Magdalen College, Oxford: A Historic Jewel of Academic and Natural Beauty
Explore Magdalen College’s medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and unique deer park nestled beside Oxford’s scenic River Cherwell.
Magdalen College, located on Oxford’s High Street, is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and unique deer park. Founded in the late 15th century, it blends centuries of academic tradition with scenic riverside walks like Addison's Walk. Visitors can explore its iconic quads, chapel, and grounds that inspired literary greats such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, making it a must-see cultural landmark in Oxford.
A brief summary to Magdalen College
- Oxford, OX1 4AU, GB
- +441865276000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Addison’s Walk for a peaceful riverside stroll with literary significance linked to C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
- Plan your visit outside lunch hours to access the dining hall and Old Kitchen Bar, which are reserved for students during mealtimes.
- Look out for the deer roaming freely in the college’s unique deer park, a rare feature among Oxford colleges.
- Respect college rules by avoiding walking on lawns and refraining from eating outside designated areas to preserve the grounds.
- Visit during spring or summer to enjoy the gardens in full bloom, including roses and other seasonal flowers.
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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Bus
Take Oxford Bus Company routes stopping near High Street, such as routes 1 or 2, with a journey time of approximately 15-25 minutes from Oxford Railway Station. Buses run frequently, but check schedules for evening and weekend services. A single fare costs around £2-£3 GBP.
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Train and Walk
From Oxford Railway Station, a 25-30 minute walk along city streets leads to Magdalen College on High Street. The walk is mostly flat but involves urban pavements. No direct train stops closer to the college exist.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from Oxford Railway Station to Magdalen College takes about 7-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically ranging from £6 to £10 GBP. This option is convenient for visitors with luggage or limited mobility.
Magdalen College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Magdalen College
Architectural Heritage and Collegiate Grandeur
Magdalen College stands as a remarkable example of Oxford’s rich architectural tapestry, with its medieval nucleus centered around the Great Quad, also known as the Cloister, built between 1474 and 1480. This quad features intricate carvings, pinnacles, and allegorical grotesques representing scholarly disciplines such as theology, law, and medicine. The college’s five quads, including St John’s, Chaplain’s, St Swithun’s, and Longwall Quads, showcase a blend of medieval, 18th, and 19th-century architectural styles. The chapel and hall, situated on the southern side of the Great Quad, are highlights of the college’s historic fabric, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of academic life and tradition.Serene Gardens and the Unique Deer Park
The college grounds are famed for their meticulous gardens and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the Fellows’ Garden and the picturesque riverside path known as Addison's Walk, a tranquil spot linked to literary figures like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Magdalen is unique among Oxford colleges for its own deer park, where deer roam freely in a natural parkland setting adjacent to the River Cherwell. This rare feature provides a distinctive wildlife experience within the city and enhances the college’s reputation for blending natural beauty with academic excellence.Literary Connections and Cultural Significance
Magdalen College holds a special place in literary history, having inspired and been frequented by renowned authors such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Addison's Walk, where these literary giants strolled and discussed their ideas, remains a pilgrimage site for fans of classic literature. The college’s atmosphere, with its ancient buildings and tranquil gardens, evokes the worlds created by these authors. Beyond literature, Magdalen’s cultural influence extends through its architectural beauty and role as a backdrop for various creative works, cementing its status as a cultural landmark in Oxford.Visitor Experience and Access
Open to the public from early January to mid-December, Magdalen College welcomes visitors daily from 10am until dusk or early evening depending on the season. Entry fees are approximately £8 for adults, with concessions available for seniors, students, and children. The principal areas accessible include the Hall, Chapel, Old Kitchen Bar, gardens, grounds, and parkland. While the college is a lively academic community, visitors are requested to respect its study environment by adhering to guidelines such as no walking on lawns or eating outside designated areas. The grounds feature some uneven terrain, and visitors seeking specific accessibility information are advised to contact the college directly.Traditions and Celebrations
Magdalen College is famous for its May Morning celebrations, where the college choir sings madrigals from the iconic Magdalen Tower at dawn on May 1st. This event draws crowds who then partake in festivities across Oxford’s city center. The college choir itself has a long history dating back to the 1400s, contributing to the spiritual and cultural life of the college. These traditions enrich the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the living heritage of this historic institution.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Oxford’s High Street near the River Cherwell, Magdalen College enjoys a picturesque and strategic location close to other university landmarks. The setting combines urban accessibility with natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those exploring Oxford’s historic core. The college’s proximity to other famous sites allows visitors to easily include it in broader walking tours of the city’s academic and cultural highlights.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalen Bridge
0.2 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
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.
