The Sheldonian Theatre — Attraction in Oxford

The Sheldonian Theatre is one of Oxford’s architectural crown jewels — a masterpiece of classical design, steeped in academic tradition and cultural significance. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1669, it stands as a testament to both innovation and elegance, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the life of the University of Oxford.

What immediately captures the eye is the theatre’s striking circular form, inspired by ancient Roman theatres, and its distinctive eight-sided cupola, which offers panoramic views over the spires and rooftops of Oxford. The exterior, ringed with a row of iconic stone heads (known as the "Emperors’ Heads"), provides an atmospheric introduction to what lies within.

Inside, the Sheldonian is grand yet intimate. The ceiling is an artwork in itself — Robert Streater’s allegorical painting of Truth descending upon the Arts and Sciences — richly detailed and beautifully restored. The space is used for university ceremonies, concerts, and public lectures, and retains a unique sense of occasion and scholarly gravitas.

Acoustically, the theatre is remarkable, making it a superb venue for choral and orchestral performances. There’s a warmth and resonance to the space that enhances the musical experience. Even during non-event visits, the building has a quiet majesty, especially when viewed from the upper gallery or the cupola.

Practicalities are well-handled: the small entrance fee is well worth it, and the information panels provide helpful historical context without overwhelming the visitor. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the entire experience feels well-curated.

In short, the Sheldonian Theatre is more than a building — it's a symbol of Oxford’s enduring legacy of learning and artistry. Whether you’re attending a graduation, a concert, or simply exploring, it’s a place that leaves a...

The Sheldonian Theatre, located in Oxford, England, was built from 1664 to 1669 after a design by Christopher Wren for the University of Oxford. The building is named after Gilbert Sheldon, chancellor of the University at the time and the project's main financial backer. It is used for music concerts, lectures and University ceremonies, but not for drama until 2015 when the Christ Church Dramatic Society staged a production of The Crucible by Arthur Miller. The building has a prominent eight-sided cupola in the centre of the roof, which is accessible via a staircase leading to the dome over the main ceiling. The cupola has large windows on all sides, providing views across central Oxford, and is open to visitors. The Theatre is used for music recitals, lectures (such as the annual Romanes Lecture), conferences, and for various ceremonies held by the University (such as graduation and matriculation). Handel conducted the first performance of his third oratorio Athalia here in 1733. Today, the theatre is home to regular performances by local groups, including the Oxford Philomusica and Stornoway. The latter were the first ever pop band to play in the space, joined by the student-led Oxford Millennium Orchestra for their first single launch in 2009, then again to celebrate the launch of their third LP, in 2014. The building seats between 800 and 1000 people and is on the grounds of part of the Bodleian Library adjacent to Broad Street. To the left at the front is the Clarendon Building and to the right is the Old Ashmolean Building. Behind the Sheldonian is the Divinity School. The Theatre features prominently in Max Beerbohm's 1911 novel Zuleika Dobson and was used as stand in for Harvard in the 1980 film...

Due to its nature as a building used primarily for University purposes, it is a bit hidden-in-plain-sight when it comes to it also being a visitor attraction. You can take a self guided tour around the theatre, as well as climb all the way up to the 'cupola' where you can get panoramic views of Oxford. It doesn't take all that long to look around (there are only really three areas - the theatre itself, the attic above the suspended ceiling, and the cupola) but you can easily spend 15 minutes in awe of the architecture and artwork in the theatre and as much again soaking up the view from the cupola. At £3.50 each, it's a great opportunity to see a part of University history, and doesn't take up a huge...