Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park: Oxford’s Family-Friendly Green Oasis
A sprawling green haven in Oxford with playgrounds, sports courts, a splash park, and a charming miniature railway for all ages.
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park in North Oxford is a vast, vibrant public park offering a rich mix of recreational activities including playgrounds, a splash park, mini-golf, sports courts, a miniature railway, and a scenic duck pond. Ideal for families and sports enthusiasts, it features well-maintained green spaces, picnic areas, and facilities such as a café and accessible toilets, making it a popular year-round destination for relaxation and active fun.
A brief summary to Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
- Elsfield Way, Oxford, OX2 8NP, GB
- +441865249811
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or mornings to enjoy fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches or picnic areas scattered throughout the park.
- Check the miniature railway schedule ahead of time, as rides typically operate on Sundays and bank holidays.
- Book tennis courts online in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
- Be prepared for limited toilet availability during busy days and plan accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services to the Banbury Road stops such as Five Mile Drive or Harefields, approximately 1.5 km from the park. From there, it is a 20-25 minute walk along accessible paths. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 one-way.
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Train and Walk
Oxford Parkway railway station is about 1.2 km from the park, roughly a 15-minute walk via pedestrian tunnels and footbridges. The station is served by frequent trains from London and surrounding areas. Walking routes are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Car
There are two pay-and-display car parks located at the north and south ends of the park. Parking fees are approximately £3.50 per day. Note that spaces can fill on busy weekends and during events.
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Cycling
Cycle-friendly paths connect the park to surrounding neighborhoods. Bike racks are available near the café and main entrances. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option for local visitors.
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
A Legacy of Community and Green Space
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park, located in North Oxford, was established in 1936 when Oxford City Council acquired land from the former Cutteslowe Manor estate. Since then, it has grown into one of the city’s largest and most beloved public parks, serving as a vital green lung for residents and visitors alike. The park’s extensive grounds blend open fields, woodlands, and water features, creating a natural haven within an urban setting. Its history reflects Oxford’s commitment to preserving accessible outdoor spaces for recreation and community gatherings.Recreational Diversity for All Ages
The park is renowned for its wide range of activities catering to all age groups. Families with children enjoy three separate playgrounds, including a sandpit and a splash park that provides interactive water play during warmer months. Sports enthusiasts can engage in tennis, basketball, football, beach volleyball, and cricket on well-maintained courts and pitches. Mini-golf adds a fun, leisurely challenge, while the miniature railway offers charming rides on many Sundays and bank holidays, delighting both kids and adults. The duck pond and butterfly house add a touch of nature observation, enhancing the park’s appeal as a destination for relaxation and play.Facilities and Amenities Enhancing Visitor Comfort
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park is well-equipped with amenities to support a comfortable visit. The San Remo kiosk and café serve snacks, hot meals, and beverages, with seating areas and picnic benches nearby for al fresco dining. Public toilets, including accessible facilities with baby changing stations, are available though some visitors note that maintenance could be improved during busy periods. Ample pay-and-display parking is provided, along with level and gravel paths suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers. The park’s layout includes benches along pathways, offering restful spots amid the greenery.A Hub for Community and Sporting Events
The park’s pavilions and open spaces regularly host community events, birthday parties, and sports matches, fostering a lively atmosphere. The tennis courts can be booked online, and the miniature railway is operated by a local model engineering society, emphasizing community involvement. Seasonal events and casual sports gatherings keep the park vibrant throughout the year, making it a social hub for North Oxford residents and visitors.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Encounters
Visitors can enjoy scenic strolls along the park’s footpaths, which wind through woodlands and around ponds inhabited by ducks, swans, and other birdlife. The butterfly house offers a unique opportunity to observe local fauna up close. The park’s green spaces provide a tranquil environment for mindfulness, nature walks, and casual picnics, blending recreational activity with peaceful natural surroundings.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
While the park is largely accessible, some paths include gentle slopes and ramps with handrails, and gates to play areas require a push to open, which may be challenging for some visitors. Public transport access is limited nearby, with the closest bus stops a short distance away and Oxford Parkway railway station about a 15-minute walk. The park’s size and variety of attractions make it suitable for half-day to full-day visits, offering a versatile outdoor experience for families, sports fans, and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
2.3 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Martyrs' Memorial
4.0 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Clarendon Building
4.1 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bridge of Sighs
4.1 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
4.1 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Visit Oxford Tours
4.1 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
4.1 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
4.2 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Brasenose College
4.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
The painted room
4.3 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
4.3 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
4.3 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Oxford Castle Quarter
4.4 km
Discover the historical treasures of Oxford Castle Quarter, where rich heritage meets delightful dining in a vibrant setting.
44-46 Oxford Castle
4.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Oxford Castle, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Oxford, England.
Oxford Town Hall
4.4 km
Historic Victorian Gothic landmark at Oxford’s heart, blending civic governance, cultural heritage, and vibrant community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wolvercote Cemetery
1.1 km
A tranquil historic cemetery in Oxford, famed for J.R.R. Tolkien’s grave and diverse cultural heritage.
