Bastion 20

Bastion 20 Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Oxford Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, United Kingdom, Bastion 20 is a remarkable survivor of the city’s medieval fortifications. This historical landmark, a Grade I listed structure, offers visitors a unique window into Oxford’s rich defensive heritage and its transformation into a world-renowned center of learning and culture. This comprehensive guide provides essential information for exploring Bastion 20, including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to experience Oxford’s authentic heritage, Bastion 20 is a site not to be missed (Oxford History; VisitBritain; Oxford Preservation Trust).

Historical Overview: The Evolution of Oxford’s City Walls

Oxford’s city walls have their origins in the early medieval period, with archaeological evidence suggesting defensive earthworks existed by the 10th century. These fortifications were constructed in response to repeated Viking threats, and by the 12th and 13th centuries, the walls were rebuilt in stone, enclosing approximately 115 acres (Oxford History). The walls featured a series of semi-circular bastions—of which Bastion 20 is a prime example—strategically positioned to defend the city at vulnerable points and provide overlapping fields of fire for defenders (Oxford Preservation Trust).

Bastion 20, located along Deadman’s Walk near Corpus Christi College and New College, is one of twelve surviving bastions, reflecting both the military ingenuity and the architectural ambitions of medieval Oxford (Oxford History). Over time, as Oxford expanded and the strategic importance of the walls waned, many sections were lost or incorporated into college buildings, making the survival of Bastion 20 particularly significant.

Architectural Features & Defensive Strategies

Bastion 20 exemplifies the transition from early medieval ramparts to the more sophisticated bastion systems of the Renaissance. Its semi-circular projection allowed defenders to cover adjacent stretches of wall with crossfire, eliminating blind spots and strengthening the city’s defenses (Military Saga). Constructed from local limestone, the bastion features thick, sloped walls designed to absorb and deflect cannon fire, and earthen embankments that further protected against artillery. These innovations reflect the influence of continental military engineering, especially from France and the Netherlands, where the “trace italienne” bastion style originated (Military Saga; TripXL).

Bastion 20: Location, Access, and Preservation

Bastion 20 is situated along Deadman’s Walk, between Corpus Christi College and the gardens of New College. This area is accessible via New College Lane or Holywell Street and is within easy walking distance of central Oxford landmarks such as the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera (Oxford Visit; Where Goes Rose). The bastion is legally protected as a Grade I listed monument, ensuring its preservation as an irreplaceable element of Oxford’s urban landscape (Oxford History).

Visiting Bastion 20: Hours, Tickets, and Practical Tips

Opening Hours

Public Pathways: Sections of Bastion 20 along Deadman’s Walk are open year-round during daylight hours and are free to access.
New College Gardens: Bastion 20 is best experienced as part of a visit to 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, so always check the New College website before your visit.

Tickets and Admission Fees

New College Entry: 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: The segment of Bastion 20 visible from Deadman’s Walk does not require a ticket.

Guided and Self-Guided Tours

Guided Tours: Offered regularly at New College, providing detailed historical context on Bastion 20 and the city walls. Several city walking tours also feature Bastion 20 as a highlight (VisitBritain).
Self-Guided Visits: Interpretive panels and printed guides are available at the entrance; virtual and augmented reality experiences may also be available (Military Saga).

Accessibility

Paths: Deadman’s Walk is mostly flat and accessible, but the gardens and bastion area within New College have some uneven surfaces and steps. Visitors with mobility needs should contact New College in advance for accessible routes and assistance options.

Photography

Opportunities: The contrast between ancient stonework and lush gardens makes Bastion 20 an excellent photography subject, especially in the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Personal-use photography is allowed; commercial photography requires permission.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Available for ticketed visitors within New College.
Cafés and Shops: Numerous options are nearby along Holywell Street and in the central city (Wanderlust Chloe).

Visitor Etiquette and Conservation

Bastion 20 is within a working college and a protected heritage site. Please respect college rules, avoid climbing on the structure, and do not disturb the gardens or wildlife. Support conservation efforts by following posted guidelines and considering a donation to New College or relevant heritage organizations (Robert Heslip Blog).

Nearby Oxford Historical Sites

While visiting Bastion 20, you can easily explore other landmarks within walking distance:

Radcliffe Camera: 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: Historic market with local food and gifts (Where Goes Rose).
Oxford Castle & Prison: Norman castle and former prison (Oxford Visit).

Events, Accessibility for Families and Groups, and Sustainability

Events: Bastion 20 and New College sometimes participate in city-wide heritage events such as Oxford Open Doors, offering special access or tours (The Oxford Magazine).
Families and Groups: The site is suitable for families and group tours, though supervision is recommended for children due to uneven historic surfaces. Advance booking is recommended for groups.
Sustainability: The gardens support local biodiversity and provide a green refuge in the city. Conservation is a priority for both New College and Oxford heritage organizations.

FAQ: Bastion 20 Visiting Information

Q: What are Bastion 20’s visiting hours?
A: For public access along Deadman’s Walk, daylight hours year-round. For New College gardens and the interior view, typically 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, with possible seasonal variations. Check the New College website for updates.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Around £8 for adults, with concessions for children, students, and seniors.

Q: Is Bastion 20 wheelchair accessible?
A: Deadman’s Walk is accessible; garden paths may be uneven—contact New College for specific arrangements.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes—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.

Visuals and Virtual Resources

High-quality images and interactive maps of Bastion 20 are available through New College and Oxford tourism websites. Virtual and augmented reality tours provide immersive experiences for remote visitors (Insider’s Oxford; Military Saga).

Summary and Traveler Tips

Bastion 20 encapsulates Oxford’s medieval defensive heritage and its evolution as a center of learning and culture. As one of the best-preserved elements of the city walls, it offers an accessible and educational visiting experience, especially when combined with a tour of New College. Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring Oxford’s layered historical landscape (Oxford History; VisitBritain; Military Saga; New College).

Travel tips: