Oxford , UK — Alone with cameras in the oldest university town in Britain (Part 1)
10/7/2017
Matthew Arnold, a contemporary English poet once depicted Oxford as “the city of dreaming spires” after the beautiful architecture of the city.
When people think of Oxford, they think of the world famous university, I was no exception. Prior to my visit, my impression, or rather, imagination of the university town was a place where the university was a massive structure with a lot of pointy towers. And bridges over river with students competing on rowboats. I don’t think I am completely wrong but far from being accurate.
The night before, to get to know the place a little better, I turned to the internet.
Oxford, a university town, in which more than 20% of residents are full time students. Famous for its university and historical heritage. People settled here long before Oxford was an established town at 9th century, making Oxford full of historical architecture.
The university consist of more than 30 colleges, the most famous is Christ Church college, the largest of all.
Near the entrance of Christ Church, was a beautifully maintained garden, with the college in the back ground. Numerous of tourist were standing there taking photos and selfies alike. I didn’t take any pictures because someone was always blocking my view and I couldn’t get close (I am not exactly tall you see) But I guess you can find many pictures of the same view on the internet anyway.
It wasn’t opening time, so I went nearby and walked around to find a place for lunch. It seems that in Oxford, there were old buildings everywhere, made out of yellow-brown stones, similar to the ones in Bath, but a little bit muted when compared. It was quite a change from Hong Kong’s cold, modern buildings.
A short walk away from Christ Church College, was Cornmarket Street, with tourists, people performing, playing music. It was probably one of the more busy street in the area (?). I sat down on a bench, right in front of Starbucks, started munching away on my sandwich, and of course the chocolate chips bread and chocolate wafflers that Christine gave me. While two girls are sitting inside Starbucks drinking their fancy coffee while watching me eat.
Since I still had time before the opening of Christ Church College, I walked to the Christ Church Meadow, down to the River Thames. I saw people (probably university students?) sitting on the grass, playing games and running around. Must be nice to sit here and gather with friends…
Long motorised boats, as well as traditional rowboats were seen on the river, but no boat racing as I had imagine, it is held in April every year. That day was a cloudy overcast day, soft sunlight made things looked soft and calm.
It was probably the day when school broke up, students wearing academic dresses with bits of cake, confetti on them walking all over town. I heard Oxford students have school broke up earlier than other university students in the UK. I guess they have extra tough education so they deserve a longer break. (Too bad I didn’t take any pictures of them)
So after queuing I finally got inside the Christ Church College. There were plants clinging onto the walls, is it why they call prestigious universities ivy leagues? I wonder how can students study and learn in the college while there are so many visitors making a whole lot of noise.
Apart from its size, Christ Church College is also famous for its Cathedral. It is a college and a cathedral, which is unique in the world. The dining hall, is known for inspiring the dining hall of the Harry Potter films. Completed around 16th century, it has been used ever since. Members of the college can have three daily meals here, including a formal dinner which a gown is required (source).
At the far end, there were portraits of famous member of the college. In the centre, was Henry VIII (aka founder of the college, and the king who killed his own wives). Below him, was a bust of the Queen, Elizabeth II. And under the portraits, there was a table known as “High Table” and it is reserved for senior members of the college
It must be such a pleasure to dine here, in this spectacular dining hall! There are portraits of famous members of the colleges hung on wooden walls of the hall, and colourful stained glass window, combining the dimly lit dinner hall making the most wonderful atmosphere for dinning. (I imagine, never actually dined here of course)
There were a lot of visitors as you can see in above, I only got a few minutes before going outside. It’s a pity that I couldn’t stay for longer to admire the scene.
Right outside the dining hall, was the Tom Tower and Quad area, the most photographed area of the Christ Church College. It was a large square with a fountain in the middle of the lawn. It would be quite a nice common area for the students. Unfortunately we are not allowed to get onto the lawn.
To be continued… (Next entry)
