Here are some fascinating facts about the medieval buildings featured in Pugin’s Examples of Gothic Architecture:

The Oxford Colleges

All Souls College

Location: Oxford, England

All Souls College in Oxford is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Here are some fascinating facts about its buildings:

• The college was founded in 1438, and its original structures were built in the medieval style.
• The High Street front of the college retains much of its original appearance, including the gate tower and battlements added in the 16th century.
• The Chapel, consecrated in 1442, is designed in the perpendicular Gothic style and features a medieval hammer-beam roof adorned with gilded wooden angels.
• The Codrington Library, established in 1710, is a notable addition to the college, funded by Christopher Codrington.
• The quadrangle houses Fellows' bedrooms and studies, as well as administrative offices.

The college's architecture reflects its rich history and evolution over centuries.

Brasenose College

Location: Oxford, England

Brasenose College, one of Oxford's historic colleges, has a fascinating architectural history:

• Foundation and Name: The college was founded in 1509 on the site of Brasenose Hall, a medieval academic hall. Its name is believed to come from a brass or bronze door knocker that adorned the hall's door.
• Old Quad: For its first century, the college consisted of just one quadrangle, known as the Old Quad. The kitchen wing, dating back to the 15th century, is thought to be the oldest building on the site.
• Library and Chapel: These were constructed between 1655 and 1666. Before this, the library and chapel were located in rooms within the Old Quad.
• New Quad: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the college expanded with the addition of the New Quad.
• Cloisters: Beneath the library, an open cloister was built in the 17th century for Fellows to exercise during bad weather. It was later converted into rooms for students.

The college's blend of medieval and later architectural styles reflects its long history.

Balliol College

Location: Oxford, England

Balliol College, one of Oxford's oldest colleges, has a rich architectural history:

• Foundation: Established in 1263 by John I de Balliol, the college claims to be the oldest in Oxford, though this is contested by Merton and University College.
• Front Quad: Behind the 19th-century façade on Broad Street lies the Front Quad, which includes the Chapel, built in 1857, and the college's oldest buildings from the 15th century.
• Library: The library, located in the Front Quad, serves as the intellectual hub of the college and houses historic collections of early printed books and medieval manuscripts.
• Garden Quad: Accessible through the Library Passage, this green oasis features the magnificent 19th-century Hall, where college members dine.
• Holywell Manor: Graduate students reside in this medieval house, which is part of the college's graduate centre.

Balliol's blend of medieval and modern architecture reflects its long-standing tradition and academic excellence.

Magdalen College

Location: Oxford, England

Magdalen College, one of Oxford's most picturesque colleges, boasts a rich architectural heritage:

• Foundation: The college was founded in 1458 by William Waynflete, Bishop of Winchester, and Lord Chancellor.
• Great Tower: This iconic structure, completed in 1509, is a landmark of Oxford. The college choir traditionally sings from the top of the tower at dawn on May Morning.
• Cloisters and Founders' Tower: These medieval features are among the oldest parts of the college.
• Deer Park and Addison's Walk: The college grounds include a serene deer park and a riverside path known as Addison's Walk.
• New Building: Constructed in the 18th century, this building overlooks the Water Meadow.

Magdalen's blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes it a standout among Oxford's colleges.

Merton College

Location: Oxford, England

Merton College, one of Oxford's oldest and most historic colleges, has a fascinating architectural legacy:

• Foundation: Established in 1264 by Walter de Merton, it is considered one of the first self-governing colleges in the University of Oxford.
• Mob Quad: Built between 1288 and 1378, this is claimed to be the oldest quadrangle in Oxford. It includes the Merton College Library, which dates back to 1373 and is the oldest continuously functioning library for university academics and students in the world.
• Chapel: The college chapel, originally part of the Church of St. Mary and St. John, was constructed in phases starting in the late 13th century. Its tower was completed in 1450.
• Gatehouse: Built in the early 15th century, the Gatehouse features battlements and a tower, adding to the college's medieval charm.
• Architectural Contributions: Over the centuries, architects like Christopher Wren and Sir Gilbert Scott contributed to the restoration and enhancement of the college during the Gothic Revival.

Merton's blend of medieval and Gothic Revival architecture makes it a treasure trove of history and beauty.

