Magdalen College

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The iconic Great Tower of Magdalen College, famously pronounced 'Mawdlin', has dominated Oxford's High Street since its completion in the early 16th century and is the scene of the choir's traditional 6 a.m. May Morning song. Founded in 1458, this riverside college, one of Oxford's largest and most visually stunning, has nurtured minds like Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis within its ancient walls. As you pass through St John's Quad, note the outdoor pulpit, a rare feature, before exploring the medieval cloisters, whose carved figures may have sparked inspiration for Narnian stone statues. The college's rich history is palpable, with parts of the original St John the Baptist Hospital incorporated into its very fabric.

Beyond the quads and chapel, Magdalen’s extensive sixty acres of grounds offer a uniquely tranquil escape bordering the River Cherwell. A cherished feature is The Grove, a deer park where a herd of fallow deer has been a peaceful sight for centuries. Wander along Addison's Walk, a tree-lined path beloved by the essayist Joseph Addison, or discover the vibrant herbaceous borders and the wildflower meadow, home to delicate fritillaries. Don't miss the serene Rose Garden, a thoughtful commemoration of penicillin's development in Oxford. These carefully tended gardens and meadows provide a stunning horticultural display, inviting quiet contemplation amidst centuries of academic life.

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