Introducing the Sheldonian
Home to ceremonial occasions and a raft of exciting events, this magnificent and versatile theatre is the focal point of the University of Oxford
Introducing the Sheldonian Theatre
... as a tourist attraction
The striking octagonal cupola, distinctive with its green roof, provides the best panoramic view across the dreaming spires and wows over 16,000 tourists a year. Recommended by Visit England and Lonely Planet, this is a must-see view on a visit to Oxford and we welcome visitors from around the globe to enjoy this majestic building.
Oxford is steeped in tradition and history, and the Sheldonian plays an integral role to keep these customs alive. As the Ceremonial Hall, it hosts a number of events from graduations to congregation.
A number of familiar faces have graduated at the theatre over the years. Among them are 27 British Prime Ministers, at least 30 international leaders, 50 Nobel Prize winners, and 120 Olympic medal winners. Visit us and retrace their steps as they would have done in their graduation ceremonies, some over 200 years ago!
From left: C.S. Lewis, Author; Monica Ali, Novelist; Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Inventor of World Wide Web; Emily Wilding Davison, Suffragette; Cornelia Sorabji, India’s first female lawyer; Michael Palin, comedian, writer and presenter; Emperor Naruhito of Japan
... as a venue
When the theatre is not being used for ceremonies, it is used as a venue for many diverse and high-profile events attracting acclaimed musicians, writers, politicians and artists.
From global conferences, to the annual FT Literary Festival to special concerts, we are proud to welcome guests from all over the world.
Top left to right: Jo Brand, Oxford Literary Festival 2019; World Conference
Bottom left to right: Oxford Bach Choir; Gaz Coombes 350th Anniversary concert; Jeff Koons In Conversation May 2019
... as a historical building
As a Grade I listed building, it is imperative that the building is conserved for future generations. The University’s Estates Facilities Management and Conservation teams are continuously working on the building and we are proud to be recognised by Visit England, Green Tourism and the Oxfordshire Preservation Trust for our efforts to future-proof it for generations to come.
