Ever wondered what Magdalen College students did for fun in the 1300s? We are standing in front of the Old Kitchen Bar. This bar wasn’t always a place for pints and light meals. It has a rich history. This is the Old Kitchen Bar, once the very heart of Magdalen College’s culinary operations.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine this space filled with hustle and bustle. Picture cooks preparing meals for the college’s residents. The Old Kitchen Bar dates back to the 1300s. It is one of Magdalen College’s oldest buildings. Originally, this was the college kitchen.
Magdalen College itself was founded in 1458. William of Waynflete, Bishop of Winchester, established it. The college took over the site of St John the Baptist Hospital. The hospital’s buildings were initially reused. Construction of new facilities occurred between 1470 and 1480. But the kitchens, now the Old Kitchen Bar, remained. They served a vital function.
For centuries, the Old Kitchen Bar was where Magdalen College’s meals began. Think of the aromas that must have filled this space. Hear the sounds of chopping, sizzling, and clattering. Envision the heat from the ovens and hearths.
Over time, Magdalen College evolved. The kitchen’s role changed. Yet, this space remained a social hub. The Old Kitchen Bar became a place to relax. It became a place to unwind. It became a place to connect with friends.
Today, the Old Kitchen Bar offers light meals. When the college is open to the public it serves drinks. Beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks are on the menu. It’s a far cry from its original purpose but the Old Kitchen Bar continues to serve.
The Old Kitchen Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a tangible link to Magdalen College’s past. Each stone holds stories from centuries ago. The walls have seen countless students pass through. They have seen countless conversations unfold. They have seen countless memories being made.
Did you know the University of Oxford even applied to add a new “river room” to the Old Kitchen Bar? The aim was to create an enhanced social and informal workspace. This shows how important this space remains to Magdalen College. The college wants to meet the growing and changing needs of its students and staff.
So, as you sip your drink here at the Old Kitchen Bar, take a moment to reflect. Consider the history beneath your feet. Appreciate the journey this space has taken. From a bustling kitchen to a social hub, the Old Kitchen Bar remains a vital part of Magdalen College’s story.
The Old Kitchen Bar is a testament to Magdalen College’s enduring spirit. It’s a place where the past meets the present. It is a place where history is made every day. Enjoy your time here. Soak in the atmosphere. And remember, you are standing in a place that has been nourishing bodies and souls for centuries.