26 November 2011 OXFORD Saturday

Now that we have constant wifi and our blog remains up-to-date, I can keep track of actual days and dates while travelling.  Veggies and ironing may have fallen by the wayside though.

We happened to be in Oxford on a Graduation weekend and were impressed with the regalia of the Don's in their ceremonious procession.

 The area that the graduating students first gather is the Bodlium Library Hall and they walk out under an open book moulding, into the Sheldonian College for their Graduation Ceremony.

When we'd had enough of the Graduation, Al and I climbed 127 steps, 60 of which are narrow spiral steps, into the tower of the Church of St Mary. 

Even the viewing balcony and alcoves were so narrow, Al had to wiggle through at an angle.  It was near impossible to let anyone go past.

The Church was the site of the first teaching of the University in the 13th century.  The balcony is 100ft high, with great 360 degree viewing.

The first tower is New College and the next two are the All Souls Twin Towers.
Incidentally, the name Oxford originates from Oxen ford when they used to cross the river back in the day.
We ended our day in The Old Black Horse Pub to watch the Barbarians / Australia rugby game and then, after the game, at 15.45, drove home in the pitch dark!