New College

Location: Oxford, England

New College, Oxford, founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, is steeped in architectural history:

• Front Quad: This was the first college quadrangle designed as an integrated complex, including the Chapel, Hall, Library, and rooms for students and tutors.
• Cloisters: Located near the Chapel, these peaceful cloisters are famous for their appearance in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
• Dining Hall: The Hall, restored in 2003 and 2015, is the oldest and tallest in Oxford or Cambridge, featuring Tudor linenfold panelling.
• Garden Quadrangle: Constructed in the late 17th century, this quadrangle leads to the gardens, which include a medieval ornamental mound.
• City Walls: The 13th-century city walls enclose the gardens and are meticulously maintained.
• Holywell Quadrangle: Expanded in the 19th century, this area includes the Robinson Tower, now the main entrance.
• Modern Additions: The Sacher Building, designed in the 1960s, was the first purpose-built graduate accommodation in Oxford.

New College's blend of medieval and modern architecture makes it a fascinating place to explore.

St Johns College

Location: Oxford, England

St John's College, Oxford, founded in 1555 by Sir Thomas White, has a fascinating architectural history:

• Front Quadrangle: This is the oldest part of the college, featuring buildings from the 16th century, including the Chapel and Hall.
• Canterbury Quadrangle: Built in the 17th century, this quadrangle is notable for its classical architecture and symmetry.
• Dolphin Quadrangle: Designed in the 20th century by Sir Edward Maufe, this neo-Georgian quad includes an exhibition gallery and lecture room.
• Beehive Building: Constructed in 1958–60, this modernist structure features hexagonal rooms grouped around top-lit staircases.
• Garden Quadrangle: Completed in 1994, this post-modernist addition includes study-bedrooms, a central garden, and an auditorium.

St John's College blends centuries of architectural styles, from medieval to modernist.

Bicentennial Edition: Pugin’s Oxford Colleges

To commemorate 200 years since the first print run of Augustus Pugin’s engravings of the Oxford Colleges, this exclusive bicentennial lithograph collection presents the first 24 images from Examples of Gothic Architecture. Faithfully restored by architecturalprints.co.uk, each print preserves Pugin’s masterful detail and historical significance. Strictly limited to only 500 editions per image, this collection offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history.

The Castles

Herstmonceux Castle

Location: East Sussex, England

• Historical Significance: Built in 1441, it is one of the oldest surviving brick buildings in England, constructed using local clay by Flanders-based builders.
• Name Origin: The castle's name comes from Ingelram de Monceux, a Norman nobleman, and Idonea de Herst. Over time, it evolved into "Herstmonceux."
• Current Ownership: Since 1993, it has been the UK campus for Queen's University in Kingston, Canada, hosting international students.
• Gardens and Grounds: Surrounded by 300 acres of gardens, woodlands, lakes, and meadows, it’s a sanctuary for wildlife and a delight for visitors.
• Science Connection: The estate houses the Herstmonceux Science Centre, which features telescopes and workshops, earning Grade II* historical status.

Raglan Castle

Location: Monmouthshire, Wales

• Historical Origins: Constructed in the 15th century by Sir William ap Thomas, the "Blue Knight of Gwent," who fought at the Battle of Agincourt.
• Architectural Design: Known for its polygonal layout, featuring six-sided towers and distinctive gatehouses.
• The Great Tower: Also called the "Yellow Tower of Gwent," it was originally four stories tall and surrounded by a moat.
• Wars of the Roses: Played a critical role in supporting Edward IV during the 15th-century conflicts.
• Civil War Destruction: Heavily damaged during a 1646 siege by Parliamentarians in the English Civil War, leaving it a romantic ruin.

Warwick Castle

Location: Warwickshire, England

• Origins: Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror as a wooden motte-and-bailey structure; rebuilt in stone in the 12th century.
• Strategic Importance: Positioned along the River Avon to control the Midlands and resist rebellion.
• The Kingmaker’s Castle: Richard Neville, the "Kingmaker," played a key role in the Wars of the Roses here, even imprisoning King Edward IV in Caesar's Tower.
• Haunted Reputation: Renowned for its ghostly legends, adding a layer of mystique.
• Modern-Day Destination: A popular tourist attraction with interactive exhibits, live shows, and medieval-themed accommodations.

