Headington Hill Park
A historic Oxford park with mature trees, scenic slopes, and city views, perfect for peaceful walks and community events.
Tucked just east of Oxford’s city centre, Headington Hill Park is a peaceful green retreat with mature trees, winding paths, and gentle slopes offering lovely views over the city. Once part of the Headington Hill Hall estate, the park blends 19th-century landscaping with open lawns and wooded areas, making it ideal for walks, picnics, and quiet contemplation. It’s also a popular spot for students from nearby Oxford Brookes University and a venue for small festivals and outdoor events.
A brief summary to Headington Hill Park
- Oxford, Headington, Oxford, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 in autumn to see the park’s mature trees in their full fall colours, especially along the lime avenue and wooded paths.
- Combine your visit with a walk across the footbridge to South Park for a longer, more varied route through Oxford’s green spaces.
- Look for the tree labels as you walk; the park is like a quiet arboretum, great for learning about different species.
- Check local event listings; the park often hosts festivals, theatre, and community gatherings, especially in spring and summer.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Oxford city centre, allow about 25–30 minutes on foot. Follow St Clement’s Street east, then continue up Headington Road; the park entrance is just past Oxford Brookes University’s Headington Hill site.
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Bus
Several local buses from the city centre, such as the 8 and 9, run towards Headington. Alight at the Headington Hill Hall stop, from where the park is a short walk away.
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Cycling
A cycle ride from the city centre takes about 10–15 minutes. Use the main Headington Road route and look for the park entrance near Oxford Brookes University’s Headington Hill campus.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs for Headington from the city centre or ring road. There is limited on‑street parking near the park entrance, suitable for short stays; spaces can fill quickly, especially during events.
Headington Hill Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Headington Hill Park
A Park with a Noble Past
Headington Hill Park began as part of the grand Headington Hill Hall estate, once home to the Morrell family, prominent Oxford brewers whose influence shaped much of the city’s social and architectural landscape. Designed in the 1850s by William Hart Baxter, curator of the Oxford Botanical Garden, the park’s original carriage drive and formal tree plantings reflect its aristocratic origins. When Oxford City Council acquired the land in 1953, it preserved this historic character while opening the space to the public. Today, the park retains its 19th-century charm through mature lime avenues, ornamental shrubs, and a network of paths that echo the estate’s original layout.Woodland Walks and City Views
The park’s gently sloping terrain creates a varied landscape of open lawns, shaded groves, and paved walkways. A striking avenue of lime trees runs down to Marston Road, once used by the Morrell family to reach St Clement’s Church, and now a scenic route for walkers and runners. The elevated position offers pleasant views across Oxford, particularly from the hilltop areas where the city’s skyline unfolds in the distance. These vantage points make the park a quiet place to pause, read, or simply enjoy the changing light over the rooftops and spires.An Urban Arboretum
Headington Hill Park functions almost like a living arboretum, with a diverse collection of mature trees, many of which are labeled. This makes it a rewarding spot for tree enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, who can wander among oaks, beeches, and other species while learning about the park’s botanical heritage. The mix of open grass and wooded sections supports a range of wildlife, and the park’s relatively tranquil atmosphere provides a welcome contrast to the busier streets nearby. It’s a place where nature and history quietly coexist, inviting slow exploration rather than hurried transit.Events and Everyday Life
The park is more than just a green space; it’s a community venue that hosts small to large events, from the annual West Oxford Fun Day and the Oxford Thai Festival to corporate away days and outdoor theatre performances. Its picturesque setting also makes it a sought-after location for wedding receptions and private parties. For everyday visitors, it’s a favourite for dog walking, jogging, and family picnics, with its paved paths and level lawns accommodating a range of activities. The connection to South Park via a high-level footbridge over London Road extends the walking experience into a larger green corridor.Life Around the Park
Located close to Oxford Brookes University’s Headington campus, the park is a natural extension of student life, offering a peaceful place to study, relax, or socialise between lectures. Its proximity to the city centre and good bus links make it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The surrounding area, including the famous Headington Shark house, adds a quirky, contemporary layer to the park’s historic setting. Whether you’re here for a morning stroll, an afternoon picnic, or an evening event, Headington Hill Park offers a calm, green counterpoint to Oxford’s bustling core.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalen Bridge
0.7 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Bridge of Sighs
1.3 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
2.1
1.3 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Brasenose College
1.3 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Clarendon Building
1.3 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Tom Tower
1.5 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
1.5 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Visit Oxford Tours
1.5 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
1.5 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Great Jewry Marker
1.5 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
1.5 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
The painted room
1.5 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Martyrs' Memorial
1.6 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Modern Art Oxford
1.6 km
Explore contemporary art and cultural events at Modern Art Oxford, a vibrant gallery with a cozy café in the heart of Oxford.
The Oxford Union Society
1.6 km
Explore the Oxford Union Society, an iconic venue for debates and learning, rich with history and cultural significance in the heart of Oxford.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Park
0.4 km
Sprawling green hills and panoramic city views make South Park a beloved outdoor escape in Oxford.
The Plain
0.7 km
Historic crossroads and vibrant urban gateway where Oxford’s past meets its lively East End community.
