St George’s Tower in Oxford Castle is one of two surviving towers in Oxford. It was built around 1020 (we’re not sure when, exactly) AD. Nearly 25 meters high (it might have been higher when first built), the tower is the oldest building in Oxford.
The tower was built as a watchtower near the West gate of the city. It then became part of the original motte-and-bailey Castle – which was pulled down around 1300. The tower was then incorporated into the curtain wall of the new castle, which was built in stone.
The walls at the base of the tower measure 2,7 meters thick. Moats and streams on both sides made it inaccessible.
Can you Visit St George's Tower?
If you are visiting Oxford, you can climb the tower and admire the awe-inspiring view. The tower is a clear statement of military power and a must-see if you are in the city.
Related to This Place
Oxford Castle & Prison
Oxford Castle is a partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the centre of Oxford. The castle then became a prison which closed in 1996. What’s the History of Oxford Castle?
