The Headington Shark: Oxford’s Iconic Rooftop Sculpture
A surreal 25-foot shark crashing through a rooftop, symbolizing protest and creativity in the heart of Oxford’s Headington suburb.
The Headington Shark is a striking 25-foot fiberglass sculpture of a great white shark crashing head-first through the roof of a residential house in Headington, Oxford. Created in 1986 as a bold anti-war statement, it has become a beloved local landmark known for its surreal and provocative presence. The sculpture combines art, protest, and whimsy, attracting visitors intrigued by its story and unusual appearance.
A brief summary to The Headington Shark
- 2 New High St, Oxford, Headington, OX3 7AQ, GB
- +447763693225
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Photograph the shark from the street during daylight for the best lighting and to respect the private property.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Oxford’s historic city center, just 1.5 miles away.
- Consider staying at the Shark House Airbnb for a unique overnight experience.
- Use public transport or park in designated car parks nearby due to limited street parking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus from Oxford city center to Headington, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for off-peak times. The stop is a short walk from the shark. A single ticket costs around £2-£3.
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Taxi
A taxi from Oxford city center to the Headington Shark takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This option offers convenience but can cost between £8-£15.
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Walking
For an active option, walk about 1.5 miles from Oxford city center to Headington. The route takes roughly 30-40 minutes on mostly flat terrain through residential areas, suitable for most fitness levels.
The Headington Shark 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 The Headington Shark
A Surreal Symbol of Protest and Art
The Headington Shark, officially titled "Untitled 1986," is a remarkable rooftop sculpture that depicts a giant shark embedded head-first into the roof of a modest terraced house at 2 New High Street in Headington, Oxford. Commissioned by the homeowner Bill Heine and sculpted by John Buckley, it was installed in August 1986 without planning permission. The shark serves as a powerful anti-war statement, symbolizing bombs crashing into buildings and the feeling of helplessness during times of conflict.Controversy and Endurance
From its inception, the shark sparked controversy, leading to a six-year dispute with Oxford City Council. Authorities initially sought to remove it on safety and planning grounds, even proposing relocating it to a swimming pool. However, local support and a landmark government ruling allowed the sculpture to remain, recognizing its artistic merit and unique contribution to the community. In 2022, the sculpture was officially designated a heritage asset, cementing its place in Oxford’s cultural landscape.Artistic Design and Impact
Measuring approximately 25 feet (7.6 meters) long, the fiberglass shark is painted in realistic colors and appears to be crashing dramatically through the roof, creating a striking visual contrast with the traditional residential architecture. The sculpture’s boldness and absurdity invite reflection on war, destruction, and the unexpected in everyday life. Its presence transforms an ordinary house into an extraordinary landmark that challenges perceptions of public art.The Shark House Experience
Beyond the sculpture itself, the house beneath has been adapted into a unique accommodation known as The Shark House Airbnb. It offers visitors a chance to stay in a quirky and memorable setting, sleeping up to ten guests with comfortable amenities. The location is in a lively neighborhood with traditional pubs and cafes, just 1.5 miles from Oxford city center, making it an intriguing stop or overnight stay for travelers exploring the city.Visiting and Photographing the Shark
The shark is situated on a private residence, so visitors are encouraged to admire and photograph it from the street respectfully. Its unusual and photogenic nature has made it a popular subject on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The best light for photos is during the daytime, and the site is often combined with tours of Oxford’s historic and cultural attractions.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Headington Shark stands as a testament to creative defiance and the power of public art to provoke thought and conversation. It has inspired both amusement and awe, becoming a quirky icon of Oxford’s cultural heritage. Its story reflects broader themes of artistic freedom, community identity, and the role of art in social commentary, securing its place as a must-see landmark in the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Clarendon Building
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Oxford Town Hall
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Great Jewry Marker
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St Michael at the North Gate
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Unmissable attractions to see
Statue of Aslan
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The Storybook Tree
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Bury Knowle Park
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The Oxford Artisan Distillery
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South Park
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The Kilns (C S Lewis House)
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C S Lewis Nature Reserve
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Headington Hill Park
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A historic Oxford park with mature trees, scenic slopes, and city views, perfect for peaceful walks and community events.
Great Meadow
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A tranquil and historic green space nestled within Magdalen College’s iconic Oxford grounds, perfect for peaceful strolls and nature appreciation.
New Marston Meadows
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The Plain
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Shotover Country Park
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Magdalen College
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Oxford Botanic Garden
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Punting in Oxford
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Essential places to dine
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Le Kesh
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Pan Pan Restaurant
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La Cucina
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CuttleFish
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Arbequina
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Moya
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Spiced Roots Restaurant
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Kazbar Restaurant
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The Magdalen Arms
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Quod Restaurant & Bar
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Vaults & Garden
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The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Babylon Trading
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Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
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The Varsity Shop
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Scriptum
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Objects of Use
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Cool Britannia
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Space Store Oxford
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Broad Canvas
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The House
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
