The Kidneys Nature Reserve in Oxford
A peaceful nature reserve in Oxford offering rich biodiversity and a serene escape within the city’s urban landscape.
The Kidneys is a tranquil nature reserve located on Bedford Street in Oxford, offering a peaceful retreat into natural surroundings within the city. Known for its rich biodiversity and serene atmosphere, this green space provides visitors with a chance to connect with local flora and fauna. It is a favored spot for nature lovers and tourists seeking a quiet outdoor experience in Oxford’s urban environment.
A brief summary to The Kidneys
- Bedford St, Oxford, OX4 1TJ, GB
- +441865252240
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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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 during daylight hours to fully appreciate the wildlife and natural surroundings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the scenic greenery.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as paths may be uneven or muddy after rain.
- Respect the natural habitat by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Oxford Bus Service routes 2 or 4 from the city center to a stop near Bedford Street. The journey typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules on weekends. A single fare costs around £2.50.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Oxford city center to The Kidneys on Bedford Street takes approximately 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay between £7 and £12. Taxis are readily available throughout Oxford.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to The Kidneys is a pleasant option, taking about 20 to 30 minutes from central Oxford. The route includes urban sidewalks and is generally flat but may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to occasional uneven paths.
The Kidneys location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Kidneys
A Serene Urban Nature Escape
Nestled in the heart of Oxford on Bedford Street, The Kidneys offers a refreshing natural sanctuary amid the city's bustle. This nature reserve is characterized by its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, making it a peaceful haven for both locals and visitors. The area’s calm ambiance invites relaxation and quiet reflection, making it an ideal spot for those seeking respite from urban life.Ecological Richness and Wildlife Habitat
The Kidneys supports a variety of native plants and animals, contributing to Oxford’s ecological diversity. The reserve serves as a critical habitat for local bird species, small mammals, and insects, fostering a balanced ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy observing the natural interactions and seasonal changes that occur within this protected green space.Community and Conservation Efforts
Although not formally claimed or managed by a specific organization, The Kidneys benefits from community interest and informal conservation efforts aimed at preserving its natural beauty and ecological value. Its status as a nature reserve highlights the importance of maintaining urban green spaces for environmental health and public enjoyment.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to The Kidneys can expect a tranquil and scenic environment perfect for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and photography. The reserve's peaceful setting offers a unique contrast to Oxford’s historic and academic landmarks, providing a natural backdrop that enhances the city’s cultural tapestry.Accessibility and Surroundings
Located conveniently within Oxford, The Kidneys is easily accessible for those staying or living in the city. While the reserve itself is a quiet natural spot, it is surrounded by the vibrant life of Oxford, allowing visitors to combine nature exploration with urban experiences.Preserving a Natural Gem in Oxford
The Kidneys stands as a testament to the value of preserving natural areas within urban settings. It offers a vital green lung for Oxford, encouraging sustainable interaction with the environment and fostering appreciation for local biodiversity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalen Bridge
1.4 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
2.1
1.6 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Tom Tower
1.6 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 Preservation Trust
1.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Great Jewry Marker
1.7 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Brasenose College
1.8 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
1.8 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
The painted room
1.8 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Bridge of Sighs
1.9 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
1.9 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Tours UK
1.9 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
2.0 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
St Michael at the North Gate
2.0 km
Discover the historic charm of St Michael at the North Gate, Oxford's oldest Anglican church, where history and spirituality intertwine.
Weston Library
2.0 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
2.0 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Unmissable attractions to see
Longbridges Nature Park
0.2 km
A serene riverside nature reserve in Oxford offering peaceful walks, wildlife watching, and scenic open grasslands along the Thames.
Iffley Meadows
0.6 km
A tranquil floodplain meadow near Oxford famed for its rare snake's-head fritillaries and rich wildlife, open year-round for peaceful nature walks.
Hinksey Park
0.8 km
A scenic 9-hectare urban park in Oxford offering lakeside tranquility, diverse sports facilities, and vibrant community spaces just minutes from the city centre.
Iffley Lock
1.1 km
Historic 17th-century Thames pound lock and weir in Oxford’s picturesque Iffley village, blending heritage with tranquil riverside charm.
Christ Church Meadow
1.2 km
A serene riverside meadow in Oxford offering scenic walks, historic views, grazing wildlife, and a peaceful escape in the city’s heart.
Willow Tree
1.2 km
Experience the tranquility and historical charm of Willow Tree, a picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of Oxford's Christ Church Meadow.
Oxford River Cruises
1.2 km
Discover Oxford’s historic landmarks and river life on elegant electric river cruises along the Thames, offering scenic, cultural, and dining experiences.
Folly Bridge
1.2 km
Experience the charm of Folly Bridge in Oxford, where scenic views and rich history come together for an unforgettable visit.
