Carfax Tower, Oxford

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, Carfax Tower stands as a prominent landmark in this historic city. Originally part of the 12th-century St. Martin's Church, the tower is the only surviving component of the structure, which was otherwise demolished in 1896 to make way for road expansion. Its name, Carfax, derives from the Latin "quadrifurcus," meaning "four-forked," as it is situated at the junction where the city's four main streets converge.

Carfax Tower, reaching a height of 23 meters, offers visitors the opportunity to climb its 99 steps and enjoy a panoramic view of Oxford's dreaming spires. Though not as towering as some monuments, its central location makes it an ideal vantage point to appreciate the city's blend of medieval and modern architecture, including a glimpse of the University of Oxford's colleges.

The tower is known for housing a historic set of bells, which continue to chime every quarter-hour, maintaining a tradition that dates back centuries. Additionally, it features a decorative clock face with figures of the Oxford Martyrs—Hugh Latimer, Nicholas Ridley, and Thomas Cranmer—commemorating their 16th-century executions.