Things To Do

Martyrs’ Cross

7 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AJ

Rating: 4.2 ★ (17 ratings)

Details

Martyrs’ Cross in Oxford is a simple yet profoundly significant landmark, found embedded as a cross of coloured cobblestones within Broad Street, directly opposite Balliol College. This unassuming spot carries a weighty historical character, marking the precise location where Protestant bishops Nicholas Ridley and Hugh Latimer were martyred in 1555, followed by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer in 1556, during Queen Mary I’s reign. The atmosphere here encourages quiet contemplation, offering a poignant reminder of a turbulent period in English religious history and standing out as a stark testament to deeply held convictions.

The main feature is the understated cross itself, seamlessly integrated into the pedestrianised thoroughfare, which serves as the direct memorial to the Oxford Martyrs. Nearby, a commemorative plaque is also set into the wall of Balliol College. Visitors frequently pause at this historic site to reflect upon the sacrifices made for religious freedom and the enduring impact of the Reformation. Although a grander Martyrs' Memorial exists a short distance away in St Giles, this specific cross holds particular significance for marking the exact ground where these pivotal events unfolded.

This site is particularly suited for individuals with an interest in English history, religious studies, or those desiring a moment of solemn reflection away from the city’s more prominent attractions. It works well for thoughtful, individual visits or as a key stop on a historical walking tour, offering a tangible connection to a defining chapter of the nation's past. The cross's subtle presence encourages a deeper, more personal engagement with Oxford's multifaceted heritage, appealing to visitors who seek historical depth and quiet contemplation.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours | Tuesday: Open 24 hours | Wednesday: Open 24 hours | Thursday: Open 24 hours | Friday: Open 24 hours | Saturday: Open 24 hours | Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact

https://www.oxfordhistory.org.uk/broad/buildings/martyrs.html

Comments

Ramesh Naraine
12 Jun 2025
5.0 ★
A simple marker in the ground in a busy thoroughfare in Oxford that represents the location where three Protestant men were burned at the stake because of their differing views.

People constantly walked past and over this cross oblivious to what it represents.
Khor Yong Kean
2 Sep 2023
4.0 ★
This is a historical site worth visiting if you like history. This is the site of three archbishops who openly professed Protestantism during the time of the reign of Queen Mary who was a Roman Catholic, around the 16 century. These three arbishops were summoned and found guilty at the Church of St Mary the Virgin at Oxford for going against the Queen who was a Catholic , and sentenced to death. This site was previously a waste ground and a ditch, and now the Broad street. It was here that they were burnt to death. To commomerate the incidents, a cross was engraved on the road surface and a wall plaque with description was put up directly opposite it, on the wall of Balliol College. This site is not far from Cornmarket street.
pacôme barthélémy
15 Aug 2023
5.0 ★
An interesting place that reminds us of what happened in this town. This cross marks the exact spot where three people were put to death. Don't hesitate to visit the Martyrs' Memorial, which was originally located here but had to be moved to free up space.
Janeki-neko
11 Jun 2023
4.0 ★
Fun piece of history here. 3 Protestant Martyrs of Oxford (Cranmer, Ridley, and Latimer) were famously burnt at the stake. Look for the memorial plaque nearby.
IHD
10 Jan 2023
4.0 ★
Very interesting history, but don't visit Oxford just to see the cross-

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