A visit to Oxford would be incomplete without exploring Christ Church College, one of the university’s largest and most prestigious colleges.
It not only stands as a place of learning but also a location with a rich history and cultural significance. For fans of Harry Potter, you’ll feel delighted to know that Christ Church served as one of the filming locations for the movies.
You can even spot images of characters from Alice in Wonderland on the colourful stained glass windows of the college chapel.
With its historical charm and impressive architecture, Christ Church College offers much to discover.
History of Christ Church College: An Overview
Christ Church College, founded in 1546, is one of the most aristocratic colleges at the University of Oxford(OXON). Over more than 200 years, it has witnessed the glories of 13 British Prime Ministers. That‘s equal to the combined total of the other 45 colleges at Oxford and exceeded only by any single college at Cambridge.
It even served as a temporary residence for King Charles I during the English Civil War. One interesting quirk is that Christ Church College is often referred to as “The House” rather than a college, a unique privilege in Oxford.
However, as it’s still an active educational institution, so the main entrance is open only to students, staff, and those attending religious services.
Other visitors can enter through the Visitor’s Entrance, which provides a panoramic view of the college grounds. Across from the entrance, there’s a shop called Alice, specializing in merchandise related to “Alice in Wonderland.“
Architectural Highlights of Christ Church College
Address: St Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DP, UK
Ticket: Adults: £8 (April 1 to June 30), £9 (July 1 to August 31), £7 (September 1 to December 31)
Opening Hours: Christ Church College’s opening hours vary according to the college’s schedule, so it’s a good idea to check the official website of Christ Church College for the most up-to-date information.
The opening times for the dining hall are determined by student meal schedules, which may vary by half an hour earlier or later. The hall also remains closed during the exam periods of each semester.
Christ Church College’s chapel is of great historical significance. It is the only cathedral as a college chapel worldwide.
The double-arched ceiling in the chapel is awe-inspiring, creating a grand and spacious interior.
You can even attend performances here on Wednesdays, adding a touch of magic to your visit. The chapel’s spire, while not enormous, is noteworthy as England’s first true spire. The chapel also houses large stained glass windows from the 14th century that give the building a delicate Gothic ambience.
The St. Catherine’s Window also stands out with its own charm, depicting the character Alice’s sister as a saint, a delight for “Alice in Wonderland” fans. People added additional images of Alice to the college’s stained glass, so don’t forget to seek them out.
Tom Tower
The spire in front of the chapel is Tom Tower, constructed in 1681.
It acts as a significant college landmark and houses “Great Tom,” a seven-ton bell.
This bell chimes 101 times every evening at 9:05 pm, reflecting the college’s 101 students in the past and its practice of closing its gates at the last chime and imposing fines on latecomers. This rule was upheld until 1963.
The Hall
For fans of Harry Potter, the college’s dining hall is a must-visit attraction.
It served as one of the filming locations for the movies.
The hall features exquisite long wooden tables and chairs, while the tableware consists of simple yet elegant white ceramic. The walls are decorated with portraits of notable alumni, some dating back 400 to 500 years.
This grand setting might appear familiar to film series fans, although it still differs from the reality to some degree. Here, the college’s professors still maintain the tradition of dining with students, though seating is categorized into “High Table” and standard seating.
If you have more time, stroll through the college’s lush Tom Quad, one of Oxford’s most giant square quads, and explore the picturesque Cloister, which houses paintings from the 15th to 17th centuries.
The college’s surrounding walls, remnants of the medieval city walls, are well-preserved. You’ll also notice students studying in the sunlight, underscoring the respect for culture and knowledge that pervades this historic institution.
Embark Your Journey: Why Waiting?
With a guided tour of Christ Church College, Oxford is undoubtedly an adventure steeped in breathtaking history and culture.
Don’t wait another daybreak away from everyday life and schedule an educational outing around one of Britain’s most historic sites today!
FAQ
Christ Church College is famous for several reasons. It’s one of the largest and most prestigious colleges at the University of Oxford. It also gained international recognition as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies, featuring the impressive Great Hall.
Additionally, its chapel houses a stunning collection of stained glass windows, some of which feature characters from “Alice’ in Wonderland.”
Christ Church College has an impressive list of alumni, including 13 British Prime Ministers, a remarkable record.
Notable alumni include John Locke, Lewis Carroll (the author of “Alice in Wonderland”), W.H. Auden, and many other influential figures in politics, literature, and academia.
Christ Church College at the University of Oxford is considered one of the top-tier educational institutions in the world. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, accomplished faculty, and rich history.
The college consistently ranks among the best in various university rankings, making it highly regarded by students and academics.
Christ Church College offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs covering various fields of study, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and more. As part of the University of Oxford, it provides diverse academic opportunities across multiple disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and passions.
The University of Oxford, of which Christ Church College is a part, consistently ranks among the world’s top universities. It is renowned for its academic excellence and contributions to various research fields.
