New College

Yes, it is more expensive to visit than most other collages. But it is fully worth it. Hell, it would still be worth it if the entrance was 12-13£. The collage is absolutely massive with 3 different garden areas and beautiful buildings and walls surrounding all that. I am not a hardcore Harry Potter fan. I have enjoyed the movies and that's about it. But this collage has some spots that screams Harry Potter. It is impossible not to be amazed. The dining hall apparently is the oldest and tallest dining hall in both Oxford and Cambridge, which is impressive. It is forbidden to take pictures there, but when you see the chapel wall, you will be dumbfounded, trust me. Also, the garden at the back and the city walls surrounding it are a sight to see for sure. Definitely loved going in the New Collage and truly think that this is the one you NEED to see if you are ever in Oxford.

Visited with my daughter and granddaughter to see the Harry Potter filming sites. What a beautiful building! I really enjoyed walking round and looking at it all. They were rehearsing on the pipe organ in the chapel ready for the evening carol service which added to the atmosphere.

Entry price was reasonable, staff were friendly. You can eat in the great hall (reasonable prices but we’d already eaten so can’t attest to the quality).

Well worth a visit and I will be coming back again,

New College, Oxford – Where Tradition Meets Timeless Beauty

Tucked away just off the High Street, New College is one of Oxford’s oldest and most architecturally beautiful colleges — despite its name. Founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, the Bishop of Winchester, it was “new” only in relation to the earlier colleges, and today stands as a striking blend of medieval heritage and modern academic excellence.

Stepping through its gates feels like entering another world. The quads, cloisters, and soaring chapel are remarkably well preserved and radiate a sense of quiet grandeur. The Front Quad, with its perfectly proportioned lawn and honey-coloured stone, is the ideal embodiment of Oxford elegance. The cloisters, which featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, are a peaceful and photogenic highlight.

One of the college’s most iconic features is the garden, where ancient city walls form a dramatic backdrop to green lawns and towering trees. In spring and summer, the space is especially enchanting — a haven of birdsong, wildflowers, and quiet contemplation in the heart of the city.

The Chapel is among Oxford’s finest, known for its stunning stained glass, fan vaulting, and world-renowned New College Choir, whose performances draw visitors from far beyond the university. Music, in general, plays a central role in college life here, enriching its spiritual and cultural atmosphere.

Academically, New College enjoys a strong reputation, consistently ranking among the top Oxford colleges. Its tutorial system, student support, and excellent facilities create a dynamic and inclusive environment for learning. It also strikes a good balance between tradition and openness, with a vibrant student body and a forward-looking ethos.

Verdict:
New College is Oxford at its most quintessential — beautiful, historic, and quietly majestic. Whether you’re a prospective student, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious visitor, it’s well worth a stop. It offers not just a glimpse into Oxford’s past, but a living, breathing part of its present.

Please make sure to check the official website for tourist entrance details.
The Harry Potter spot is just behind the left side after you go in.
Unfortunately, part of the lawn was covered with protective sheets for maintenance,
but I was still able to see the famous “Malfoy tree”!
Someone there was dressed up as Harry — I felt how popular the films still are.

This college is a little away from the city centre, so it was wonderfully peaceful.
We had a lovely, quiet walk around the grounds.