Magdalen College

Magdalen College is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and scenic colleges in Oxford. Founded in 1458, its distinctive Great Tower stands as a major landmark on the city’s eastern skyline. The college is famous for its extensive and diverse grounds, which include the tranquil Water Meadow, the circular Addison’s Walk, and its very own deer park where a herd of fallow deer resides year-round. Inside, visitors can marvel at the medieval Cloisters, the grand Gothic Chapel, and the Hall. With its perfect riverside location and stunning architecture, Magdalen provides a quintessential Oxford experience that feels both royal and academic, having hosted famous figures such as Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis.

Touren entdecken Wissenswertes

Alles über Magdalen College

Was Sie erwartet

The college welcomes visitors throughout the year, typically opening from 10:00 until 17:00 or dusk, whichever is earlier. During the peak summer months of July, August, and September, hours are often extended to 18:30. As of 2026, adult tickets are priced at 10 GBP, while seniors and students pay 9 GBP. A family ticket for two adults and up to three children is available for 28 GBP, and children under seven enter for free. Joint tickets with the nearby Botanic Garden can also be purchased for around 17 GBP. Please note that payments at the visitor desk are by card only. The Old Kitchen Bar on-site offers a lovely riverside terrace for coffee, light lunches, and afternoon tea.

Warum diese Tour buchen

Magdalen is a living academic community, so certain areas like the library and student accommodation are strictly private. While the college is open most days, it closes for major university events, such as graduation days or the February college feast; always check the official website for specific closure dates before your trip. Accessibility varies across the historic site; while the gardens and Addison’s Walk are mostly level, some indoor areas have steps. If you wish to experience the college’s famous musical tradition, you can attend Choral Evensong in the Chapel, which is usually held at 18:00 during term time and is free to the public. Note that large groups of over 10 people should book their arrival in advance.

Die richtige Tour auswählen

You will find the college entrance on the High Street, right at the foot of Magdalen Bridge. If you are walking from the city center landmarks like the Radcliffe Camera, it is a straightforward 5-minute stroll down the High Street. From Oxford Train Station, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes on foot, or you can take a local bus to the Queen’s Lane or High Street stops. For those driving into Oxford, the St Clement’s car park is the closest public parking area, located just across the bridge. However, using the Park and Ride service is highly recommended, as several buses from the Thornhill and Seacourt sites stop directly outside the college gates.

Wissenswertes vor der Abreise

To avoid the busiest times, try to arrive when the college opens at 10:00 or visit in the late afternoon. The grounds are particularly spectacular in spring when the rare snake’s head fritillaries bloom in the meadows, and in early summer when the roses are out. If you happen to be in Oxford on May 1st, you can join the thousands who gather at 6:00 to hear the college choir sing from the top of the Great Tower—a 500-year-old tradition. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful walk along the river. Be aware that the Hall closes to visitors during the student lunch period, typically between 12:00 and 14:00.

Magdalen College