University Church of Oxford

The University Church is one of the most famous parts of the Oxford skyline, and contains some of the oldest buildings in the entire University. It has a fascinating but occasionally unclear history.
 

• We know very little about the first church that was built on this site, but by the twelfth century, St Mary’s was at the heart of the growing medieval university.
• The original church was adopted as the first building of the university, with many of its religious roots sprouting out from this physical location.
• Congregation met in the church from at least 1252, and by the early 13th century it was the seat of university government and was used for lectures and the award of degrees.

 
The stunning spire that faces onto Radcliffe Square is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world, and is accessible to visitors for a small fee. The view from the top of the tower is probably the best view of Oxford anywhere in the city. So, if you are looking for the best photograph in Oxford – this would be our recommendation!
 
The University Church was also the site of the 1555 trial of the Oxford Martyrs, the culmination of the English Reformation, in which the bishops Latimer, Ridley and Cranmer were tried for heresy. Hear more about their eventual fate on our Oxford Walking Tour.