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Balliol College dates back to the University’s first century. Its founder fell foul of a Bishop and after a public beating was given a penance to fund the teaching of Latin to poor clergy. Back then all law was in Latin and worship too could only be conducted in the language of Rome.

Balliol College developed a formidable academic reputation in the 19th century when one of its masters spearheaded the liberal campaign to make admission to Oxford academically competitive. Its architecture dates from the 15th century to modern times.

Classic City and University Tour with Balliol College

A visit to Balliol College can be incorporporated into the Classic University and City Tour.

Balliol College usually allows visitors access to Hall, Chapel, the Master’s Garden and front and back Quads.

**Duration:** 1.5 hours

Discover the astonishing history and beauty of Oxford on a walking tour which explores iconic landmarks and tells the story of over Oxford’s 1000 years of tradition and innovation.

You will se sties which tell the tale of Oxford's Anglo Saxon beginnings, the ever changing University, patrons, town and gown and the lives of the scholars, scoundrels and literary giants who made Oxford home.

Stops include the Divinity School, Bodleian Library’s Old Schools ‘Quad’, Sir Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian theatre, the CS Lewis stop and University church and much more.

The highlights tour will leave you with a lasting memory of Oxford’s history, its role in the art, architecture, social upheavals and discoveries which have shaped the course of history.

This tour includes a visit inside one of Oxford's oldest colleges to see where students studied, worshipped, slept and dined and still do today..

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age to be included in your tour

180 (up to 4 participants)

Additional participants over 2: @ £10

Discussion in the pub (40 minutes): £60 (refreshment not included)

Discussion over a Cream Tea (40 minutes): £90 (refreshment not included)

Bodleian Library Tour (40 minutes): £80 (plus £10/person)

Just Balliol

Link to college enquiry form

"The tour was well thought out and Sophie was an engaging guide with a mine of interesting information, much of it new to me even as someone who's lived in Oxford for the past 30 years. Definitely recommended."

J Willams, Oxford

"Sophie offered us a tailor-made tour that perfectly met our expectations."

Steve, Munich, Germany

"Wonderful tour about Oxford, very knowledgeable guide. We enjoyed every minute of it."

"sophie is a congenial host with vast knowledge of the colleges and general oxford area. good communication and instruction for meet up. would highly recommend her tour".

Andrew, New York, USA

"Fascinating tour by a wonderful guide!"

Michael, USA

"Sophie is so knowledgeable! Oxford is a city of history, and she knows it so well. Her recommendation for our dinner after the tour was perfect! She also took care of me beforehand in suggesting other things to do before her tour. She’s the best. A pro’s pro!"

"my history tour with sophie was informative and entertaining. the horror was made funny and the ridiculous serious. i was surprised by how much i didn't know and went away with new insights into, not only the university's history and traditions, but the history of england generally. i also got some good ideas for the rest of my stay in oxford. thank you", "this tour was a lovely introduction to oxford university. as a recent transplant from the us, it was a great way to get my bearings of the area, visit a college, and learn about some fascinating local history. whether we were gazing at gargoyles or admiring beautiful stained glass, sophie was a true delight – very knowledgeable, thoughtful, and well-articulated. i highly recommend this experience", "fascinating, thoughtfully constructed tour of oxford university encompassing a thousand years of history. i've lived in oxford for thirty years, yet in this tour learned new and intriguing nuggets about the city, discovered hidden gems in ancient stone buildings that i've been strolling past all these years.".

Maria, Oxford, UK

"Sophie is a superb, experienced and enriching guide. We are a retired US professional couple. We've hired individual local guides throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and Sophie tops our list! She spent hours with us in advance, curating our day in Oxford, then filled our tour with history, architecture, art, education, culture…and fun. The day was perfectly paced and suited to our needs. It was a graduation day, so like the happy students, we too tossed our hats in celebration. Brava Sophie!"

K & A Krupsky, Chicago, USA

Virtual Tour of Oxford

This visually stunning resource uses interactive web pages which allow you to explore and manipulate 360 degree photographic panoramas of the city and university.

It is constructed from hundreds of high quality photographs of Oxford. Highlighted in the Sunday Times Jan 2004

The Oxford Eye an exhibition of large limited edition prints from the "Virtual Tour of Oxford". Exhibited at Blackwells Bookshop from Aug 2005 to May 2006. Previously at St Giles Church, for the Fair 2006 and 2007, and before that at the " space " gallery Aug-Sept 2004. Also seen in St. Giles Church during St Glies Fair Sept 2005. Highlighted in the Oxford Today, Oxford Times (twice), Oxford Mail, What's On in Oxford and the Oxford Star.

Latest News

New fullscreen mobile friendly design - July 2015

Work is in progress to move nearly 3000 panoramas into the new design currently # 1659 added).

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Balliol College Oxford

Ultimate guide to balliol college oxford.

