The Nuffield Institute For Medical Research The Radcliffe Observatory

The Nuffield Institute for Medical Research, formerly known as the Radcliffe Observatory, is a Grade I listed building located on Woodstock Road. It was designed by Henry Keene, funded by Dr. John Radcliffe, and construction began on June 27, 1772. Due to Keene's death in 1776, the building was not completed until 1795. The main structure, including the dwelling house and two wings, was built using Headington Stone before Keene's death. Afterward, James Wyatt took over as architect, making alterations to the exterior and raising the upper octagon building, inspired by the Tower of the Winds. The front of the observatory measures 175 feet, with each wing extending 69 feet, and the tower reaches approximately 106 feet in height. The third storey features an octagonal tower adorned with eight sculptures of the winds on the entablature, and at the top, a large globe is supported by bronze figures of Hercules and Atlas, created by John Bacon, RA. Below the platform, bas reliefs depicting the zodiac signs and the rising moon and setting sun were crafted in Coade stone by Rossi, RA. The interior includes notable contemporary fittings, including furniture designed by Wyatt. A curved covered way on the ground floor connects the east wing of the observatory with the dwelling house to the east.