Things To Do

Magdalen College

Oxford, OX1 4AU, GB

Rating: 4.6 ★ (428 ratings)

Details

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.

Visit Website

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Share this:

OR WhatsApp Facebook Email

Location

Contact

+44 1865 276000

Comments

Ilias El
10 Mar 2026
3.0 ★
It's beautiful but not worth the £10pp unless you have a sunny day in your hands and you wish to spend it at the meadow; even then, I'm not sure. Hall is undoubtedly overrated.
Yui K.
24 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
If you love beautifully planted gardens and grounds, I would recommend it. A very pretty old college. I recommend visiting between March to April for all the showy spring blooms. Though, I'm sure the ground would be full of roses and other ornamental flowers in the summer months as well.
Edith Ng
10 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
The ticket was £9.50 per person. It cannot be booked online; it's walk-in only, but there's no need to worry about tickets selling out. The college wasn't crowded, so we could take our time and explore slowly and quietly. The deer park is big and lovely although we could not get close enough to the deer. It's definitely worth a visit.
Nikol Hristova
14 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Really beautiful place! If you are not an Oxford citizen or a student there, you need to play about 8£ to enter and explore the college. Many places are private but it is worth the visit as it is really pretty, gives off great vibes as if you are in a movie, and you can take plenty of nice photos.

More comments will appear here over time.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Join 10,000 subscribers and never miss out on events happening in Oxford again!