Live webcam from Broad Street in Oxford, UK, a captivating blend of history and everyday life. As one of Oxford’s most famous streets, it’s where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Bodleian Library and the Sheldonian Theatre. Walking down Broad Street, you can feel the centuries of academic tradition that have shaped the University of Oxford, yet the street also buzzes with modern life.​Here are some interesting facts about this iconic street:
- The Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe, the Bodleian Library is a treasure trove of knowledge. The library’s main building, the Old Bodleian, has been a center of learning since 1602. The library holds over 13 million printed items, including rare manuscripts and early printed books. It’s a favorite spot for scholars and a key location in many films, including the Harry Potter series.
- The Sheldonian Theatre: Designed by the famous architect Sir Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian Theatre is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture. It’s the ceremonial hall of the University of Oxford, where students receive their degrees. The building’s distinctive curved roof and large windows make it a standout on Broad Street.
- The Martyrs’ Memorial: At the western end of Broad Street, you’ll find the Martyrs’ Memorial, a Gothic-style monument commemorating the Oxford Martyrs—three Protestant bishops who were executed for their beliefs in 1555. This site is a poignant reminder of the religious turmoil that once gripped England.
- The History of Science Museum: Tucked away on Broad Street, the History of Science Museum is housed in the Old Ashmolean Building, which opened in 1683 as the world’s first university museum. The museum showcases an extraordinary collection of scientific instruments, including some used by Galileo and Einstein.
- Blackwell’s Bookshop: Just off Broad Street, on nearby Broad Street, is Blackwell’s Bookshop, a legendary Oxford institution. Established in 1879, it’s one of the largest and most famous bookshops in the world, particularly known for its Norrington Room, which holds over 160,000 books on three miles of shelving.
- Public Events and Festivals: Broad Street is often the site of various public events, from street markets to cultural festivals. During the annual Oxford Literary Festival, for instance, Broad Street becomes a bustling hub of literary activity, with authors, readers, and book lovers converging on the area.
- Radcliffe Camera Connection: Though technically on Radcliffe Square, the Radcliffe Camera, one of Oxford’s most photographed buildings, is just a stone’s throw from Broad Street. This iconic round library, completed in 1749, is connected to the Bodleian Library and is a major attraction for visitors.
Whether you’re browsing the unique shops, grabbing a coffee, or just enjoying the historic surroundings, Broad Street offers a true taste of Oxford’s charm. And if you can’t be there in person, the Oxford live webcam is the next best thing. It gives you a real-time look at this vibrant street, so you can soak in the atmosphere and witness the daily rhythm of Oxford from wherever you are. Whether you’re reminiscing about a past visit or dreaming of one in the future, the Oxford live webcam keeps you connected to this historic and lively part of the city.
Source: Oxford Martin School
