The odd-looking Carfax Tower in the centre of Oxford is actually all that remains of the 13th century St Martin’s Church which was demolished in 1896 for road widening. Fortunately the church clock was salvaged and is on the east side of the tower, decorated with two ‘quarter boys’ who strike the bells every quarter-hour. The Tower is 23metres (74 feet) tall and has a ring of 6 bells which are rung on special occasions. For a small fee you can climb the tower, all 99 steps, and view the city from the rooftop. It is an interesting perspective as you edge around the lead roof and peer over the crenellations.
Back on the ground, there is an old tombstone marking the plot of William Henry Butler, the Mayor of Oxford in 1836. He was buried in the churchyard and when the church was demolished, his grave was forgotten. Take a walk around the back of the tower and see if you can find it.
Location: Easily seen at the crossroads of St Aldgates, Cornmarket Street, High Street and Queen Street in the centre of the city.
The odd-looking Carfax Tower in the centre of Oxford is actually all that remains of the 13th century St Martin’s Church which was demolished in 1896 for road widening. Fortunately the church clock was salvaged and is on the east side of the tower, decorated with two ‘quarter boys’ who strike the bells every quarter-hour. The Tower is 23metres (74 feet) tall and has a ring of 6 bells which are rung on special occasions. For a small fee you can climb the tower, all 99 steps, and view the city from the rooftop. It is an interesting perspective as you edge around the lead roof and peer over the crenellations. 
