Things to Do at Radcliffe Camera

The Radcliffe Camera stands as one of Oxford's most photographed buildings, and honestly, it's not hard to see why. This circular baroque masterpiece, completed in 1749, was originally designed as a science library but now serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library. The building's distinctive dome and honey-colored stone make it an absolute showstopper in Radcliffe Square, surrounded by some of Oxford's most historic colleges. What's particularly fascinating is that you're looking at what was actually one of the first circular library buildings in England. The architect, James Gibbs, created something that feels both grand and surprisingly intimate - it's massive when you're standing next to it, but somehow doesn't overwhelm the medieval buildings around it. While you can't just wander in as a tourist (it's a working library for Oxford students and researchers), the exterior alone is worth the trip, and the views from the surrounding streets give you plenty of angles to appreciate its architectural brilliance.

The Radcliffe Camera sits dead center in Oxford-you can't miss it while wandering around. Train arrives at Oxford station? Walk 10 minutes up Park End Street, continue onto Queen Street, then turn right onto High Street. You'll spot the spires first. Driving is pointless here. The closest car parks are Westgate or St Clements, both about 5 minutes on foot. Oxford's center is compact-once you're anywhere central, you can walk to everything.