Oxford's Bridge of Sighs — officially named Hertford Bridge — is the most photographed landmark in the entire city and a must-capture classic scene for every visitor to Oxford. It is not a replica of Venice's Bridge of Sighs in Italy, but earned its romantic nickname due to its similar appearance. Completed in 1914 by the renowned British architect Sir Thomas Graham Jackson, it blends Gothic Revival and Renaissance styles as it spans New College Lane, connecting the Old Quad of Hertford College with newer buildings. The stone tracery windows of the bridge are elegantly detailed, and footsteps of centuries of students echo through its enclosed corridor. Although the bridge itself is for the exclusive use of college members, anyone can stand in the narrow New College Lane and look up at this "skywalk," feeling the cinematic atmosphere created by the medieval street and centuries-old college. Even better, the Bridge of Sighs lies at the very heart of Oxford — within a 1-minute walk you can connect the Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera, St Mary's Church and other top landmarks, making it an unmissable soul node of any Oxford City Walk. This half-day stroll includes the best photo spots, nearby college visits and a church tower climb for panoramic views.
From the stone tracery windows of New College Lane to the fan vaults of the Bodleian Library, stand beneath the century-old bridge and gaze upon Oxford's most classic skyline — a timeless street walk
Start the morning from the east end of New College Lane — this narrow medieval street is Oxford's most cinematic corner: cobblestone pavement, towering college stone walls on both sides, and the silhouette of the arched bridge suddenly appearing at the end — every frame looks like a still from Harry Potter or X-Men. Walk to the middle of the lane and look up to see the Bridge of Sighs — a stone enclosed bridge overhead, its Gothic pointed arch windows intricately detailed, while the semicircular main arch in Renaissance style bears a closer resemblance to Venice's Rialto Bridge. Sunlight filters through the gaps in the bridge, casting dappled shadows on the stone walls — the most photogenic moment of the day. To the south of the bridge is the Old Quad of Hertford College — try entering through the college gate to visit the courtyard (check the website for opening times); to the north is the new building area, including the college library and accommodation. Passing through New College Lane brings you to the Bodleian Library square, where the fan vaults of the Divinity School and the dome of the Radcliffe Camera interplay on the skyline. Head towards St Mary's Church, pay £6 to climb the church tower, and take in the Bridge of Sighs, Radcliffe Camera dome, and All Souls College all at once — the best vantage point for a panoramic shot of Oxford. In the evening, enjoy a hot chocolate at The Vaults & Garden café next to the church, savouring the romantic transformation of this bridge from Venetian legend to Oxford reality.
Located in the medieval vaulted space beneath St Mary's Church, just 2 minutes' walk from the Bridge of Sighs. Signature organic lamb pie and seasonal salads, enjoy slow time under the centuries-old vaulted ceiling. £10-£18 per person.
The century-old literary pub where Tolkien and C.S. Lewis regularly met, a 5-minute walk from the Bridge of Sighs. Signature dark beer braised beef with bread, full of collegiate atmosphere. £15-£25 per person.
Oxford students' favourite legendary artisan ice cream. The signature "Oxford Blue" lavender honey flavour is full of British creativity. Perfect for a summer afternoon stroll under the Bridge of Sighs. Single scoop from £4.
Said to be the original site of Oxford's first café, a 3-minute walk from the Bridge of Sighs. Classic decor with exquisite three-tier afternoon tea tower — the scones and strawberry tart are unforgettable. £15-£30 per person.
The Bridge of Sighs is located in the very heart of Oxford city centre, adjacent to the Bodleian Library and Broad Street, within walking distance of several distinctive accommodation options.
Over nearly 800 years, Hertford College and its predecessors Hart Hall and Magdalen Hall have nurtured countless distinguished figures who shaped the world. Below are some representative alumni: