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  • “I wonder anybody does anything at Oxford but dream and remember, the place is so beautiful.” - W.B. Yeats

can you visit oxford library

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library has its rich history not only in printed form but also in its architecture. What makes it distinctive is the entitlement to own free copies of all books and printed items published in Great Britain, a practice that began in 1610, meaning the library contains an unrivaled 400 year record of British literature. From oriental manuscripts and collections of English literature, to local history, and early printing, the library holds over 12 million items which occupy 117 miles of shelving!

It’s a working library which forms part of the University of Oxford and it’s not one library but many libraries which make up the largest university library system in UK. Housed in buildings spread all over the city of Oxford, the Bodleian Library turns to be the second largest library in Britain after the British Library.

Image credit: The Duke Humfrey’s Library by David Iliff , source Flickr.

The first library for Oxford University was founded under the will of Thomas Cobham, Bishop of Worcester, in 1320 in a small room above the Old Congregation House, situated above the north side of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin.

In 1488 a new library building was erected to house manuscripts donated by Duke Humfrey which is the oldest part of the Bodleian today. Humfrey gave the University his priceless collection of more than 281 manuscripts, including several important classical texts. However, in 1550 the Dean of Christ Church, seeking to eradicate all traces of Catholicism such as “superstitious books and images” emptied the library’s contents.

Its present state is largely due to the efforts of Sir Thomas Bodley, a 16th-century fellow of Merton College who rescued the library in 1602 from a parlous state and decline. In 1610 he came to the agreement with the Stationers’ Company of London that the Bodleian was entitled to receive a free copy of every single book published in the England – an agreement that still stands today.

can you visit oxford library

Another tradition which makes the Bodleian so unique is the not lending rule – no books can be borrowed, only read on the premises. Before a student can gain admission as a new reader, they must take an ‘oath of fidelity’ (once done orally in Latin) not to remove any text from the library nor to bring a flame, start a fire, or smoke in the library.

“DID YOU KNOW…”

Even King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell were refused permission to borrow books.

Interestingly, much of the library’s impressive storage space is in underground tunnels built in the early 1900s. A system of conveyor belts delivers volumes through the tunnels to 29 reading rooms in the various library buildings. Each book must be requested in advance and retrieved by a librarian to ensures that the library knows the exact location of every volume at all times—down to the particular chair in which each reader is sitting.

Did you know…

It was Bodley’s innovation to store books on their ends rather than on their sides as had previously been the custom. This invention allowed more books to fit in a smaller space while also making them easily accessible.

The Library had no heating until 1845.

A strict policy permitted bringing fire into the library buildings. This situation changed in 1845 when Victorian engineers installed channels in the floor to carry hot water into the building after being heated in boilers outside.

There was no artificial light in the library until 1929.

Reliance on the sun for light and heat kept the library’s opening hours incredibly short – the Library only opened from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the summer.

can you visit oxford library

The Library includesthe 15th-century Duke Humfrey’s Library, the 17th-century Schools Quadrangle, the 18th-century Clarendon Building and Radcliffe Camera, and the 21st-century Weston Library, with the Bodleian Law Library a few hundred yards away on South Parks Road.

Sadly the general public cannot enter the reading rooms as that right is reserved to members only. Other parts of the library can be seen during the guided and self-guided tours , different ticket options will allow you visit the interior of Divinity School, medieval Duke Humfrey’s Library, and the impressive Radcliffe Camera.

One of the highlights of these tours is the 15th-century English Gothic Divinity School , featured in the Harry Potter films as Hogwarts library, which possesses a remarkable vaulted ceiling with the initials of its many benefactors.

Want to see more? Visit the full gallery and get to know The Bodleian Library better.

Did you know…

The chains were removed from the library’s books in 1757. “Nathaniel Bull, a blacksmith, unchained 1,448 volumes between 1760 and 1761 and for this was paid £3 0s 4d.”

The Bodleian houses some of the rarest and most expensive books in the world.

The Library bought a copy of the Gutenberg Bible in 1793 for £100 (1/5 of the library’s book budget that year).

The smallest book in t he Bodleian collection is ‘Old King Cole’ published by Gleniffer Press, which is 0.9mm high. The longest item is a printed roll of the Bayeux Tapestry, which is over 7m long.

can you visit oxford library

  Tours: Check out a regular programme of guided & self-guided tours .

Bodleian Café: Enjoy a bite to eat at the new Bodleian Café in the Weston Library.

Bodleian Shop: Find beautiful presents from the Bodleian Shop .

What’s on at the Bodleian Libraries: Discover a wide-ranging activities taking place at the Bodleian Libraries .

Image credits: Statue of Lord Pembroke at Old Bodleian Library by Meraj Chhaya and The Bodleian and The Duke Humfrey’s Library by David Iliff .

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Bodleian Libraries

Interior of Duke Humphrey Library at the Bodleian

The Bodleian is the largest university library system in the United Kingdom. It includes the principal University library - the Bodleian Library - which has been a library of legal deposit for 400 years - as well as 27 libraries across Oxford, including major research libraries and faculty, departmental and institutional libraries.

The Bodleian Libraries are among the most celebrated in the world, not only for their incomparable collections of books and manuscripts, but also for their buildings, some of which have remained in continuous use since the Middle Ages. One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian is second in size only to the British Library in Britain, with over 13 million printed items. First opened to scholars in 1602, it incorporates an earlier library built by the University in the 15th century to house books donated by Humfrey, Duke of Gloucester. Since 1602 it has expanded, slowly at first but with increasing momentum over the last 150 years, to keep pace with the ever-growing accumulation of books, papers and other materials, but the core of the old buildings has remained intact.

Known to many Oxford scholars simply as ‘the Bod’, these buildings are still used by students and scholars from all over the world, and they attract an ever-increasing number of visitors.

Members of the public can explore the collections via the Bodleian's digital collections online  or by visiting the exhibition galleries in the Weston Library or by viewing displays in the Old Library. Visitors can also view the reading rooms and library spaces of the Old Library through daily tours.

If you are a student or researcher you can find out about gaining access to the library for research purposes .

Bodleian Libraries

Director: Richard Ovenden, Bodley's Librarian  

Visit the Bodleian website

Interior view of Blackwell Hall in the Weston Library

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About Oxford

Visiting Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city of stunning architecture, history and culture. You'll find ancient and modern colleges, fascinating museums and galleries, and plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces in which to relax. Plus, the city centre is small enough to cover on foot, and only a few minutes walk from the main rail and coach stations.

Things to see and do at Oxford University

Oxford is not a campus university, so it is not all located on one site. It is made up of many different buildings, including academic departments, colleges and halls, located around the centre of Oxford. Many University buildings, such as gardens, libraries and museums, as well as many of the colleges, are open to visitors during the day, although please note that they may have varying opening hours, fees and rules for groups.

You can find more information, including opening times and fees, at the links below:

  • Visiting the Colleges
  • Visiting Museums, Libraries and Places of Interest
  • What's on at the University
  • Shopping at the University

To make the most of your visit, bring along a copy of our leaflet, ' Explore the University of Oxford ', which contains a map and information on opening times of colleges, museums and other places of interest. 

Tours of Oxford University

Oxford University does not organise tours but a city walking tour is offered by the Bodleian Libraries in association with the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides. The tours, all operated by Blue and Green Badge Guides, begin at the beautiful modern Weston Library before heading through the historic and famous streets of the city. Tours take around two hours and can be  booked through the Bodleian Libraries .

