Trinity College, Oxford: A Historic Academic Haven with Serene Gardens
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
Trinity College, located on Broad Street in the heart of Oxford, is one of the university's smaller but architecturally stunning colleges. Founded in 1555 on the site of a former Benedictine monastery, it features beautiful gardens, a historic chapel, and a Tudor-style dining hall. The college offers a peaceful atmosphere amid the city's vibrant academic life, welcoming visitors to explore its grounds and rich heritage.
A brief summary to Trinity College
- Broad St, Oxford, OX1 3BH, GB
- +441865279900
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the chapel to admire its stained glass and wooden carvings, a highlight of the college’s rich heritage.
- Take time to stroll through the beautiful gardens for a tranquil escape within central Oxford.
- Plan your visit during opening hours from 9:30 AM to dusk; entry fees are modest and support college upkeep.
- The main entrance on Broad Street is step-free, but check accessibility details if you require special accommodations.
- Combine your visit with nearby Oxford landmarks like the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre for a full academic tour.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Bus
Oxford’s city buses stop frequently near Broad Street, with routes such as the T3 and L3 serving the area. Travel times from Oxford Train Station to Trinity College typically range from 10 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2 to £3, and buses run regularly throughout the day.
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Train and Walk
From Oxford Train Station, a 20-minute walk through the city center leads to Trinity College. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors, passing many other historic university buildings.
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Car
Driving to Trinity College is possible, with parking available at nearby Broad Street Car Park (52 Broad St). Parking fees vary but typically cost £2 to £4 per hour. Note that central Oxford has traffic restrictions and limited parking, so using public transport is recommended.
Trinity College location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Trinity College
Founding and Historical Foundations
Trinity College was established in 1555 by Thomas Pope on the grounds of a former Benedictine monastery dating back to 1291. This foundation followed the surrender of the monastery's land to the Crown during the Reformation in 1545. The college's history is deeply intertwined with Oxford's religious and academic transformations, reflecting the rich heritage of one of England's oldest universities.Architectural Highlights and Grounds
The college is notable for its open and inviting entrance on Broad Street, marked by distinctive blue iron gates rather than the typical enclosed walls of many Oxford colleges. The Durham Quadrangle, originally the layout of Durham College, features Gothic-style buildings arranged around a central courtyard, embodying medieval collegiate design. Trinity's chapel, founded alongside the college, boasts elegant stained glass windows, intricate wooden carvings, and a beautifully crafted ceiling, serving as a serene space for worship and college ceremonies.The Tudor Dining Hall and Academic Life
Trinity’s Dining Hall, dating from the 16th century, is a fine example of Tudor architecture with its vaulted ceilings and wooden paneling, evoking the grandeur of traditional Oxford college dining spaces. The college supports a vibrant academic community with accommodation for all undergraduates, fostering a close-knit environment. Its library and archives hold rare manuscripts and historical documents, supporting diverse research pursuits.Gardens and Atmosphere
The college is renowned for its spacious and beautifully maintained gardens, offering a tranquil retreat within the city. These gardens, visible through the railings or accessible for a small fee, provide a peaceful setting that contrasts with the bustling streets of central Oxford. The grounds’ calm ambiance invites reflection and leisurely exploration.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Trinity College welcomes the public with visiting hours generally from 9:30 AM to dusk, charging a modest fee for entry. The main entrance on Broad Street is step-free, making access easier for visitors with mobility needs. While parking is limited and managed on a case-by-case basis, the college’s central location makes it accessible by public transport and walking. Visitors can admire the college’s architecture, gardens, and chapel, gaining insight into Oxford’s collegiate traditions.Notable Alumni and Cultural Significance
Though smaller in size, Trinity College has produced notable alumni and maintains a friendly rivalry with neighboring Balliol College. Its chapel choir is active and renowned, frequently touring and contributing to the college’s cultural life. The college’s position on Broad Street places it near other key university landmarks, making it a significant part of Oxford’s historic and academic landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clarendon Building
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.1 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
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.
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.
Bridge of Sighs
0.2 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.2 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Brasenose College
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.3 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
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.
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.
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.
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.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.5 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Sheldonian Theatre
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s historic ceremonial theatre with breathtaking panoramic views and timeless academic traditions.
Wadham College
0.1 km
Discover Wadham College, Oxford’s historic Jacobean gem blending centuries of tradition with progressive spirit and beautiful gardens.
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.
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.
Balliol College
0.1 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition at Balliol College, Oxford’s oldest college with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Susannes Oxford
0.2 km
Experience the authentic charm of Susannes Oxford, a unique tourist attraction showcasing local culture and artisanal products in the heart of the city.
Exeter College
0.2 km
Discover centuries of academic tradition and stunning Gothic architecture at Exeter College, Oxford’s historic and tranquil university gem.
Oxford Campus Stores
0.2 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.
Bodleian Old Library
0.2 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning architecture in one of Europe’s oldest and most revered libraries at the heart of Oxford University.
Bodleian Library
0.2 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning Gothic architecture at Oxford’s iconic Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of rare manuscripts and scholarly heritage.
Jesus College
0.2 km
Historic Oxford college blending timeless tradition with modern charm in the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
Essential places to dine
No.1 Ship Street
0.2 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
The Alice
0.2 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.3 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Vaults & Garden
0.3 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.3 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
0.3 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
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.
The White Rabbit
0.3 km
A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
Red Lion Oxford
0.3 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Thaikhun
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Bbuona
0.4 km
Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Gino's
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family-run charm await you in the heart of Oxford at Gino's Spaghetti House.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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
0.1 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.
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.
Watsons of Oxford
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
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.
The Shop of Secrets
0.2 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
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.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
0.2 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
Space Store Oxford
0.3 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
The Crafters Emporium
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
The Oxford Gift Shop
0.3 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.
Scriptum
0.3 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
The Grapes
0.3 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
0.3 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
0.5 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.5 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
0.6 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
0.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
ATIK Oxford
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.7 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Kiss Bar
0.7 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.2 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
37.4 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
37.5 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.5 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
38.5 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.5 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
40.3 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
- Historic
- Relaxing
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
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
