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Oxford

The Lawrence family moved to Oxford in 1896 when Ned, as he was known to his family, was eight years old. It remained the family’s home until the early 1920s. It was Oxford which inspired his interest in archaeology, in history and in all aspects of learning. He went cycling in the surrounding countryside and started to build up his huge stamina and strength which was to serve him so well in his campaigns in the desert.

It was in Oxford that Lawrence went to school and university. He and his brothers were associated with four Oxford Colleges, and while the City has changed much since those days, the Colleges themselves are little altered. In Oxford it is still possible –at least in parts – to dip into the world which Lawrence knew so well.

2 Polstead Road

Number 2 Polstead Road is a substantial red-brick semi-detached house built about 1890. It has four floors including a basement. It stood in what was then a newly established neighbourhood just to the north of the Colleges of the University.

Schools & Colleges

Lawrence’s path through education laid the foundations for his historic actions later in life, from the newly opened City of Oxford High School for Boys to various prestigious colleges throughout Oxford.

Points of Interest

As well as during his education, Oxford had plenty of interesting locations for Lawrence to visit in his downtime. His passion for archaeology was fueled by places such as the Ashmolean Museum and Bodleian Library.

Photos  © Alan Payne (2 Polstead Rd, City of Oxford High School for Boys, Kennington plaque); Charles Eilers (Kennington bust); Guenter Springer-Kropf (All Souls College); Alison Jolley (dagger); BethNaught (St Aldates Church)