University College

University College — "Univ" to everyone in Oxford — has a strong claim to being the oldest college in the university, founded in 1249 by William of Durham. (Merton and Balliol also claim earliest status; the argument has been running for about 750 years and shows no sign of resolution.) What's not in dispute is that Univ has one of the longer High Street frontages in Oxford: a long, symmetrical 17th-century facade that anchors the whole street. The college used to maintain a mythical founding date of 872 AD, attributed to King Alfred — a claim so wonderfully audacious it was only officially abandoned in the 20th century.

The most famous feature is the Shelley Memorial, a striking marble sculpture of the drowned poet Percy Bysshe Shelley (who was famously expelled from Univ in 1811 for publishing a pamphlet on atheism — the college later forgave him by commissioning this monument). Stephen Hawking was an undergraduate, and C.S. Lewis was a fellow. The chapel, remodelled by George Gilbert Scott, has good stained glass by Abraham van Linge.

What makes it special

The High Street facade, the Shelley Memorial, and the sheer weight of history make Univ worth a stop on any High Street walk. The memorial — a white marble figure of Shelley borne by winged lions — is striking and unlike anything else in Oxford. The front quad, though mostly 17th-century, has a warmth and maturity that comes from nearly 800 years of continuous use. The debatable founding date adds a layer of fun to any visit.

Visitor info

Univ is on the High Street, between Queen's Lane and Magpie Lane. Visitor access is limited — the college sometimes closes to visitors entirely, especially during term. Check the college website for current hours. There may be an admission charge. The Shelley Memorial is the main interior attraction, so ask specifically about access. The facade is visible at all times and best photographed from across the High Street.