As a centre of education dating back to the early 12th century, Oxford University ranks as the oldest university in England and one of the most famous in the world. Its extensive list of important past students includes John Locke, Christopher Wren, Lewis Carroll, Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde and, more recently, Tony Blair and Bill Clinton. The university itself is made up of a number of colleges, most displaying stunning architecture and trim lawns, situated throughout the city. Of particular interest to visitors are Christ Church College, founded in 1524 by Cardinal Wolsey, whose college chapel also serves as Oxford’s cathedral; Merton College, one of the smaller colleges with only 250 undergraduates and with particularly beautiful gardens and courtyards; and the Bodleian Library, the central library of Oxford University, which is the oldest library in Europe and was originally founded in 1320 by Thomas Cobham, Bishop of Worcester.
Air: London's Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton Airports. Rail: Train: Oxford City Station. Road: Bus: Public services.

Oxford Tourist Information Centre, 15/16 Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK
Tel: (01865) 726 871
Website: www.oxford.gov.uk/tourism

United Kingdom