A number of independent operators also offer guided tours of Oxford. A range of general and themed tours are available, as are tours by cycle, rickshaw and bus. For a list of tour companies, please visit the  Daily Information  website. 

Please note that all operators are independent of Oxford University. Details are provided here for information only. 

Disabled access

The collegiate University is committed to improving access and is currently continuing to develop its Access guide . As more of our historic buildings are modified the Access guide will become more comprehensive. In the meantime, the Access guide is a helpful first point for information on accessible buildings. Where there are gaps in the information we suggest you contact the places you wish to visit directly.

Information for prospective students

If you're thinking about applying for an undergraduate degree and want to see more of Oxford, our Virtual Open Days are an excellent opportunity to see the University, get to know the city, and meet tutors and students.

Additional information for visitors to the city of Oxford

Experience Oxfordshire  offers advice on walking tours, accommodation, things to do in Oxford, and more.

  • History of the University
  • Oxford Glossary
  • Oxford people

Special offers for alumni

Make sure to bring your Alumni Card with you and see our special offers on the Alumni website

Accommodation in Oxford

  • Accommodation at the University and the Colleges
  • Visit Oxfordshire - where to stay
  • TripAdvisor - hotels near Oxford University

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Visiting Oxford University Libraries

If you’re a student or an academic visiting Oxford, there will always be a library to help you with your research . The Bodleian Libraries alone contain 28 libraries that serve the University of Oxford and visitors (it is, as you might have guessed, the largest university library system in the entire United Kigdom). It’s actually not difficult to get access to Oxford libraries if you have a research topic. So let’s explore the fantastic libraries the city has to offer and learn how to visit and browse their treasured books. 

Oxford has different libraries depending on your needs and research topics. For example, you have the Bodleian and its 12 million printed items and 80,000 e-journals. And you also have the college libraries (each college has one). These tend to combine modern and older collections. Here’s the full list of Oxford libraries:

Bodleian Library - Entrance. Image courtesy of Billy Wilson.

Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library is one of Oxford’s most famous landmarks. Among the oldest in Europe, it’s easy to visit and incredible to see.

Oxford University - Old library (Duke Humfrey’s). Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Old library (Duke Humfrey’s)

Humphrey of Lancaster, 1st Duke of Gloucester, founded the Duke Humfrey’s Library in 1447 after donating 281 books to the library.

A view of Oxford Radcliffe Camera

Radcliffe Camera

Radcliffe Camera is a neo-classical style building inside Oxford University, built from 1737 to 1749 for the Radcliffe Science Library.

Oxford University - New Library (Weston). Image courtesy of Tejvan Pettinger.

New Library (Weston)

Located in central Oxford, the Weston Library is part of the Bodleian Library, the main research library of the University of Oxford.

Oxford University - Gladstone Link.

Gladstone Link

The Gladstone Link is an underground library connecting the Bodleian Library with the Radcliffe Camera. It opened to readers on 5 July 2011.

Oxford University - Alexander Library of Ornithology. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Alexander Library of Ornithology

The Alexander Library of Ornithology is one of the most important ornithological reference libraries in the world.

Oxford University - Bodleian Law Library. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Bodleian Law Library

The Bodleian Law Library is an academic library containing over 550,000 volumes and is also the library of the Faculty of Law.

Oxford University - Bodleian Oriental Institute.

Bodleian Oriental Institute

The Bodleian Oriental Institute or Nizami Ganjavi Library exists to support Oxford students and staff at the Oriental Institute.

Oxford University - Bodleian Social Science Library. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Bodleian Social Science Library

The Bodleian Social Science Library is Oxford University’s main lending and reference library teaching social sciences.

Oxford University - Radcliffe Science Library. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Radcliffe Science Library

The Radcliffe Science Library is Oxford University’s main teaching and research science library and part of the Bodleian Libraries.

Oxford University - Rewley House Continuing Education Library.

Rewley House Continuing Education Library

The Rewley House Continuing Education Library is a library of the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education.

Oxford University - Sackler Library. Image courtesy of Ralf van Buehren

Sackler Library

The Sackler Library, is one of the Bodleian Libraries’ principal research libraries. It focuses mainly on the study of archaeology and art.

Oxford University - Sainsbury Library at the Saïd Business School. Image courtesy of Christian Guthier.

Sainsbury Library at the Saïd Business School

The Sainsbury Library is part of the Saïd Business School and Oxford University’s dedicated Business and Management library.

Oxford University - Taylor Institution Library. Image courtesy of Lizzlebob.

Taylor Institution Library

The Taylor Institution Library (or the Taylorian) is Oxford University’s centre for the study of Modern European languages and literatures.

Oxford University - Vere Hamsworth Library. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Vere Hamsworth Library

The Vere Harmsworth Library is part of the Bodleian Libraries and houses a collection relating to the history of the United States.

Oxford University - Angus Library and Archive. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Angus Library and Archive

The over 70,000 items from the Angus Library and Archive are devoted to the history of the Baptist movement from 1612.

Museums & Art Galleries

Antiques on High - Oxford Museums, Art Galleries and Antiques Shops

Antiques on High

Antiques on High is an antiques and art shop from Oxford founded in 1997 and open seven days a week. It has won several awards.

Aidan Meller Gallery - Oxford Museums and Art Galleries

Aidan Meller Gallery

Aidan Meller Gallery is one of Oxford’s longest-established specialist art galleries. They showcase modern, contemporary and old masters.

Oxford Christ Church College, Canterbury Quadrangle. Image courtesy of Billy Wilson

Christ Church Picture Gallery

Christ Church Picture Gallery is an art museum holding an important collection of about 300 Old Master paintings and almost 2,000 drawings and is one of the most important private

Historical Places

Oxford's Carfax Tower

Carfax Tower

Carfax Tower, in Oxford, is a 23-meter-high bell tower that used to belong to a 12th-century church. Here’s how to visit it (and why!).

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

University Church of St Mary the Virgin is actually from where Oxford University grew, and an un-missable spot if you’re visiting the city.

24-26 Cornmarket Street. Image courtesy of Chuca Cimas.

24-26 Cornmarket Street, Oxford

24-26 Cornmarket Street, Oxford is a timber-framed building built in the late 14th century. It belonged to a wine merchant and was an inn.

Things to Do in Oxford

Oxford Hotels: The Old Parsonage Hotel. How and When to Visit.

The Old Parsonage Hotel

The Old Parsonage Hotel is one of the best-ranked hotels in the city and dates back to the 17th century. Here’s how to visit.

Oxford Hotels: The Randolph Hotel. How to Visit, When to Stay

The Randolph Hotel

The Randolph Hotel, situated in the heart of Oxford, stands as a distinguished landmark of the city, attracting guests from around the world.

Westgate Oxford

Westgate Oxford

Westgate Oxford has more than 100 stores featuring prestigious luxury brands and beloved high-street choices.

Barefoot Jericho - Cakes in Oxford

Barefoot Jericho

Barefoot offers homemade cakes, pastries and bread, delicious coffee for eat-in or takeaway in the neighbourhood of Jericho, in Oxford.

Shops to See in Oxford: The Cake Shop - Cakes for Any Occasion

The Cake Shop

The Cake Shop offers ready-made designs and bespoke masterpieces and has been trading since 1986 in Oxford’s Covered Market.

Everything about Oxford and its surrounding areas, including places to see, things to do, and information about all the colleges, libraries, and museums. 