F ounded in 1263, Balliol claims to be The University of Oxford’s most ancient college (though this claim is hotly disputed by both Merton and University Colleges). John de Balliol, the founder of the college, was a nobleman of French and Scottish origin. Following a territorial dispute with the powerful Bishop of Durham, de Balliol decided to fund a number of religious scholars through their studies. Following the death of de Balliol in 1268, his wife Dervorguillla ensured the permanence of the college by assigning funds, and in 1282 formulated the college statues.

Balliol has produced a number of important figures including:  

• three British Prime Ministers: Herbert Asquith, Harold Macmillan and Edward Heath
• nine Nobel laureates
• numerous literary and philosophical figures, from John Wycliffe to Adam Smith
• however its most popular ex-resident is is Rosa Luxembourg ( the tortoise ; not the Marxist)

£3 per adult, £1 concessions

Oldest College  

Getting Here By Tube

Oxford Train Station

Getting Here By Bus

High Street Bus Stop T3, T3, L3, L1, L2, T1, T2

Getting Here By Car

Broad Street Car Park, 52 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BS

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Balliol college

Unravelling the charms of balliol college.

Balliol College, a pivotal part of the University of Oxford, often referred to as ‘balliol oxford’, is a hub where extraordinary minds study under the tutelage of distinguished academics, who are experts in their respective fields. This article aims to provide an in-depth guide to one of the most respected colleges of Oxford, Balliol College should 100% be on your list to visit if your a tourist in oxford .

Our Oxford Walking Tours we do cover this college.

Balliol college History and Legacy

Established in 1263, Balliol College, often simply referred to as ‘balliol’, is one of the oldest colleges within Oxford University. It boasts a rich  ‘balliol college history’ , having cultivated some of the world’s brightest minds.

Academic Excellence

Balliol College, takes pride in its high academic standards and is famous for nurturing intellectual debate in a congenial atmosphere. Students from over 40 different countries converge to learn and exchange ideas through a series of interdisciplinary seminars and research projects.

Social Responsibility

often simply referred to as ‘balliol’, is not just about academic pursuits; it also underscores social responsibility. It has initiated a fund to provide secure homes for students escaping conflict and repression.

Insight Talks

For students who have a keen interest in science, Balliol College, organises a series of online talks. Booking for these insightful seminars is open for spring 2024.

Location and Infrastructure

Where is baliol college.

Centrally located on Broad Street, The college can be found directly opposite oxford magic walking tours often referred to as ‘balliol street’, Balliol College is in close proximity to laboratories, lecture theatres, libraries, and shops. The college provides accommodation’ to undergraduates throughout their courses, while also offering a wide range of maintenance and hardship grants, and special funds for research and travel.

College Facilities

Library and it services.

The Balliol College Library, known as Balliol Library, is extensive and houses significant collections of medieval and modern manuscripts, early printed books, and books written by former and current college members. It also features a specialized law library and comprehensive college archives.

Sport, Music, and College Facilities

Balliol boasts its own sports pavilion with football and cricket pitches, as well as tennis, squash and basketball courts. The college also provides a full-time year-round day nursery for the pre-school children of Balliol students and staff.

Balliol college Accommodation

Balliol College’s graduate housing, known as Balliol graduate accommodation, is located around the Graduate Centre at Holywell Manor, a ten-minute walk from the main college site. All rooms within the Graduate Centre are for single occupancy, with a variety of room sizes and furnishings available.

Dining Services

The College is renowned for its excellent kitchen, managed by its award-winning Executive Head Chef, Bertrand Faucheux. A buffet-style lunch and dinner seven days a week, and breakfast on weekdays, are served during term time. The dining hall here also resembles the harry potter hall in the films.  it is a lot smaller but does look very similar and it is not the hall used in the harry potter films 

Clubs and Societies

This College is home to a variety of clubs and societies, including a music society, dramatic society, and several subject-specific societies. These groups offer a wide range of activities, providing Balliol students with ample opportunities to engage in their interests outside of academia.

Welfare Provisions

For Balliol College, the welfare of its students is a top priority. The college has a range of welfare provisions, such as a College Nurse, a Welfare Officer, harassment officers, and junior deans who are on call throughout the night.

Entertainment

The Lindsay Bar, run by an elected member of the JCR, is one of the cheapest bars in Oxford, open every day except Sunday. Balliol College also organises 9 ‘Big Open Parties’ (Bops) a year, providing students with ample opportunities for socialising and entertainment.

Testimonials

Balliol College has received numerous accolades from students for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. One international student expressed, “Balliol is the best – the friendliness and welcoming nature here is unparalleled.” Another student highlighted the excellent location and amenities of Balliol, stating, “Choosing to apply to Balliol was an excellent decision! Its proximity to everything you need and the amazing bar are just a few of the perks.”