Kenilworth Castle

Location: Warwickshire, England

• Founding: Established in the 1120s by Geoffrey de Clinton, chamberlain to King Henry I.
• Longest Siege: Endured a six-month siege in 1266 during the Second Barons' War, marking a record in English medieval history.
• Royal Influence: Expanded by King John and transformed into a palace by John of Gaunt.
• Elizabethan Extravagance: Renovated by Robert Dudley to host Queen Elizabeth I in 1575 during her 19-day visit.
• Romantic Ruin: Gained fame in the 19th century through Sir Walter Scott’s novel Kenilworth.

Thornbury Castle

Location: Gloucestershire, England

• Tudor Roots: Built in 1511 by Edward Stafford, the Duke of Buckingham. Seized by Henry VIII after Stafford’s execution for treason.
• Royal Connections: King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn stayed here for 10 days in August 1535.
• Designed for Luxury: Unlike most castles, it was never meant for military defence.
• Modern Use: Now a luxury hotel and wedding venue, allowing visitors to experience Tudor grandeur.
• Gardens and Vineyard: Features centuries-old Tudor gardens and an active vineyard.

Other Collections

Abbey Barn, Glastonbury

Location: Somerset, England

• Construction: Erected in the 1340s to store produce from Glastonbury Abbey estates.
• Architectural Features: Built from local limestone, it boasts a raised base-cruck roof made of oak, elm, and chestnut, spanning seven bays with two central porches.
• Preservation: One of only four surviving monastic barns linked to the abbey; restoration in the 1970s confirmed its 14th-century origins.
• Modern Role: Now part of the Somerset Rural Life Museum, celebrating rural heritage.

The Abbot’s Kitchen, Glastonbury

Location: Somerset, England

• Unique Design: A 14th-century octagonal stone structure considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval kitchens.
• Functional Elegance: Features four corner fireplaces and a central lantern vent for smoke.
• Historical Importance: A key part of the abbey’s grand residence, showcasing its wealth.
• Remarkable Survival: The only monastic structure at Glastonbury Abbey to remain intact.
• Tourist Attraction: Draws visitors with its blend of practicality and architectural Splendor.

The Old Deanery

Location: Wells, Somerset

• Historical Importance: Originally built in the 12th century as the Dean of Wells Cathedral’s residence.
• Architectural Significance: Includes boundary walls and a gatehouse, recognised as a Grade I listed site.
• Herbal Legacy: Dean William Turner, the "Father of English Botany," established its herb garden in the 16th century, restored in the 21st century.
• Modern Shift: Transitioned from diocesan offices to private residence in 2020.

Vicars Close

Vicars' Close

Location: Wells, Somerset

• Historical Significance: Known as Europe’s oldest residential street with its original buildings still intact.
• Medieval Origins: Constructed in the 14th century to house the Vicars Choral of Wells Cathedral.
• Architectural Design: Measures 140 meters and features a tapered width for an optical illusion, appearing longer from the cathedral.
• Grade I Listed: Its houses, chapel, and library are recognised for architectural importance.
• Conservation Efforts: Restoration projects continue to preserve its medieval charm.

The Pub

The George Inn

Location: Glastonbury, Somerset

• Origins: Built in the late 15th century as accommodation for pilgrims visiting Glastonbury Abbey.
• Architectural Features: A Grade I listed building with a battlemented parapet and carved stone panels depicting coats of arms.
• Haunted Reputation: Legends of ghostly monks add intrigue to this historic site.
• Modern Role: Now serves as a hotel and pub, blending medieval elegance with modern hospitality.

The Palaces

The Archbishop’s Palace

Location: Croydon, Greater London

• Historic Residence: For over 500 years, it housed the Archbishops of Canterbury, frequented by royalty.
• Architectural Highlights: Features a 16th-century timber roof in the Great Hall and a chapel with 17th-century stalls.
• Grade I Listed: Recognised for its historical and architectural value.
• Contemporary Use: Now operates as Old Palace School for girls under the Whitgift Foundation.

The Bishop’s Palace

Location: Wells, Somerset

• Origins: Established in 1210 by Bishop Jocelin, serving bishops for over 800 years.
• Fortified Features: Crenelated walls, a moat, and drawbridge added in the 14th century for defence.
• Mute Swans Tradition: Swans trained to ring a bell for food at the Gatehouse.
• Gardens: Encompasses 14 acres, including well pools central to the city of Wells’ name.
• The Great Hall: Once a grand medieval structure, partially demolished in the 19th century.

