Brasenose - Student View

Positioned along one side of Radcliffe Square, beside the towering dome of the Camera, BNC is ideally located. Very close to all main libraries (Bodleian, Radcliffe Camera and faculty libraries) as well as shops, pubs, cinemas and nightlife.

Though not one of the most imposing or palatial Oxford colleges, the 16th-century Old Quad and adjoining (ironically named) miniature Deer Park are very picturesque. Small enough for a sense of community, large enough not to be claustrophobic.

Almost all undergraduates housed (guaranteed for all 151, 3rd and 4th years; most 2nd years too) - either on main college site or in the Frewin annexe in St Michael's Street. Some modern rooms, but mainly old 'character' rooms which are being steadily renovated to very high standard (basins in all, ensuite for finalists). Normally solid academic performance bettered recently with a top three finish in the Norrington table. Well known as the place for law and PPE (with excellent tutors and library facilities).

College library more comprehensive than it looks in most other subjects, and has extensive research stacks. Lawyers also have their own, large, specialist library.

JCR is generally moderate although all political views are present. Incorporates students from a variety of backgrounds, schools and regions and is moving towards equal numbers of men and women; SCR very committed to widening intake. Friendly attitude throughout the college, everyone seems to find somewhere to fit in.

Reputation as a strong rugby, rowing and hockey college and particularly strong in women's sports. Comprehensive facilities are close by, including 2 football pitches, rugby and hockey pitches, cricket field and nets, squash, tennis and netball courts, and excellent boathouse. Growing reputation for drama and music with a regular Summer Arts Festival, arts fund and a chapel choir of high standard.

The college-run bar is excellent, widely known as one of the best, with popular bar staff; Gertie's, the college tea bar, serves hot and cold food and drinks just when you need it most. Purpose-built computer room for junior members houses modern computers. JCR has big screen TV, DVD and video, a pool table and playstation, Coke machine, snacks and various constantly changing games machines. It runs societies as diverse as The Brasenose Players, Christian Union, Women's Group, Indolents (general sports club) and Wine Society.