The Devil Sowing Tares painting by Abraham Bloemaert

Somerville College

Visiting Somerville College, Oxford, United Kingdom: Complete Guide to Tickets, Hours, and Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Somerville College, situated on Woodstock Road in Oxford, stands as a testament to academic excellence, inclusivity, and progressive values. Founded in 1879 as one of Oxford’s first women’s colleges, it was named after Mary Somerville, the Scottish mathematician and advocate for women’s education. Today, Somerville is renowned for its welcoming ethos, distinctive architecture, and vibrant student life, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Oxford’s historic landscape (Somerville College Official History; Oxford Summer Courses).

This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know for your visit, including history, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, and tips for exploring the campus and nearby Oxford attractions.

Portrait of William Somerville, British school

Portrait of Dame Emily Penrose, Principal of Royal Holloway College

Portrait painting of George Frederic Watts

Portrait of Madeline Shaw Lefevre, Principal of Somerville College from 1879 to 1889

Portrait of George Romney, 18th-century English painter

Portrait of Henry Griswold Lewis by John Constable

Portrait of Clara Pater, a woman with dark hair wearing a black dress with a lace collar

Portrait of Madeleine Shaw-Lefevre, principal of Somerville Hall Oxford, 1835-1914

Portrait of Madeleine Shaw-Lefevre, Principal of Somerville Hall, Oxford

Landscape with windblown trees painting by Paula Modersohn-Becker

Sommerville College Darbishire Quad with historic red brick buildings and lush green lawn under clear blue sky

Somerville College graduates in 1939 group photo

Welcome to Somerville College, Oxford
The History of Somerville College
Foundation and Principles
Social Impact and Alumni
Architectural Development
Planning Your Visit
Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility
Directions and Nearby Attractions
Campus Highlights and Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Recommendations
Sources

Welcome to Somerville College, Oxford

Somerville College is located just north of Oxford’s city centre, at the southern end of Woodstock Road. Its tranquil gardens, open quads, and blend of Victorian and modernist architecture set it apart from other colleges. Visitors are invited to walk on the grass—an uncommon privilege in Oxford—and enjoy a unique, inclusive atmosphere that reflects the college’s liberal traditions (Oxford Visit).

The History of Somerville College

Foundation and Principles

Founded in 1879 as Somerville Hall, the college was established by social reformers determined to provide women with access to higher education. Unlike other colleges of the time, Somerville was non-denominational, explicitly welcoming students regardless of religious background. Early lectures took place above a bakery, but the college soon expanded to its current site, with Walton House as its first residence (Somerville College Official History; First Women at Oxford).

Somerville played a pivotal role in the campaign for women’s degrees at Oxford. When women were finally allowed to graduate in 1920, Principal Emily Penrose ensured over 300 Somervillians received degrees, affirming the college’s commitment to equality (A Brief History of Somerville).

The college’s alumni exemplify its influence:

Margaret Thatcher and Indira Gandhi (former UK and Indian Prime Ministers)
Dorothy Hodgkin (Nobel Prize-winning chemist)
Vera Brittain and Susan Cooper (writers)
Shirley Williams and Eleanor Rathbone (politicians and social reformers) (Eminent Somervillians; Wikipedia Somerville Alumni)

Somerville’s advocacy for social change continues today. The college became co-educational in 1994 and is recognized as a “College of Sanctuary,” supporting refugees and fostering diversity (Somerville College).

Architectural Development

Somerville’s campus features five Grade II-listed Victorian buildings alongside modernist and contemporary additions. Highlights include:

Wolfson Building: A modernist icon with projecting oak-clad bays (Arquitectura Viva; Níall McLaughlin Architects)
Student Accommodation: Designed by Níall McLaughlin Architects, these sustainable blocks blend tradition and innovation (ArchDaily)
Ratan Tata Building: Opening in 2026, this new development will provide state-of-the-art academic and communal spaces (Oxford Mail)

The gardens and open spaces provide a peaceful retreat and are a defining feature of the college (Somerville College News).

Planning Your Visit

Hours and Ticket Information

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Sundays and public holidays). Hours may vary during term time and special events; always check the official website before visiting.
Admission: Entry to the grounds is free. Donations are welcomed to support college upkeep.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment. Tours cost £8 (adults), £5 (concessions), and are free for children under 12. Family packages are offered. Book online in advance, especially during peak times.

Accessibility

Somerville strives for inclusivity:

Main entrance and most public areas are wheelchair accessible.
Accessible toilets and step-free routes are provided.
Contact the college prior to your visit for specific accessibility needs (Somerville College Accessibility).

Directions and Nearby Attractions

Location: Somerville College, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6HD.
Getting There: 10-minute walk from Oxford city centre and train station; accessible by bus, bike, or on foot.
Parking: Limited in central Oxford; public transport and park-and-ride are recommended.
Nearby Sites: Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, Jericho district (Oxford University; Oxford Travel Guide)

Campus Highlights and Events

Gardens and Quads: Enjoy the rare privilege of walking on the grass and relaxing in beautifully maintained open spaces.
Library: Home to over 120,000 volumes, with a notable first edition of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species.
Chapel: Non-denominational, open for reflection and concerts.
Wolfson Building & Modern Accommodation: Explore award-winning architecture and sustainable design.
Events: Attend lectures, art exhibitions, and community outreach activities. The Triennial Ball and “Open Doors” event in September offer special access (Somerville College Events; My Lifelong Holiday).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Somerville College’s visiting hours?
A: Typically Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed on Sundays and public holidays. Confirm on the official website before visiting.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment. Book in advance.

Q: Is the college accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
A: Most areas are accessible; contact the college for specific assistance.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Outdoor photography is allowed. Indoor photography may be restricted.

Q: Are there accommodations for tourists?
A: Overnight stays are generally not available to tourists, but alumni and prospective students may arrange stays during special events (Somerville Accommodation).

Summary and Final Recommendations

Somerville College is a distinguished Oxford landmark, notable for its pioneering role in women’s education, commitment to inclusivity, and striking blend of Victorian and modern architecture. Its gardens, open quads, and warm community spirit make it an inspiring destination for visitors. Plan ahead by confirming opening hours, booking tours, and exploring nearby Oxford attractions. Enhance your experience with virtual tours or the Audiala app, and follow Somerville College on social media for updates.

For full visitor details, events, and accessibility information, visit the official Somerville College website.