Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs which includes heritage elements
Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs which includes heritage elements
Oxfordshire which includes street scenes


One of the most photographed spots in the university, this bridge dates back to the early 1900s and unites two parts of Hertford College.

The Bridge of Sighs is a covered skyway that connects two university buildings. Its intriguing architecture has made it a popular spot for sightseers over the past century. Make your way to the fascinating site and take photos of the bridge with the Sheldonian Theatre serving as an impressive backdrop.

Students use the bridge daily as they make their way from the old to the new quadrangles of Hertford College. The building to the north consists mostly of student accommodation, whereas the southern structure houses administrative offices. The bridge was built in 1914 by architect Thomas Graham Jackson. The site is officially known as Hertford Bridge, but is thought to have taken its other name from the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. However, the designs of the two bridges actually have very little in common.

Admire the design of the bridge, noting the varying shapes of its elegant windows and the coat of arms at its centre. While you are free to inspect the bridge from street level, you must be a student of Hertford College to walk over the bridge.

Walk past the bridge several times in the day to see it in different lights. Visit it in the evening, when it has a romantic ambiance with the lights turned on inside. There are several other landmarks nearby including the Radcliffe Camera, as well as a couple of pubs and cafés, where you can take a break and look through your photos of the university grounds.

The Bridge of Sighs is based next to the Bodleian Library in Hertford College, part of the University of Oxford. Ride the bus and get off at the High Street, which is just a 2-minute walk from the bridge. Nearby attractions include the Sheldonian Theatre and the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin.

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Things to do near Bridge of Sighs

Near the Bridge of Sighs in Oxford, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including captivating theatre performances and delightful photo tours that capture the beauty of this iconic landmark. Strolling through the picturesque surroundings also provides an opportunity to appreciate the stunning architecture and rich history of the area. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a photography lover, the Bridge of Sighs offers a unique experience in the heart of Oxford.

Shopping

The Covered Market, merely 124m from the Bridge of Sighs, offers a lively public market experience. For family-friendly shopping, Cowley Road is 435m away, bustling with city vibes. If you're up for a drive, Bicester Avenue, 6.2km away, combines shopping with entertainment.

Recreation

Kassam Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 1.9km from the Bridge of Sighs. For a tranquil retreat, Port Meadow, 621m away, provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and leisurely walks. Meanwhile, Hinksey Heights Golf Course, 1.2km distant, invites you to enjoy outdoor sports amidst scenic views.

Adventure

Explore the Thames Path National Trail, a scenic hiking trail located 3.7km from the Bridge of Sighs, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a thrilling experience, try High Ropes Oxford, a zipline ropes course situated 4.3km away, offering an exciting adventure in the treetops.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the Bridge of Sighs is vibrant and cultural. Enjoy a performance at the Sheldonian Theatre, a mere 62m away, or catch a show at the nearby New Theatre Oxford and Oxford Playhouse, both about 186m away, offering family-friendly and romantic atmospheres.

Find the best attractions near Bridge of Sighs

At the Bridge of Sighs in Oxford, visitors can explore a range of attractions including historic and modern colleges, as well as charming churches. This area provides a delightful blend of cultural experiences suitable for families and city explorers alike. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Bridge of Sighs and nearby landmarks, ensuring your trip is filled with memorable sights and enriching experiences.

  • University of Oxford: A world-renowned historic institution, the University of Oxford boasts stunning architecture and a rich academic history. Just 186m from the Bridge of Sighs, visitors can explore its picturesque colleges and serene gardens, immersing themselves in a vibrant culture that has shaped education for centuries.
  • Christ Church College: Located 186m from the Bridge of Sighs, Christ Church College is not only an architectural marvel but also a functioning cathedral. Its beautiful grounds and iconic dining hall, which inspired Hogwarts, provide a unique glimpse into the harmonious blend of education and ecclesiastical history.
  • Oxford Castle: Situated 249m away, Oxford Castle offers a fascinating journey through medieval history. The castle's romantic ruins and guided tours reveal tales of intrigue and power, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and couples alike.

Best time to go to Bridge of Sighs

The best time to visit Bridge of Sighs is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and July are its hottest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy. January and January are its coolest month on average. At the time of January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
January38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.1°F (4.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.1°F (4.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.0°F (6.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March43.0°F (6.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bridge of Sighs

To save money during your visit to the Bridge of Sighs, consider travelling in January or the quieter October to November months for cheaper accommodation. Staying on a Monday can also reduce costs, while Saturday stays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare room rates, focusing on budget options. Additionally, consider booking hotel, flights, and activities together for package savings. Don’t forget to explore the area on foot or utilise the public transport system for affordable travel around Oxford.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bridge of Sighs are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bridge of Sighs is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Bridge of Sighs is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at the Bridge of Sighs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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