Visit with an OHT guide by prior arrangement
Founded in 1427, Lincoln College has a long and distinguished history shaped by scholars, reformers, and writers. Its early purpose was to counter the spread of Wycliffite teaching and defend orthodox ‘Roman Catholic’ scholarship at the time, but over the centuries the college became home to figures who transformed science, religion, and literature.
Howard Florey, whose team developed penicillin, was a fellow here; John le Carré (David Cornwell) studied at Lincoln; and John Wesley held a fellowship before departing for his missionary work in America. On a lighter note, Dr Seuss (Theodor Geisel), creator of The Cat in the Hat came to Lincoln intending to earn a DPhil in English literature which he abandoned to pursue drawing.
Inside, Lincoln rewards visitors with some of Oxford’s most charming places. The 17th-century chapel is home to one of Oxford’s most remarkable collections of stained glass, and the medieval hall features a fireplace by TG Jackson, architect of Hertford’s famous Bridge of Sighs. The Boston ivy in the Front Quad is a seasonal delight and a favourite scene for guides and photographers and can be admired throughout the week.
Lincoln College sometimes allows visitors accompanied certain of our guides but these visits must be arranged in advance and are only available at weekends. Oxford History Guides can make enquiries on your behalf when including Lincoln in tours such as the University Introductions, Science & Medicine, Stained Glass and Bespoke and Religion tours.