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Why Every Bookworm Needs to Plan a Trip to Oxford

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

W.B. Yeats once said that it was a wonder that anybody did anything at Oxford but “dream and remember the place is so beautiful." But Yeats wasn’t the only writer to draw inspiration from Oxford’s so-called dreaming spires. The UK’s oldest university has long drawn scholars and scribes to Oxford’s cobbled streets , with authors and poets such as Lewis Carroll, Oscar Wilde, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Dorothy Sayers picking up their pens while residing in the city. 

Between marveling at medieval architecture, visiting ancient colleges , and sipping a pint in a world-famous pub , book lovers will also find that Oxford is a trove of literary treasures.

Bookshops in Oxford

Bookworms browsing for their next read will be spoiled for choice when visiting Oxford, where there is an array of second-hand, independent, and charity shops to choose from. 

Founded on Broad Street in 1879, Blackwell’s is perhaps Oxford’s most well-known bookstore. Despite looking unassuming from the outside, Blackwell’s is home to the underground Norrington Room; the world's largest single room selling books, it has a staggering three miles of shelving and houses everything from chart-topping non-fiction to serious scholarly works.

Shoppers seeking something smaller should stop off at The Last Bookshop , a quirky independent store based just outside the city center in the charming suburb of Jericho. The Last Bookshop sells second-hand reads at two for 5 pounds, making it the best spot in Oxford for a bookish bargain. 

Fans of rare books can drop into St Philip’s Books on St Aldates, a tucked away labyrinth of long shelves and interesting finds. More studious types can visit Oxford University Press’ flagship store on the High Street to pick up an iconic Oxford World Classic.

Literary Pubs in Oxford

Book shopping can be thirsty work, but fortunately Oxford has plenty of literary pubs to perch in with your latest read. 

The Eagle and Child on St. Giles is well known for its connections to The Inklings, Oxford's most famous writer’s group. Made up of C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, Charles Williams, and Hugo Dyson, the club would meet in the pub’s Rabbit Room to discuss their work. Today, The Eagle and Child is a pleasant boozer serving real ales and classic pub grub, but it remains proud of its literary heritage; keep an eye out for "Lord of the Rings" memorabilia commemorating the group’s most famous member. 

Fans of Inspector Morse will also be pleased to find that many pubs mentioned in Colin Dexter’s iconic novel—or used as filming locations in the enduringly popular television series—are still serving. The King’s Arms and the The Bear are both well-known stop-offs among Morse fans, and The White Horse served as a filming location for prequel "Endeavour."

Libraries in Oxford

The Bodleian Library is Oxford’s best-known landmark, and its interior is just as awe-inspiring as its much-photographed façade. A tour of the Bodleian includes a peek at Duke Humfrey’s Library—which has been lending out books since the Middle Ages—as well as filming locations for the "Harry Potter" series.

Just across the road you’ll find the more modern Weston Library , built in the 1930s and recently renovated. Although the Weston might not carry the same historic clout as its neighbor, its exhibition space plays host to fascinating features on its literary and local past, often featuring valuable manuscripts and first editions. It’s also home to a pleasant café and the Zvi Meitar Bodleian Shop, the perfect place to pick up a souvenir inspired by Oxford’s library collections and literary history.

Every spring, Oxford transforms into a homage to all things books, as world-famous authors descend on the city for the annual literary festival . With events held in the stunning Sheldonian theatre and in university lecture halls, the festival is as much an opportunity to explore some of the city’s most historic venues as it is to catch up with your favorite writers. 

Blackwell’s is a reliable host of book launches and events , holding regular author talks, lectures, and even pop-up theatre. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for public lectures at Oxford University, which regularly features renowned poets, novelists, and literary scholars. 

Things to Do

Outside of bookshops, libraries, and pubs, bookworms and writers can keep busy by immersing themselves in a number of things to do.

Explore Oxford’s Literary Past on a Walking Tour

Simply strolling Oxford’s sandstone streets will inevitably take you through fascinating facets of literary history. Walk down St Mary’s Passage to see a Mr. Tumnus-like carving and lamppost said to be the inspiration for "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," or stop off at the Bodleian Library for a photo opportunity in front of the Radcliffe Camera. Meanwhile, "Harry Potter" fans can easily schedule stop-offs to see New College’s cloisters or The Divinity School, both used for scenes at Hogwarts.

See your Favorite Writer’s College

With thousands of years of history, it might be hard to find an Oxford college that hasn’t played host to a literary great.

Magdalen College boasts perhaps the most impressive literary alumni, including Oscar Wilde and Man Booker winner Julian Barnes. Bookish attractions aside, its vast grounds and deer park also make it well worth a visit, and you can wander the banks of the River Cherwell while musing on your favorite Wildeisms. 

The imposing Christ Church College was the childhood home of Alice Liddell, the inspiration for "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland." It was here where she met Lewis Carroll, then a tutor in mathematics. Fans of the book or its Disney adaptation can visit an unusual Alice-themed shop , just across the road from the college gates.

If you’re more of a modern reader, then you might like to visit Exeter College , the alma mater of Philip Pullman and supposedly the basis of Jordan College in "His Dark Materials." Pullman fans might also be interested in visiting Oxford’s covered market and the Pitt River’s Museum (both referenced in "Northern Lights"), or the beautiful Botanic Gardens , where a daemon sculpture was unveiled in 2019 alongside "Lyra and Will’s bench."

Visit the Home of the Oxford English Dictionary

A short walk outside of the city center, Oxford University Press is a world-famous institution. A real-life slice of publishing history and the largest university press in the world, OUP is home of the Oxford English Dictionary and is where "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland" was first published.

Oxford University Press is still an operating publisher, but book fans interested in its history can visit its museum, which features displays on key manuscripts and historic printing presses.  

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The Geographical Cure

One Day In Oxford England Itinerary, What To See and Do In A Day

Oxford is a beautiful and bustling university town. It’s a 1,000 year old scholarly city with film set grandeur and ambience.

Oxford is home to the world’s oldest English-speaking university. The town is nicknamed the “Town of Dreaming Spires.” It’s full of creamy honey-toned architecture, neat lawns, and the feel of cloistered academia.

Oxford is located just 56 miles from London, making it an easy day trip from the UK’s capital.

Here’s my recommended one day itinerary for visiting Oxford. It covers all the top attractions and and best things to do in the city. I also give you sightseeing and day trip options if you have more time in Oxford.

the Tower of Five Orders of Bodleian Library

Oxford is renowned for the 39 separate colleges that constitute Oxford University. They are sub-communities where the students live and eat in their own worlds, developing their own history and customs.

There is no official date when Oxford University was founded.

The earliest Oxford colleges were founded in the mid 1200s. By the mid 16th century, the whole collection was complete.

Together, the colleges form an incredible square mile warren of old world stone architecture and bristling spires, all made of pretty Cotswold limestone. Bells chime all the time, as if the city is celebrating.

cityscape of Oxford

You definitely can’t see all the colleges with just one day in Oxford. You’ll have to pick and choose.

But you can glimpse many of them just by strolling the city center, as you take in the bookstores, pubs, and punting.

What To Do In One Day In Oxford Itinerary

Here are my picks for the top attractions and best things to do with one day in Oxford.

As with all of my suggested itineraries, I recommend that you use this one day in Oxford itinerary as a guide. You can tailor it to suit your individual interests, needs, and pace of travel. 

I also give you tips for visiting and options for other things to see near Oxford if you have more than a day.

the Handle Bar Cafe

One Day In Oxford Morning

1. breakfast.

