University of Oxford | New College: Harry Potter & Ancient City Walls

💫 New College Despite its name, this college was founded in 1379—nearly 700 years ago! It was one of Oxford’s first colleges to integrate dorms, chapel, library, and dining hall into a single quadrangle, an innovative design for its time. Today, it stands as one of Oxford’s most historic institutions. 📍 What to See at New College: 🏰 Medieval Quadrangle & Cloisters Step through the main gate into a serene, symmetrical courtyard with stone archways exuding quiet grandeur. 🌳 Gardens & Ancient City Walls Beyond the quad lies a lush garden with a central mound. Along one side runs a well-preserved 13th-century city wall—once part of Oxford’s medieval defenses, now a peaceful blend of nature and history. 🪄 The "Magic Tree" & Harry Potter Filming Location The cloisters here were used in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire—where Malfoy was turned into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody! 🎶 One of Oxford’s Finest Choirs The New College Choir is world-renowned, with award-winning performances and international tours. ✨ A Fun Historical Anecdote: As mentioned in our Magdalen College post, every May Morning, Magdalen’s choir sings from its tower to welcome spring—a 500-year tradition. In the 17th century, New College tried to rival this by holding its own dawn celebration. But after Magdalen students and townsfolk disrupted it, New College wisely moved theirs to Ascension Day instead! #OxfordUniversity #NewCollege #HarryPotter #GobletOfFire #HistoricOxford 🏰