New College, Oxford (must see)

New College, one of the prestigious constituent colleges of the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, stands out for its rich history and significant contributions to academia and culture. Founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, the Bishop of Winchester, it was originally named "Saint Mary College of Winchester in Oxenford." Wykeham established New College alongside Winchester College, which served as its feeder school. Remarkably, New College was among the first in the university to admit and tutor undergraduate students.

Despite its misleading name, New College is one of Oxford's oldest colleges. In 2017, it achieved the top rank in the Norrington Table, which assesses the performance of Oxford undergraduates in final exams. Historically, it consistently ranks high, with a remarkable 3rd highest average in the Norrington Table over the past decade.

Reflecting societal changes, New College welcomed its first mixed-sex cohort in 1979, transitioning from a six-century tradition of being a male-only institution.

New College is also celebrated for its choral tradition, being one of the main choral foundations of the University of Oxford. Its choir is considered one of the world's leading choirs, a testament to which is its extensive discography and the two Gramophone Awards it has won.

New College is architecturally rich with historical significance. Originally built in the "perpendicular style," it has seen various additions and changes over the centuries. The Great Quad, initially constructed with attics in the sixteenth century, got a proper third storey in 1674. The oval turf at the center of the quad dates back to the eighteenth century. Many college buildings are known for their unique architectural and historical value. 'New Buildings' along Holywell Street showcase different architectural styles, including High Victorian and late Victorian by George Gilbert Scott and Basil Champneys, respectively.

***Harry Potter Walk***
The New College Cloisters appear in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire a good number of times – many of the corridor scenes within the film are shot here, including that in which Harry has to push through all the Gryffyndor students wearing Potter stinks badges to go and have a word with Cedric.

The New College Courtyard also served as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire – the scene in which Harry tips off Cedric about the dragons which they will be battling in the first of the trials in the Triwizard Tournament. In the same movie, Harry comes face to face with Malfoy, who is sitting on a gigantic oak tree and where he is then turned into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody. This particular tree is found in the New College Cloisters.

If you come to explore all things Harry Potter at Oxford during the colder period (October through March), then the entry to New College is free. However, if you go during the warmer months (March to October), you will need to buy a ticket.