Remains Of St Nicholas'S College

The remains of St. Nicholas's College are located on Wallingford Castle Lane and are designated as a Grade I listed site. These ruins, which likely date from the 13th century with alterations from the 15th and 16th centuries and later modifications, are constructed from uncoursed limestone rubble. The structure forms an L-shape, with the longer section measuring approximately 25 meters in length and 10 meters in height, while the shorter section is about 15 meters long and has varying heights. There is a two-centre archway in the shorter section, and the fenestration is irregular, with most openings being damaged. An outbuilding from the 19th century is attached to the north side of the ruins.

Historically, Wallingford Castle was initiated in 1067 under the orders of William the Conqueror and was overseen by Robert D'Oyley. The Motte and Bailey castle was completed by 1071 and expanded in the 13th century during the reigns of King John and King Henry III, when it was held by Richard, Earl of Cornwall. In 1307, Edward II granted the castle and town to Piers Gaveston, who was made Baron Wallingford. By 1335, Edward III had given the castle to his son, Edward the Black Prince, Duke of Cornwall, who invested significantly in its repairs and improvements. The castle was held by the Chaucer and de la Pole families of Ewelme for most of the 15th century. However, by the 1540s, it had fallen into disrepair, and its stones were repurposed for other buildings in the town. During the Civil War, the castle was fortified as a Royalist stronghold, and Charles I inspected the renovations in 1643. The castle was besieged in 1646 by Cromwell's troops, leading to Colonel Blagge being trapped for 16 weeks. On November 17, 1652, Cromwell's Council of State ordered its demolition. This fragment is traditionally believed to be part of St. Nicholas's College, which served as the King's Chapel in the castle. The castle area is scheduled as an ancient monument.