Christ Church is located in the heart of the city centre and is one of Oxford University’s largest colleges. Many well-known people have been educated at the college including scientists, historians, politicians, sports people, lawyers and authors. Alice in Wonderland was written here by 19th Century mathematics Tutor Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) and the architecture, people and way of life at Christ Church have also inspired film-makers, making many of its buildings and interiors famous around the world. As well as featuring in the Harry Potter films, it was also used in The Golden Compass, X-Men: First Class and the TV detective series Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour.
Christ Church’s college chapel is also the Cathedral Church for the Diocese of Oxford. The Cathedral was built in the twelfth century and contains the shrine and tomb of St Frideswide, Oxford’s patron saint. The internationally renowned Cathedral Choir sing many of the daily services, and concerts and events are also held here. Check the Cathedral’s webpage for a list of daily services and upcoming events.
The Meadow is open throughout the year (except 25 December), offering a peaceful and beautiful space for everyone to enjoy. Stroll along the pathways and take in the views of the river, the buildings of Christ Church and Oxford’s famous skyline. Follow the Meadow Trail to find out about this historic space and the plants, flowers, and animals that make it so special.
Christ Church’s Shop is located in the Visitor Centre in Christ Church Meadow. Shop for exclusive Christ Church items, Alice In Wonderland-themed gifts, Harry Potter memorabilia and a multitude of products related to the University and the Cathedral.
Opening Times: Mon – Sat 09.30 – 17.00, Sun 10.30 – 17.00
To visit Christ Church, buy a ticket online or from our Visitor Centre. Book in advance to guarantee entry and receive a discounted price. Tickets are released on a weekly basis.
Visit at your own pace on a self-guided multimedia guide tour; as you walk through the College and Cathedral, discover what it is like to live and study here, enjoy listening to interviews with staff and students and watch exclusive behind-the-scenes videos of areas not open to the public.
If you are short on time or would like to explore Christ Church in more detail, book tickets online for a guided tour with one of their Custodians or Cathedral guides.
For a full list of ticket types and concessions visit the Christ Church website.
See the Christ Church website for information on group visits.
The Christ Church Picture Gallery closed for a period of renovation and extension of the Grade II listed building from 30 April 2026.
These essential works will create a world-class facility designed to preserve and enhance public and scholarly access to one of the world’s finest ‘small’ Old Master collections.
The redevelopment will retain the vision of the original architects, Powell and Moya, while bringing the building up to modern standards and ensuring this exceptional collection can be enjoyed by future generations. The new facility will offer better provision for researchers, students and the public, including improved disabled access and enhanced research facilities.
