A STUDY OF OXFORD!

 

Oxford University…….Rhodes Scholars....have such a dignified connotation.   In approximately 1096 the school was founded by a group of English scholars and today is the oldest university in the world.   When in 1167, Henry II banned English students from studying in France, little did he know that the humble beginnings would one day be a small city in England with a total of 38 colleges....all named Oxford University. 

 

Most of the colleges are closed to visitors, but in the lucky case that you meet an Oxford Fellow (graduate), you will be blessed with some spectacular sites in each college.  Most colleges are constructed around a big quadrangle of grass. But beware stepping on the grass as you can go to jail for the offense.  Inside each quadrangle are student’s rooms, a dining halls (most looking like Hogwarts of Harry Potter fame) and impressive chapels with their historic depictions of various scenes from Bible history.  Portraits of England’s kings and queens are also hung reverently throughout the University.  There are also many libraries that are available to students and some to the public, but no books are allowed to be checked out, ever.  All books, both new and ancient, must be taken from the stacks, used and returned the same day. There are deep tunnels under the buildings housing books dating back to the time of Elizabeth I.   

 

Outside of the college is a fun town of pubs and shops filled with students and visitors alike.  To find a table at a pub any time of day takes luck!  There is also a covered market, quaint old hotels and much more.   Oxford is a true gem of the English countryside and a great place to absorb the modern and historic culture of the United Kingdom!   Day tours are available from London.

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel consultant and can be reached @ pam@walkeradventures.com