My Studies of this University City

November 25, 2014

Oxford, home of one of the most prestigious universities in the world. It’s not one large campus like I expected, it’s 39 separate colleges spread throughout the small city. I was keen to explore two of the more famous colleges, and hopefully, get smrter by association. So far, I can’t tell if it worked or not.

My first trip was to Christ Church College, the largest of all Oxford’s colleges. Just like Edinburgh, you feel like you’re walking through the pages of any Harry Potter book when you step through its arched entrance. It’s no wonder the Great Hall, where students dine, was replicated as Hogwarts dining hall in the franchise’s films. Christ Church College is also where John Locke, Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) and 13 Prime Ministers were educated.

My next stop was Radcliffe Camera. It’s a circular library and reading room only accessible to students. It’s the building that came to mind when I first thought of Oxford University, the one on all the postcards.

We stayed at a hotel about 2.5 miles from town, so bussed it to and from work. I found out from reception there was a canal walkway that would also lead me to work, but was warned it wasn’t the fastest, or cleanest, route to take. I decided to take my chances, and 1 ½ hours later wearing extremely muddy boots, made it into town. It was worth the extra minutes and muck, as I passed some of the nicest countryside I’ve seen since our arrival in the UK. I was also able to view the back yards of some of the most expensive real estate in England. I half expected Lord Grantham, wearing tweed and smoking a pipe, to meet me along the way walking his dog Isis (you’d only get this reference if you’re a Downton fan like me!).

I was happy to have some extended family in to see the show in Oxford. I had my auntie, and cousins big and small, in to see the show Sunday night. Thanks to Caitlin and Riona for taking the time to paint me this nice picture!

We’re now in Southampton where Secret Santa shopping is in the air!

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Ryan