This spring, Oriel College will give members of the public access to its heritage site. Visitors at events will be able to view treasures from the college’s archives.

In celebration of its 700th anniversary this year, Oriel will hold three “Inspiration Day” events in May and June. Tickets are free for members of the public and include admission to academic talks, tours of the college and viewings of archival items. Visitors also have the option to book lunch in the college’s hall.

The talks will cover 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.

A rare engrossment of Magna Carta, dating from the year 1300, will also be on display at the events. The world-famous charter has been in the possession of the college since its foundation, 700 years ago.

Visitors at Inspiration Days will also be among the first to see a new exhibition opening at Oriel College about notable figures from its history, including Nobel laureates, Olympic medallists and saints.

Oriel College Provost Lord Mendoza said: “The Governing Body of Oriel is thrilled to open our historic doors to everyone to celebrate Oriel’s 700th anniversary. Oriel is a part of Oxford’s heritage. We hope local residents will learn about our college and take pride in its history and academic research.”

Oriel College’s Inspiration Days are on Saturday 2 May, Saturday 16 May and Saturday 6 June.

Visit https://www.oriel.ox.ac.uk/oriels-inspiration-days-academic-programme/ to see the programme of talks for each Inspiration Day and to book tickets and lunch.