The Plain
1.3 km
Historic crossroads and vibrant urban gateway where Oxford’s past meets its lively East End community.
Florence Park
1.3 km
Florence Park in East Oxford is a vibrant community green space with gardens, play areas, tennis courts, and the welcoming hub Flo’s Café.
Punting in Oxford
1.3 km
Experience Oxford’s timeless charm gliding gently along the River Cherwell on a traditional punt, surrounded by historic colleges and serene landscapes.
Oxford Botanic Garden
1.4 km
Explore the UK’s oldest botanic garden, a compact urban oasis with 5,000+ plant species, historic walled gardens, and immersive global glasshouses.
Alice's Shop
1.5 km
Step into the real-life shop that inspired Alice in Wonderland, brimming with magical gifts and literary history in the heart of Oxford.
Christ Church War Memorial Garden
1.5 km
A serene garden in Oxford honoring Christ Church’s fallen heroes of WWI with tranquil paths and historic views.
Christ Church Cathedral
1.5 km
Explore Oxford’s historic Christ Church Cathedral, a medieval architectural gem and iconic Harry Potter filming location with rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Magdalen Arms
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub on Iffley Road blending hearty British fare with seasonal European flavors in a welcoming, lively setting.
Le Kesh
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine in a cosy, welcoming Oxford restaurant with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Antep Kitchen
1.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Oxford’s vibrant Cowley Road neighborhood.
Arbequina
1.1 km
Bold Spanish tapas in a converted chemist with bohemian buzz and impeccable service.
Spiced Roots Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Caribbean cuisine and rum cocktails in Oxford's most celebrated island-inspired restaurant.
Yeti
1.2 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian dining with warm hospitality and rich flavors on Oxford’s vibrant Cowley Road.
Kazbar Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and North African tapas in a cozy Moorish-inspired setting on Oxford’s lively Cowley Road.
The Folly Restaurant
1.2 km
Elegant riverside dining on the Thames with modern European cuisine and stunning views in the heart of Oxford.
The Head of the River, Oxford
1.2 km
Charming riverside pub, restaurant, and hotel at Oxford’s Folly Bridge, blending British tradition with contemporary dining and cozy waterside stays.
Moya
1.3 km
Discover authentic Slovak cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy Oxford setting on St Clement's Street.
CuttleFish
1.3 km
Fresh, beautifully cooked seafood with a relaxed vibe in the heart of Oxford’s vibrant St Clement’s district.
La Cucina
1.3 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.
Pan Pan Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover vibrant pan-Asian flavors and casual dining charm at Pan Pan, Oxford’s hotspot for authentic small plates and bubble tea.
The Coconut Tree Oxford
1.4 km
Discover vibrant Sri Lankan flavors and lively vibes at The Coconut Tree Oxford, a must-visit spot for authentic cuisine and creative cocktails.
OLD TOM PUB
1.7 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Retro Room
1.3 km
Discover Oxford’s stylish hub for vintage and designer second-hand fashion, blending sustainability with unique finds in a welcoming boutique setting.
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.
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.
Blue Boar Court, Alfred Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant Blue Boar Court Souvenir Shop in Oxford for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the city's rich culture and history.
Babylon Trading
1.6 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
1.6 km
Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
The Varsity Shop
1.7 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
MINOX Boutique
1.7 km
Oxford's premier luxury fashion boutique, curating over 50 designer brands with exceptional service and next-day delivery.
Miniso UK
1.7 km
Discover affordable, stylish lifestyle treasures and themed collectibles at Miniso UK in Oxford’s vibrant Westgate Shopping Centre.
Menkind
1.7 km
Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, Oxford’s vibrant treasure trove in the Westgate Centre.
Oxford Gifts
1.8 km
Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Scriptum
1.8 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
The Crafters Emporium
1.8 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Westgate Oxford
1.8 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Oxford’s city centre, blending modern retail with festive charm and cultural events.
Goodies Oxford
1.8 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mad Hatter
1.1 km
A quirky bar and boutique hotel in Oxford offering creative cocktails, themed rooms, and lively nightlife in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
The Baron
1.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar on Oxford’s Cowley Road, offering creative drinks and a welcoming late-night atmosphere for all.
The Cape Of Good Hope
1.2 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The House
1.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Alchemist Oxford
1.7 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
St Aldates
1.7 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
All Bar One Oxford
1.7 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 Royal Blenheim
1.7 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Varsity Club
1.8 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.
Hanks Bar
1.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
Cow & Creek
1.9 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
White Horse
2.0 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
2.0 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
King's Arms, Oxford
2.0 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
2.0 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
1.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
2.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
2.2 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
2.2 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
2.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
2.2 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.9 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
36.0 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Popworld - Reading
36.5 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
36.5 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
36.5 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
36.8 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
TWC
37.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Diligence
38.9 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
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly