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Clarendon Building Oxford

4.5
·82 reviews·, United Kingdom

An iconic English Baroque building on Broad Street, part of Oxford's historic university landscape. Admire its grand facade.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Clarendon Building - Image 1

Clarendon Building Oxford

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic English Baroque building on Broad Street, part of Oxford's historic university landscape. Admire its grand facade.

4.5
(82 reviews)

"A call example of one of the university's admonished building. The Clarendon Building is beautiful and imposing."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Clarendon Building is a photographer's dream. Capture its grand facade and intricate details, especially with the Sheldonian Theatre nearby.

🚶‍♀️ Join a Walking Tour

For interior access and historical context, guided walking tours are highly recommended.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clarendon Building Facade

Clarendon Building Facade

Broad Street

An iconic, arch-shaped building that's a quintessential Oxford landmark. Admire its imposing architecture from the outside.

Instagram+1
Proximity to Bodleian Library

Proximity to Bodleian Library

Adjacent to Bodleian Library

Located right next to the famous Bodleian Library, making it a key part of the historic university quad.

Instagram+1
Sheldonian Theatre Views

Sheldonian Theatre Views

Broad Street

Often viewed alongside the Sheldonian Theatre, these buildings form a striking architectural ensemble on Broad Street.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Tours

While you can admire the Clarendon Building from the outside, many visitors want to explore its historic interiors. Guided walking tours often include access and insights, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot and learn from local guides. Instagram

Accessibility Considerations

The Clarendon Building, while architecturally stunning, has limited accessibility. Travelers note that upper floors can be difficult to access and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿#becas de la Universidad de Oxford? 🤔🇬🇧 Claro que si!!! Te dejo mas información 👇🏻 1. Becas Clarendon para estudios de posgrado: https://www-ox-ac-uk.translate.goog/clarendon?_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=es&_x_tr_hl=es&_x_tr_pto=tc 2. Becas Rhodes para estudios de posgrado: https://www-rhodeshouse-ox-ac-uk.translate.goog/scholarships/the-rhodes-scholarship/?_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=es&_x_tr_hl=es&_x_tr_pto=t...
@comunidaddelintercambio
8.1K likes • 74.2K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Clarendon Building is a photographer's dream. Capture its grand facade and intricate details, especially with the Sheldonian Theatre nearby. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Join a Walking Tour

For interior access and historical context, guided walking tours are highly recommended. Instagram+1

✅ Estudia TODO PAGADO en Reino Unido 🇬🇧 #becas #becasparaestudiar #becaseneuropa #estudiarenuk #estudiarenreinounido #becasenelextranjero #becasenelmundo #estudiarenelexterior
@minervacherto
1.2K likes • 28K views
| a slow morning in oxford • walking to the library | 📍merton street, oxford, uk 📍christ church meadows 📍the view from the duke humfrey’s library, looking over at the clarendon building 📍hertford college . . . . . #studyatoxford #mertonstreet #bodleianlibrary #hertfordcollege #lightacademia #goldenarchitecture #oxford_uk #oxfordstory #ox_foto #igersoxford #discoveroxford #goingToOxford #expe...
postcardsofoxford
305 likes • 5.5K views

📱 Limited Mobile Signal

Be aware that mobile phone reception can be poor in parts of Oxford, including around the university buildings. Reddit

🚫 Check Opening Times

The building is not always open to the public. Check in advance, as it's primarily an administrative building. Reddit

Oxford Broad Street — and the fronts of the Clarendon Building, Sheldonian Theatre, Exeter, Balliol & Trinity Colleges —in a bit of sunshine #oxford #oxforduniversity #walk #view #streetphotography #photography #city #college #university #student #phd #travel #uk @exetercollegeox @balliolcollege1263_oxford @trinitycollegeox @oxford_uni
cambridgeunigram
9 likes • 456 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Clarendon Building is a photographer's dream. Capture its grand facade and intricate details, especially with the Sheldonian Theatre nearby. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Join a Walking Tour

For interior access and historical context, guided walking tours are highly recommended. Instagram+1

📱 Limited Mobile Signal

Be aware that mobile phone reception can be poor in parts of Oxford, including around the university buildings. Reddit

🚫 Check Opening Times

The building is not always open to the public. Check in advance, as it's primarily an administrative building. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(82 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Clarendon Building is admired for its beautiful and imposing architecture, a quintessential Oxford landmark. While its exterior is a highlight, visitors note that interior access is limited as it's primarily an administrative building. Some reviewers also point out accessibility challenges and temperature inconsistencies within the building.

"A call example of one of the university's admonished building. The Clarendon Building is beautiful and imposing as it stands on its raised stone platform with the Sheldonian Theatre and Bodlian Library, but no longer very practical!"

Ian White

"Nice looking architecture but the bulding was closed due to Covid19 so couldnt explore inside."

Ahad

"Beautiful, iconically-Oxford, arch-shaped building, but be aware that access for the disabled is pretty-much nonexistent. Upper floors are too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter.

This building is mostly not-accessible to the public, but those who attend interviews at the Bodleian Libraries will almost certainly visit as their HR department is found here."

