Remembered as the heart of Oxford, Carfax Tower stands at the crossroads. It marks the junction of St Aldate’s, Cornmarket Street, Queen Street, and High Street.
I will tell you more about the Carfax Tower. Its name comes from the French word “carrefour”. This means crossroads. The Carfax Tower is also known as St Martin’s Tower. It is all that remains of the 12th-century St Martin’s Church. The church was the official City Church of Oxford from 1122 to 1896.
Imagine Oxford in 1644. The English Civil War raged. Oxford was the Royalist capital. Carfax Tower likely saw important events. Its central spot made it key during the conflict.
Did you know that Carfax Tower served as a fire lookout? Its height gave a great view. Spotting blazes in Oxford’s narrow streets was easier from up high.
Now, look up at the Carfax Tower. It stands 23 meters tall. That is 74 feet. The City Council says no central Oxford building can be taller. The Blavatnik School of Government broke that rule.
Carfax Tower is a Grade II listed building. This means it is special. It has architectural and historical value. The tower must be preserved with care.
Listen closely. Carfax Tower has six bells. Five bells were recast in 1676. Richard Keene of Woodstock made them. He cast another bell two years later. The Oxford Society of Change Ringers rings them on special days.
Consider this. Carfax Tower plays a role in university rules. Some students must live within six miles of it. That is about 9.7 kilometers.
You can climb the 99 steps to the top of Carfax Tower. The view is amazing. You will see Oxford’s spires. The tower is open at different times depending on the month. It costs a small fee to enter. It’s £3 for adults and £2 for children.
Note that the St Scholastica Day riot started near Carfax. It began in 1355. Two students and a taverner argued in the Swindlestock Tavern. The tavern is now a Santander Bank. It sits on the southwest corner of Carfax.
Carfax Tower has witnessed much. It has been a church, a fire lookout, and a landmark. It stands as a testament to Oxford’s past. The Carfax Tower continues to watch over the city.