Oriel College, Oxford: A Historic Academic Jewel in the Heart of the City
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
Founded in 1326, Oriel College is the fifth oldest college of the University of Oxford, renowned for its medieval and classical architecture and rich royal heritage. Located centrally on Oxford’s High Street, it features historic quads, a 17th-century chapel, and ties to notable alumni and royal visitors. Visitors can explore its beautiful grounds, chapel, and dining hall for a small fee, immersing themselves in centuries of academic tradition and architectural splendor.
A brief summary to Oriel College
- Oxford, OX1 4EW, GB
- +441865276555
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience of the quads and chapel.
- Purchase a guidebook for detailed historical context and insights during your visit.
- Don’t miss the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in the chapel, painted from a sitting by the monarch herself.
- Check the college’s opening hours, as it closes during Oxford’s Trinity Term (summer term).
- Explore nearby attractions like the Radcliffe Camera, Covered Market, and historic pubs such as The Bear.
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 1 or 2 to the High Street stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from Oxford city center. Buses run frequently with tickets costing around £2-£3. The stop is a short walk from Oriel College’s main entrance.
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Train
From Oxford Railway Station, take a 25-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride to Oriel College. Taxis cost approximately £7-£10. Walking involves urban pavements and is accessible for most travelers.
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Walking
Oriel College is centrally located in Oxford, about a 5-10 minute walk from the Radcliffe Camera and other city center landmarks. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchair access.
Oriel 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 Oriel College
Founding and Historical Legacy
Oriel College was established in 1326 by King Edward II’s patron Adam de Brome, making it the fifth oldest college at Oxford. Its original name was the House of the Blessed Mary, but it became known as Oriel after acquiring the property called La Oriole. The college has a distinguished royal connection, historically known as King’s College or King’s Hall, and since 1952, Queen Elizabeth II has been its official Visitor. Over its nearly 700-year history, Oriel has weathered religious reforms, civil wars, and academic evolution, maintaining a prominent role in Oxford’s scholarly community.Architectural Highlights and Grounds
The college’s architecture is a blend of medieval and classical styles, with many buildings dating from the 17th century onwards. The Front Quadrangle includes the oldest standing hall in Oxford, Tackley’s Inn. The chapel, consecrated in 1642, retains much of its original 17th-century woodwork and was restored in the late 1980s. The Black Quad, built in the 18th century in Neoclassical style, houses the library and senior common rooms. The O’Brien Quad features the Harris Building, a historic real tennis court famously used by King Charles I and King Edward VII. The grounds also include a statue of Cecil Rhodes and well-maintained gardens where students enjoy croquet and bowls.Academic and Student Life
Oriel supports around 300 undergraduates and 250 postgraduates, fostering a close-knit academic community. It is especially renowned for humanities disciplines such as History, Classics, Philosophy, and Theology. The college guarantees accommodation for undergraduates and encourages dining in the historic hall, with both formal and informal settings. Student life includes a drama society, a student publication, and active sports clubs, including the Oriel College Boat Club with its own boathouse near Christ Church Meadow.Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance
Open to the public for a modest fee, visitors can explore the main quad, chapel, and dining hall, absorbing the college’s rich history and architectural beauty. The chapel notably houses a portrait of the Queen, who personally sat for it. The college’s central location places it just minutes from Oxford’s iconic landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and the Covered Market. Nearby, visitors can enjoy historic pubs like The Bear and cultural venues including Blackwell’s bookshop and the Botanic Gardens.Traditions and Notable Alumni
Oriel’s traditions reflect its royal heritage and academic prestige. The monarch’s role as Visitor underscores its historical significance. Alumni include Nobel laureates Alexander Todd and James Meade, historian A.J.P. Taylor, Archbishop Thomas Arundel, Sir Walter Raleigh, Thomas More, and John Henry Newman. The college also hosts unique student events such as the annual Shrove Tuesday pancake race, adding to its vibrant community spirit.Modern Context and Celebrations
Today, Oriel College balances its historic charm with modern academic excellence. It is preparing to celebrate its 700th anniversary in 2026, marking seven centuries of education, scholarship, and tradition. The college remains a welcoming and lively institution, integral to Oxford’s identity and a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and university culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2.1
0.1 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Brasenose College
0.1 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.2 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Great Jewry Marker
0.2 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Tom Tower
0.3 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.
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.
Clarendon Building
0.3 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Tours UK
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.4 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.4 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 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.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.5 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Magdalen Bridge
0.6 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Sandy's Piano Bar
0.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant live piano music scene with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting at Sandy's Piano Bar.
Corpus Christi College
0.1 km
Discover Corpus Christi College, Oxford’s intimate Renaissance college with iconic architecture, serene gardens, and a rich scholarly heritage.
Christ Church Picture Gallery
0.1 km
Discover a world-class collection of Old Master drawings and paintings in a serene modernist gallery within historic Christ Church College, Oxford.
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.
Merton College
0.1 km
Explore Merton College, Oxford’s medieval academic pioneer with historic quads, literary heritage, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
Oxford Blue
0.1 km
Innovative vegan pub in Oxford offering creative pizzas, hearty small plates, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all food lovers.
Oxford University Press Bookshop
0.1 km
Discover the literary charm of Oxford at the Oxford University Press Bookshop, where every book tells a story and history comes alive.
University College
0.1 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition and medieval charm at University College, Oxford’s historic scholarly heart.
High St
0.1 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
The Bear Inn, Oxford
0.1 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its cozy atmosphere and extraordinary collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets from around the world.
All Souls College
0.2 km
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
Radcliffe Camera
0.2 km
A breathtaking 18th-century circular library crowned by a majestic dome, embodying Oxford’s academic spirit and architectural elegance.
Christ Church Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore Oxford’s historic Christ Church Cathedral, a medieval architectural gem and iconic Harry Potter filming location with rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
The Queen's College
0.2 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
Essential places to dine
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
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.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.2 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
OLD TOM PUB
0.3 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
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.
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.
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 Alice
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
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.
Red Lion Oxford
0.6 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
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.
The Head of the River, Oxford
0.6 km
Charming riverside pub, restaurant, and hotel at Oxford’s Folly Bridge, blending British tradition with contemporary dining and cozy waterside stays.
Côte Oxford
0.6 km
Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Varsity Shop
0.1 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.
Babylon Trading
0.2 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Goodies Oxford
0.2 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Space Store Oxford
0.2 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
The Crafters Emporium
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Soctopus
0.2 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.2 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.2 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
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.
Anthropologie
0.2 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.
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
0.3 km
Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
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.
Christ Church Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and exclusive Christ Church memorabilia in a charming shop nestled within historic college grounds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Oxford
0.2 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
0.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Varsity Club
0.2 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
0.3 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
White Horse
0.3 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
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.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.4 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
The Royal Blenheim
0.4 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
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
0.5 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
Cow & Creek
0.5 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
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 Alchemist Oxford
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
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.
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
0.8 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
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.
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.
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
31.2 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
37.1 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
37.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.1 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.1 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
38.4 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
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- 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
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
