A Stroll Round Jericho and the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter

Come and explore the unique Oxford suburb of Jericho! This is a second chance to join this walk, especially for anyone who was unable to make the evening walk earlier this summer.
Together we will trace the history of this fascinating area, from its obscure origins as a place of rest for travellers outside the city walls, to the building of the Oxford Canal and the development of Jericho as an industrial suburb in the 19th Century.
We will hear how the area was nearly demolished during the 1960’s but was saved by locals and conservationists to become the vibrant Bohemian place it is today.
Modern Jericho combines history, and a free spirit with a strong sense of community and we will experience this unique vibe as we wander round.
We will delve into literary Jericho uncovering associations with Lewis Carroll, John Betjeman and the crime writer PD James. We will discover how Philip Pullman’s ‘Gyptians’ and Thomas Hardy’s ‘Beersheba’ were inspired by this remarkable place.
We will investigate the fascinating story of the Jews in Oxford as we pass the modern Synagogue.
For those who enjoy architectural variety this walk is a veritable treat!
From the red brick terraced houses of Jericho to the Basilica Church of St Barnabas, from the Neo Classical building of the Oxford University Press to the modern Blatvatnik School of Government rising like a giant silver wedding cake, these buildings are truly stunning.
The incredible Royal Observatory Quarter is equally rewarding. It includes the 18th Century octagonal tower of the old Radcliffe Observatory, the ultramodern Maths Institute, and the magnificent Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities.
These are sights not to be missed!
The walk will finish to allow time for an optional drink and social time at the iconic Jericho Tavern.

PLEASE NOTE - PLEASE BOOK ONLY IF YOU'RE DEFINITELY COMING.
NB: Payment is by Bank Transfer WHEN BOOKING - £12 to:
Miss J E Richardson
Sort Code 40 09 44
AC no 90231797
Please include your name in the payment reference.
If you cancel I'm afraid this amount is non refundable unless the walk is cancelled so please sign up only if you are certain you will make the event and can pay when booking.

Getting there: we will meet at Walton Well Road Car Park, Port Meadow South, OX2 6ED. Some side street free parking is available nearby in the evenings too. Please allow enough time to get there for the start.