magdalen St, 1-5pm. Saxon foundation north aisle and chancel rebuilt by George Gilbert Scott in 1841–42. (See also his Martyrs’ Memorial to north of the church.) First Victorian Gothic interior in Oxford. D (via south door)
  • St Michael at the North Gate Church, Cornmarket St, 12 noon-3.30pm. Special Evensong Service at 3.30pm Visit Oxford’s City Church and climb its Saxon tower for wonderful views of the ‘dreaming spires’. See a working clock mechanism and the cell door of Cranmer, Ridley & Latimer imprisoned here.  History displays. Children’s Quiz and certificates for all for reaching the top of the tower. (Wheelchair access to church only.) See also www.smng.org.uk. D (not to tower), FA
  • St Sepulchres Cemetery, Walton Street, 2-4pm. Hunt down your ancestors and also some famous Oxford names from the past in this delightful Victorian cemetery. Self guided trail. & information from the Friends of St Sepulchres. D (partial)
  • Sheldonian Theatre, Broad St, 10am-4pm (last entry 3.30pm). 11am introduction by Dr Paul Coones, Chairman of  Sheldonian Curators followed by a brief talk by David Holt, Oxford University Conservator.  Self-guided tour after each session. First come, first served. Detailed information & displays in the attic area, under the cupola. Enjoy a cream tea in the Cecil Jackson Room, see website for details. D (staircases to cupola, attic and Cecil Jackson Room)
  • Somerville College, Woodstock Rd,10am-4pm. Fellows Garden with newly restored sun-dial.  Access and guided ascent to new accommodation tower with view of ROQ site. Exhibitions on Dorothy Hodgkin Crowfoot and Margaret Thatcher. Fact sheets on new development, new Somerville book on history of buildings for sale and soft drinks. D (no access to ROQ tower)
  • University College, High St, 11am-4pm. University College (or Univ as it is known) was founded in 1249.  Visitors will be able to see the stunning van Linge windows in our chapel, our Hall with its hammer beam roof, the monument to Percy Byshe Shelley and our formal quadrangle gardens. D (access via Logic Lane - cobbled)
  • University of Oxford Old Road Campus, Tours 1-4pm on the hour. Home to c 1600 scientists across 26,000 square metres of specialised laboratory space, including the Nuffield Department of Medicine, other University departments and units in the Medical Sciences Division. Meet scientists and staff, and learn about our work in basic and clinical medical science. Booking essential. D
  • Wadham College, Parks Rd, 9am-1pm. Visit the Chapel and main garden of this College built 1610–13 by master mason, William Arnold. D
  • Wesley Memorial Church, New Inn Hall Street, 10am-1pm. The church and its origin, together with a brief history of the Wesleys in Oxford and the formation of the Methodist movement. D
  • Wolfson College, Linton Rd, 10am-4pm. Stroll in the secluded riverside gardens of this College designed by Powell and Moya and enjoy typical scenes of Oxford punters on the Cherwell. D
  • Worcester College Walton St, 10.30am-4.30pm.  Worcester College is one of Oxford’s best kept secrets.  Founded in 1714 but its predecessor, Gloucester College, on the same site since the late 13th century. Leave behind the busy city streets and come and enioy the tranquil charm of our College, with its contrasting architecture - from 15th-century medieval cottages via work by some of Britain’s finest 18th and 19th century architects to 21st Century student rooms and extensive award-winning gardens. Afternoon tea in one of our famous quads. D (lift in Cloisters area)
  • Walk Blackbird Leys an archaeological walk, 10am. Join the East Oxford Archaeology & History Project as we explore the fascinating rich history of the area. No need to book just turn up.  Meet by the Glow Tree sculpture.
  • Walk: Medieval Jewish Quarter, 10am and 2pm. Join Jewish historian, Pam Manix, for an insight into this little-known aspect of Oxford’s Medieval History. Booking essential.
  • Walk Lord Nuffield and Morris cars in Oxford, 10.30am. William Morris, later Lord Nuffield, had a profound effect on Oxford, turning it into a significant manufacturing centre and making major benefactions to health and to education. Join Liz Woolley, local historian & author to visit sites associated with one of Oxford’s most famous sons. Booking essential.
  • Walk  From William of Durham to Leonard Blavatnik: Oxford Benefactors through the Ages, 10am with Blue Badge Guide Alastair Lack.
  • Walk Patient Pathways in 19th century Oxford, 10am. Join local historian, Dr Annie Skinner to visit the 19th century landscape of poverty and health care, to discover what happened to people needing medical care in Victorian Oxford. Booking essential.
  • Walk Canal, Castle & College, 11am.  The interwoven histories of Oxford’s waterways and  its Castle, via the Saxon, Norman, and Georgian periods & the legacy of William Morris, Lord Nuffield. with Mark Davies, local historian, guide &  writer.  Booking essential.
  • Walk 1000 Years of Social Struggle and Radical History in Oxford, 11.30am with Tracey Ellicot, Radical Historian and Story Teller. 
  • Walk Canal, River, & Jericho, 2pm.  The social, economic, and literary importance of the Castle Mill Stream and Oxford Canal, and the two waterside suburbs of St Thomas’ and Jericho with Mark Davies, local historian, guide, & writer.  Booking essential.

Meeting point for walks confirmed on booking.

 

Oxford Preservation Trust members only events

Join the trust for exclusive tours. Please book online or ring 01865 242918.

Friday

  • 1pm – Tour OPT 2012 Award Winners with John Stevenson, former Head of Oxford Brookes University School of Architecture.
  • 3pm – Making Oxford accessible. A guided tour of some of Oxford University’s iconic buildings made accessible to all.

Saturday

  • 10am-12pm – Exclusive members tours of the Painted Room, 3 Cornmarket St with the experts. Please bring your membership card