Bar
Oxford Castle Quarter
4 locals recommend,
Tips from locals
Alan
May 17, 2016
The castle was originally built in 1071 for William the Conqueror, to enable the Normans to control the area. A prison was built within the castle, which continued to be in use until 1996. The prison was mainly used to house prisoners from Oxfordshire and Berkshire, and also the University's 'rebellious scholars' (as recorded in 1236). From 1613 until 1785, the prison and castle were owned by Christ Church, who leased the jail (gaol) to prison keepers. In 1785 it was redeveloped into a prison and house of correction, with a tower on which they held public executions. The last execution was in 1863.
The castle was originally built in 1071 for William the Conqueror, to enable the Normans to control the area. A prison was built within the castle, which continued to be in use until 1996. The prison was mainly used to house prisoners from Oxfordshire and Berkshire, and also the University's 'rebell…
Unique things to do nearby
Location
Castle Street
Oxford, England