Bodleian Library

Bodleian Library

Highlights The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest public libraries in the world. You can enter via the stunning Old School Quadrangle from the time of James I. Guided tours are available at 10:30, 11:30, 14:00, and 15:00, and the mysterious Prince Humphrey’s Library (1488) is also on display.

Also not to be missed is the Divinity School (free entry), the oldest teaching room at Oxford University, renowned as an outstanding example of 15th-century English Gothic architecture. Introduction The Bodleian Library houses a collection of 5 million volumes, second only to the British Library, and is one of the UK’s three major copyright libraries.

The main building of the library, together with the Radcliffe Camera on either side, the Clarendon Building, and the buildings opposite, make up the Bodleian Library. Next to the Clarendon Building is a structure that looks like an unfinished Hiltonia Theatre (actually a hall for degree ceremonies), also designed by architect Wren. The Radcliffe Camera by James is also a famous masterpiece in architectural history. Next to the theatre is the Museum of the History of Science, which displays a huge wooden astronomical telescope—anyone can come and see it up close. Transport Located at the corner of Broad St and Parks Rd.

Tickets/Opening Hours Tickets: £4 (entry not allowed for those under 14). Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–16:45, Sat 9:00–12:30.

Oxford, United Kingdom