New College Lane
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New College Lane is a historic street in central Oxford, England, named after New College, one of the older Oxford colleges, adjacent to the north.
At the north-western end of New College Lane is a junction onto Catte Street, with the Sheldonian Theatre opposite. The main feature is the Bridge of Sighs, a covered bridge that connects two parts of Hertford College, completed in 1914. This attracts many tourists for the view.
Just beyond to the east on the north side of the lane is a terraced house that was occupied by Edmund Halley, after whom Halley's Comet is named. There is a plaque recording the fact. Also to the north is a small alley leading past some of the historic city wall to the Turf Tavern, a hidden but favorite public house for students and tourists.
The lane has several sharps bends following the boundaries of the surrounding colleges. In particular, there is a rear entrance to New College. The lane is largely surrounded by high stone walls with few windows. Some good examples of gargoyles can be seen, a feature of Oxford college architecture.
At the south-eastern end, the lane becomes Queen's Lane, named after Queen's College to the south. There is a gate in the road at this point to prevent through-traffic.
