Oxford Open Doors

The city was a hive of activity as thousands of residents and visitors explored nearly 150 sites across the city, all free of charge. Sunshine for much of the weekend set the perfect backdrop, and even the odd deluge could not dampen the excitement.

History came alive at Slade Camp, the former army training ground that became home to families displaced after World War II. Oxford Castleyard bustled with heritage skills, stone carving, classic cars, and a screen printing workshop.

Guided walks offered glimpses of Oxford’s hidden corners, from the geology of Holywell Cemetery to Love Lane, closed to the public for over a century. Transport and waterway heritage were also in the spotlight, the Oxford Bus Museum ran popular heritage bus tours, while the Canal & River Trust hosted a pop-up at Isis Lock. The Corpus Christi College Barge, once a rowing clubhouse, was also open to the public, with an exhibition of historic photographs.

We were thrilled by how many colleges and university buildings invited the public in this year, and we’re grateful for the support of the many community groups and local organisations that contributed by showcasing the work they do and their place in the city’s history. We hope that you enjoyed discovering Oxford Preservation Trust’s own sites, such as the Painted Room, Rewley Road Swing Bridge and North Hinksey Conduit House and, if you didn’t get the chance to visit, you can find out more about our work here.