Hertford College, Oxford: Historic Charm at the Heart of the University
Discover Hertford College’s iconic Bridge of Sighs and vibrant academic community in the heart of historic Oxford.
Hertford College, located on Catte Street in central Oxford, is renowned for its iconic Bridge of Sighs and its vibrant academic community. Founded in 1281, the college blends historic architecture with a welcoming atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into Oxford’s rich collegiate tradition. Its central location opposite the Bodleian Library places it steps from some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks.
A brief summary to Hertford College
- Catte St, Oxford, OX1 3BW, GB
- +441865279400
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Bridge of Sighs for unique architectural photos and views over New College Lane.
- Explore the college grounds and Old Quadrangle to appreciate the historic Gatehouse and dining hall.
- Check the college website for information on visitor access, open days, and special events.
- If possible, attend a formal hall dinner to experience traditional Oxford collegiate dining.
- Nearby landmarks like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera are within easy walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple Oxford bus routes serve stops near Catte Street, providing connections from various parts of the city within 10 to 20 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, with fares around £2 to £4 per journey.
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Walking
Hertford College is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Oxford city center landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library. Walking times range from 5 to 15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services can reach Hertford College quickly from Oxford railway station or bus station in about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £8 to £15.
Hertford 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 Hertford College
Architectural Heritage and Iconic Features
Hertford College’s architecture is a captivating blend of historic and modern elements centered around three quadrangles: the Old Quadrangle, New Quadrangle, and Holywell Quadrangle. The Old Quadrangle, accessed through the late 19th-century Gatehouse on Catte Street, features wood-paneled dining halls and offices, with the distinctive Bridge of Sighs arching gracefully over New College Lane. This bridge, a beloved Oxford landmark, connects the Old and New Quadrangles and is often admired for its unique design and the practical function it serves in linking college buildings.A Central Location in Oxford’s Academic Heart
Situated directly opposite the main gate of the Bodleian Library and near the Radcliffe Camera and Sheldonian Theatre, Hertford College occupies one of the most central and accessible locations in Oxford. This prime position offers students and visitors immediate access to the city’s academic resources and historic streets. The college’s proximity to these landmarks enhances its appeal as a base for exploring Oxford’s rich cultural and scholarly heritage.Student Life and Community Spirit
Hertford College is known for its friendly and informal atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of community among its approximately 600 students. The college offers a range of accommodations, including first-year housing in Holywell Quadrangle and graduate residences near the River Thames. The college’s social spaces, such as the Junior Common Room and subterranean bar, provide vibrant hubs for student interaction. Formal hall dinners, held in the wood-paneled dining hall, offer a quintessential Oxford experience with traditional meals and academic gowns.Academic Excellence and Support
Hertford supports a diverse range of academic disciplines including humanities, social sciences, and mathematics. The college is committed to the success and wellbeing of its students, offering study skills workshops, personal academic guidance, and pastoral care. Visiting students are warmly welcomed and integrated into the college community, benefiting from dedicated support services and access to extensive library resources.Visitor Experience and Access
While Hertford College primarily serves its academic community, visitors can explore its beautiful grounds and admire its architecture. The Bridge of Sighs is a popular photo spot, and the college chapel features notable stained glass windows. Access to certain areas may require booking or invitation, especially for formal events or tours. The college’s website provides up-to-date visitor information, including open days and special events.Blending Tradition with Modernity
Recent additions like the Graduate Centre near Folly Bridge complement the historic core, reflecting Hertford’s ongoing commitment to providing modern facilities within a traditional setting. The college’s evolving infrastructure supports both academic pursuits and vibrant social life, maintaining Hertford’s reputation as a welcoming and dynamic part of Oxford University.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.0 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Brasenose College
0.1 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.2 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
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.
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.
2.1
0.3 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
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.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.4 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
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.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.4 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
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.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.6 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
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
Bodleian Library
0.0 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning Gothic architecture at Oxford’s iconic Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of rare manuscripts and scholarly heritage.
New College Ln
0.0 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 Old Library
0.0 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning architecture in one of Europe’s oldest and most revered libraries at the heart of Oxford University.
Turf Tavern
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Turf Tavern in Oxford, a perfect blend of traditional British fare and local charm.
Radcliffe Camera
0.1 km
A breathtaking 18th-century circular library crowned by a majestic dome, embodying Oxford’s academic spirit and architectural elegance.
The Sheldonian Theatre
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s historic ceremonial theatre with breathtaking panoramic views and timeless academic traditions.
All Souls College
0.1 km
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
Weston Library
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s Weston Library, a historic and modern cultural landmark showcasing rare collections and vibrant exhibitions in a stunning setting.
History of Science Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of scientific innovation in the world’s oldest purpose-built museum, home to Einstein’s blackboard and extraordinary early instruments.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.1 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.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
0.2 km
Historic heart of Oxford University with soaring Gothic spire, rich academic legacy, and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
Exeter College
0.2 km
Discover centuries of academic tradition and stunning Gothic architecture at Exeter College, Oxford’s historic and tranquil university gem.
High St
0.2 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
Trinity College
0.2 km
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
Wadham College
0.2 km
Discover Wadham College, Oxford’s historic Jacobean gem blending centuries of tradition with progressive spirit and beautiful gardens.
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
0.2 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
No.1 Ship Street
0.3 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
The Alice
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
OLD TOM PUB
0.4 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.4 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
0.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
The White Rabbit
0.5 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
0.5 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Thaikhun
0.5 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Bbuona
0.5 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
0.0 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.1 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Cool Britannia
0.2 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.
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.
Broad Canvas
0.2 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
The Varsity Shop
0.2 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Space Store Oxford
0.2 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.
Babylon Trading
0.3 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Watsons of Oxford
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
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.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King's Arms, Oxford
0.1 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
0.1 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.
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.
The Grapes
0.4 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
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.
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 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
0.5 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
OXO BAR
0.6 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.6 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
0.7 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
0.8 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
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
0.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
0.8 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
37.3 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.3 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.3 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.4 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
38.6 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
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
