Tom Tower: The Iconic Gothic Bell Tower of Christ Church, Oxford
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.
Tom Tower is a striking 17th-century bell tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren, situated above Tom Gate at Christ Church, Oxford. Famous for housing the Great Tom bell, it marks a historic gateway to the largest college quadrangle in Oxford. The tower’s late Gothic style blends seamlessly with the medieval architecture of the college, while its nightly 101 chimes honor centuries-old academic traditions.
A brief summary to Tom Tower
- Christ Church, Oxford, OX1 1DP, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in daylight to fully appreciate the tower’s intricate Gothic details and the surrounding Tom Quad.
- Plan to hear the Great Tom bell’s 101 chimes at 9:05 pm, a unique Oxford tradition.
- Join a Christ Church college tour for access to views of Tom Tower from inside the historic quadrangle.
- Bring a camera for iconic photos of the tower’s ogee dome and lantern against the Oxford skyline.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Public Bus
Frequent local buses run to central Oxford with stops near St Aldates, about a 5-10 minute walk to Tom Tower. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 depending on the route and operator.
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Walking
Tom Tower is centrally located in Oxford city center and easily accessible on foot from major landmarks like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Square. Walking times range from 5 to 15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to Tom Tower from anywhere in Oxford. Travel times vary from 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £5 to £15.
Tom Tower 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 Tom Tower
Architectural Masterpiece by Christopher Wren
Tom Tower was completed in 1681–82 by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren, who was commissioned to finish the gateway originally begun by Cardinal Wolsey in 1532 but left incomplete after Wolsey’s fall from power. Wren chose a late Gothic style for the tower, a deliberate nod to the original Tudor architecture of Christ Church, making Tom Tower a rare and early example of Gothic Revival elements long before the style became popular. The tower’s square base supports an octagonal lantern topped with a facetted ogee dome, a distinctive silhouette that has inspired many later architectural works.The Great Tom Bell and Its Resonance
The tower is named after its massive bell, Great Tom, which weighs over seven tons and stands more than seven feet in diameter. Originally cast centuries earlier and moved from Osney Abbey in 1545, the bell was recast multiple times before its final successful casting in 1680 by Christopher Hodson. Great Tom rings 101 times every evening at 9:05 pm, a tradition that commemorates the original 100 scholars of Christ Church plus one additional student. This chime historically signaled the curfew for students, marking the closure of the college gates.Historic Significance and Symbolism
Tom Tower serves as the grand entrance to Tom Quad, the largest quadrangle in Oxford, measuring approximately 264 by 261 feet. The gateway beneath the tower, with its fan-vaulted ceiling adorned with 48 coats of arms, connects the academic heritage of the college with its founder, Henry VIII. The tower also features statues, including one of Cardinal Wolsey and another of Queen Anne, reflecting the layered history of the site from Tudor times through the early 18th century.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Situated on St Aldates, Tom Tower is a prominent landmark visible from many points in Oxford. While the tower itself is not open to the public, visitors can admire its architectural grandeur from the street or as part of Christ Church tours. The sound of Great Tom’s bell ringing in the evening adds a unique auditory dimension to the experience, connecting visitors with centuries of Oxford tradition. The surrounding Tom Quad offers a serene space where students and visitors alike enjoy the historic ambiance.Legacy and Cultural Impact
Tom Tower has inspired numerous cultural references, including appearances in films such as the Harry Potter series, where its Gothic features evoke the magical atmosphere of Hogwarts. The bell’s chimes have also influenced local music traditions, including several Oxfordshire Morris tunes and rounds composed by historical figures associated with the college. The tower remains a symbol of Oxford’s enduring academic excellence and architectural heritage.Preservation and Modern Context
Maintained as part of Christ Church’s historic fabric, Tom Tower stands as a testament to the blend of medieval and classical architectural ideals. Its preservation ensures that visitors can continue to appreciate the craftsmanship of Christopher Wren and the historical narratives embedded in its stones. The tower’s nightly bell ringing continues uninterrupted, preserving a living tradition that bridges past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tom Tower
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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.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
