Why go
Walk the street for the shape of Oxford's old centre rather than treating it as a single attraction. The changing view of college buildings, the University Church of St Mary the Virgin and the approach towards Magdalen Bridge give this area its character. It works well as the link between a central landmark visit and the eastern river edge.
What to look for
- The High Street's curved alignment changes the view of its college frontages as you walk.
- The University Church of St Mary the Virgin anchors the street near the university's historic core.
- Magdalen Bridge marks the eastern river approach.
Useful to know
- Allow time to pause along the street; its architectural sequence is the point of the walk.
- Combine the public street with the University Church or a college only after checking that site's own visitor access.