Attractions to go nearby

No.1 Windsor Castle

The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle is an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, who spends most of her weekends there. While you're unlikely to spot the Queen strolling down the hallways in her housecoat, it's easy to tell whether she's at home -- the Royal Standard flag flies from the Round Tower whenever she's in residence. The castle itself dates back to around 1070, when William the Conqueror chose the land and construction began. It has seen many changes since that time, with various royals making adjustments over the years -- Edward III made costly renovations in the 14th century, and extensive restorations were undertaken following a devastating fire in 1992. When you travel here, you should plan on spending around to two to three hours within the castle, making your way between the various sections open to the public.

No.2 Christ Church

One of the more attractive Oxford colleges, boasting some truly stunning works of architecture. The college was also the location for the Harry Potter films, a must see for all Harry Potter fans, and home to author Lewis Caroll in his student days. Christ Church, founded in 1546, appears to be one of the more aristocratic colleges, producing thirteen British Prime Ministers, more than any other college in Oxford or Cambridge college. Christ Church is also the only college in England that is also a cathedral, which also boasts the world famous Christ Church choir.

No.3 Trinity College

One of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford, Trinity College was originally founded as a training house for Catholic priests in the 16th century. It was a center of educational reform in the 19th century and over the years has produced three British prime ministers. The college was an all-male institution until 1979 and today has a very small student body, with just around 400 students. The grounds are surrounded by an iron palisade and consist of four major quadrangles, a large lawn and extensive gardens. On top of the West Tower, look for four female statues representing astronomy, geometry, medicine and theology. Trinity鈥檚 chapel was the first college chapel to be designed in the Baroque style and the school is home to one of the largest chapel choirs in the university.

No.4 Bridge of Sighs

The bridge is often referred to as the Bridge of Sighs because of its supposed similarity to the famous Bridge of Sighs in Venice. However, Hertford Bridge was never intended to be a replica of the Venetian bridge, and instead it bears a closer resemblance to the Rialto Bridge in the same city. The bridge links together the Old and New Quadrangles of Hertford College (to the south and the north respectively), and much of its current architecture was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson. It was completed in 1914, despite its construction being opposed by New College. The building on the southern side of the bridge houses the College's administrative offices, whereas the northern building is mostly student accommodation. The bridge is always open to members of the College, who can often be seen crossing it.

No.5 Bodleian Library

Sign up for a tour to get a closer look at the priceless gems in one of the oldest libraries in the world.
The Bodleian Library has an enormous collection of books on every conceivable matter. It is the principal research library of the University of Oxford, where students use it as a reference for learning.
This library was first established in 1602 and is among the largest libraries in England. The library has five main buildings, as well as several underground vaults. As you explore, you may hear students referring affectionately to it as "Bodley" or even "the Bod."