Dan Q

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Iconic Oxford landmark
Historic facade

What People Dislike

Limited public access
Accessibility issues
Temperature control

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Clarendon Building is located on Broad Street in the heart of Oxford, making it easily accessible on foot. It's a short walk from Oxford's main train station and bus services. Many visitors arrive via train from London, which takes about an hour. Instagram

On-street parking is very limited and expensive in central Oxford. It's best to use public transport or park in one of the city's Park & Ride facilities and take a bus into the city center. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore Broad Street and the surrounding university colleges. Consider joining a guided walking tour for in-depth historical insights. Instagram

Yes, the Clarendon Building is very well-served by local bus routes that stop near Broad Street. It's also a pleasant walk from the main Oxford train station. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Clarendon Building is primarily an administrative building for the University of Oxford, and general public access to its interior is limited. You can admire its exterior freely. Reddit

As it's an administrative building, there are no set public opening hours. Access is typically restricted to university staff and those with appointments, such as for interviews at the Bodleian Libraries. Reddit

Public access inside the Clarendon Building is generally not permitted, as it houses university offices. However, some guided walking tours may offer limited access or views. Reddit

Yes, many Oxford walking tours pass by or include the Clarendon Building as part of their route, offering historical context and exterior views. Instagram+1

There is no entrance fee to view the exterior of the Clarendon Building. If a tour offers interior access, the fee would be part of the tour package. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from Broad Street, offering views of the building's facade alongside the Sheldonian Theatre. The quad area also provides good angles. Instagram+2

Photography inside the Clarendon Building is generally not permitted as it is an administrative office space. Focus on capturing its impressive exterior architecture. Reddit

Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. Golden hour light in the late afternoon can also create beautiful, dramatic lighting on the building's stone. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in central Oxford and around university buildings due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local bylaws before flying. Instagram

The Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Sheldonian Theatre are all immediately adjacent and make for excellent photographic subjects alongside the Clarendon Building. Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

The Clarendon Building is a prime example of English Baroque architecture, designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor and completed in 1715. It features a grand, imposing facade with classical elements. Instagram+1

It was originally built to house the Oxford University Press and later served as the university's chemistry laboratory. Today, it houses administrative offices. Reddit

The building is named after Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon, a prominent statesman and historian whose papers were bequeathed to the university. Reddit

It's a historically significant building that played a role in the university's academic and administrative functions for centuries, contributing to the iconic Oxford skyline. Instagram+1

Yes, the Clarendon Building is still an active part of the University of Oxford, primarily used for administrative purposes, including the HR department. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Clarendon Building is a visually impressive landmark that can spark children's imagination about history and grand architecture. While you can't explore the inside, the exterior on Broad Street offers plenty to see. Point out the arches and the sheer scale of the building. It's a great spot for a family photo with a historic backdrop. Instagram+1

Combine your visit with a walk to nearby attractions like the Bodleian Library or Christ Church Meadow. Keep in mind that mobile phone reception can be spotty in the area, so ensure you have offline maps or a plan for communication. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Clarendon Building, with its striking Baroque architecture, is a prime subject for photographers. Capture its grand facade from Broad Street, ideally during the 'golden hour' for dramatic lighting. The building's proximity to the Sheldonian Theatre and Bodleian Library offers opportunities for stunning architectural compositions. Instagram+2

Consider joining a photography-focused walking tour of Oxford to discover the best angles and learn about the historical context of these iconic structures. Be mindful of potential crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, and check for any temporary restrictions on drone usage in the area. Instagram

🎓 Students and Academics

For those connected to Oxford University, the Clarendon Building holds significance as an administrative center, housing departments like HR. If you have an interview or appointment, you'll likely pass through its halls. Even if not entering, its presence is a constant reminder of the university's rich history and academic environment. Reddit

Many students and academics appreciate the building's architectural beauty as part of their daily campus experience. It's a landmark that contributes to the unique atmosphere of studying in Oxford. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance and History

The Clarendon Building stands as a magnificent example of English Baroque architecture, designed by the renowned architect Nicholas Hawksmoor and completed in 1715. Its imposing stone facade, characterized by grand arches and classical detailing, makes it a striking presence on Broad Street. Originally constructed to house the Oxford University Press, it later served as a chemistry laboratory before transitioning to its current role as an administrative hub for the university. The building's name honors Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon, a significant figure whose historical papers were gifted to Oxford. InstagramReddit+1

Its placement is strategic, forming part of a historic architectural ensemble with the Sheldonian Theatre and the Bodleian Library. This grouping creates a visually stunning and historically rich environment that is central to the Oxford experience. While its exterior is a major draw for visitors, the interior is largely dedicated to university offices, meaning public access is limited. InstagramReddit+1

Despite its historical importance, modern visitors should be aware of its limitations. Reviews mention that accessibility for disabled visitors is minimal, and the building's temperature control can be inconsistent, being too hot in summer and too cold in winter. This means that while it's a must-see landmark, the experience of exploring its interior is not always practical or comfortable for everyone. Reddit

Experiencing the Clarendon Building Today

For most visitors, the primary experience of the Clarendon Building involves admiring its impressive exterior architecture from Broad Street. It's a key component of the iconic Oxford skyline, often photographed alongside the adjacent Sheldonian Theatre and Bodleian Library. Many visitors find joy in simply walking past and appreciating the historical grandeur. Instagram+2

To gain deeper insights into the building's history and its role within the university, guided walking tours are highly recommended. These tours often include the Clarendon Building as a stop, providing context that goes beyond what's visible from the street. Some tours might even offer glimpses of the interior or specific courtyards. Instagram+1

It's important to manage expectations regarding interior access. The Clarendon Building primarily functions as an administrative center, housing offices such as Human Resources. Therefore, spontaneous visits inside are unlikely. Travelers who have studied or interviewed at Oxford may have had occasion to enter, but for the general tourist, the focus remains on its external beauty and historical significance as part of the broader university landscape. Reddit

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