Oxford’s gargoyles aren’t just stone decorations—they’re silent sentinels, mischievous figures, and creatures of folklore frozen in time. Perched high on college towers and ancient walls, these carvings add a bit of magic (and mystery) to the city’s skyline.
This guide invites you to explore Oxford with fresh eyes. Whether you’re on your first visit or your fiftieth, keep your head up and your camera ready. From scowling beasts to smiling scholars, there’s a gargoyle or grotesque waiting to be discovered at every turn. Use our college-by-college crest list to track your sightings and see how many you can spot.
Types of Gargoyle
Not all gargoyles are created equal. From grotesque stone faces to winged beasts perched on gothic cathedrals, these curious creatures come in many forms.
Oxford’s colleges are home to a menagerie of stone-carved beasts. From fierce lions to mischievous monkeys, these gargoyles reflect medieval fascination with the natural world and its symbolic meanings. Some guard their perches with snarls; others grin playfully down at passers-by.
Many gargoyles depict human forms—scholars, monks, jesters, or anonymous grotesques. These figures often wear exaggerated expressions or dramatic poses, possibly mocking the living or serving as moral lessons. Their variety offers a glimpse into the humour and imagination of medieval craftsmen.
Tucked among the spouts and grotesques are carvings of leaves, vines, and mythical “Green Men.” These plant motifs evoke themes of rebirth, nature’s power, and the harmony between humanity and the natural world—timeless ideas rooted in ancient belief.
Beyond creatures and characters, some gargoyles carry tools, instruments, or scrolls—objects that hint at Oxford’s scholarly traditions and daily life. These carvings may represent knowledge, music, work, or even satire, frozen in stone for centuries.
Spotter's tips
Bring binoculars for a better view: some carvings are high and weather-worn.
Look at corners and drainpipes: those are prime gargoyle territory.
Try different times of day: morning and evening light can cast amazing shadows.
If you’re sketching or photographing, take your time: you’ll often spot things you didn’t see at first glance.
G. ArgoyleLook up! Especially at corners and drainpipes: those are prime gargoyle territory.
Gargoyles by college
Use the crest index below to select a college you want to explore. Many grotesques reflect the history, values, or humour of their college. Some are even recent additions! Each page has a map in case you get lost, and some information about that college's unique monsters.
Happy hunting!
Monkey Gargoyle
A stylised monkey crouching with a mischievous grin, located on the walls of New College.
Dog with bone
A canine figure clutching a bone in its mouth, found on the exterior of the Bodleian Library.
Winged Beast
A hybrid creature resembling a dragon, perched on the facade of Magdalen College.