Radcliffe Camera
Radcliffe Camera, University library in Oxford, England
The Radcliffe Camera is a circular domed building in English Baroque style on Radcliffe Square in Oxford, England. Three levels of classical columns and windows surround the central reading room, while additional collections occupy underground chambers.
James Gibbs designed the building between 1737 and 1749 using funds from physician John Radcliffe's estate. The library later became part of the Bodleian Library and received Grade I listed status for its architectural importance.
The name recalls physician John Radcliffe, whose bequest funded construction and whose vision of a public library took shape here. Today students work beneath the great dome at long wooden desks, surrounded by shelves filled with volumes on literature and the humanities.
A valid Bodleian Library card is required to access the reading rooms. Visitors without a card can admire the exterior from the square, as entry is limited to registered readers.
The dome consists of two shells: an outer vertical structure and an inner curved ceiling. This double construction reduced weight and allowed greater spans, which was advanced for 18th-century building techniques.
Location: Oxford
Inception: 1748
Architects: James Gibbs
Architectural style: English Baroque
Part of: Bodleian Library
Website: https://bodleian.ox.ac.uk/bodley/find-us/radcliffe_camera
GPS coordinates: 51.75340,-1.25390
Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:02
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University Church of St Mary the Virgin
68 m
Shelley Memorial
135 m
Radcliffe Square
6 m
All Souls College Library
61 m
All Saints Church
152 m
All Souls College, East And West Ranges Of The North Quadrangle
81 m
Hertford College, Chapel, South Range
78 m
3 And 4, Oriel Street
138 m
4, Magpie Lane
142 m
Brasenose College, Kitchen Wing, Second Quadrangle
74 m
All Souls College, Front (or South) Quadrangle, Including The Chapel And The South East Range On The High Street
50 m
Brasenose College, Chapel, Second Quadrangle
66 m
9 And 10, Oriel Street
169 m
All Souls College, Wardens Lodging
125 m
The Rhodes Building (north Range), Oriel College
112 m
Street Surface
30 m
5, Magpie Lane
150 m
Lincoln College, East Range And Chapel, Chapel Quadrangle
132 m
Brasenose College, North Range, The Old Quadrangle
64 m
2, Magpie Lane
127 m
3, Magpie Lane
136 m
102 And 103, High Street
126 m
Wall And Gates Of The Church Of St Mary The Virgin
86 m
7 And 8, Oriel Street
161 m
Oriel College, South Range
146 m
6, Oriel Street
153 m
Brasenose College, East Range, The Old Quadrangle
45 m
Stables To South Of Number 5
168 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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