Balliol College, Oxford University’s Historic Academic Gem
Step into centuries of academic tradition at Balliol College, Oxford’s oldest college with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Founded in 1263, Balliol College is one of Oxford’s oldest and most prestigious colleges, renowned for its stunning medieval and Victorian architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich academic traditions. Located on Broad Street in the heart of Oxford, it offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of scholarly history, with highlights including the grand dining hall, serene gardens, and a charming chapel. It remains an active college with a vibrant student community and notable alumni.
A brief summary to Balliol College
- Broad St, Oxford, OX1 3BJ, GB
- +441865277777
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring cash or card for the small admission fee, usually around £3-£4 for adults.
- Explore the gardens and outdoor quads, which are open to visitors and perfect for photography.
- Check ahead if you want to attend formal dinners or special tours, as some areas may be restricted during term time.
- If you have mobility needs, ask staff for assistance; the college has ramps and some accessible facilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Oxford Bus Company services stopping at High Street near Broad Street, with frequent routes (every 5-15 minutes) from Oxford Train Station. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single fare costs around £2.50. Buses run daily but check schedules for evening services.
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Park and Ride
Use one of Oxford’s Park and Ride sites such as Seacourt or Redbridge, then take a connecting bus to the city centre. The bus ride from Park and Ride to Broad Street takes 15-25 minutes. Parking fees vary by site, typically £2-£5 per day, plus bus fare.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Oxford Train Station to Balliol College takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £8 to £15. Note that parking near the college is extremely limited and city centre roads are often restricted.
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Walking from City Centre
If staying nearby in central Oxford, walking to Balliol College is straightforward and takes 5-15 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs, with paved streets and pedestrian zones.
Balliol College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Balliol College
A Legacy Rooted in Medieval Scholarship
Balliol College traces its origins back to 1263, making it one of the oldest colleges not only in Oxford but also in the English-speaking world. Founded by John de Balliol, a nobleman with French and Scottish roots, the college was established to support religious scholars. After John’s death, his wife Dervorguilla ensured the college’s permanence by endowing funds and formalizing statutes. This deep historical foundation is reflected in the college’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and intellectual rigor.Architectural Splendor and Historic Interiors
The college’s architecture is a captivating blend of medieval structures and Victorian-era additions. The grand dining hall, rebuilt in 1877, is a highlight, with its impressive portraits and a Willis organ adding to the atmosphere. The chapel, dating from the late 1850s, showcases beautiful design and craftsmanship. Visitors can also explore the Old Library, one of the oldest in Oxford, featuring individual study spaces that reflect the college’s scholarly heritage. The college grounds include multiple quads and gardens, meticulously maintained to preserve their historic charm.Gardens and Outdoor Spaces Offering Tranquility
Balliol’s gardens provide a peaceful retreat in the bustling city centre. The Fellow’s Garden and the tiny Master’s Garden are particularly noted for their manicured beauty and serene ambiance. These outdoor spaces invite visitors to pause and appreciate the blend of nature and history, with seasonal blooms enhancing the picturesque setting. The gardens also serve as a backdrop for photography and quiet reflection.Academic Life and Student Community
As a living college, Balliol hosts a vibrant community of students and academics. The college is known for its rigorous academic environment and a rich calendar of events, including formal dinners in the historic dining hall that offer a quintessential Oxford experience. The mix of old and new is evident in student facilities, with modern accommodation located nearby at Jowett Walk and the Master’s Field. The college fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages intellectual curiosity and cultural engagement.Visiting Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can explore much of the college’s outdoor grounds, chapel, and dining hall, though some areas may be restricted during term time or special events. Admission typically requires a modest fee of around £3-£4 for adults, with concessions available. The college is largely wheelchair accessible, with recent improvements such as a new ramp at the main entrance. While lifts to some areas may occasionally be out of order, staff are generally available to assist visitors with mobility needs.Location and Surroundings in Oxford’s Historic Core
Situated on Broad Street, Balliol College is centrally located within Oxford’s historic academic district. It sits close to landmarks such as the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre, making it a key part of any Oxford visit. The college’s multiple sites, including Jowett Walk and Holywell Manor, are within a short walk, integrating the college’s historic heart with its modern facilities. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or Park and Ride services due to limited city centre parking.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Martyrs' Memorial
0.1 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.1 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.1 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.2 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Clarendon Building
0.2 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
The painted room
0.3 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Bridge of Sighs
0.3 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
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.
