One of the beauties of a city like Oxford is that you’re never too far from an iconic landmark. Whether it’s the Saxon simplicity of St. Michael at the North Gate, the Palladian elegance of the Radcliffe Camera, or the gothic splendour of Magdalen College Tower, it only takes a short walk down the city streets to take in a potted history of English architecture. However, as beautiful as Oxford’s buildings are, many are all too often out of reach to those who want to explore further within. That is, except for one very special weekend; from the 13th-14th September, Oxford Open Doors, organised by the Oxford Preservation Trust, gives visitors the chance to explore Oxford institutions normally closed off to the general public. From guided walking tours to virtual events, Oxford Open Doors gives you an annual chance to get up close and personal with the city’s more hidden treasures.
Of course, the jewels in Oxford Open Doors’ crown are the hallowed halls of the University’s many colleges, normally only open to students and faculty. The University’s buildings are the soul of the city’s architectural identity, the ‘dreaming spires’ of its skyline instantly recognisable; but inside, there’s even more to be discovered. Particular highlights include St Anne’s library, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the 12th century City Wall ensconced in New College, or Merton College’s beautifully preserved 13th century chapel.
Fans of the Bard can find Shakespeare’s Painted Room tucked away on Cornmarket Street, a perfect Elizabethan time capsule. This was the site of the Crown Tavern, where Shakespeare would spend the night on long trips between Stratford-upon-Avon and London, and his room, including its elaborate wall paintings, remains preserved in all its glory. And if you want to be introduced to some of the other great minds that called Oxford home, meet them face to face with the Weston Library’s portrait tours.
You’ll find plenty of guided tours across the weekend, but our favourites are the ones that highlight often overlooked perspectives on Oxford’s history; on Saturday, multimedia artist Rawz takes you on a spoken word journey through the Forgotten Stories of Oxford, giving life to the unsung voices that make up the city’s complex heritage. And on Sunday, Uncomfortable Oxford will be offering guided tours centred on Oxford’s medieval history, and debunking some common misconceptions about life during the era.
There’s plenty for the musically inclined as well; in the castle yard of Oxford Castle and Prison, you can find authentic Middle Age song and dance from the Ghaetta Medieval Band, in full garb and with replica instruments (and audience participation if you’re brave enough!). Renowned soprano Katy Thomson will be giving a live performance in the Holywell Music in collaboration with the Oxford International Song Festival - what better way to show off Europe’s oldest concert hall? And a brand new event this year comes in the form of Ballads at the Bodleian, an eclectic programme of crafts, talks and live performance centred on the library’s 17th century Broadside ballads.
Speaking of brand new, for the first time in 100 years visitors can explore the historic Love Lane, an ancient footpath so called because of its popularity with amorous student couples (don’t get any ideas). 6 guided walks will take place between 10am-4pm on a drop-in basis, so make sure you get there in good time!
For a full list of the weekend’s activities be sure to check out the Oxford Preservation Trust’s website - most events are drop-in but some require booking, so make sure to check first! Oxford Open Doors is part of the Trust’s goal to build a better understanding of Oxford’s cultural legacy and preserve it for future generations. If you’d like to help share Oxford with the world, you can sign up to volunteer for the weekend or even become a member to keep Oxford Open Doors free for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. So get out there and explore; after all, the door’s wide open!
Oxford Open Doors runs from Sat 13th - Sun 14th Sep across multiple venues in Oxford. Free, booking required for some events.