Oxford Open Doors: Sheldonian Theatre
The Sheldonian team is delighted to be a part of the annual Oxford Open Doors event, organised by the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Built between 1664 and 1669, the Sheldonian is one of the first great masterpieces by Sir Christopher Wren - designed to host the University of Oxford's ceremonial occasions such as Matriculation and Graduation. Among the gifted men and women who have received their degrees here throughout its history are 31 British Prime Ministers, at least 30 international leaders, 55 Nobel Prize winners, and 120 Olympic medal winners. Its global reputation as an outstanding performance and event space, both acoustically and visually, makes it one of Oxford’s iconic highlights.
Explore the stunning auditorium, engage with our guides and sign up for a special lunchtime concert.
You’ll also be able to climb the 144 steps to the Old Printing Loft and see the inner workings of the building’s unique architectural structure and astonishing views across the city.
Timetable and Booking Information:
- 10:30 - Doors open to the whole building
- 13:00 - Auditorium closes for lunchtime concert, the Cupola remains open
- 13:30 - 14:15: Lunchtime Concert by the Pavlova Quintet - pre-booking is required
- 14:30 - Doors re-open to the whole building
- 15:30 - Informal concert from the VOX Chamber Choir
- 16:00 - Last entry
- 16:30 - Doors close
Please note: depending on the volume of visitors you may be asked to queue for entry.
Pre-booking is only required for the lunchtime concert. Arrival from 13:00 is recommended.
LUNCHTIME CONCERT TICKETS ARE NOW SOLD OUT.
