5 Most Famous Oxford Landmarks

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see our affiliate policy.

The city of Oxford is famous for its spectacular historical sights featuring many architectural styles from late Anglo-Saxon times. Oxford is also home to the Oxford University. Discover the 5 most famous landmarks of the historic city of Oxford!

Quick Facts about Oxford

• Oxford is about 56 miles northwest of London, which makes it a perfect day trip if you are in London!
• The city of Oxford is famous for its Oxford University which is one of the oldest in the world.
• The city of Oxford was founded in the 8th century.
• The city covers the area of about 17 square miles.

Fun history fact:

The settlement of Oxford was initially established by the Anglo-Saxons, and originally the name of the settlement was Oxenaforda which meant "ford of the oxen".  "Ford" means a shallow place, a causeway, where a river could be crossed. The original name of the city literally meant "a river crossing for oxen".

The 5 Most Famous Landmarks of Oxford

1. The Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of the largest university library systems in the UK.
The Bodleian Library has several historic rooms:

• Divinity School is a 15th-century building attached to the Bodleian Library.
• Duke Humfrey's Library dates back to the medieval times when Humphrey of Lancaster (the first Duke of Gloucester) donated his collection of 281 books to the University of Oxford after he died in 1447.
• The Radcliffe Camera was built in neo-classical style in 1737–1749. The building houses the Radcliffe Science Library.
• The Weston Library is the main research library of the University of Oxford.

2. The Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera was built in neo-classical style in 1737–1749. The building houses the Radcliffe Science Library.

3. Exeter College

Exeter College is the fourth oldest college of Oxford University.  It was established in 1314
by Walter de Stapledon of Devon, Bishop of Exeter. Originally, it was a school dedicated to the education of clergymen.

4. The University Church of St Mary the Virgin

St. Mary's Church is a historic church located on the High Street in Oxford. The church is known for its spectacular spire that was added in the 1320s.

5. Oxford Castle

Oxford Castle is a partially ruined Norman medieval castle in Oxfordshire, England. At the castle you can explore the following sites:

• Saxon St. George’s Tower is one of the oldest buildings in Oxford. The tower offers spectacular panoramic views over the city of Oxford.
• Debtors’ Tower and Prison D-Wing.
• 900-year-old crypt.
• Motte-and-Bailey Mound.