Oxford

Martyrs' Memorial

Marking the darker side of Oxford's past

St Giles
Corner of Magdalen Street & Beaumont Street
Oxford, Oxford OX1 3AE

For years, students have attempted to persuade visitors to Oxford that this spire-shaped memorial at the south end of St Giles is the tip of an underground cathedral. In fact, it commemorates a sombre event: the burning at the stake of three martyrs in Oxford during the reign of Queen Mary. Bishops Latimer and Ridley were martyred in 1555 and Archbishop Cranmer in 1556. In the 19th century, a public appeal was launched, resulting in this memorial which was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built in 1843. Cranmer (holding his Bible) faces north, Latimer (with head bowed and arms crossed) faces west and Ridley faces east.

Community

Travelers' Reviews
Join other travelers in discussing the best places to eat, sleep and visit while on your vacation.
Share Your Photos and Video
Show your fellow travelers the world as you've seen it through the lens of your camera.


Travel Ideas

Mysterious Journeys
Mysterious Journeys
Explore the unknown. Aliens, Dracula and more. Eerie occurrences surround us and Travel Channel has unearthed the creepiest and kookiest.
Romantic Vacations
Romantic Vacations
Can you feel the love? Start planning the unforgettable romantic journey you and your love have always dreamed you'd take.

Book Your Trip

Wherever you're going, we can help you get there - and for less.

Search for Deals Now

Air

Type of flight:

Hotel

Search:

Car at airport

Search:

Car in city

Vacation Package

 

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations
Join Anthony Bourdain as he travels the world seeking the authentic experiences and food that flavor the world's cultures.
Most Haunted Live
Most Haunted Live
The 'Most Haunted' team investigates Winchester Mystery House for a 7-hour, live broadcast on Friday, Oct. 19 at 9 p.m. ET.

TRAVEL CHANNEL NEWSLETTER

C Block story 1 photo

Get the best of Travel Channel delivered directly to your In-box. Sign up now.

TRAVEL CHANNEL GO

Travel Go Channelo

Download our free mobile service

Travel Channel GO, and find all the hot spots.