If you haven’t had breakfast when you arrive in Oxford, pop into the Handle Bar Cafe and Kitchen on St. Micheal’s Street for some avocado toast or a smoothie.

You can also grab a specialty coffee at Society Cafe . It’s a pretty bright white cafe with passionate baristas and nummy baked goods.

2. Walking Tour

You may want to start your one day in Oxford with a guided talking tour to get the lay of the land.

You can book a small group tour with a university alumnus or a private 2 hour guided walking tour . You can also book a 3 hour tour that combines walking and biking .

A guided tour will be efficient and make sure you see things or details you might otherwise miss. Then you can figure out what you specifically want to go back and see.

Some walking tours have special themes you may enjoy. For example, you could book a Tolkien and CS Lewis walking tou r or a Harry Potter tour . There’s also a hidden histories tour , which is one of the all in vogue “uncomfortable” tours.

Ashmolean Museum

3. Ashmolean Museum

If you didn’t book a guided walking tour, start with the venerable Ashmolean Museum . Established in 1683, the Ashmolean is one of Britain’s oldest public museums. Plus, it’s completely free to visit.

Housed in an early Victorian building, the Ashmolean has an international art and archaeology collection spread out over six floors. There’s also a fairly new rooftop terrace and restaurant where you have stunning views over the city.

The museum’s “Ancient World” galleries house collections of Islamic art, Egyptian mummies, Indian textiles, ancient documents, and even Oliver Cromwell’s death mask.

There’s an extraordinary collection of artifacts from Minoan Crete. It came courtesy of Arthur Evans, the archaeologist who excavated Knossos Palace .

Pre-Raphaelite Room in the Ashmolean

Upstairs in the Italian Renaissance area, you’ll find sketches by Michelangelo and Raphael . There are also masterpieces by Uccello, Mantegna, and Bellini. The museum’s acknowledged masterpiece is Uccello’s The Hunt in the Forest .

At the Ashmolean, you can also get your Pre-Raphaelite fix.

The museum holds preparatory sketches for William Holman Hunt’s  The Light of the World , a famous painting on display in London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral .

You can also find sketches and watercolors. One of the museum’s most remarkable works is a painted wardrobe by Edward Burne-Jones.

After your museum visit, head east down Broad Street to see some of Oxford’s attractions.

Blackwell's Bookstore on Broad Street

4 . Blackwell’s Bookshop

Blackwell’s is Oxford’s famous bookstore. It’s located on Broad Street, which some think is (yet another) location that inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies.

Founded in 1879 by Benjamin Henry Blackwell, it’s one of the world’s largest academic and specialty bookstores. It’s a book lover’s paradise. If you’re not careful, you could be sucked in for hours.

You’ll find almost 3 miles of books on every imaginable topic. Don’t forget to take a peak in the Norrington Room downstairs.

It’s not uncommon to see famous authors in here reading from a recent novel or delivering a lecture.

Sheldonian Theater

5. Sheldonian Theater

Broad Street ends at the Sheldonian Theater . This is a little architectural jewel that was one of architect Sir Christopher Wren’s first big commissions. He was then a professor of astronomy at Oxford.

The theater was built from 1663 onward to serve as a setting for Oxford’s degree ceremonies.

The theater is modeled on the Theater of Marcellus in Rome . It has a distinctive white cupola, from which you’ll have panoramic views.

The theater is surrounded by 12 busts of Roman emperors who all look rather startled and sport different style beards. They were commissioned by Wren and carved by Christopher Bird. The busts have been nicknamed “the Philosophers” and “the 12 Apostles.”

Inside the theater are 17th century murals depicting the triumph of truth over ignorance. They were painted during the reign of Charles II.

Click here for prices and tours for the theater.

 view of the Radcliffe Camera

7. Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera is one of Oxford’s top attractions and its most photographed landmark.

The “Rad Cam” was built as an addition to the Bodleian Library in 1737. Funds were donated by Dr. John Radcliffe, a physician to King William and Queen Mary.

Camera is a Latin word for chamber or room. The Rad Cam has a towering 140 foot rotunda that wouldn’t seem out of place in Rome . It’s the third largest dome in the U.K.

Inside, you’ll find a light-filled, circular, and columned library. It was the first of its kind in Britain and perfectly exemplifies Palladian principles, using a symmetrical, repeating pattern.

Read : Guide To the Palladian Vicenza Italy

Today, the Rad Cam serves as a reading room for the Bodelian Library. You can only go inside the Rad Cam by joining the 90 minute tour of Bodleian library.

the carved Gothic ceiling of the Divinity School in Bodleian Library

8. Bodleian Library

The venerable Bodleian Library is Oxford’s spiritual core. It’s one of the oldest libraries in Europe.

In the UK, it is second in size only to the British Library in London . It receives a copy of every book published in the UK.

The Bodleian Libraries hold over 13 million printed items in three reading rooms. Book worms will be in seventh heaven.

The library houses many rare books and maps. One of its most famous items is the Gough Map , which is a medieval map of Great Britain.

Other famous items include manuscripts of 18 plays by Shakespeare, a copy of Handel’s Messiah, and four 13th century original manuscripts of the Magna Carta.

The Bodleian is not a lending library though. No book every leaves the space.

getting ready to tour Bodeleian Library

Students who enter have to make the “Bodley Oath,” whereby they swear not to bring fire or flames into the library.

The Bodleian Library complex also includes the Weston Library, the Divinity School, and Duke Humphrey’s Library.

Weston Library

The Weston Library initially opened in 1946 as the New Bodleian Library. In 2015, it was given a major renovation and re-christained as the Weston Library by Prince William.

The Weston has an ornamental 17th century Ascott Gate salvaged from an estate. It reads “If you are good, enter. If wicked, by no means.”

The Weston Library is free to visit. It also has miles of books and some precious treasures. You’ll find a copy of the Gutenberg Bible, manuscripts from famous authors, and the Oscar Wild’s infamous court summons. Wild was the novelist who was put on trial for “gross indecency” in 1895.

Divinity School

The Oxford Divinity School is a sublime space with a beautiful and intricate vaulted ceiling.

facade of the Divinity School

This medieval building was built in the 1400s to be used for lectures, oral examinations, and discussions on theology. This makes it the oldest surviving purpose-built part of  any  university.

Entry to the Divinity School is £2.50 per person. This room doubled as the infirmary in the Harry Potter movies. Click here for a Harry Potter tour with a divinity school entry.

Duke Humphrey’s Library

The Duke Humphrey’s Library is upstairs above the Divinity School. Completed in 1488, the sumptuously decorated library takes its name from the youngest brother of Henry V, of Agincourt and Shakespeare fame. It’s lined with portraits of Oxford founders.

Even on a tour, you can’t enter the the magnificent medieval room or pick up the ancient tombs. But you can peer into the library from an extension on one end.

In the Harry Potter films, Duke Humphrey’s was the Hogwarts Library.

Photograph by Vinesh Rajpaul

9. Tours of Bodleian Library

To visit the Bodleian Library, you have to pre-arrange a guided tour. You can book a 30, 60, or 90 minute tour of the library on its website . Here’s what you can see:

  • 30 minute tour: € 9, covers the Divinity School and Duke Humphrey’s Library
  • 60 minute tour: € 12, covers the Divinity School, Convocation House, Chancellor’s Court, and Duke Humphrey’s Library
  • 90 minute tour: € 18, covers everything on the 60 minute tour plus the Gladstone Link (underground library and passageway) and Radcliffe Camera.