Eltham Palace

Location: London

• Royal Beginnings: A medieval palace favoured by English royalty; Henry VIII spent his childhood here.
• Art Deco Transformation: Revamped in the 1930s by the Courtauld’s, blending historical and modern styles.
• Technological Innovation: Included cutting-edge features like underfloor heating and built-in audio systems.
• Stunning Gardens: Features a medieval moat and landscaped Art Deco grounds.
• Cultural Stewardship: Managed by English Heritage as a showcase of historic elegance.

The Manor Houses

Great Chalfield Manor

Location: Wiltshire, England

• Historic Foundation: Built between 1465-1480 by Thomas Tropenell on the site of an earlier fortified house.
• Architectural Charm: Known for its symmetrical layout, oriel windows, and partially preserved moat.
• Connected Church: Tropenell rebuilt the parish church, reflecting authority ties.
• Romantic Gardens: Redesigned in the early 20th century by Major Robert Fuller, embracing Arts and Crafts themes.
• National Trust: Offers guided tours of this remarkable manor and grounds.

East Barsham Manor

Location: Norfolk, England

• Tudor Origins: Built in the 1520s by Sir Henry Fermor, one of England’s earliest "prodigy houses," reflecting its owner's wealth and status.
• Royal Connections: Hosted King Henry VIII and his queens, Anne Boleyn and Catherine of Aragon, on multiple occasions.
• Architectural Beauty: Features exquisite Tudor brickwork and ten chimneys, each uniquely patterned.
• Restoration: Revived in the 1920s–1930s after centuries of neglect, remaining a private treasure.
• Cultural Influence: Inspired the entrance façade design of Scotland’s Dalmeny House.
• East Barsham Manor: is located near Anmer Hall, which is the country residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton. Anmer Hall is part of the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, making them relatively close neighbours in this picturesque region. It must be quite something to have royalty as neighbours!

Oxburgh Hall

Location: Norfolk, England

• Tudor Heritage: A moated house built in 1482 by Sir Edmund Bedingfeld, showcasing Tudor architecture.
• Secret Priest Hole: Ingeniously concealed within a lavatory to hide Catholic priests during persecution.
• Royal Visits: Welcomed King Henry VIII and Elizabeth of York during their reign.
• Historic Needlework: Home to intricate hangings crafted by Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bess of Hardwick during imprisonment.
• Victorian Enhancements: Renovated in the 19th century with additions like a chapel and kitchen garden.

South Wraxall Manor

Location: Wiltshire, England

• Legendary First: Allegedly where Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Walter Long first smoked tobacco in England.
• Architectural Splendor: Features Jacobean fireplaces and intricate carvings in its Grade I listed design from the 15th century.
• Modern Fame: Owned by John Taylor (Duran Duran) and Gela Nash-Taylor (Juicy Couture).
• Historical Ties: Connected with Henry VIII, Shakespeare, and highlighted in The Country House Revealed.
• Restorations: Preserved through centuries of careful maintenance.

Thorpland Hall

Location: Norfolk, England

• Medieval Roots: Built in the 16th century, incorporating flint, brick, and terracotta.
• Architectural Highlights: Features a three-story tower porch with octagonal buttresses and star-shaped chimneys.
• Deserted Village: Linked to a medieval settlement, with ruins of St. Thomas’ Church nearby.
• Victorian Influence: Restored in the 19th century, adding a façade reflecting the era.
• Heritage Status: Recognised as a Grade II* listed building for its historical significance.

The Churches

St. Mary’s Church (Beddington)

Location: Surrey, England

• Historic Origins: Dates to the 14th century, retaining structure from the 14th–15th centuries.
• Roman Legacy: Roman lead coffins unearthed nearby trace activity to antiquity.
• Family Chapel: Carew family chapel added in the 15th century, honouring Tudor prominence.
• Victorian Revival: Renovated in Arts and Crafts style, showcasing stencilled designs and a William Morris organ screen.
• Inclusive Spirit: Registered as an Inclusive Church, welcoming all faiths and communities.

St. Nicholas’ Church

Location: Biddestone, Wiltshire

• Norman Beginnings: Features a south doorway with Norman-era columns, capitals, and a tympanum showcasing a cross within a circle.
• Bell Turret: Added in the 13th century, reflecting architectural evolution.
• Georgian Touch: Retains charming Georgian box pews that add character to its interior.
• Victorian Enhancements: Sanctuary and vestry additions during the Victorian era further refined its aesthetics.
• Community Hub: Open daily, the church continues to serve its village as a peaceful and welcoming place.