Great Meadow
0.8 km
A tranquil and historic green space nestled within Magdalen College’s iconic Oxford grounds, perfect for peaceful strolls and nature appreciation.
Magdalen College
0.8 km
Explore Magdalen College’s medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and unique deer park nestled beside Oxford’s scenic River Cherwell.
The Oxford Artisan Distillery
0.8 km
Discover Oxford’s premier grain-to-glass distillery crafting award-winning spirits with heritage grains and sustainable practices.
Oxford Botanic Garden
0.9 km
Explore the UK’s oldest botanic garden, a compact urban oasis with 5,000+ plant species, historic walled gardens, and immersive global glasshouses.
Punting in Oxford
0.9 km
Experience Oxford’s timeless charm gliding gently along the River Cherwell on a traditional punt, surrounded by historic colleges and serene landscapes.
St Edmund Hall
1.0 km
Discover Oxford’s oldest academic society, St Edmund Hall, where medieval charm meets centuries of scholarly tradition in the city’s historic heart.
Examination Schools, University of Oxford
1.0 km
A grand Victorian Gothic Revival building at Oxford’s heart, hosting university exams, lectures, and historic events with timeless academic tradition.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
1.0 km
Step into Oxford’s shadowy past with a chilling nighttime ghost tour through medieval streets and haunted alleys.
City Sightseeing Oxford
1.0 km
Discover Oxford’s iconic landmarks and university heritage at your own pace with this flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour and guided walking experience.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
1.0 km
Discover Oxford’s premier antiques centre with over 40 dealers offering unique vintage treasures in a historic High Street setting.
New College
1.1 km
Explore New College, Oxford: a historic gem with stunning cloisters, the iconic 'Malfoy Tree,' and majestic medieval halls in the university’s heart.
The Queen's College
1.1 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
New Marston Meadows
1.1 km
A serene riverside sanctuary in Oxford offering rolling meadows, rich wildlife, and peaceful paths for nature lovers and families.
Essential places to dine
The Coconut Tree Oxford
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Sri Lankan flavors and lively vibes at The Coconut Tree Oxford, a must-visit spot for authentic cuisine and creative cocktails.
Pan Pan Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover vibrant pan-Asian flavors and casual dining charm at Pan Pan, Oxford’s hotspot for authentic small plates and bubble tea.
La Cucina
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Oxford at La Cucina, a family-run gem with a vibrant open kitchen.
CuttleFish
0.5 km
Fresh, beautifully cooked seafood with a relaxed vibe in the heart of Oxford’s vibrant St Clement’s district.
Moya
0.5 km
Discover authentic Slovak cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy Oxford setting on St Clement's Street.
Arbequina
0.6 km
Bold Spanish tapas in a converted chemist with bohemian buzz and impeccable service.
Spiced Roots Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Caribbean cuisine and rum cocktails in Oxford's most celebrated island-inspired restaurant.
Kazbar Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and North African tapas in a cozy Moorish-inspired setting on Oxford’s lively Cowley Road.
Le Kesh
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine in a cosy, welcoming Oxford restaurant with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Antep Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Oxford’s vibrant Cowley Road neighborhood.
Yeti
0.9 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian dining with warm hospitality and rich flavors on Oxford’s vibrant Cowley Road.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
1.2 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Vaults & Garden
1.2 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
The Magdalen Arms
1.3 km
A vibrant gastropub on Iffley Road blending hearty British fare with seasonal European flavors in a welcoming, lively setting.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
1.4 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Retro Room
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s stylish hub for vintage and designer second-hand fashion, blending sustainability with unique finds in a welcoming boutique setting.
Babylon Trading
1.0 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
1.3 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
The Varsity Shop
1.3 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
1.4 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Chapter House Shop
1.4 km
Discover authentic Oxford heritage through unique gifts and local crafts at The Chapter House Shop within Christ Church’s historic grounds.
Scriptum
1.4 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Christ Church Gift Shop
1.4 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and exclusive Christ Church memorabilia in a charming shop nestled within historic college grounds.
Objects of Use
1.4 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Space Store Oxford
1.4 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Goodies Oxford
1.4 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Cool Britannia
1.5 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.
Soctopus
1.5 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
1.5 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
The Crafters Emporium
1.5 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cape Of Good Hope
0.7 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Mad Hatter
0.7 km
A quirky bar and boutique hotel in Oxford offering creative cocktails, themed rooms, and lively nightlife in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
The Baron
0.8 km
A vibrant cocktail bar on Oxford’s Cowley Road, offering creative drinks and a welcoming late-night atmosphere for all.
King's Arms, Oxford
1.3 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
1.4 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
All Bar One Oxford
1.4 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
The House
1.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Varsity Club
1.5 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.
St Aldates
1.5 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
Hanks Bar
1.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
1.6 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Royal Blenheim
1.6 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Grapes
1.6 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
Lamb and Flag
1.7 km
Historic Oxford pub famed for its Inklings literary heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent local ales since 1613.
Cow & Creek
1.7 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
1.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
1.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
2.1 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
2.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
2.1 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
The Bridge Nightclub
2.1 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
29.9 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
The Venue, Bucks
36.0 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
36.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
36.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
37.6 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
37.6 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
37.6 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
37.9 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
39.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