If you have time, I recommend the 90 minute tour. It’s the only one where you can go inside the Radcliffe Camera.

You can book tours online up to 30 days in advance. A few tickets are reserved for same day visitors.

New College courtyard and cloisters

10. New College

New College isn’t really new, as its name implies. The college was established in 1379 as an Oxford undergraduate college.

The college buildings were built in the Perpendicular Gothic style. The college is also renowned for its beautiful 15th century cloisters. The medieval dining hall is the oldest in Oxford.

You may also remember New College from the Harry Potter movie, Goblet of Fire . Draco Malfoy is turned into a ferret in the cloisters.

Vaults and Graden Cafe

One Day In Oxford Afternoon

For lunch, you can join the queue at Vaults and Garden Cafe , which serves up a changing menu of salads, curries, and stews under vaulted ceilings. If it’s nice out, you can dine in the garden and admire the Rad Cam up close.

You can also settle in at The Grand Cafe . It’s an Oxford institution on High Street and the site of the oldest coffee shop in England.

Alternatively, if you’re a market person, head to Oxford’s Covered Market on Market Street. This is Oxford’s answer to the bazaar.

It’s the go to place in Oxford for fresh produce, meat, flowers, and baked goods. You can sidle up to a sandwich counter or sit down at one of the cafes.

the Bridge of Sighs, under construction when I was there

12. Bridge of Sighs

Hertford Bridge is part of Hertford College on Queen’s Lane. It dates from 1874. The mini-bridge links two buildings of the college.

It’s a photogenic bridge nicknamed the “Bridge of Sighs” because of its similarity to the more famous bridge in Venice .

While it’s small like the Bridge of Sighs, stylistically, it looks more like the Rialto Bridge.

13. All Souls College

Then at least dip into All Soul’s College . The college was founded as a center of prayer and learning in 1438.

It has a beautiful Gothic facade, with eye catching towers on the north quad. Inside, the chapel has a 15th century fan vaulting in the vestibule and and a medieval hammer beam roof.

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

14. University Church of St. Mary The Virgin

Right next door to All Souls College is the University Church of St. Mary . Some think it’s the dreamiest of Oxford’s “dreaming spires.”

From the tower, you have the best bird’s eye view of Oxford and the facade of the Radcliffe Camera. You can also snap a photo of the Bridge of Sighs.

The climb isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s 127 steps up a medieval spiral staircase. There is no elevator.

Tickets may be purchased from the shop at the Radcliffe Square entrance. They’re £5.

Christ Church College, a must visit attraction with one day in Oxford

15. Christ Church College

If there’s only one college you visit, make it Christ Church College . It’s an absolute must visit attraction with one day in Oxford.

The grand college simply oozes history. It’s the largest and most prestigious of Oxford’s colleges.

The college was founded in 1525 by Henry VIII’s chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey. The college is the alma mater of 13 British prime ministers, Albert Einstein, and Lewis Carroll.

Established in 1525, the college comes complete with its own cathedral and art gallery.

the Crossing Tower

The main entrance to Christ Church is the 17th century Tom Tower, which was designed by Christopher Wren. The 6 ton bell, dubbed “Great Tom,” rings 101 times every night at 9:05 pm.

It seems nonsensical, but there’s a reason for the madness.

In 1663, Oxford had only 101 students. Curfew was at 9:00 pm.

“Oxford Time” was then 5 minutes behind the now used GMT time. Hence, the bells tolled at 5 minutes after 9:00 pm.

The Great Hall in Christ Church College is a spectacular Renaissance space. It once served as Charles I’s parliamentary seat during the English civil war.

the Great Hall of Christ Church College

The hammer beam roof hovers above. Around the room are portraits of bygone scholars and prime ministers.

The Christ College Picture Gallery features an exceptional collection of works from the 14th to 18th centuries. It’s behind the college cathedral.

It boasts paintings and drawings by Italian Renaissance painters Filippino Lippi, Tintoretto, and Michelangelo .

Christ Church served as the filming inspiration for the Harry Potter movies. It doubled as the Great Hall of Hogwarts, though the producers built a studio replica to use for filming.

Apart from the Harry Potter films, Christ’s Church College may be best known for its association with Alice and Wonderland. It was here that Lewis Carroll began conjuring the story about a girl who follows a rabbit down a hole and ends up at a mad tea party.

To book a tour of the college, head to the Meadow Gate entrance.

Christ Church Cathedral

16. Christ Church Cathedral

The lovely Christ Church Cathedral serves a dual purpose. It’s both the Christ Church College chapel and the cathedral of Oxford.

The cathedral is the world’s smallest cathedral and is a gorgeous treasure house of architecture. It began life as a simple priory church. During the Reformation, Henry VIII decreed it a cathedral.

Like practically every building in Oxford, the church has an elegant fan vaulted ceiling. There are beautiful stained glass windows. And you’ll find a lovely painting by the Pre-Raphaelite artist and Oxford student Edward Burnes-Jones.

This is a wonderful place to go to Choral Evensong. It happens daily at 6:00 pm.

15th century ribbed vaulting in the cathedral

One Day In Oxford Evening

17. sample the oxford ale.

In the evening on your one day in Oxford, do what the Oxfordians do — settle in at one of the city’s many boozers. Strong ale is Oxford’s signature drink and a long standing tradition.

You can have a pint at the creaking timbers of the Eagle and Child . (Please note the pub is under renovation at the moment and is expected to re-open late in 2022.)

The historic pub is the place where C.S.Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein once slacked their thirst. They met there for almost 30 some years. They nicknamed the pub the “Bird and Baby” and called their literary group “the Inklings.”

Bodleian Library, the Tower  of the Fiver Orders

The pair later moved their conversions to the 500 year old Lamb & Flag in Oxford’s Jericho neighborhood (which is also being renovated).

Many an Oxford scholar took a liquid break at the King’s Arms . Turf’s Tavern is a 13th century hole in the wall pub that was frequented by Bill Clinton.

You can also take a historic pub tour with a student guide .

18. Dinner In Oxford

Where to eat dinner in Oxford?

If you’re staying for dinner, you can try: Gees Restaurant (Mediterranean in a twinkly light-filled conservatory) or The Punter (modern vegetarian and vegan).

For a splurge, you can check out Pompette (French) or Arbequina (Spanish tapas).

entrance to the Bodleian Library

19. Harry Potter In Oxford

Are you a Harry Potter fan traveling to Oxford?

As I mentioned above, scenes in the films were inspired by or filmed at Christ Church, the Bodleian Library, the Divinity School, and New College.

Click  here  to book a tour of Harry Potter-themed tour of Christ Church College. Click  here  for a Harry Potter walking tour of Oxford that includes Christ Church.

From London, you can book a guided tour that includes Oxford and the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio . Or, you can book a private tour from London to Oxford .

READ : Guide To Harry Potter Filming Locations in London

Jesus College in Oxford

Tips For Spending One Day In Oxford

Here are some tips and things to know about visiting Oxford.

1. Plan In Advance

You’ll have a more efficient visit to Oxford if you plan in advance. Decide whether you want to do a DIY one day tour or book some guided tours.

If you opt to fly solo, be sure to consult a map and plan your itinerary in advance, so you aren’t wasting time figuring out which places you need to visit and where they are. 

You should also determine your mode of transportation in advance and book any necessary tickets online.

1. How To Get To Oxford

Leave as early as possible so that you can make the most of your one day in Oxford, from wherever you are arriving from in the UK.

