Carfax Tower

Carfax Tower

Carfax Tower is the remnant of St Martin’s Church from the 13th century in Oxford, now owned by Oxford City Council. It is located at the northwest corner of the intersection, south of St Aldate’s Street, north of Cornmarket Street, east of High Street, and west of Queen Street. It is considered the city center and is the busiest and noisiest part of Oxford. The name “Carfax” originates from the French word “Carrefour,” meaning crossroads.

The history of St Martin’s Church dates back to the 11th century, and for centuries it was an important religious center in Oxford. Members of the English royal family, such as Queen Elizabeth I, personally visited to conduct religious ceremonies here. From 1122 to 1896, it served as Oxford’s official civic church and the location for the Mayor’s services. However, during the 19th-century road expansion, both the church and the fountain were demolished, leaving only the bell tower. Carfax Tower stands 23 meters tall, and no building in central Oxford is permitted to exceed this height. The tower has 99 steps, and climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the colleges’ architecture and gardens, making it the best spot to admire Oxford’s skyline.

Carfax Tower

Must-visit reason: The best place to admire Oxford’s skyline

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Britain[Britain]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Oxfordshire [Oxfordshire]

City where the attraction is located: Oxford [Oxford]