Collegiate Treasures of Oxford

Oxford’s colleges are teeming with history and artistic delights spanning several centuries. On this brand new tour we will delve into architecture from the medieval to modern eras, including within the college chapels, and admire exquisite stained glass, alongside an excursion to the magnificent Blenheim Palace.

Overview

Walking through the ‘the city of dreaming spires’, visitors immediately become enchanted by its rich and varied assemblage of university colleges, ranging from elegant classical constructions to beguiling Gothic Revival structures and medieval façades. Our tour will consider the history and architectural foundations of these buildings in depth, alongside the art treasures that have been preserved within them over the university’s illustrious 900-year history.

At New College, one of Oxford's most architecturally important colleges, the interplay between original 14th century components and contemporary design makes for a truly unique structure. Here we will enjoy a visit to the chapel, which contains medieval and later stained glass.

Merton College, meanwhile, was constructed in 1264 by Walter de Merton, Chancellor of England and later Bishop of Rochester. Its configuration of buildings centred around internal quadrangles creates a tranquil and secluded atmosphere reminiscent of monastical buildings.

A particular highlight will be our visit to the Bodleian Library and Divinity School, the main research library of the University of Oxford and one of Europe's oldest libraries, having opened its doors in 1602. Alongside its astoundingly vast collection of books and ancient manuscripts, the library also boasts incredible architecture, including an exquisite stone vaulted ceiling.

We also plan to explore Christ Church, founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII, and integrating 12th century Romanesque, Gothic and later architectural styles. The college houses Christ Church Picture Gallery, containing Annibale Carracci’s Butcher’s Shop and drawings by Dürer and Da Vinci.

Moving forward in time, Keble College is a wondrous example of the Gothic Revival style of the 19th century. Founded by Tractarians of the Oxford Movement and designed by Wiliam Butterfield, the façade boldly stands apart from other colleges with its striking red brick, accented with blue and white tones to create a series of mesmerising geometric patterns.

While Oxford’s colleges will be at the heart of our tour, an excursion to Blenheim Palace will introduce us to the broader context of history and art in the region. Built in the early 18th century as a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, its landscapes and gardens were designed by Capability Brown, and it served as the headquarters for MI5 during World War Two. Here we will marvel at magnificent interiors including the Great Hall, Saloon and State Rooms, which all showcase an array of fine art, tapestries and furniture. We will also examine lesser-known sites such as the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, the original foundations of which have stood for over 700 years.

Cost Details

Collegiate Treasures of Oxford