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May 2006
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The Queen visits Oxford, 5 May 2006

The Queen was greeted by thousands of well-wishers during a visit to the historic academic city of Oxford.

The day began with a visit to the Rothermere American Institute where Her Majesty opened a garden in memory of  The Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. The late Princess's children, Viscount Linley and Lady Sarah Chatto also attended the opening of the garden,  designed by Lady Weinberg (interior designer Anouska Hemple). 

The Queen in Oxford The Queen views the Bible and Order of Service which were printed by the Oxford University Press for her Coronation in 1953
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The Queen went on to visit the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, an organisation which produces an illustrated collection of more than 50,000 biographies of men and women from around the world who have shaped Britain's history. Her Majesty met current and former members of the dictionary's academic and publishing staff before viewing an exhibition about writing and publishing the 2004 edition, and putting the dictionary online.

The Queen in Oxford The Queen meets members of the Iqra Muslim School of Oxford as she arrives to visit the newly renovated Oxford Castle and Prison
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Her Majesty then visited the newly restored Oxford Castle, which was initially built in 1071 for William the Conqueror. It has since been used as a Sheriff's centre for administration and as a jail, before its newest incarnation as a hotel and restaurant complex. The Queen took a tour of the castle, including the old jail. She met architects, heritage experts and others involved in the project, as well as a former governor of the old prison.

The Queen in Oxford The Queen is given a tour of the Oxford Castle and Prison
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Her Majesty went on a walkabout in Oxford city centre, where she was greeted by  thousands of well-wishers, many of whom presented her with flowers and gifts.

The Queen in Oxford Her Majesty in Oxford city centre
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Finally, she met some of the academic population of Oxford during a visit to Christ Church College at which she was the guest of honour at a luncheon.

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