Carfax, Oxford facts for kids
Carfax is a very important crossroads in Oxford, England. It's like the heart of the city! Four main streets meet here: St Aldate's (to the south), Cornmarket Street (to the north), Queen Street (to the west), and the High Street (to the east). The name "Carfax" comes from old words meaning "crossroads," which makes perfect sense! The Carfax Tower, also known as St. Martin's Tower, is a famous landmark here. You can even climb it for amazing views of Oxford!
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Carfax Tower: A Historic Landmark
The Carfax Tower, often called "St Martin's Tower," stands proudly on one corner of Carfax. It's the only part left of a very old church from the 1100s called St Martin's Church. The Oxford City Council now owns this historic tower. For many years, from around 1122 to 1896, this church was the official "City Church" of Oxford. This meant the Mayor and other important city officials would go there for worship. The main part of the church was taken down to make more space for roads, but the tower was saved!
How Tall is the Tower?
The tower is about 74 feet (23 meters) tall. There's a special rule in Oxford that no new building in the city centre can be built taller than Carfax Tower! This helps keep the city's historic skyline. The tower is also a "Grade II listed building," which means it's officially recognized as an important historical building that needs to be protected.
The Bells and Clock
The tower still has a set of six bells that are rung on special occasions by a group called the Oxford Society of Change Ringers. Five of these bells were made in 1676, and one was added two years later.
There's also a clock on the tower that chimes every 15 minutes. The clock's face and design were created in 1898. Later, in 1938–39, the old clock mechanism was replaced with a new electric one.
Climbing the Tower for Views
One of the best things to do at Carfax Tower is to climb to the top! You'll get incredible views of the whole Oxford skyline. It's a great way to see the city from above. The tower is open to visitors during these times:
- November to February: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- March: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- April to September: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- October: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Famous Events at Carfax
Carfax has been the site of some important historical events.
The St Scholastica Day Event
In 1355, a famous historical event known as the St Scholastica Day riot began right here at Carfax. It started with an argument in a tavern called the Swindlestock Tavern. This tavern used to be where the Santander Bank is today, on the corner of St Aldate's and Queen Street. This event is a well-known part of Oxford's long history.
University Rules and Carfax
Carfax is so central and important that it's even mentioned in the rules for students at the University of Oxford. For example, some university students are required to live within 6 miles (10 km) of Carfax. This shows just how much Carfax is considered the very heart of Oxford!
See also
- Carfax Conduit
- Battle of Carfax
