Tom Tower
Iconic Gothic tower by Christopher Wren, home to the Great Tom bell and a Hogwarts backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the Great Tom bell chime.
Tom Tower
Best Time
Witness the Great Tom bell chime.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Gothic tower by Christopher Wren, home to the Great Tom bell and a Hogwarts backdrop.
"A striking Oxford landmark, its chimes mark time for the city, and the design by Christopher Wren is classic."
🎟️ Book tickets online
Entry often requires advance booking. Don't miss out on seeing the interior!
🔔 Catch the 9:05 PM chime
The Great Tom bell rings 101 times nightly. A must-see Oxford tradition!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Tom Bell
Hear the historic bell chime 101 times nightly, a tradition marking student curfews.
Christopher Wren's Design
Admire the architectural genius of Sir Christopher Wren in this iconic Gothic-style tower.
Harry Potter Connection
Spot the tower that served as a backdrop for iconic Hogwarts scenes in the Harry Potter films.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Understand the Chimes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book tickets online
Entry often requires advance booking. Don't miss out on seeing the interior!
🔔 Catch the 9:05 PM chime
The Great Tom bell rings 101 times nightly. A must-see Oxford tradition!
📸 Perfect photo spot
Great views from outside, especially with Christ Church College.
🚶♂️ Explore the college
Combine your visit with a tour of Christ Church College for a fuller experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book tickets online
Entry often requires advance booking. Don't miss out on seeing the interior!
🔔 Catch the 9:05 PM chime
The Great Tom bell rings 101 times nightly. A must-see Oxford tradition!
📸 Perfect photo spot
Great views from outside, especially with Christ Church College.
🚶♂️ Explore the college
Combine your visit with a tour of Christ Church College for a fuller experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tom Tower is a striking Oxford landmark, praised for its impressive Gothic architecture designed by Christopher Wren and its iconic Great Tom bell. Visitors appreciate its historical significance and its connection to the Harry Potter films. However, some find frustration if they arrive without pre-booked tickets for interior access.
"Ornamented tower designed by Christopher Wren and completed in the 17th century, housing the Great Tom bell and serving as a gateway to Christ Church College.
Tom Tower is located centrally within Oxford so is easy to find, and will surely impress visitors with its impressive presence and architectural detail. Tours around the college are available for a fee, I was happy to admire it from outside while passing by."
Andrew Thomas
"Tom's Tower in the central garden is one of the tourist attractions you can't miss. If you come here at noon when the sun is shining, you can enjoy a beautiful view. The students of the college will sit on the grass and enjoy the sunshine."
Zen Cheung
"Tom Tower is a striking Oxford landmark. Its chimes mark time for the city, and the design by Christopher Wren is classic. A quick stop for history and photos while exploring the area."
heath satterfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tom Tower is centrally located at Christ Church College, on St Aldates street, making it easily accessible on foot within Oxford. It's a prominent landmark, so you can't miss it!
Yes, Tom Tower is part of Christ Church College, which is a major attraction itself. It's also within walking distance of other key Oxford sights like the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Square.
Oxford city center is very walkable, and Tom Tower is in the heart of it. If coming from further afield, local buses are frequent and stop nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can admire Tom Tower from the outside for free, access to the interior and college grounds typically requires purchasing tickets in advance online.
Tickets for Christ Church College, which includes access to areas around Tom Tower, are usually available for purchase on the official Christ Church website. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
Opening hours vary seasonally and are tied to Christ Church College's visiting hours. It's best to check the official Christ Church website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, there is typically an admission fee for visiting Christ Church College and its grounds, which includes viewing Tom Tower. Check the college's website for current pricing.
Often, viewing Tom Tower is part of a broader visit to Christ Church College. While you can see it from the outside, interior access or a closer look usually involves college entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Great Tom bell is famous for tolling 101 times every evening at 9:05 PM. Historically, this signaled the closing of the college gates for students.
Yes, Tom Tower is recognized for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, serving as a visual element for Hogwarts.
Tom Tower is a striking example of Gothic architecture, designed by the renowned Sir Christopher Wren.
Information on climbing Tom Tower is limited, but access to the college grounds and viewing the tower from various angles is common. Check with Christ Church for specific access details.
While direct climbing access might be restricted, the tower itself offers impressive views of Christ Church College and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing Tom Tower. The evening chime also provides a unique photo opportunity.
General photography from public areas is usually permitted. However, specific rules may apply within Christ Church College grounds, so be mindful of signage.
Try capturing the tower from St Aldates street, or from within Tom Quad for a more immersive college perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1📚 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Design of Tom Tower
Originally, the site had a medieval gatehouse, but Wren's design reimagined it into the grand structure seen today. The tower's octagonal lantern and facetted ogee dome are distinctive features. Its construction was part of a larger effort to enhance the college's grandeur, reflecting the architectural trends of the late 17th century.
The tower's historical significance is deeply intertwined with the life of Christ Church. The nightly tolling of the Great Tom bell is a tradition that has persisted for centuries, serving as a reminder of the college's enduring legacy and its place within the academic fabric of Oxford.
The Great Tom Bell and its Rituals
This nightly ceremony is a significant part of the Oxford experience for many visitors and students alike. The resonant sound of the bell echoing through the city is a powerful reminder of the university's long history and traditions. It's a moment that connects the present with centuries of academic life.
The precise timing of the chime is also noteworthy. The slight delay from 9:00 PM is attributed to the bell needing to be re-hung shortly after its installation due to a crack. This historical quirk has become an ingrained part of the bell's identity and the nightly ritual.
Tom Tower's Cinematic Fame
This cinematic connection has made Tom Tower a must-see for many visitors, particularly those who are fans of the magical world. The sight of the tower can evoke memories of iconic scenes, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the visit. It's a prime example of how historical landmarks can be immortalized in popular culture.
The visual impact of the tower in the films has undoubtedly contributed to its popularity as a tourist destination. It offers a tangible link to the beloved movie franchise, making a visit to Oxford feel even more special for fans.
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