New College - Image 1
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New College Oxford

4.6
·191 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore one of Oxford's oldest colleges, famed for its stunning Gothic architecture, historic cloisters, and iconic Harry Potter filming locations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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New College - Image 1

New College Oxford

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore one of Oxford's oldest colleges, famed for its stunning Gothic architecture, historic cloisters, and iconic Harry Potter filming locations.

4.6
(191 reviews)

"It is impossible not to be amazed by the beauty and history of New College."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Find the Tourist Entrance

Look for the separate tourist entrance on New College Lane for a welcoming experience. :arrow_right:

📸 'Malfoy Tree' Photo Spot

Head left after entering for the famous Harry Potter filming location. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Malfoy Tree'

The 'Malfoy Tree'

Near the entrance

The iconic tree from Harry Potter films, a must-see for fans and a beautiful spot year-round.

Reddit
Historic Cloisters

Historic Cloisters

Central courtyard

These stunning 15th-century cloisters offer a serene and architecturally impressive experience.

Instagram
The Great Hall

The Great Hall

Main college building

Said to be the oldest and tallest dining hall in Oxford/Cambridge, a truly awe-inspiring space.

Reddit
Chapel Wall

Chapel Wall

Adjacent to cloisters

An architectural marvel that will leave you speechless, even if photography inside is restricted.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Tourist Entrance

New College has a separate tourist entrance on New College Lane, distinct from the main student access. Arriving early can help avoid queues and ensure you see the famous 'Malfoy tree' before crowds gather. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Atmosphere

Consider visiting during term time for a glimpse of student life, or during off-peak hours to enjoy the peaceful grounds and cloisters. Rehearsals in the chapel can add a magical auditory experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on buildings
Crowd
Medium
When
During term time
Why
Experience student atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Not very rah is it now #oxford #oxforduni #newcollege #ox #formal #car #privateschool #whatcardoyoudrive
@tomtrigwell
129K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Find the Tourist Entrance

Look for the separate tourist entrance on New College Lane for a welcoming experience. Reddit :arrow_right:

📸 'Malfoy Tree' Photo Spot

Head left after entering for the famous Harry Potter filming location. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Posting only because I like this song 😌 Places in order shown: 1. Magdalen college 2. Balliol college dining room 3. All Souls library 4. Exeter college chapel 5. New college 6. All Souls college chapel 7. Duke Humfrey’s library 8. Punting on River Cherwell 9. Magdalen college 10. Duke Humfrey’s library #oxforduni #oxford #oxbridge #oxforduniversity #darkacademiaaesthetic
@bethinoxford
95.3K likes • 427.5K views
✨ Freshers have ARRIVED ✨ It’s been a busy day welcoming our wonderful new students to New College. Freshers week has officially begun 👉 #freshers2025 #freshersweek #Oxford #NewCollege
newcollegeoxford
245 likes • 5.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Cloisters

Wander through the beautiful 15th-century cloisters for a serene architectural experience. Instagram :walking:

🎶 Chapel Ambiance

Listen for organ rehearsals; they add a magical touch to the atmosphere. Reddit :musical_score:

• New College Oxford• A look at the famous cloisters of New College Oxford. They were constructed as part of the initial building phase of the college in 1400. The college chapel, whose west end backs on to the cloisters, was built at the same time. Photography within the chapel is not allowed, so I can’t share the interior with you. It’s one of the most stunning of all the college chapels. ...
churchoftheday
4.3K likes • 39K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Find the Tourist Entrance

Look for the separate tourist entrance on New College Lane for a welcoming experience. Reddit :arrow_right:

📸 'Malfoy Tree' Photo Spot

Head left after entering for the famous Harry Potter filming location. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Cloisters

Wander through the beautiful 15th-century cloisters for a serene architectural experience. Instagram :walking:

🎶 Chapel Ambiance

Listen for organ rehearsals; they add a magical touch to the atmosphere. Reddit :musical_score:

🍽️ Great Hall Visit

Admire the impressive Great Hall, but note photography is forbidden inside. Reddit :forkandknife:

