What is the Oxford Preservation Trust?

Founded in 1927 and a presence in the city ever since, how many people across Oxford could really explain the work of the trust and what they do each day?

At this time of year you will most likely hear about Oxford Open Doors, the annual free heritage weekend run and organised by Oxford Preservation Trust. In 2013 over 130 venues opened their doors free of charge (including many university and college buildings), attracting over 20,000 people into Oxford (over 70 per cent from the city and surrounding area itself).

Oxford Open Doors is the most visible part of the trust’s work. However, you may be surprised to learn what Oxford Preservation Trust does for the rest of the year. This year alone the trust has already opened Wolvercote Lakes as a community nature facility and is about to publish its second book, On Foot From Broad Street. This is in addition to their commitments to maintain green spaces throughout Oxford, including Boars Hill and Heyford Meadow.

Oxford Preservation Trust, as a charity, receives no state or statutory funding. It relies upon membership subscriptions and funding that it attract itself in the form of grants or donations. Oxford Preservation Trust organises tours and talks for members throughout the year, opening up the stunning buildings of the city and providing opportunities to hear from the city’s leading historians and experts.

Members recently enjoyed a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Emery Art Gallery at Pembroke College, where they saw Samuel Johnson’s first dictionary, as well as the impressive collection of 20th Century art. Recent trips have also included the restored University Church of St Mary The Virgin and Bartlemas Chapel in Cowley. There are special members-only events in the run up to Oxford Open Doors, and the week afterwards.

If you enjoy Oxford Open Doors, why not find out how you can get behind closed doors for the rest of the year?

To find out more about Oxford Preservation Trust, and to become a member, visit www.oxfordpreservation.

org.uk or pick up an Oxford Open Doors brochure Oxford Preservation Trust needs volunteers to join it for Oxford Open Doors.

The organisation looking for people to provide a warm welcome to visitors in return for half a day stewarding in historic and fascinating venues over the weekend.

To volunteer, please email volunteer@oxfordpreservation.org.uk