I went to a summer’s evening garden party at Worcester College last year. I didn’t have my camera and my ‘phone died so I promised myself I would return to take photos.

Worcester College, University of Oxford, is set within 26 acres of  the most beautiful gardens with woods and lakes and the most delightful sports pavilion and sports grounds. Treading these gardens is like taking a stroll back in time.  I visited in the glorious June sunshine of 2018. The dappled shade created pretty shadows. I could have stayed there for days.  It was almost inconceivable this oasis was in the middle of a busy UK city.

The golden walls of the ancient buildings were smothered in fading roses wilting in the heat. It only served to accentuate their beauty.

Worcester College was  founded in 1714 by Sir Thomas Cookes of Worcestershire. It was built on the site of Gloucester College which had been there since the late 13th century until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the sixteenth century. 

Founded as a men’s college, it now seems unbelievable that Worcester College only started admitting women in 1979.

After soaking up the beauty of the buildings I walked through the golden arch which led to the stunning gardens.

This little shepherd hut is so cute.

The numerous weeping willows add a fairy tale feel.

There are so many shaded paths inviting the wanderer to explore further.

There are places to ponder.

I made a little film …