💰 Reasonable Entry Fee

The entry fee is considered worth it for the expansive grounds and stunning architecture. Reddit :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(191 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise New College for its stunning architecture, particularly the cloisters and Great Hall, and its significant Harry Potter filming locations. The peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff are also frequently highlighted, making it a highly recommended visit despite a slightly higher entry fee than some other colleges. InstagramReddit

"First things first, New College has two huge doors. One is used by the professionals and the other is for tourists. The tourist entrance is a little harder to find but the staff there are especially friendly and welcoming. The college itself is stunning with the famous Draco Malfoy tree and beautiful cloisters that make every corner worth exploring. Honestly I could write an essay about how amazing this place is but I will stop here and simply say it is a must visit"

Burak Tokal

"Please make sure to check the official website for tourist entrance details.
The Harry Potter spot is just behind the left side after you go in.
Unfortunately, part of the lawn was covered with protective sheets for maintenance,
but I was still able to see the famous “Malfoy tree”!
Someone there was dressed up as Harry — I felt how popular the films still are.

This college is a little away from the city centre, so it was wonderfully peaceful.
We had a lovely, quiet walk around the grounds."

Saya

"Visited with my daughter and granddaughter to see the Harry Potter filming sites. What a beautiful building! I really enjoyed walking round and looking at it all. They were rehearsing on the pipe organ in the chapel ready for the evening carol service which added to the atmosphere.

Entry price was reasonable, staff were friendly. You can eat in the great hall (reasonable prices but we’d already eaten so can’t attest to the quality).

Well worth a visit and I will be coming back again,"

Michaela

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Harry Potter spots
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Photography restrictions
Slightly higher entry fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

New College is located on New College Lane, a short walk from the city center. You can reach it by bus or on foot from most central Oxford locations. The tourist entrance is specifically on New College Lane. Reddit

Yes, New College is centrally located and easily walkable from many other famous Oxford colleges like Magdalen and All Souls. It's a great addition to a walking tour of Oxford. TikTok

For a short visit, walking is ideal to soak in the atmosphere. If coming from further afield, consider a local bus service that stops near the city center, followed by a short walk. Reddit

On-street parking is very limited and expensive in Oxford city center. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a city car park and walk to New College. TikTok

Cycling is a popular way to get around Oxford. There are usually bike racks available, but it's advisable to secure your bike well. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees are typically around £8-£10, which is considered very reasonable for the experience. Check the official New College website for the most current pricing. Reddit

The dedicated tourist entrance is located on New College Lane. It's a separate entrance from the main student access. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally and can be affected by college events. It's essential to check the official New College website for the most up-to-date visitor hours before your visit. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and avoid potential disappointment. Reddit

Visitors can typically see the Great Hall and the exterior of the Chapel. Photography is usually prohibited inside the Great Hall and Chapel. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the famous 'Malfoy tree' from Harry Potter, the stunning 15th-century cloisters, the impressive Great Hall, and the chapel wall. The extensive grounds and city walls are also highlights. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! New College features the iconic 'Malfoy tree' and other spots that strongly evoke the Harry Potter films, making it a popular destination for fans. Reddit

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the grounds, cloisters, and key sights. If you plan to visit the Great Hall and enjoy the atmosphere, 2-3 hours would be ideal. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, the college grounds are well-signposted. You can also join general Oxford walking tours that often include New College. Reddit

Access to certain lawn areas may be restricted for maintenance or preservation. Always adhere to signage and staff instructions regarding where you can walk. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, visitors can often eat in the Great Hall at reasonable prices, though it's best to check availability and times as it's also a working dining hall for students. Reddit

The main dining option for visitors is the historic Great Hall. It offers a unique experience of dining in a medieval setting. Reddit

Oxford city center, a short walk away, offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. TikTok

Prices in the Great Hall are generally considered reasonable, offering good value for the unique dining experience. Reddit

Picnicking is generally not permitted within the main college grounds to preserve the lawns and historic setting. It's best to enjoy a picnic in one of Oxford's public parks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the grounds and cloisters, but it is strictly prohibited inside the Great Hall and the Chapel. Reddit

The cloisters, the 'Malfoy tree', the chapel wall exterior, and the expansive gardens offer fantastic photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically not permitted within college grounds due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check specific college policies. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the architecture and grounds. Reddit

Commercial photography or filming usually requires prior permission from the college. Personal photography for memories is generally fine. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

New College offers a magical experience for families, especially those with Harry Potter fans. The 'Malfoy tree' is a guaranteed hit, providing a fun photo opportunity and a connection to the beloved films. Reddit The expansive grounds allow children to explore and imagine themselves in a historical setting.

