As part of an ongoing initiative to expand the parts of Oxford I have explored, I ventured into the Worcester College gardens today. Open to all students between 2:00pm and 5:00pm, they are really worthy of a wander. I plan to revisit the courtyards and waterside paths once spring has begun to assert itself. Trying to frame photos to exclude the ash-gray sky was challenging.
The college is located at the end of the street that runs west from the martyr’s memorial past the Randolf Hotel and the Ashmolean. Altogether, the grounds are very extensive; they also have a pleasing intricacy to them, unlike the open vastness of the Port Meadow, Christ Church Meadow, or the University Parks.
I may well need to add the gardens to my rotation of places to read and wander, once the cold and dampness of these recent weeks begins to recede. Even with the threat of exams and joblessness at the end, I expect that Trinity Term will be a dream – with the thesis safely behind, and Oxford going through its most attractive season.
You would do well to advise your fellow North Americans:
It’s pronounced ‘woo-ster’ not ‘war-chest-er.’
The Christ Church Meadow shot is very good; the Port Meadow one very mediocre.
It is a tricky place to photograph:
Shadows on the Port Meadow
Trees beside the Meadow
I am sure I also have a shot of the Port Meadow horses somewhere, from when I first saw them with Louise on the way to The Perch.