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| Balliol College | Bodleian Library | Botanic Gardens | Brasenose College |



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Balliol College

Despite being one of the oldest of Oxford's University Colleges, Balliol College is not particularly outstanding architecturally.

The college was first founded in 1263 by John Balliol, hence the name. However, most of the architecture dates from the 19th century when the college was largely re-built.

Nevertheless, if you do visit Balliol College, look out for the heavy wooden doors between the inner and outer quadrangles - the scorch marks on them date from the 16th century when several Protestant martyrs were burnt at the stake here.

The College's other claim to fame is the fact that it has educated more politicians than any of the other University Colleges in Oxford.

Balliol College is located on the northern side of Broad Street. It is open daily from 2pm to 5pm.

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Bodleian Library

This Library, which takes its name from former Oxford University student Thomas Bodley, is one of the most important libraries in the UK.

First set up in the 17th century, it is now the second largest library in the UK, with over 80 miles of shelves of books.

More importantly though, the Bodleian Library is significant in that, by law, the library must be sent a copy of ever book, newspaper and even leaflet that is printed in the UK - a tradition that dates back to 1610.

As a result the Bodleian Library is one of the most complete libraries in the world, and it is an unique record of nearly 400 years of British publishing.

The Library is also special in that it is only a reading library - no books can be "borrowed" from the Bodleian. Famously even King Charles I was refused permission to borrow a book from here!

Only members of the library can enter the main library building, however, there are some guided tours around several of the other library buildings. Particularly worth visiting is the 15th century Divinity School.



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Botanic Gardens

Oxford's Botanic Gardens, located opposite Magdalen College, is the oldest botanic gardens in the world.

It was founded in 1621 by Henry Danvers, initially in order to study the medicinal uses of plants. Some of the grounds are still laid out according to Danvers' original plans.

Today the Botanic Gardens are open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entry is free, except between mid-June and September when it costs around £1.50 for adults.



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Brasenose College

Brasenose College, located just off to the north of Oxford High Street, was founded in the early 16th century.

The unusual name comes from the College's original doorknocker, knicknamed the "brazen nose". This knocker, whose shape resembles a nose, dates from the 12th century when it traditionally provided sanctuary for anyone escaping the law.

Unfortunately the knocker was stolen from the College and was missing for many years. However, it was found again in the late 19th century and it has been on display in the College's main Hall ever since.

Brasenose College is open to the public daily from 10am to 11.30am and from 2pm to 5pm.

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