Oxford is 62 miles northwest of London. It takes about an hour and a half to drive.

Once there, you can book a  walking tour with a university guide  to get oriented.

Harry Potter store in Oxford, the House of Wonders

Traveling by train is probably the fastest way to get to Oxford. Trains leave from London’s Paddington Staton for Oxford every 5-10 minutes.

The journey takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at the Oxford train station, it’s about a 10 minute walk to the city center.

By Guided Day Tour :

If you want someone else to take care of the logistics and transportation, you can easily visit Oxford on a guided day trip tour from London.

Here are some tour options to consider:

  •   a 10 hour day tour that visits Oxford, Straford-Upon-Avon & the Cotswolds
  • a 10 hour tour of historic colleges in Oxford & Cambridge
  •   7 hour day trip tour of Oxford
  • a 7 hour private day trip from London

William Herbert, 3rd Earl of Pembroke, in front of Bodleian Library

2. How To Get Around Oxford

Oxford is a very walkabout pocket sized city. It’s really more like a small town.

The main attractions are all clustered in the city center, which makes it possible to see much of Oxford in one day.

But you can also take the hop on hop off tourist bus or take a city bike tour . Cycling is a popular activity in Oxford. Watch out for cyclists as you walk around.

3. Where To Stay In Oxford

For a splurge, try the Old Parsonage Hotel . The charming hotel is a country-esque crash pad. It’s housed in an 17th century building built of Cotswold stone covered with ivy. It has creaking floors, a private garden, sweet library, and an exceptional breakfast.

The Old Bank Hotel is in a Georgian townhouse with rooftop gargoyles. It has luxury bedrooms, an art collection, and a prime location with views of Oxford landmarks.

The Randolph Hotel has been give a makeover and is now colorful, with Oscar Wild prints.

Magdalen College in Oxford

More Than One Day In Oxford?

If you have more than one day in Oxford, there are some other amazing things to do in the city.

1. Magdalen College

Magdalen College (pronounced maud-lin) is in the southeast section of Oxford. It has a pristine green quad, 15th century cloister, and flowery water meadow.

The Great Tower is 145 feet tall. This is where the college choir sings to launch May Day festivities .

Magdalen College is where C.S. Lewis lived and taught. The cloister’s grotesque carvings appeared in Chronicles of Narnia novel.

Pitt Rivers Museum

Next to Magdalen are the Oxford Botanical Gardens.

There are over 5,000 different types of plants. It’s lovely, but mostly used for research.

2. Pitt Rivers Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum is a quirky Victoria-era museum housed in a Neo-Gothic brick building. It focuses on anthropology and archaeology.

The museum is a dimly-lit maze. It houses a madcap array of curiosities from the farthest reaches of the British empire.

You’ll find a witch trapped in a bottle, shrunken heads, monkey skulls, totem poles, weapons, and witching paraphernalia. Canoes of every kind hang from the ceiling.

Oxford Castle and Prison

3. Oxford Castle & Prison

With more than one day in Oxford, history buffs will want to tour Oxford Castle .

You can learn all about the history of this castle, climb St. George’s Tower for views, descend to the 900 year old crypt, and explore the 18th Century prison. The prison remained in use until 1996.

4. Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Natural History is a castle-like Gothic pile built in the 1850s. It was financed through the sale of bibles.

You’ll see dinosaur skeletons and a stuffed dodo that was immortalized in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland .

punting boats

The museum was famously the site of a great debate over evolution between Bishop Samuel Wilberforce and Thomas Huxley. Huxley was a student of Charles Darwin.

Floating down one of Oxford’s canals is a time honored tradition in Oxford. You can rent a flat bottomed boat, called a punt, under Magdalen Bridge.

But believe me; it isn’t easy to drive one. Mastering the long wood pole takes practice.

If you want someone else to do the rowing, you can book a tour with an Oxford student .

Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Day Trips From Oxford

There are also some wonderful destinations that are just a stone’s throw away from Oxford: the Cotswolds, Warwick Castle, Straford-upon-Avon, and Blenheim Castle.

1. Cotswolds

In the Cotswolds, little has changed since the middle ages. The Cotswolds is where you go to experience tumbling hills, chocolate box villages, and admire authentic thatched cottages.

You can book a guided Cotswolds tour just for your group . You can also book a day tour from London that combines Oxford and the Cotswolds .

statue of William Shakespeare in Stratford-Upon-Avon

2. Stratford-Upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a picturesque market town. It’s best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and for its beautifully preserved Tudor buildings. 

The main attraction, naturally, is the timber-framed house where Shakespeare was born. It was passed down to various Shakespeare descendants.

Then, in 1847, the Shakespeare Trust purchased it. Visitors can explore the original house and garden.

The best way to get to Straford is by car, train, or guided tour. It’s less than an hour from Oxford.

This  guided day tour to Stratford-Upon-Avon from London  is led by a Shakespearean actor. Here is a  guided tour option that includes a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds .

Blenheim Palace

3. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a stunning Baroque Palace in Woodstock, about 25 minutes from Oxford. It’s a UNESCO heritage site that was built between 1705-22.

The palace is the seat of the dukes of Marlborough. It’s also the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

You can admire the opulent interior, which is stuffed with tapestries, statues, and fine period furniture. You’ll can also enjoy displays on Winston Churchill and stroll in the superbly landscaped gardens.

Click here to book an entry ticket the the palace. If you’re staying in Oxford, you can book a guided tour of Blenheim Palace from Oxfor d .

If you’re staying in London, there are many permutations. You might consider:

  • a 10 hour Blenheim + Cotswolds tour
  • a 6 hour private tour from London
  • a 10 hour tour with the palace and Downton Abbey filming locations

Highclere Castle

4. Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle  is the country house home of the Earl of Carnarvon. It’s most famous, though, as the filming location for  Downton Abbey , the hit British period TV series. 

The castle is open seasonally so check opening dates on the website before planning a visit.

The best way to get to the castle is by car or by joining a tour.

This guided tour option includes a  visit to Highclere Castle and other  Downton Abbey  filming locations . You can also book a guided tour that combines  Highclere and Stonehenge .

Warwick Castle

5. Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is one of my favorite castles in England. It’s about 2 hours northwest of London. Once inside, grab a map because the castle grounds are vast.

The castle’s origins go back to William the Conqueror, the first king of England. But it was mostly built in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The castle was the seat of the dukes of Warwick. The castle’s most famous resident was Richard Neville , known as “the Kingmaker.” It featured in many battles in the historic War of the Roses, the clash between the Lancaster and York families.

The must see things to see inside are the Great Hall, the exhibit of the Weekend Party, and the Warwick the Kingmaker Exhibit. You can also stroll the medieval castle walls and climb several towers.

Click here to book an entrance ticket to Warwick Castle.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Oxford itinerary. You may enjoy these other London travel guides and resources:

  • 3 Day Itinerary for London
  • 5 Day Itinerary for London
  • Best Museums in London
  • Harry Potter Places in London
  • Guide to the National Gallery of Art
  • Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • Guide to the Tate Britain
  • Guide to Wesminster Abbey
  • London Tourist Traps To Avoid
  • Guide to the Tower of London
  • Guide to the Churchill War Rooms

If you’d like to spend one day in Oxford, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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Find a library

The Bodleian Libraries are a group of 26 libraries across Oxford.

Search for a library by name, browse by location or use the filters to find your preferred workspace.

You can also browse group study rooms across the Bodleian Libraries.