Bridge of Sighs
0.5 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Brasenose College
0.5 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Clarendon Building
0.6 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.7 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Tom Tower
0.7 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.
Great Jewry Marker
0.7 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Tours UK
0.7 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.7 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
The painted room
0.7 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.7 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.9 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.9 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oxford Botanic Garden
0.2 km
Explore the UK’s oldest botanic garden, a compact urban oasis with 5,000+ plant species, historic walled gardens, and immersive global glasshouses.
Examination Schools, University of Oxford
0.2 km
A grand Victorian Gothic Revival building at Oxford’s heart, hosting university exams, lectures, and historic events with timeless academic tradition.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
0.2 km
Step into Oxford’s shadowy past with a chilling nighttime ghost tour through medieval streets and haunted alleys.
City Sightseeing Oxford
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s iconic landmarks and university heritage at your own pace with this flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour and guided walking experience.
Punting in Oxford
0.2 km
Experience Oxford’s timeless charm gliding gently along the River Cherwell on a traditional punt, surrounded by historic colleges and serene landscapes.
St Edmund Hall
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s oldest academic society, St Edmund Hall, where medieval charm meets centuries of scholarly tradition in the city’s historic heart.
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.
The Queen's College
0.3 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
The Plain
0.3 km
Historic crossroads and vibrant urban gateway where Oxford’s past meets its lively East End community.
University College
0.3 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition and medieval charm at University College, Oxford’s historic scholarly heart.
High St
0.4 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
Merton College
0.4 km
Explore Merton College, Oxford’s medieval academic pioneer with historic quads, literary heritage, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
New College
0.4 km
Explore New College, Oxford: a historic gem with stunning cloisters, the iconic 'Malfoy Tree,' and majestic medieval halls in the university’s heart.
All Souls College
0.4 km
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
Oriel College
0.5 km
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
Essential places to dine
CuttleFish
0.4 km
Fresh, beautifully cooked seafood with a relaxed vibe in the heart of Oxford’s vibrant St Clement’s district.
La Cucina
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Oxford at La Cucina, a family-run gem with a vibrant open kitchen.
Moya
0.4 km
Discover authentic Slovak cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy Oxford setting on St Clement's Street.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Pan Pan Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover vibrant pan-Asian flavors and casual dining charm at Pan Pan, Oxford’s hotspot for authentic small plates and bubble tea.
Kazbar Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and North African tapas in a cozy Moorish-inspired setting on Oxford’s lively Cowley Road.
Vaults & Garden
0.4 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
Spiced Roots Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Caribbean cuisine and rum cocktails in Oxford's most celebrated island-inspired restaurant.
Arbequina
0.6 km
Bold Spanish tapas in a converted chemist with bohemian buzz and impeccable service.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.6 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
The Coconut Tree Oxford
0.6 km
Discover vibrant Sri Lankan flavors and lively vibes at The Coconut Tree Oxford, a must-visit spot for authentic cuisine and creative cocktails.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.6 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
OLD TOM PUB
0.7 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
No.1 Ship Street
0.8 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
The Head of the River, Oxford
0.9 km
Charming riverside pub, restaurant, and hotel at Oxford’s Folly Bridge, blending British tradition with contemporary dining and cozy waterside stays.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Babylon Trading
0.3 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.5 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
The Retro Room
0.5 km
Discover Oxford’s stylish hub for vintage and designer second-hand fashion, blending sustainability with unique finds in a welcoming boutique setting.
The Varsity Shop
0.5 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
0.6 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.6 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Space Store Oxford
0.6 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Objects of Use
0.6 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Goodies Oxford
0.7 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
The Chapter House Shop
0.7 km
Discover authentic Oxford heritage through unique gifts and local crafts at The Chapter House Shop within Christ Church’s historic grounds.
Christ Church Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and exclusive Christ Church memorabilia in a charming shop nestled within historic college grounds.
Soctopus
0.7 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.7 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
The Crafters Emporium
0.7 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Anthropologie
0.7 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
The Cape Of Good Hope
0.4 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Mad Hatter
0.5 km
A quirky bar and boutique hotel in Oxford offering creative cocktails, themed rooms, and lively nightlife in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.6 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
All Bar One Oxford
0.6 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 House
0.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
White Horse
0.6 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Varsity Club
0.7 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.
St Aldates
0.7 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
Hanks Bar
0.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.8 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Royal Blenheim
0.9 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Grapes
0.9 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
Cow & Creek
0.9 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
Lamb and Flag
1.0 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its Inklings literary heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent local ales since 1613.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
1.0 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
0.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
0.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
1.3 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
1.3 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
1.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
1.3 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.7 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
36.7 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
36.8 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
37.9 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
37.9 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.0 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
38.2 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
39.7 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
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
