All Souls College, Oxford: An Exclusive Academic Sanctuary Steeped in History
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
All Souls College, founded in 1438 by King Henry VI and Archbishop Henry Chichele, is a unique graduate-only college at the University of Oxford. Renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the Codrington Library and chapel, it serves as a prestigious research institution without undergraduate students. Visitors can explore its grand quadrangles and chapel during limited weekday afternoons, immersing themselves in centuries of academic tradition and memorial heritage.
A brief summary to All Souls College
- Oxford, OX1 4AL, GB
- +441865279379
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 2 pm-4 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-4 pm
- Friday 2 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons (2:00 pm to 4:00 pm) for public access to the quadrangles and chapel.
- Check the college website in advance to avoid restricted access during exams or private events.
- Admire the Codrington Library’s exterior and the chapel’s misericords and artwork.
- Look out for Christopher Wren’s historic sundial in the college grounds.
- Photography enthusiasts should capture the Gothic architecture and tranquil quadrangles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Oxford Bus Company routes 1 or 2 from central Oxford to High Street near All Souls College. The journey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £2.50 per adult. Note that buses may be crowded during peak hours.
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Walking
From Oxford city center, All Souls College is a 10-15 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly High Street. Terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
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Taxi
Local taxis can reach All Souls College from anywhere in Oxford within 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6 to £12. Taxi ranks are available at key points in the city.
All Souls College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about All Souls College
Founding Vision and Historical Legacy
All Souls College was established in the 1430s by Henry Chichele, Archbishop of Canterbury, and King Henry VI, with a dual mission: to pray for the souls of those lost in the Hundred Years’ War and to foster advanced scholarly study. Receiving its foundation charter in 1438, it was conceived as a graduate college distinct from others by admitting no undergraduates. Its original statutes mandated a Warden and forty Fellows, all clerics dedicated to theology, law, and the arts, reflecting a blend of religious devotion and rigorous academic pursuit. Over centuries, the college evolved but retained its unique character as an elite institution focused on research and public service.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Heritage
The college’s architectural ensemble is a masterpiece of Gothic design, highlighted by the Codrington Library completed in 1751, designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, housing around 185,000 volumes with a rich collection in law and history. The chapel, built between 1438 and 1442, remains largely unchanged since its construction and features 42 intricately carved misericords and a screen inspired by Christopher Wren’s design. The central quadrangles, with their soaring spires and detailed stonework, create an imposing yet inspiring atmosphere that embodies Oxford’s academic heritage.Exclusive Fellowship and Academic Prestige
All Souls is renowned for its highly selective Fellowship examination, often described as one of the world’s hardest academic tests. Unlike other colleges, all members are Fellows who have already completed undergraduate studies elsewhere. The Fellowship includes Prize, Research, and Professorial Fellows across a broad spectrum of humanities and theoretical sciences. Women have been eligible for Fellowships since 1979, marking a significant step in the college’s modern evolution. The college’s scholarly community is small but distinguished, contributing to its reputation as a beacon of intellectual excellence.Visitor Experience and Public Access
Visitors are welcome to explore the College Front, Great Quadrangles, and chapel during weekday afternoons from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, subject to college events and exams. Entry is generally free, offering a budget-friendly opportunity to admire the college’s stunning architecture and tranquil courtyards. Highlights include the historic sundial crafted by Christopher Wren and the peaceful ambiance that contrasts with the bustling Oxford city center. Photography enthusiasts will find the Gothic facades and detailed stone carvings especially captivating.Modern Role and Cultural Significance
Today, All Souls College functions primarily as a research institution, continuing its founder’s vision of service through scholarship. It blends tradition with contemporary academic pursuits, hosting Visiting Fellows and expanding its research fields beyond theology and law into diverse humanities and sciences. The college’s legacy is entwined with notable figures such as Christopher Wren, William Blackstone, and Lawrence of Arabia, underscoring its enduring influence on British intellectual and cultural life.Architectural and Scholarly Symbolism
The college’s design and layout symbolize its dual mission: the religious function is embodied in the chapel’s solemn beauty and the Fellows’ original prayer commitments, while the academic purpose is reflected in the library’s vast collections and the rigorous Fellowship system. Walking through its grounds offers a profound sense of history, intellectual rigor, and quiet contemplation, making All Souls a unique landmark within Oxford’s storied university landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Brasenose College
0.1 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Bridge of Sighs
0.1 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
0.2 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
2.1
0.2 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Oxford Tours UK
0.3 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.3 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.3 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.3 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
The painted room
0.4 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Great Jewry Marker
0.4 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Tom Tower
0.4 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.5 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.5 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Magdalen Bridge
0.6 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Unmissable attractions to see
High St
0.1 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
Radcliffe Camera
0.1 km
A breathtaking 18th-century circular library crowned by a majestic dome, embodying Oxford’s academic spirit and architectural elegance.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
0.1 km
Historic heart of Oxford University with soaring Gothic spire, rich academic legacy, and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
University College
0.1 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition and medieval charm at University College, Oxford’s historic scholarly heart.
Hertford College
0.1 km
Discover Hertford College’s iconic Bridge of Sighs and vibrant academic community in the heart of historic Oxford.
New College Ln
0.1 km
Discover the serene charm and historic legacy of New College Lane, Oxford’s picturesque medieval passage lined by ancient walls and iconic landmarks.
Bodleian Library
0.1 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning Gothic architecture at Oxford’s iconic Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of rare manuscripts and scholarly heritage.
Bodleian Old Library
0.1 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning architecture in one of Europe’s oldest and most revered libraries at the heart of Oxford University.
Sanders of Oxford
0.1 km
Discover centuries of authentic antique prints and maps in Oxford’s historic 16th-century Salutation House at Sanders of Oxford.
The Queen's College
0.1 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
Turf Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Turf Tavern in Oxford, a perfect blend of traditional British fare and local charm.
Oriel College
0.2 km
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
The Sheldonian Theatre
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s historic ceremonial theatre with breathtaking panoramic views and timeless academic traditions.
Oxford Blue
0.2 km
Innovative vegan pub in Oxford offering creative pizzas, hearty small plates, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all food lovers.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s premier antiques centre with over 40 dealers offering unique vintage treasures in a historic High Street setting.
Essential places to dine
Vaults & Garden
0.1 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
No.1 Ship Street
0.4 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
OLD TOM PUB
0.4 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.5 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
The Alice
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
The White Rabbit
0.6 km
A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Red Lion Oxford
0.6 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Thaikhun
0.6 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Bbuona
0.6 km
Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.1 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Babylon Trading
0.2 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
The Varsity Shop
0.2 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.2 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Scriptum
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Objects of Use
0.2 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Space Store Oxford
0.3 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Goodies Oxford
0.3 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Cool Britannia
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.3 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Soctopus
0.3 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Broad Canvas
0.3 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
The Crafters Emporium
0.3 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Anthropologie
0.3 km
A beautifully styled boutique on Oxford’s High Street, offering women’s fashion, accessories, and unique home décor in a relaxed, bohemian-chic atmosphere.
Oxford Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King's Arms, Oxford
0.2 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
0.2 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
All Bar One Oxford
0.3 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
The Varsity Club
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
The House
0.3 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
St Aldates
0.4 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.4 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
Hanks Bar
0.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Grapes
0.5 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Royal Blenheim
0.5 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
Cow & Creek
0.6 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.7 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
OXO BAR
0.7 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Cape Of Good Hope
0.7 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Alchemist Oxford
0.8 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
0.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
0.9 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
0.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
0.9 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.9 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.1 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
The Venue, Bucks
37.2 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
37.2 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.2 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.2 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.3 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
38.5 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