  Find a library by location    

  View our libraries on Google Maps  

A-Z of college libraries: Home

Purpose of this page.

This guide provides an alphabetical list of libraries at the colleges and halls of the University of Oxford. Always contact a college library in advance to arrange your visit.

Libraries A-N

  • All Souls College
  • Balliol College
  • Blackfriars
  • Brasenose College
  • Campion Hall
  • Christ Church
  • Corpus Christi College
  • Exeter College
  • Green Templeton College
  • Harris Manchester College
  • Hertford College
  • Jesus College
  • Keble College
  • Kellogg College
  • Lady Margaret Hall
  • Linacre College
  • Lincoln College
  • Magdalen College
  • Mansfield College
  • Merton College
  • New College
  • Nuffield College

Libraries O-Z

  • Oriel College
  • Pembroke College
  • The Queen's College
  • Regent's Park College
  • Reuben College
  • St Anne's College
  • St Antony's College
  • St Catherine's College
  • St Cross College
  • St Edmund Hall
  • St Hilda's College
  • St Hugh's College
  • St John's College
  • St Peter's College
  • Somerville College
  • Trinity College
  • University College
  • Wadham College
  • Wolfson College
  • Worcester College
  • Wycliffe Hall

Which college libraries can I use?

Each college library is usually open only to current members of that college.

Non-members can contact libraries to request access to:

  • material not available through the Bodleian Libraries or departmental libraries
  • special subject collections
  • rare books and manuscripts

How do I access a resource only available in a college library?

Contact a college library in advance, by email, phone, or letter to request access. 

You may be turned away if you do not have an appointment.

Can I borrow from a college library?

Non-members usually need to visit the library in person to consult material on site.

In exceptional circumstances, you may be permitted to borrow. If you are unable to visit in person, college libraries may be able to supply scanned material.

Historic and Special Collections

Many college libraries have collections of historic, rare, or otherwise special material which may be consulted by appointment. Please note that some collections are not fully catalogued on Oxford's library catalogue SOLO.

  • Special collections in Oxford college libraries A PDF guide to special collections materials, including manuscripts and rare books, held in the college libraries (opens in a new window).
  • Guide to Oxford College Archives The Oxford Archivists' Consortium offers a guide to Oxford college archives (opens in a new window).

This guide is maintained by Alice Roques of Hertford College.

  • Last Updated: Mar 12, 2024 10:49 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/colleges

Website feedback

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© Bodleian Libraries 2021. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence

Every subscription you can cancel by going to the library

From movies to audiobooks: Your local library is a low-key, all-in-one entertainment destination.

By Justin Pot | Published Mar 17, 2024 8:31 AM EDT

three stories of round library shelves

Public libraries are a community effort: A small percentage of your local taxes pays for books, other resources, and a gathering place available to everyone who lives in your town or city. All you need for access is a free library card. 

Your local library offers books, of course, and you probably know that you can generally also borrow ebooks. Many libraries offer ebooks using Libby , which is one of the best apps for reading on your phone . That could, in theory, replace an ebooks subscription service like Kindle Unlimited. But what about the other subscriptions that you’re paying for? There’s a good chance you could save money on those services by utilizing the library system you already pay into.

Every library is different, and not every library is going to offer all of the services outlined here. You will have to check the website for your local library—or head to the library and ask someone—to find out what your library has to offer. It’s also worth noting that some libraries (including the Brooklyn, Seattle, and Boston Public Libraries ) allow teens and young adults from out of state to apply for a card and use their digital services as part of Books Unbanned . In other places, you can quickly get a library card online . Both options are worth exploring, but I also recommend physically visiting a local library as well.

All that said, here are some common subscriptions that could be replaced with a library card. 

BluRays, DVDs, and Kanopy can replace Netflix and other streaming services

Life Skills photo

Remember video stores? Before streaming services took over, local shops and big chains offered DVDs and Blu-Rays that you could rent for a couple of days. You might think places like that don’t exist anymore, but you’re wrong: Local libraries have taken up the mantle. Most public libraries in the US have at least some movies and TV shows to check out, and if not, you can likely request them from other branches. If you’re paying for Netflix to watch older shows and movies, you might be able to borrow them from the library instead (you could also, in theory, back up Blu-Rays that you borrow so you can watch them on TVs and tablets lacking an optical drive). 

If actually going to the library sounds like too much work, you’re not entirely out of luck. Many local libraries offer access to Kanopy , which features many critically acclaimed movies and TV shows. It’s not an outright Netflix replacement (it skews high-brow), but open it and you’ll find something worth watching. It’s a great supplement for regular trips to the physical library, where you can borrow discs to watch everything else. 

Free audiobooks can replace Audible

Life Skills photo

Listening to books is a great way to “read” while doing something else, so it’s no wonder that services like Audible are so popular. Here’s the thing, though: Your local library is already paying for audiobooks. There are also likely shelves of audio book CDs you can borrow right now. 

[Related: CDs are cool again. Here’s how to rip them. ]

Or, if you’d prefer not to handle a disc, most libraries offer audiobooks via Libby or similar services, allowing you to listen on your phone. The only real downside is that, like with ebooks, you will need to wait for an audiobook to be available before you can listen. In my experience this is only a problem if you’re trying to listen to new releases, or a book recently recommended somewhere prominent, and even then you usually won’t wait more than a few weeks. 

Magazine and newspaper access could replace Apple News

Life Skills photo

Many libraries, in addition to books, have a room where you can read paper copies of magazines, newspapers, and other print media. As a journalist who mostly works online I enjoy spending the occasional afternoon seeing what’s going on in the world of print journalism. The problem: You generally can’t check such publications out.

Libraries have started supplementing in-person access to news with online subscriptions like Press Reader , which offer hundreds of magazines and (mostly international) newspapers. Some libraries also offer online access to The New York Times and similar publications. Because the libraries are paying for access, you can read subscription publications while also supporting them. 

Tables and conference rooms can replace co-working spaces

Any decent library has an assortment of desks, tables, and even couches for reading and studying. I’ve always worked from home but sometimes want to get out of the house—the library is great for this. Unlike coffee shops there’s no expectation to buy anything, which is something I appreciate a great deal. And some libraries even offer meeting rooms that you can book, which means they can be a decent alternative to paying for a co-working space that you only occasionally use. I can’t recommend it enough. 

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Getting to the Old Bodleian Library and Weston Library

Three people standing in atrium of Weston Library

Oxford has great transport links by train, coach and car. Find out how to get to the Bodleian sites and view maps of the Oxford area.

Bodleian Old Library

You can access the Bodleian Old Library site via Catte Street (east) and from Radcliffe Square (south). We recommend entering via Catte Street, using the Great Gate, which provides direct access to the Old School Quadrangle and the Bodleian Old Library.

Bodleian Old Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG

Old Schools Quadrangle

Once you reach the Old Schools Quadrangle, the Bodleian Old Library entrance faces west. Through the glass doors behind the statue, you can enter the Proscholium (the entrance hall to the Divinity School). From the Proscholium you can access the Divinity School, where all tours start.

Blackwell Hall, Weston Library

Blackwell Hall is the main visitor hall of the Weston Library. From Blackwell Hall you can visit our two exhibition rooms, as well as our our family-friendly café , Space for Reading, and display cases featuring smaller exhibitions. You can access the Zvi Meitar Bodleian Shop via Blackwell Hall or from Broad Street directly.

  Admission & tickets

You can purchase tickets for tours and entry to the Divinity School from the information desk in the Weston Library.

