Exeter College

It was originally founded in 1314 by the Bishop of Exeter to educate clergymen and it was traditionally the college favoured by gentlemen from Devon; however, nowadays its student body has a much more diverse background.

Former students of Exeter College include writers JRR Tolkien and Martin Amis; actor Richard Burton; Roger Bannister, the first person to run the four-minute mile; Liaquat Ali Khan, the first prime minister of Pakistan; former president of Ghana John Kufuor, and former president of Peru Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.

The film, The Golden Compass, was filmed at Exeter College, as was the final episode of Inspector Morse.

What to see at Exeter College

There is quite a bit to see at Exeter College with an interesting mix of buildings spanning over 700 years.

The Front Quadrangle features a 19th-century chapel that was inspired by Sainte-Chapelle in Paris and the college’s 17th-century Hall features vaulted ceilings.

The Margary Quadrangle is much more recent, completed only in 1964, although some parts date from the 19th century.

Cohen Quad is Exeter’s newest quad, opened only in 2017.

The Fellows Garden was designed by George Gilbert Scott in the 19th century and is a quiet spot with views towards the Radcliffe Camera.

Visiting Exeter College

Exeter College is located on Turl Street, just west of the Sheldonian Theatre and the Bodleian Library.

The college is open to the public 2pm–5pm every day and there is no entry charge.

Like other colleges at Oxford, Exeter College is occasionally closed to the public for university events.