600-year-old tradition upheld in Oxford as walls inspected

Councillor Mike Rowley carried out his duty on October 23, a responsibility that has been maintained since the reign of King Richard II.

This unique tradition commemorates a centuries-old agreement between Oxford and New College, which has been in place since June 30, 1379.

The Lord Mayor competed the ceremonial walk from Oxford Town Hall to New College (Image: Oxford City Council) The custom originated when King Richard II provided the land for the establishment of New College, on the condition the college would maintain the city's defensive walls.

A contract was formed to ensure the upkeep of the walls, and since then, every three years, the Lord Mayor of Oxford has been tasked with inspecting them.

Mr Rowley said: "It is a privilege to continue this long-standing tradition, which connects our modern city to its medieval roots.

"The walls are a testament to the strength and resilience of Oxford, and it is an honour to carry out this duty on behalf of the city and its people."

The group were led by the City Mace (Image: Oxford City Council) This year, the Lord Mayor, accompanied by other city councillors, once again completed the ceremonial walk from Oxford Town Hall to New College.

The procession was headed by the City Mace, and, in keeping with tradition, they stopped at New College's gate on New College Lane.

Here, the mace bearer knocked three times, symbolically requesting permission for the Lord Mayor and councillors to be allowed in.

The warden and fellows of New College led the group through the college garden (Image: Oxford City Council) Upon receiving permission, the warden and fellows of New College led the group through the college garden to inspect the ancient walls.

New College, in accordance with the 14th-century contract, has gates on both sides of the city walls.

These gates were constructed not only to allow the Lord Mayor's inspections but also to provide a passage for the defence of Oxford during times of war.