Weston Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG

  Wheelchair access

There is a ramp for wheelchair access. Find out more about accessibility at our sites .

Free public Wi-Fi is available in the Weston Library.

The Zvi Meitar Bodleian Shop can be accessed via Blackwell Hall or from Broad Street directly.

How to get here

  public transport.

Oxford has great transport links by bus and rail. Oxford is less than an hour from London and Birmingham by train. The Old Bodleian Library and Weston Library are a 15-minute walk from Oxford train station. The city centre has brilliant bus connections and there are five Park and Ride sites connected to Oxford. For more information visit the Oxford City Council website .

There are limited parking spaces available on Broad Street and Parks Road. If you wish to drive, you will find Park and Ride by far the best way to get into Oxford.

Blue Badge parking

There are five on-street Blue Badge parking spaces near the Bodleian Libraries: one in front of Exeter College; two outside Blackwell's bookshop on Broad Street and two on Parks Road, near the King's Arms pub.

Please refer to the Oxford Tourist Information Centre for more information on disabled parking spaces and procedures.

Related links

  • Plan your visit
  • Café and shop
  • Accessibility
  • History of the Bodleian

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COMMENTS

  1. Plan your visit

    For many of our tours, you can buy tickets in advance online. We also sell a portion of tour tickets on the day. Please visit the information desk in the Weston Library to purchase these. Extended opening hours at the Weston Library. The Weston Library is the festival hub for this year's Oxford Literary Festival.

  2. Tours

    Book a tour. Select tours go on sale one month in advance. Additional tickets are made available on the day to buy in person only. To buy tickets in person, visit the information desk in the Weston Library. For upcoming closures, please check our Plan your visit page.

  3. Home

    Go inside our beautiful and historic library buildings with our expert tour guides. City walking tours. City walking tours. ... member-only discounts and the chance to see our exhibitions before the general public. ... ©️ Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford 2024. Bodleian Libraries, Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3BG ...

  4. Bodleian Library

    The world-famous Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. The Bodleian Library was founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Since then the Bodleian libraries has grown to be the largest academic library system in the UK. In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied ...

  5. Visiting places of interest

    The world-famous Bodleian Library is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. It was founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Since then the Bodleian libraries has now grown to be the largest academic library system in the UK. The Bodleian Library and the Weston Library across the road are open to visitors daily.

  6. Bodleian Library

    Bodleian Library. The Bodleian Library is one of Oxford's most famous landmarks. Among the oldest in Europe, it's easy to visit and incredible to see. Anyone visiting Oxford should make a stop here. The library as a whole can be seen from the outside (which is already an impressive sight) but there are also guided tours throughout the day.

  7. Home

    Discover over a million images of rare books, manuscripts and other treasures from the Bodleian Libraries and Oxford college libraries. Use our special collections Search and use manuscripts and archives, rare books, printed ephemera, maps, music and digitised collections in libraries across Oxford.

  8. Radcliffe Camera

    The Gladstone Link closes 30 minutes before library closing. Last entry 45 minutes before library closing. Easter opening hours. The Radcliffe Camera will be closed from Friday 29 March - Monday 1 April (inclusive). General enquiries. [email protected] +44 (0)1865 277204. History Faculty Library. [email protected]

  9. The Bodleian Library

    Reliance on the sun for light and heat kept the library's opening hours incredibly short - the Library only opened from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the summer. The Library includesthe 15th-century Duke Humfrey's Library, the 17th-century Schools Quadrangle, the 18th-century Clarendon Building and Radcliffe ...

  10. Bodleian Libraries

    The Bodleian is the largest university library system in the United Kingdom. It includes the principal University library - the Bodleian Library - which has been a library of legal deposit for 400 years - as well as 27 libraries across Oxford, including major research libraries and faculty, departmental and institutional libraries. The Bodleian ...

  11. Bodleian Library

    Find Bodleian Library, Oxford, England, United Kingdom, ratings, photos, prices, expert advice, traveler reviews and tips, and more information from Condé Nast Traveler.

  12. BODLEIAN LIBRARY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ...

    The world-famous Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. The Bodleian Library was founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Since then the Bodleian libraries has grown to be the largest academic library system in the UK. In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied ...

  13. Visiting Oxford

    Visiting Oxford. Oxford is a beautiful city of stunning architecture, history and culture. You'll find ancient and modern colleges, fascinating museums and galleries, and plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces in which to relax. Plus, the city centre is small enough to cover on foot, and only a few minutes walk from the main rail and coach ...

  14. About the libraries

    The Bodleian Libraries is now the largest academic library service in the UK and one of the largest library services in Europe. Together, the Libraries hold more than 13 million printed items, over 80,000 e-journals and outstanding special collections including rare books and manuscripts, classical papyri, maps, music, art and printed ephemera.

  15. Oxford University Libraries. When to Visit, What to See, Research, more

    The Bodleian Libraries alone contain 28 libraries that serve the University of Oxford and visitors (it is, as you might have guessed, the largest university library system in the entire United Kigdom). It's actually not difficult to get access to Oxford libraries if you have a research topic. So let's explore the fantastic libraries the ...

  16. Must-See Spots in Oxford for Bookworms

    Libraries in Oxford . The Bodleian Library is Oxford's best-known landmark, and its interior is just as awe-inspiring as its much-photographed façade. A tour of the Bodleian includes a peek at Duke Humfrey's Library—which has been lending out books since the Middle Ages—as well as filming locations for the "Harry Potter" series.

  17. One Day In Oxford England Itinerary, What To See and Do In A Day

    3. Oxford Castle & Prison. With more than one day in Oxford, history buffs will want to tour Oxford Castle. You can learn all about the history of this castle, climb St. George's Tower for views, descend to the 900 year old crypt, and explore the 18th Century prison. The prison remained in use until 1996.

  18. History of the Bodleian

    The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and in Britain is second in size only to the British Library. Together, the Bodleian Libraries hold over 13 million printed items. First opened to scholars in 1602, it incorporates an earlier library built by the University in the 15th century to house books donated by Humfrey, Duke ...

  19. Find a library

    Find a library. The Bodleian Libraries are a group of 26 libraries across Oxford. Search for a library by name, browse by location or use the filters to find your preferred workspace. You can also browse group study rooms across the Bodleian Libraries. Find a library by location. View our libraries on Google Maps. A list of all the Bodleian ...

  20. A-Z of college libraries: Home

    Non-members usually need to visit the library in person to consult material on site. In exceptional circumstances, you may be permitted to borrow. If you are unable to visit in person, college libraries may be able to supply scanned material. ... Please note that some collections are not fully catalogued on Oxford's library catalogue SOLO ...

  21. Every subscription you can cancel by going to the library

    From movies to audiobooks: Your local library is a low-key, all-in-one entertainment destination. By Justin Pot | Published Mar 17, 2024 8:31 AM EDT Public libraries are a community effort: A ...

  22. Group tours

    30-minute library tour Most popular! This highly-requested tour offers you a great taster of the Bodleian Library's history. Discover the library's medieval origins in the Divinity School, and admire the magnificent Duke Humfrey's Library. Available Monday - Friday. Age 11+.

  23. Getting to the Old Bodleian Library and Weston Library

    Public transport. Oxford has great transport links by bus and rail. Oxford is less than an hour from London and Birmingham by train. The Old Bodleian Library and Weston Library are a 15-minute walk from Oxford train station. The city centre has brilliant bus connections and there are five Park and Ride sites connected to Oxford.