Abstract: The ideas of British university originated in the medieval Oxbridge University, formed in the 19th century, changed in the late 19th and early 20th century and improved after World War II. Newman, Whitehead and Ashby elucidated and promoted the ideas at different times. From the classical to modern times, the University ideas have undergone significant changes, but the core and essence have been able to uphold: cultivating human of culture and ability with liberal education; the pursuit of theory research and academic excellence; insisting on university autonomy and academic freedom.