Drop-in (pre-bookable special events)

St John’s College was founded in 1555 and is situated in the heart of the city. One of the University of Oxford’s larger colleges, St John’s offers the visitor historical buildings in traditional quadrangles and award-winning modern architecture, all set within beautiful gardens.

The College is delighted to participate in Oxford Open Doors 2024. We will be open from 10.00am – 5.00pm on Saturday and Sunday, 14–15 September, with a varied programme of events led by students and Fellows. 

• Amble through the College gardens with conservation specialists.
• Treat yourself to afternoon tea in Hall.
• Explore the Library and Study Centre and meet current students.
• Hunt for hidden clues and gifts on our children's treasure hunt.
• Discover the College's architectural history with an exclusive tour by Professor William Whyte.
• Embrace your inner art historian with a tour of the portraits in Hall with Dr Georgy Kantor, Keeper of the Pictures.
• Step into student life with a rare opportunity to see inside studies and bedrooms.
• Marvel at our collection of late medieval liturgical vestments and embroidery.
• Delve into the past and explore the treasures of our Archive.
• Experience the charms of organ music with a recital by David Bannister, our Choir Director.
• Be inspired by cutting-edge research with special presentations by Professor Lady Sue Black, President of St John’s.

The Laudian Vestments (the College’s remarkable collection of late medieval liturgical vestments and embroidery) will also be on display.

Visitors will be able to purchase refreshments from ‘Get Fed Coffee’, a local tuk-tuk enterprise, and book for afternoon tea in our Hall. (Both payable by bank card only.) 

Please pre-book special events and register for talks via the St John's College website.

Accessible – The gardens have paths and are fully accessible. The Library has an accessible lift.