Thousands of people explored the city's hidden treasures over the weekend as poor weather failed to dampen Oxford Open Doors.

Some of the city's most historic buildings, and newest architectural wonders were opened to the public as the Oxford Preservation Trust festival returned.

The rarely-opened Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and the Blavatnik School of Government in Walton Street, Jericho, attracted more than 5,000 visitors between them.

The Trust's team were out in all weathers pointing punters in the right direction.

Crowds queued in record numbers to view the Painted Room in Cornmarket Street - formerly part of the Crown Tavern where William Shakespeare stayed - now hidden away above Betfred.

A special exhibition of silver at Payne & Sons - an eighth generation silversmiths' - also proved popular.

Colleges and university buildings were firm favourites again this year as the public enjoyed Trinity Library and Merton College's real tennis courts.

Organ recitals and silver band performances at All Souls College and the Castle Quarter ensured music filled the air and the weekend was played out by the Pavlova Quintet at the Sheldonian Theatre.

The Trust's director, Debbie Dance, said: "It was a very special weekend for many people and we thank the volunteers, the porters, the stewards and all those who opened their doors and created this wonderful atmosphere of celebration of all things Oxford."

"As we go back to our everyday lives we do so knowing just a little more about this wonderful city in which we live and work."

All pictures by Mark Bassett.