County Hall

From a humble sessions house within Oxford Castle’s grounds to the imposing structure before us, County Hall has witnessed centuries of Oxfordshire’s history. County Hall stands as a testament to the ever-evolving needs of local governance. The original County Hall, completed in 1841, wasn’t always this grand. Designed by John Plowman, this Gothic Revival masterpiece initially served as a dedicated space for the assizes and quarter sessions. Before 1841, these important legal proceedings took place in Oxford Town Hall, after being relocated from a sessions house within the castle grounds in the 16th century. Imagine the hustle and bustle of lawyers, judges, and townsfolk converging upon this very spot for centuries. The inscription “County Hall A.D. MDCCCXLI” above the central doorway serves as a reminder of its origins. While Sir Charles Oman criticized its architectural style, County Hall has stood the test of time. It became the headquarters of Oxfordshire County Council after the Local Government Act of 1888. The council eventually outgrew the original building and the adjacent “New County Hall,” a modern five-story structure with continuous bands of glazing, was completed in 1973. This new building accommodated the growing administrative staff. Even after the construction of the new facility, County Hall continued its role in dispensing justice, hosting significant trials. It also served as a meeting place for the county council. Today, County Hall stands as a symbol of Oxford’s rich history and enduring commitment to local governance, a blend of old and new.