Oriel student captains Oxford to Varsity cricket success
Magna Carta exhibition at Oriel College attracts more than 1,500 visitors
College archivist shows visitors items from Oriel’s archives. Photo by John Cairns
12 June 2026
Oriel College welcomed 1,740 visitors, including members of the public, over three days in May and June during its Inspiration Day event series
The three events were held in celebration of the College’s 700th anniversary in 2026 and included academic talks, the chance to explore the College and viewings of archival items.
A rare 1300 engrossment of Magna Carta, in the College’s possession since its foundation, was one of the items on display.
The well-attended talks covered a range of subjects, from the nature of space-time and the science of ageing to distraction and the role of creativity in the age of AI.
King Edward II confirmed Oriel College’s foundation with a royal charter on 21 January 1326, making it the oldest royal foundation in Oxford.
The College is marking the 700th anniversary of this royal foundation with celebratory events in Oxford, across the UK and around the globe.
In September, a weekend of celebrations will include a classical concert, alumni ball and family garden party. A student Commemoration Ball will also be held on Saturday 27 June.
“The longevity and continuity of this college and its work is astonishing,” Provost Lord Mendoza said in a statement shared on 21 January 2026.
“Few institutions have endured for so long, and even fewer have remained devoted to the same cause.”
Earlier this year, the Provost and Lady Mendoza toured the United States with the Director and Deputy Director of Development, celebrating Oriel’s milestone anniversary with alumni
The trip included a dinner at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Washington DC – one of the most important diplomatic buildings in the world.
In February, the College’s chapel choir sang Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral in London.