Somerville College
Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HD, GB
Rating: 4.7 ★ (59 ratings)
Details
Named in honour of the Scottish mathematician and scientist Mary Somerville, the college was founded in 1879 as Somerville Hall, one of Oxford's first two women's colleges. This pioneering institution was established with a distinctively liberal and non-denominational ethos, setting it apart from the Anglican Lady Margaret Hall which opened the same year. Initially, its twelve students, aged between 17 and 36, attended lectures in rooms above a baker's shop on Little Clarendon Street, as they were not permitted to attend university lectures or take degrees. Somerville quickly gained a reputation as the "bluestocking college" due to its students' excellent examination results, challenging prevailing beliefs about women's academic capabilities. The college began admitting men in 1994 and today fosters a diverse and inclusive community, recognised in 2021 as a sanctuary campus.
Visitors to Somerville are often struck by its blend of architectural styles and its surprisingly expansive green spaces. Unlike many Oxford colleges with their enclosed courtyards and "keep off the grass" signs, Somerville boasts vast lawns where students are welcome to walk, socialise, and even dine. The original Walton House, dating back to 1826, forms the historic heart of the college. Over the years, numerous buildings have been added, many named after former principals, creating a unique architectural tapestry. The college is also home to one of the largest libraries in Oxford and its dining hall is distinctive for solely featuring portraits of women. Among its celebrated alumnae are political leaders like Margaret Thatcher and Indira Gandhi, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dorothy Hodgkin, and acclaimed writers such as Iris Murdoch and Dorothy L. Sayers.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: Closed; Sunday: Closed
Contact
+44 1865 270600
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