Wadham College

Wadham College is a college of the University of Oxford near Parks Road. The buildings show stone walls, tall gables and arches in early seventeenth-century style, enclosing a rectangular courtyard with lawns and pathways.

The couple provided funds and instructions in a will, so construction could begin after their deaths in 1609. Work progressed quickly, and the first students arrived in 1613.

The name honors Nicholas and Dorothy Wadham, a Somerset couple who founded the institution in the early seventeenth century. Today students from a wide range of disciplines live and study here, gathering in the hall and common rooms for meals and academic life.

The main courtyard is often quiet and inviting for a walk through, though some areas remain reserved for members. Visitors can look into the main court when no events or exams are taking place.

The chapel preserves a large window in the east gable showing scenes from biblical stories in colored glass, dating from the founding period. The glasswork is among the few surviving examples of its kind in Oxford and draws viewers with its bright colors.

Location: Oxford

Inception: 1610

Founders: Nicholas Wadham

Part of: University of Oxford

Website: http://wadham.ox.ac.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.75587,-1.25459

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:42