In conclusion, Balliol College is a must-visit spot on your Oxford Tours , offering an enriching blend of academic excellence, social responsibility, and vibrant student life. As you explore the college’s historic halls and lush gardens, you will surely be captivated by its unique charm and energy.

• The Graduate Centre at Balliol College offers single occupancy rooms of various sizes and furnishings.
• The college has excellent dining services, including buffet-style meals served during term time.
• There are various clubs and societies at Balliol College, providing students with opportunities for extracurricular activities.
• The college prioritizes student welfare and has provisions such as a College Nurse, Welfare Officer, harassment officers, and junior deans.
• The Lindsay Bar is a popular and affordable bar at Balliol College, and the college also organizes regular parties for socializing and entertainment.
• Balliol College has received positive testimonials from students regarding its friendly atmosphere, location, and amenities.
• Overall, Balliol College offers a unique blend of academic excellence, social responsibility, and vibrant student life.

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Are you ready for an unforgettable journey through Oxford gruesome past? Join us on a spine tingling journey as we walk through the city of Oxford as we explore and discover the darker side of this city. With a jump scare or two along the way

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Balliol College Chemistry Taster Day 2024

Bookings are open for our in person Chemistry Taster Day, which will take place at Balliol College in Oxford.

This event is designed for year 12 students who are currently studying both Chemistry and Maths A Levels or the equivalent, and who intend to apply to study Chemistry at Oxford. We will prioritise applications from disadvantaged students and from groups which are under-represented at the University.

This event will include academic sessions, a practical and a demonstration interview. You will have the opportunity to speak to tutors and current undergraduates. Please ensure that you can attend for the whole day before applying.

The deadline for applications is Friday 15 March 2024 and applicants will be advised if they have been successful or not by Friday 22 March.

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Balliol medic receives Legacy Award marking Diana Award’s 25 th Anniversary

Yusuf Ben-Tarifite (Balliol 2018 ), a final-year Oxford medical student, has been recognised with the highest accolade a young person can achieve for social action or humanitarian efforts: the Legacy Award, which Prince William presented to him at an award ceremony in London on 14 March 2024 .

The Legacy Award marks the 25 th Anniversary of the Diana Award, a charity set up in memory of Diana, The Late Princess of Wales, and her belief in the power of young people to change the world. The award has the support of both of Diana’s sons, HRH The Prince of Wales (Prince William) and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex. Yusuf is one of 20 recipients of the Legacy Award who were selected by an independent judging panel, chaired by Baroness Doreen Lawrence, from a pool of exceptional individuals already recognised for their impact on society with the Diana Award in 2022 or 2023 .

Yusuf won the Diana Award in 2023 for The Aspiring Medics , a platform which he founded to help students from diverse backgrounds pursue careers in medicine.

‘ I founded The Aspiring Medics a week before starting at Oxford University with a mission to make the medicine application process more accessible,’ he explains. ‘Coming from a state school with no doctors in my family, I’m very privileged to be able to study at Oxford University. Understanding the inspiration gap, skills gap and information gap that many students from similar backgrounds like me faced, I made it my mission to level the playing field. It all started off with £ 50 from left over pocket money and as a hardy group of friends from Hertfordshire and has since transformed into an award-winning social enterprise with 1 : 1 tutoring, online video courses and our AI Medicine Interview Platform – AVA . We have raised over £ 50 , 000 from grants and awards including from the Oxford University Saïd Business School, Santander Universities and the UK Government Young Innovator Award.’

AVA , he explains, is ‘your AI Virtual Assistant, the world’s first AI Medicine Interview Platform. Through the platform, aspiring medics can answer over 300 + medicine interview questions and receive personalised feedback in real time. This has the power to change the medicine application process and offer a truly scalable medical education tool. The feedback we have received so far has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s been fantastic to present it at the Oxford School of Emergency Medicine Conference 2024 and at the Barts x King’s Medtech Conference 2024 .’

The Diana Award allowed The Aspiring Medics to get its first partnership with an NHS trust. ‘Now we’re working with five NHS trusts, so it really does make an incredible difference,’ Yusuf says.

On receiving the Legacy Award, Yusuf said: ‘I am so privileged to have received this award and it was so incredible meeting both Prince William and Prince Harry in the same evening! It’s surreal to think an organisation that I founded a week before Freshers’ Week has now grown into a national organisation impacting thousands of students each year. Receiving the award is an incredible honour and this recognition enables us to further scale The Aspiring Medics to ultimately help more students from disadvantaged backgrounds get into medical school.’

Dr Tessy Ojo CBE , CEO of The Diana Award, says: ‘As we mark the start of our 25 th Anniversary year these young people couldn’t be a more fitting tribute and legacy to Diana, The Late Princess of Wales, and her belief that young people have the power to change the world. Their compassion, determination and agency to make positive change today and in the years ahead is immense.’

You can read Yusuf’s story here and watch him receiving the Legacy Award from Prince William in this YouTube video .

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