Most visitors to Oxford want to visit the university’s many historic colleges, with their beautiful grounds and stunning architecture.

One of the great strengths of Oxford is that each college is so different, and they all have their individual points of interest.

It is easy to avoid being like the tourist who asked for directions to “the campus of Oxford University”, but many visitors do fall into the more subtle trap of forgetting that colleges are living, breathing institutions devoted to learning, and not designed just for tourists, For many students and tutors, college is where they live, as well as work.

Here are some highlights to see on an Oxford college tour . . .

All Souls was founded in 1438, and the front quadrangle (also known as the old quadrangle) is virtually unchanged since then, although there are battlements which were added in the early 16th century. The north quadrangle (also known as the great quadrangle) is mainly Gothic style, with twin towers. For opening times and general information call 01865 279379 or visit the website: www.all-souls.ox.ac.uk

Balliol College dates from the 13th century and can be found on Broad Street in the town centre. Look out for the scorch marks on the wooden doors between the inner and outer quadrangles. They are a grisly reminder of when the Protestant martyrs Bishops Latimer and Ridley and Archbishop Cranmer were burnt at the stake for their faith in the 1550s. Usually open to the public between 1pm and 5pm (but call before visiting to confirm). Adults £1, children free. Call 01865 277777, or visit the website: www.balliol.ox.ac.uk

Christ Church, on St Aldates, is one of Oxford’s most famous colleges. The college chapel is Christ Church Cathedral, which is well worth a visit.

From Monday to Friday, the cathedral opens to the public at 10am until 11.45am, and again from 2.15pm to 4.30pm. On Saturdays, it usually closes at 4.30pm. On Sundays, the cathedral opens to the public between 1pm and 4.30pm during term-time (it is used for services in the mornings).

The dining hall is closed on Saturday and Sunday mornings in term-time, opening between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

Opening hours vary and can change at very short notice because Christ Church is a busy institution. It pays to ring ahead and check before paying a visit. Speak to the head custodian on 01865 276492. The price of admission is £4.70 for adults and £3.70 for children, students and OAPs. You can also buy a family ticket for £9.40. Visit the website: www.chch.ox.ac.uk

Keble is on Parks Road, near the University Parks. It is well known for its multi-coloured design, created by William Butterfield in the 19th century. It is also known for its ultra-modern college bar, nicknamed ‘the spaceship’ by students. Open to the public throughout the day, although this is subject to change. Admission is free. Call 01865 272727, or visit the website: www.keble.ox.ac.uk

The Queen’s College has a front quad which has been called the grandest piece of classical architecture in Oxford. The college is on the High Street and many buses stop right outside, which makes it a very convenient college to reach. However, the college is only open to visitors taking a pre-arranged tour. To book, call Oxford’s Tourist Information Centre on 01865 72687. Visit the website: www.queens.ox.ac.uk

Hertford’s best-known feature is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects one part of the college to another. It is named after, and built in imitation of, Venice’s own Ponte dei Sospiri. Although it does not resemble its Venetian namesake very closely, it is one of Oxford’s best-known landmarks. Hertford is also famous for reportedly being the college about which Evelyn Waugh wrote Brideshead Revisited.

It is normally open from 10am to noon and then from 2pm until dusk. However, this may change in some weeks, particularly during the exams in Trinity term (after Easter) so it is a good idea to ring and check. Admission is free.Call 01865 279400, or visit the website: www.hertford.ox.ac.uk

Magdalen was founded in 1458 by the Bishop of Winchester, and can be found on the High Street. The core of the college was built in the late 15th and early 16th century, although the building, which is now the college bar, was part of an old hospital dating from the late 13th or early 14th century. Magdalen College Chapel is one of the most active in the university, with 15 services a week during full term.

It is open to the public daily from 1pm to 6pm or dusk (whichever is the earlier) and from noon to 7pm in Long Vacation (June 28-October 2). The college is closed on December 23 to January 3, 2011. Open on New Year’s Day from 1pm to dusk, free of charge. For admission charges and more details call 01865 276000 or visit the website: www.magd.ox.ac.uk

Your own piece of Oxford

The University of Oxford shop is situated in The High at the heart of the city, surrounded by many colleges and some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera and the Botanic Gardens. Housed in Tackley's Inn (circa 1320), one of the few surviving examples of a medieval academic hall, it is an ideal stop on an historic tour of the city.

The shop boasts a wide and wonderful array of unique and classic items, making it the ideal stop for visitors and local residents alike when searching for Oxford gifts. With everything from beautiful botanic homewares and pretty stationery to original paintings by local artists and Isis Ceramics designed exclusively for the University of Oxford shop, there is something for everyone.

To make it even easier to get your little piece of Oxford, purchases can also be made online at www.oushop.com and shipped direct to your door, or to friends and family around the world.

The University of Oxford shop is wholly owned by the University, so you can be sure that your purchase is making a valuable contribution to the teaching and research of this world-famous establishment.