Christ Church Cathedral
Saint Aldate's, Oxford, OX1 1DP, GB
Rating: 4.6 ★ (2764 ratings)
Details
A remarkable example of late Norman architecture, Christ Church Cathedral has stood as a place of worship for nearly 900 years, its origins tracing back to an 8th-century Saxon church founded by St Frideswide, Oxford's patron saint. Today, it uniquely serves as both the cathedral for the Diocese of Oxford and the college chapel for Christ Church, a grand institution established by Henry VIII in 1546. The cathedral's stone spire is a distinctive feature of Oxford's skyline, and within its walls, sturdy Norman pillars meet an intricate 16th-century lierne vault designed by William Orchard, showcasing centuries of architectural development. The building houses the historic shrine of St Frideswide, a site of pilgrimage for centuries, and its famed Great Tom bell, housed in Sir Christopher Wren's Tom Tower, chimes 101 times each evening, a tradition honouring the college's original scholars plus one.
Visitors can explore a wealth of historical and artistic treasures, including stunning stained-glass windows that span from the 14th-century Becket Window to 19th-century designs by Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones. The Lady Chapel and the Norman crypt offer further glimpses into the cathedral's layered past. Many will recognise the grand staircase leading to the Great Hall, which served as inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, adding a touch of modern magic to the ancient site. To truly experience the cathedral's living heritage, attending a Choral Evensong service is highly recommended; the world-renowned Cathedral Choir, with a history dating back to 1526, fills the sacred space with breathtaking music. Conveniently located on Saint Aldate's, the cathedral offers free guided tours and a shop, making it an essential and enriching stop for anyone visiting Oxford.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 276155
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