St. Peter and St. Paul Church

Location: Fakenham, Norfolk

• Saxon Foundations: Likely constructed over a Saxon site, with remnants of that era in the north-east corner.
• Medieval Marvel: Built between 1300–1375 in Decorated Gothic style; its west tower followed in 1400–1450.
• Unique Artifacts: Boasts a 15th-century octagonal font, medieval brasses, a poor box dated 1665, and a parish chest.
• Community Spirit: Hosts events like the annual Christmas Tree Festival to support local charities.

Houghton-in-the-Dale Chapel (St. Giles)

Location: Houghton St. Giles, Norfolk

• Pilgrim’s Refuge: Located near the Slipper Chapel, the last stop before the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.
• Medieval Rood Screen: Adorned with 15th-century depictions of Holy Kinship and prominent bishops.
• Victorian Revival: Restored in the 1870s by architect William Eden Nesfield using historically sympathetic materials.
• Idyllic Ambiance: Nestled amidst tranquil brooks and rustic landscapes, offering a serene retreat.

Merton College Chapel

Location: Oxford, England

• 13th-Century Treasure: Built between 1290–1294, making it one of Oxford’s oldest college chapels.
• Original Stained Glass: Retains rare 13th-century stained glass of exceptional craftsmanship.
• Architectural Style: A striking Gothic chapel, bridging Early English and Decorated Gothic styles.
• Versatile Functionality: Served as the parish church of St. John the Baptist until 1891.
• Musical Excellence: Renowned for acoustics and strong choral traditions, bolstered by its 2008 choral foundation.

St. Albans Abbey

Location: Hertfordshire, England

• Legacy of Martyrdom: Built on the site where St Alban, Britain’s first Christian martyr, was executed during Roman rule.
• Architectural Grandeur: Blends Norman, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, with England’s longest nave spanning 85 meters.
• Historic Relics: Houses relics of both St Alban and St Amphibalus.
• Evolution: Transformed from a Benedictine abbey to a cathedral in 1877 post-dissolution of monasteries.

St. Katharine’s Church

Location: Regent's Park (originally by the Tower of London)

• Medieval Origins: Founded in 1147 by Queen Matilda, commemorating her two children who died in infancy.
• Royal Patronage: Supported by queens like Eleanor of Castile and Philippa of Hainault, who contributed to its growth.
• Liberty Status: Became a Liberty in the 15th century, enjoying independence from London's jurisdiction.
• Musical Legacy: Once rivalled St. Paul's Cathedral in its medieval musical renown.
• Relocation: Demolished in 1825 for St. Katharine Docks; re-established in Regent’s Park as the Royal Foundation of St Katharine.

St. Mary’s Church (University Church)

Location: Oxford, England

• University Beginnings: Birthplace of the University of Oxford; initially served as its sole building for lectures and governance.
• Architectural Gem: Features a stunning 13th-century spire, celebrated as one of England’s finest.
• Historic Trials: The site of the 1555 trial of the Oxford Martyrs, including Thomas Cranmer and Hugh Latimer.
• First Library: Housed Oxford's earliest library above the Convocation House in the 14th century.
• Tower Views: Offers panoramic vistas of Oxford, including iconic Radcliffe Square.

St. Peter-in-the-East Church

Location: Oxford, England

• Medieval Charm: Dating back to the 12th century, showcases Norman and Perpendicular Gothic architecture.
• College Connection: Part of St Edmund Hall’s legacy, including its churchyard statue of St Edmund.
• Deconsecration: Transformed into St Edmund Hall’s library after losing its consecration in the 20th century.
• Architectural Details: Includes a crypt, chancel, nave, and a 14th-century tower.
• Historical Roots: Records of worship date back to the late 10th century, mentioned in the Domesday Book.

The Walsingham Shrine

Location: Norfolk, England

• England's Nazareth: Founded in 1061 after Richeldis de Faverches' vision of the Virgin Mary, leading to a replica of the Holy House.
• Pilgrimage Destination: A prominent site for medieval pilgrims, including royalty like King Henry III and Queen Katherine of Aragon.
• Destruction: Destroyed during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of Monasteries in 1538; its iconic statue burned.
• Modern Revival: Restored in the 20th century and now welcoming around 250,000 pilgrims annually.
• Ecumenical Symbolism: A shared site of devotion for Anglican and Roman Catholic communities.