While some areas like the Great Hall and Chapel have photography restrictions, the cloisters and gardens offer plenty of visual interest. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as on-site food options might be limited to the Great Hall, which can be busy. Visiting during off-peak hours will make the experience more enjoyable for younger visitors. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

New College offers excellent value for its entry fee, which is often considered one of the best in Oxford for the experience provided. At around £8-£10, it's a worthwhile investment for exploring its vast grounds and stunning architecture. Reddit

To save money on food, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in a nearby public park before or after your visit, as dining options within the college are limited and can add up. Walking to New College from the city center is free and allows you to see more of Oxford's charming streets. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

New College is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of architectural beauty and atmospheric spots. The cloisters provide incredible symmetry and light play, especially during the golden hours. The 'Malfoy tree' is a unique subject, and the imposing chapel wall offers dramatic perspectives. InstagramReddit

Visit early in the morning to capture the best light and avoid crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots of the historic buildings and serene gardens. Be mindful of photography restrictions inside the Great Hall and Chapel, focusing your lens on the exterior beauty and the expansive grounds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into New College's History

Founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, Bishop of Winchester, New College is one of Oxford's oldest and most prestigious colleges. Its original purpose was to provide a steady stream of educated clergy for Winchester Cathedral. The college's architecture reflects its medieval origins, with the iconic cloisters and the imposing Great Hall being prime examples of Gothic design. Over centuries, it has evolved, admitting students from all disciplines and backgrounds, while retaining its strong sense of tradition. Instagram

The college's name, 'New College', was a deliberate choice to distinguish it from older foundations, though ironically, it is now one of Oxford's historic institutions. Its expansive grounds, including the beautiful gardens and sections of the old city walls, offer a unique blend of academic and natural beauty. The presence of the 'Malfoy tree' has added a modern layer of fame, drawing in fans of the Harry Potter films. Reddit

New College has been a cradle for many notable figures, including politicians, scientists, artists, and writers. This rich history is palpable as you walk through its quadrangles and corridors, offering a tangible connection to centuries of academic pursuit and collegiate life. TikTok

Experiencing New College as a Harry Potter Fan

For Harry Potter enthusiasts, New College is a pilgrimage site. The most famous spot is the 'Malfoy tree', a magnificent ancient tree located just inside the tourist entrance, which served as a backdrop for scenes in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The college's gothic architecture, particularly the cloisters, also strongly evokes the magical atmosphere of Hogwarts. Reddit

While photography is restricted inside the Great Hall and Chapel, the sheer grandeur of these spaces is a sight to behold. The imposing Chapel wall is particularly breathtaking and is often cited as a must-see. Walking through the college grounds, it's easy to imagine students in robes hurrying to classes or secret meetings, immersing yourself in the world of wizardry. Reddit

It's worth noting that the popularity of these filming locations means they can get crowded. Visiting early in the day or during less busy periods can enhance the experience, allowing for more contemplative moments and better photo opportunities. TikTok

The Architectural Splendor of New College

New College is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its construction beginning in the late 14th century. The cloisters, built around 1400, are a standout feature, offering a tranquil and visually stunning space for contemplation. Their intricate stonework and serene atmosphere are a testament to medieval craftsmanship. Instagram

The Great Hall is another architectural marvel, renowned for being one of the oldest and tallest dining halls in Oxford and Cambridge. Its vast scale and historical significance make it an awe-inspiring space. The college chapel, adjacent to the cloisters, also showcases impressive Gothic design, though interior photography is not permitted. Reddit

Beyond these central structures, the college boasts beautiful gardens and is partly enclosed by the original medieval city walls, offering panoramic views and a sense of historical depth. The blend of these elements creates a unique and captivating environment that appeals to architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Reddit

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