Trap Grounds
2.5 km
A tranquil urban nature reserve in Oxford, offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful green space along the historic Oxford Canal.
Port Meadow
2.9 km
Historic riverside commonland near Oxford city centre, perfect for wildlife, walking, and open-air relaxation.
Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford
3.0 km
Historic Oxford college blending rich heritage, scenic riverside gardens, and a vibrant academic community.
Rose & Crown PH
3.0 km
A charming Victorian pub in Oxford offering traditional ales, hearty fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with live jazz.
North Parade Market
3.0 km
A vibrant, artisan street market in North Oxford offering local organic produce, crafts, and lively community spirit every second and fourth Saturday.
The Trout Inn
3.1 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Oxford offering seasonal British dishes, scenic terrace, and a charming garden with a roaming peacock.
Godstow Abbey
3.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Godstow Abbey, a serene medieval nunnery steeped in royal history and riverside beauty near Oxford.
University Parks
3.3 km
A historic and scenic green oasis in Oxford offering sports, riverside walks, rare trees, and tranquil spaces for all to enjoy.
New Marston Meadows
3.5 km
A serene riverside sanctuary in Oxford offering rolling meadows, rich wildlife, and peaceful paths for nature lovers and families.
Somerville College
3.5 km
Historic Oxford college known for pioneering women’s education, beautiful architecture, and vibrant academic life.
Keble College
3.6 km
Explore Keble College’s stunning Victorian-Gothic architecture, serene quads, and vibrant academic life in the heart of Oxford.
Pitt Rivers Museum
3.6 km
Explore Oxford’s captivating Pitt Rivers Museum, home to vast global collections displayed in a unique Victorian setting with free entry.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
3.6 km
Explore Earth's natural wonders in a breathtaking neo-Gothic museum, home to iconic dinosaurs, rare fossils, and vibrant live exhibits in Oxford.
Oxford Plan Bee
3.7 km
A community-driven urban initiative nurturing solitary bees through habitat creation and volunteer engagement in Oxford.
Essential places to dine
Pompette
1.5 km
Experience authentic French flavors and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Oxford Kitchen
1.7 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
2.4 km
Historic riverside dining in Oxford offering modern British cuisine, award-winning wines, and scenic boat hire in a charming Victorian boathouse.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
2.9 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
3.0 km
A Mediterranean culinary retreat in a stunning Victorian glasshouse, blending seasonal dishes with elegant charm in Oxford’s Park Town.
Brasserie Blanc
3.4 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets vibrant Oxford dining in Jericho’s warm and inviting Brasserie Blanc.
Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
3.4 km
A lively Mediterranean gastropub and deli in Oxford’s Jericho, serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh seasonal dishes in a stylish, family-friendly setting.
The Standard
3.5 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at The Standard in Oxford – a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
The Perch
3.5 km
A charming thatched pub by Oxford’s Port Meadow, blending historic ambiance with hearty British fare and riverside tranquility.
Parsonage Grill
3.5 km
Sophisticated British dining in Oxford with art-filled ambiance, impeccable service, and a charming garden terrace for all-day enjoyment.
Browns Oxford
3.6 km
A stylish Oxford brasserie blending French bistro charm with classic British fare and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Pierre Victoire
3.6 km
Authentic French bistro in Oxford since 1996, offering classic cuisine, prix fixe menus, and a warm, intimate atmosphere with excellent value.
Wilding Oxford - Wine Dine Shop
3.6 km
A vibrant Oxford wine bar and restaurant blending inventive small plates with a unique, expertly curated wine selection.
The Old Bookbinders Ale House
3.7 km
A charming Oxford pub blending traditional ales with authentic French bistro fare in Jericho’s quirky heart.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
4.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
1.7 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
4.1 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
4.1 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
Cool Britannia
4.1 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Watsons of Oxford
4.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Broad Canvas
4.1 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
The Shop of Secrets
4.1 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
4.1 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
4.2 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
The Crafters Emporium
4.2 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
Objects of Use
4.2 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
The Oxford Gift Shop
4.2 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Space Store Oxford
4.3 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
4.3 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Scriptum
4.3 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jude The Obscure
3.5 km
A literary-inspired British pub in Oxford’s Jericho with award-winning food, lively sports viewing, and a dog-friendly heated beer garden.
The Rickety Press
3.6 km
A lively Jericho pub blending funky vibes, quality pizzas, inventive burgers, and a welcoming community spirit in the heart of Oxford.
The Duke Of Cambridge
3.6 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
3.7 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
King's Arms, Oxford
4.0 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
4.1 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Grapes
4.2 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
OXO BAR
4.2 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
4.2 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Lighthouse
4.3 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
Thirst Bar
4.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Oxford with expert bartenders, heated outdoor terrace, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
The Varsity Club
4.3 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
All Bar One Oxford
4.3 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
4.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
Hanks Bar
4.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
4.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
4.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
4.3 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
4.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
4.3 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
4.3 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.7 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
The Venue, Bucks
39.2 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
39.3 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Popworld - Reading
42.0 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
42.0 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
42.1 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Diligence
42.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Gun Street Garden
42.3 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
