St John's College

St John's is the wealthiest college in Oxford, with an endowment that rivals some of the richer Cambridge colleges and dwarfs most small universities. That money shows. Founded in 1555 by Sir Thomas White as a Counter-Reformation stronghold (he wanted educated Catholic clerics to resist Protestantism — ironic, given how that turned out), St John's occupies a prime site on St Giles' with notable buildings and large gardens.

The Canterbury Quad is the highlight — an early 17th-century quadrangle with a loggia, busts of Charles I and Henrietta Maria by Le Sueur, and baroque ornament that's unique in Oxford. The gardens behind the college are among the largest in the city: sweeping lawns, ancient trees, a rock garden, and enough space to lose yourself. The front quad incorporates parts of the medieval Cistercian college of St Bernard, giving it genuine architectural depth.

What makes it special

Canterbury Quad is one of the most distinctive spaces in Oxford — the loggia, the royal busts, and the baroque ornament combine in a way that's unlike any other college. The gardens are large (second only to St Hugh's for scale) and well maintained. The college's wealth means everything is kept in good condition. If you're on St Giles' already, it's well worth stopping in.

Visitor info

St John's is on St Giles', right in the centre of the city. The college opens to visitors at various times — check the college website for current hours. No admission charge, which is generous given what you get. The Canterbury Quad and gardens are the priorities — allow 20-30 minutes. The entrance from St Giles' is through the front lodge, which is well signed.