Christ Church

Christ Church is a college and cathedral in Oxford, England, located along St Aldate's near the city centre. The grounds include several courtyards, gardens, a great dining hall, and the smallest cathedral in England.

Cardinal Wolsey founded Cardinal College in 1525, but after his fall King Henry VIII refounded the institution in 1546. The cathedral existed before the college was created and was integrated into the new structure.

The name derives from the cathedral that serves as the college chapel, giving the complex a dual function. Visitors often notice academic gowns worn during formal occasions and the close connection between church life and university.

Visitors can explore the grounds for an admission fee but should check opening times in advance as academic events may limit access. A walk through the courtyards and gardens typically takes about an hour.

The Tom Tower houses a bell called Great Tom that rings 101 times every evening at 9:05 PM. This time corresponds to the original Oxford time, which is five minutes behind Greenwich.

Location: Oxford

Inception: November 4, 1546

Founders: Henry VIII of England, Thomas Wolsey

Part of: University of Oxford

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

GPS coordinates: 51.75020,-1.25585

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00