Brasenose College
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
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.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.4 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
2.1
0.5 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Tom Tower
0.5 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.
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
Oxford Campus Stores
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s spirit through a diverse range of university-themed apparel and gifts at Oxford Campus Stores, right in the city’s vibrant heart.
Susannes Oxford
0.1 km
Experience the authentic charm of Susannes Oxford, a unique tourist attraction showcasing local culture and artisanal products in the heart of the city.
Footprints Tours Oxford
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and traditions with authentic student-led walking tours that bring the city and university to life.
Oxford Walking Tours
0.1 km
Step inside Oxford’s historic heart with expert-led walking tours from Trinity College, exploring iconic colleges, landmarks, and literary legends.
Another time II
0.1 km
A contemplative iron statue by Antony Gormley perched atop Blackwell’s, blending modern art with Oxford’s historic streetscape.
St John's College, Oxford
0.1 km
Explore the historic grandeur and serene gardens of Oxford’s wealthiest college, founded in 1555 and rich in academic tradition.
Trinity College
0.1 km
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
Ashmolean Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of art and archaeology at the Ashmolean, Oxford’s oldest museum with free admission and world-class collections.
St Michael at the North Gate
0.1 km
Explore Oxford’s oldest building, the Anglo-Saxon tower of St Michael at the North Gate, a historic church with panoramic city views and deep civic roots.
New Theatre Oxford
0.2 km
Historic art deco theatre in Oxford offering world-class musicals, opera, ballet, and live entertainment in a spacious, accessible venue.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s iconic Blackwell's Bookshop, a historic haven for book lovers with vast collections, events, and a cozy café on Broad Street.
Jesus College
0.2 km
Historic Oxford college blending timeless tradition with modern charm in the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
Oxford Playhouse
0.2 km
Historic Georgian-style theatre in Oxford offering diverse live performances and a vibrant cultural programme.
History of Science Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of scientific innovation in the world’s oldest purpose-built museum, home to Einstein’s blackboard and extraordinary early instruments.
Exeter College
0.2 km
Discover centuries of academic tradition and stunning Gothic architecture at Exeter College, Oxford’s historic and tranquil university gem.
Essential places to dine
The Alice
0.1 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
No.1 Ship Street
0.1 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
0.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.2 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
The White Rabbit
0.2 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
0.2 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Bbuona
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Thaikhun
0.2 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Gino's
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family-run charm await you in the heart of Oxford at Gino's Spaghetti House.
Côte Oxford
0.3 km
Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.4 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Banana Tree Oxford
0.4 km
Lively Pan-Asian dining with extensive vegan options and vibrant flavors in the heart of Oxford’s George Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Watsons of Oxford
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
The Shop of Secrets
0.1 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Broad Canvas
0.1 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Cool Britannia
0.1 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.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
0.1 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
The Crafters Emporium
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket 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.
The Oxford Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
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.
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.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.3 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Goodies Oxford
0.3 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The Grapes
0.2 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.2 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.3 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic 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.
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.
OXO BAR
0.4 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
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.
Cow & Creek
0.4 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The House
0.4 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
The Duke Of Cambridge
0.5 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
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.
The Lighthouse
0.5 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
0.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
0.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
ATIK Oxford
0.6 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
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.6 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Kiss Bar
0.6 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.4 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
37.6 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
37.6 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.5 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.6 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.6 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
38.8 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.5 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
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
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
- Solo Female Friendly
