There is no shortage of towns and cities whose publicity material speaks of “hidden treasures” and “best kept secrets”.

But in Oxford’s case the number of beautiful and historic buildings that remain largely hidden to the public behind closed gates is both impressive and saddening.

Colleges of course can rightly point to the fact that their first duty is to their students and members, rather than the millions of tourists who flock here each year.

So we should all be thankful for Oxford Preservation Trust’s Open Doors initiative, which offers the public the chance to pass the college lodges and see “the familiar and the unexpected, the unusual and the everyday.”

This year, the weekend in September offers extra treats with the chance to see major restoration projects, many non-university sites (including The Oxford Times) and places linked with Lord Nuffield.

The event will again surely attract thousands, bringing town and gown together in the best possible way.