Founded in 1264 by Walter de Merton, this is generally believed to be the oldest college in Oxford. It boasts a fine chapel which was formerly also the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, and which, like many of the buildings surrounding the First Quadrangle dates back to the late 13th Century. Notice the grotesque carving of gargoyles (or waterspouts) on the roof. The attractive Gardens include a terrace walk along a portion of the old city wall, known as 'Dead Man's Walk' because it was the route taken by funeral processions from the Synagogue to the Jewish burial ground. The college is open weekdays 14.00-16.00, weekends 10.00-16.00.