The chapel is a place of sanctuary, of ancient words and music, of peace and contemplation, and is open to everyone. There is no need to be a member of the college or even of the university. There is no dress code, no entry requirement, and no need to be part of any religious tradition. Groups of more than 10 are asked to book by emailing chapel.administrator@new.ox.ac.uk

The traditional Anglican service of Evensong is at the heart of the chapel’s life but the choir also sings for major feast days in the church’s year, carol services and special college events. Choral services take place each day (except Wednesday) in university terms. May you find peace and light in this place where prayer has been valid for more than 600 years.

If you are a current or former student or staff member interested in getting married at New College, please read these guidelines before making an enquiry.

Regular chapel services have finished for the 2021-22 academic year and will resume on with evensong at 6.15pm on Friday 7 October 2022.

Michaelmas Term 2022

Daily services (Friday 7 October - Saturday 3 December):

Sunday 17.45 Choral Evensong

Monday 18.15 Choral Evensong (Clerks' Voices)

Tuesday 18.15 Choral Evensong

Tuesday 21.00 Choral Compline (Clerks' Voices; odd weeks only - 11 and 25 October, 8 and 22 November)

Thursday 18.15 Choral Vespers (Boys' Voices)

Friday 18.15 Choral Evensong

Saturday 17.45 Choral Evensong or Choral Eucharist

Sunday evensong and special services will also be livestreamed on the New College Choir YouTube channel.
 

Special Services

The Chapel and Choir

The Chapel has been a fundamental part of New College life since the College’s foundation in 1379, when William of Wykeham placed the building at the heart of the college and endowed a choir of clerks and boys to sing daily services. The Choir of New College is now internationally renowned, but even today their primarily role is to sing at chapel services, which form a gathering point for students, staff and fellows, and are also attended by members of the local community and visitors from around the world. For people of all faiths or none, the Chapel and its choral services provide a place of quiet and contemplation away from the stresses of daily life. Although the Chapel was founded to serve the College community of fellows, students and staff, we welcome all our visitors who are drawn to its history, its music and its witness of faith.

In addition to singing at services, the Choir of New College has a busy concert and touring schedule, and has also released over 100 recordings. The Director of Music, Mr Robert Quinney, welcomes enquiries from prospective students and parents of prospective choristers. More information about the Choir can be found on the Choir of New College website. 

Music has always been a strength of New College, and the Chapel is used by students and external groups for concerts, plays and lectures that form a welcome and diverse contribution to College life. Full details of how to book the Chapel can be found in the Concert Guidelines.