“A liberal theological college you say? Here at Ripon Hall’s blue plaque we stand. This unassuming spot on Boars Hill holds a surprisingly rich history.
Ripon Hall wasn’t always here. It began in Ripon Yorkshire in 1898. Bishop William Boyd Carpenter founded it as a hostel for theological students. His vision was bold. He wanted training that embraced modern scientific and ethical ideas. He wanted students to explore truths beyond traditional Christianity.
After merging with Lightfoot Hall in Birmingham it became Ripon Clergy College. Henry Major became principal in 1906. He championed a liberal approach. This was a tough fight against more conservative views.
World War One offered a chance for reflection. Major decided Oxford would be a better setting. In 1919 Ripon Hall moved to Parks Road. Then in 1929 it relocated again to Foxcombe Hall on Boars Hill. This grand house had been expanded by the eighth Earl of Berkeley. It boasted a tower an Italian garden and breathtaking views.
Ripon Hall flourished here until 1975. A national decline in ordinands led to a merger with Cuddesdon College. Cuddesdon founded by Bishop Wilberforce in 1854 was a more traditional Anglican college. The combined institution is now known as Ripon College Cuddesdon.
Foxcombe Hall became the Open University’s regional headquarters. The blue plaque you see commemorates Ripon Hall’s time here a testament to its unique place in Oxford’s religious and intellectual history. Its legacy of open-minded theological inquiry continues to this day. That’s quite a story for a quiet corner of Boars Hill isn’t it?”