About Oxford Preservation Trust
Founded in 1927, Oxford Preservation Trust has been dedicated to the care and stewardship of Oxford ever since.
Over the decades, it has witnessed significant change across the city, playing an active role in guiding that change rather than resisting it—conserving the best of Oxford’s historic environment while supporting thoughtful, high-quality new development.
The Trust works to protect both Oxford’s built heritage and its surrounding green setting, ensuring that historic buildings continue to be used and valued, and that the city’s rural backdrop remains accessible and enjoyed by all.
Its mission is clear: to conserve the best of Oxford’s past while helping to shape a positive and sustainable future for the city. The Trust cares for a significant area of land within Oxford’s rural landscape, including parts of its world-renowned views, opening them up for public enjoyment.
Its conservation work spans a wide range of heritage assets, from cottages to castles, and includes the stewardship of its offices in restored 17th-century cottages in St Ebbe’s, Shakespeare’s Painted Room, contributions to the restoration of Oxford Castle, and the preservation of historic infrastructure such as a railway swing bridge.
Drawing on its extensive knowledge of Oxford, developed over many years, the Trust produces research and guidance to support better planning and decision-making. Work such as the Conservation Area Toolkit, the Oxford Views Study, and Castle Mill Canal Corridor studies is intended to inform positive development and long-term stewardship of the city.
Through initiatives such as the Oxford Design Awards and OPT Annual Awards, the Trust also recognises outstanding contributions to Oxford’s built environment.
Education and public engagement sit at the heart of the Trust’s work. Whether through Oxford Open Doors, member events, or wider community outreach programmes, it seeks to deepen understanding and appreciation of Oxford as a place of outstanding cultural and historic significance.
Oxford Preservation Trust welcomes all who share its passion for the city and encourages ongoing support for its work in safeguarding Oxford’s heritage and future.
Oxford Preservation Trust is a company limited by guarantee registered in England (No. 225839) and a registered charity (No. 203043).
