Oxford War Memorial
Oxford, OX1 1LQ, GB
Rating: 4.7 ★ (45 ratings)
Details
Standing at the north end of St Giles', where the road divides, the Oxford War Memorial is a prominent and poignant city landmark. Crafted from Clipsham stone and reaching a height of 11.4 metres, this Grade II listed structure was unveiled in 1921 to honour those from the city who served and sacrificed in the First World War. Its design, primarily by Thomas Rayson, features a tall, slender octagonal shaft topped with a decorative fleur-de-lys cross, reminiscent of medieval standing crosses. The memorial rests on an octagonal plinth and a base of seven steps, the broader sixth step intentionally designed for laying wreaths. While it doesn't list individual names, inscriptions on the plinth and steps commemorate those who fought and fell in the Great War, with later additions honouring the fallen of the Second World War and subsequent conflicts.
The eight faces of the plinth are adorned with carvings, including the arms of the City and University of Oxford, alongside symbols representing the armed forces: an anchor for the Navy, wings for the Air Force, and a bugle for the Army. Other carvings include a St George's Cross and a cross surrounded by thorns, symbolising sacrifice. Originally costing £1,500, the memorial was built on land donated by St John's College and serves as a focal point for remembrance. Each year, a significant Remembrance Sunday parade and service takes place here, drawing military units, civic dignitaries, community groups, and residents to pay their respects and observe a two-minute silence. Its position elegantly balances the Martyrs' Memorial found at the southern end of St Giles'.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hours; Thursday: Open 24 hours; Friday: Open 24 hours; Saturday: Open 24 hours; Sunday: Open 24 hours
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