Explore Christopher Wren’s first great masterpiece and discover the best views of Oxford’s skyline.

Built between 1664 and 1669, the Sheldonian is one of the first great masterpieces by Sir Christopher Wren - designed to host the University of Oxford's ceremonial occasions such as Matriculation and Graduation. Among the gifted men and women who have received their degrees here throughout its history are 31 British Prime Ministers, at least 30 international leaders, 55 Nobel Prize winners, and 120 Olympic medal winners. Its global reputation as an outstanding performance and event space, both acoustically and visually, makes it one of Oxford’s iconic highlights. 

Explore the stunning auditorium, engage with our guides and sign up for a special lunchtime concert. 

You’ll also be able to climb all the way up to the Old Printing Loft to see the inner workings of the building’s unique architectural wooden beam structure and even further to the Cupola for astonishing views across the city.

Timetable:

• 10:30 - Doors open to the whole building
• 13:00 - Auditorium closes for lunchtime concert, the Cupola remains open
• 13:30 - 14:15: Lunchtime Concert by the Pavlova Quintet - pre-booking required
• 14:30 - Doors re-open to the whole building
• 15:30 - Informal concert from the vOx Chamber Choir
• 16:00 - Last entry
• 16:30 - Doors close

Please note: depending on the volume of visitors you may be asked to queue for entry.

Pre-booking is only required for the lunchtime concert. Tickets are available via the link below and must be obtained to enable entry. Arrival from 13:00 is recommended.

How to book for the lunchtime concert:

Book a free ticket for Pavlova Wind Quintet's performance here: https://tickets.ox.ac.uk/webstore/shop/viewItems.aspx?cg=shl&c=OOD

• Disabled access: the Auditorium is accessible via a separate accessible door on request. An accessible toilet is available on the ground floor. The Old Printing Loft and Cupola is only accessible via 114 steps.
• Various children's activity sheets available