Bastion 20: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Oxford Historical Sites
What Bastion 20 is
In the heart of Oxford, United Kingdom, Bastion 20 is a surviving part of the city’s medieval fortifications and a Grade I listed structure. It offers a view of Oxford’s defensive heritage and the city’s transformation into a centre of learning and culture. It is one of the best-preserved elements of the city walls and an educational site, especially when visited alongside New College (Oxford History; VisitBritain; Oxford Preservation Trust).
Bastion 20 stands along Deadman’s Walk, between Corpus Christi College and the gardens of New College. The area can be reached via New College Lane or Holywell Street and is within walking distance of the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera (Oxford Visit; Where Goes Rose). The monument’s Grade I listing protects it as part of Oxford’s urban landscape (Oxford History).
History
Archaeological evidence suggests Oxford had defensive earthworks by the 10th century. They were built in response to repeated Viking threats. During the 12th and 13th centuries, the walls were rebuilt in stone and enclosed approximately 115 acres (Oxford History).
The walls included a series of semi-circular bastions, positioned at vulnerable points to defend the city and provide overlapping fields of fire (Oxford Preservation Trust). Bastion 20 is one of twelve surviving bastions. As Oxford expanded and the walls lost strategic importance, many sections disappeared or were incorporated into college buildings (Oxford History).
The bastion’s semi-circular projection allowed defenders to cover adjacent stretches of wall with crossfire and reduce blind spots. Built from local limestone, it has thick, sloped walls designed to absorb and deflect cannon fire, as well as earthen embankments intended to protect against artillery. Its design reflects the influence of continental military engineering, including the “trace italienne” bastion style associated with France and the Netherlands (Military Saga; TripXL).
What to see
From Deadman’s Walk, visitors can see the section of Bastion 20 along the historic city wall. The gardens and bastion area within New College offer another way to experience the site. Interpretive panels and printed guides are available at the entrance. Virtual and augmented reality experiences may also be available (Military Saga).
The contrast between the old stonework and the gardens provides photography opportunities, particularly at sunrise or sunset. High-quality images and interactive maps are available through New College and Oxford tourism websites. Virtual and augmented reality tours also offer experiences for remote visitors (Insider’s Oxford; Military Saga).
Practical visiting information
Opening hours and tickets
- Deadman’s Walk The public pathways along the bastion are open year-round during daylight hours and are free to access.
- New College The college is generally open from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, with last admission at 4:45 pm. Hours may vary during university term time, exams, or special events. Check the New College website before visiting.
- New College admission Adult tickets are approximately £8, with concessions for children, students, and seniors. Admission includes access to the cloisters, chapel, gardens, and Bastion 20.
- Public access No ticket is required to see the section of Bastion 20 visible from Deadman’s Walk.
Tours
New College regularly offers guided tours with historical context on Bastion 20 and the city walls. Several city walking tours also feature the bastion (VisitBritain).
Facilities
Restrooms are available for ticketed visitors within New College. Cafés and shops can be found nearby along Holywell Street and in the central city (Wanderlust Chloe).
Tips, access, and conservation
Deadman’s Walk is mostly flat and accessible, while the gardens and bastion area within New College have some uneven surfaces and steps. Visitors with mobility needs should contact New College in advance about accessible routes and assistance. The site is suitable for families and groups, but supervision is recommended for children on uneven historic surfaces. Advance booking is recommended for groups.
Personal-use photography is allowed; commercial photography requires permission. Wear comfortable shoes for gravel and uneven paths, and consider joining a guided tour for more historical context.
Bastion 20 is part of a working college and a protected heritage site. Respect college rules, do not climb on the structure, and avoid disturbing the gardens or wildlife. The gardens support local biodiversity and provide a green refuge in the city. Conservation is a priority for New College and Oxford heritage organizations; visitors can consider donating to New College or relevant heritage organizations (Robert Heslip Blog).
Bastion 20 and New College sometimes participate in city-wide heritage events such as Oxford Open Doors, which may offer special access or tours (The Oxford Magazine).
Check visiting times and ticket prices in advance, explore nearby attractions, and download the Audiala app for self-guided audio tours and updates.
Nearby Oxford historical sites
Other landmarks within walking distance include:
- Radcliffe Camera An iconic library building (Oxford Summer Program).
- Bodleian Library Among Europe’s oldest libraries.
- University Church of St Mary the Virgin Offers panoramic city views (Wanderlust Chloe).
- Oxford Covered Market A historic market with local food and gifts (Where Goes Rose).
- Oxford Castle & Prison A Norman castle and former prison (Oxford Visit).
Further information
- Oxford History: Oxford Medieval City Walls and Bastion 20
- Oxford Preservation Trust: City Wall Leaflet
- Military Saga: Bastion Forts in Europe
- VisitBritain: Oxford Historical Attractions
- Insider’s Oxford: Things to Do in Oxford
- New College Oxford: Visiting Information
- Oxford Visit: Oxford City Walls and Bastion 20
- Lonely Planet: Top Things to Do in Oxford
- Where Goes Rose: Oxford Day Trip Guide
- Robert Heslip Blog: Urban Landscape and Heritage Conservation
- TripXL: Bastion Forts in the World
- The Oxford Magazine: Annual Events in Oxford
- Oxford Summer Program: Radcliffe Camera
- Wanderlust Chloe: Day Trip to Oxford
For the latest updates, ticketing information, and guided tours, visit the New College official website and the Oxford tourism portal.
FAQ: Bastion 20 visiting information
Q: What are Bastion 20’s visiting hours?
A: Public access along Deadman’s Walk is available during daylight hours year-round. New College gardens and the interior view are typically available from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, with possible seasonal variations and last admission at 4:45 pm. Check the New College website for updates.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adult tickets are approximately £8, with concessions for children, students, and seniors. The section visible from Deadman’s Walk is free to access.
Q: Is Bastion 20 wheelchair accessible?
A: Deadman’s Walk is mostly flat and accessible, but garden paths may be uneven and there are steps. Contact New College about specific arrangements.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes. Tours are offered through New College and city walking tour operators.
Q: Can I take photos at Bastion 20?
A: Yes, for personal use. Commercial photography requires permission.
