The Plain, Oxford: Historic Crossroads of East Oxford
Historic crossroads and vibrant urban gateway where Oxford’s past meets its lively East End community.
The Plain is a key roundabout junction in Oxford, England, located just east of Magdalen Bridge. Historically the site of St Clement's Church and graveyard, it now connects major roads including Cowley Road, Iffley Road, and St Clement's. The Plain has evolved from a medieval religious focal point to a bustling urban intersection, reflecting Oxford’s layered history and vibrant community life.
A brief summary to The Plain
- Oxford, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit nearby Magdalen Bridge for scenic views of the River Thames and Oxford’s skyline.
- Explore Cowley Road’s diverse shops and eateries to experience East Oxford’s multicultural vibe.
- Learn about the history of St Clement’s Church, once located here, to appreciate the site’s medieval roots.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several frequent bus routes connect The Plain with Oxford city center and surrounding suburbs, with travel times typically between 10 and 20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Note that buses may be less frequent late at night.
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Taxi
Taxi rides from central Oxford to The Plain take about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares generally ranging from £6 to £12. Taxis are readily available but can be affected by peak hour congestion.
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Walking
Walking from Oxford city center to The Plain takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes along mostly flat, paved urban streets. The route is accessible for most pedestrians and offers views of the city’s architecture.
The Plain 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
Discover more about The Plain
A Crossroads Steeped in History
The Plain in Oxford stands as a significant historic junction where several important roads converge, including Cowley Road, Iffley Road, and the route from St Clement's. Originally, this site was home to St Clement's Church and its adjoining graveyard, which were central to the medieval community. The church was demolished in 1830, and the area was named 'The Plain' to reflect its open character following the removal of surrounding buildings. This location has long served as a strategic crossing point near the River Thames, facilitating trade and travel in southern England.Evolution into a Modern Urban Hub
Today, The Plain functions as a busy roundabout constructed in 1950, channeling traffic from the eastern approaches into Oxford city center via Magdalen Bridge. It marks the transition from the historic heart of Oxford to the diverse and dynamic neighborhoods of East Oxford. The surrounding roads, especially Cowley Road, have developed into vibrant urban arteries featuring multicultural shops, services, and community facilities. This juxtaposition illustrates the area's transformation from a religious and rural setting into a lively urban environment.Architectural and Cultural Landscape
Though the original St Clement’s Church no longer stands, the area retains its historical resonance through nearby heritage buildings and the continued importance of the junction. The Plain is framed by a mixture of residential and commercial architecture that reflects East Oxford’s working-class and bohemian character. The Victoria Fountain, installed in 1899 near the site, adds a decorative historic element, while Magdalen College’s 15th-century tower looms in the background, connecting the area visually to Oxford’s academic heritage.Significance in Oxford’s Urban Fabric
The Plain serves as a vital node linking Oxford’s city center with its eastern suburbs. It has been a focal point for movement and exchange for centuries, from medieval times through to the present day. The area's layered history, from ancient settlement and ecclesiastical importance to modern urban development, embodies Oxford’s broader narrative of growth and change. The Plain’s role as a transport hub continues to shape local life and the flow of people and goods.Community and Atmosphere
The surrounding neighborhoods of The Plain are known for their multicultural vibrancy and eclectic character. Cowley Road, in particular, offers a lively mix of shops, eateries, and cultural venues, reflecting the diversity and creativity of East Oxford’s residents. The Plain itself, while a busy traffic junction, is a gateway to this energetic community, blending historical significance with contemporary urban life.Preservation and Future Outlook
While The Plain has adapted to modern transportation needs, its proximity to heritage assets and conservation areas highlights the importance of balancing development with preservation. Efforts to maintain the area's historical identity alongside its role as a bustling urban intersection underscore Oxford’s commitment to honoring its past while embracing the future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalen Bridge
0.1 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
2.1
0.7 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Brasenose College
0.8 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Bridge of Sighs
0.8 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Tom Tower
0.8 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.
Clarendon Building
0.9 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Great Jewry Marker
0.9 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.9 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
The painted room
0.9 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Oxford Tours UK
1.0 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
1.0 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
1.0 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Oxford Preservation Trust
1.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
1.1 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Martyrs' Memorial
1.1 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Unmissable attractions to see
Punting in Oxford
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore the UK’s oldest botanic garden, a compact urban oasis with 5,000+ plant species, historic walled gardens, and immersive global glasshouses.
Magdalen College
0.3 km
Explore Magdalen College’s medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and unique deer park nestled beside Oxford’s scenic River Cherwell.
Examination Schools, University of Oxford
0.5 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
0.5 km
Step into Oxford’s shadowy past with a chilling nighttime ghost tour through medieval streets and haunted alleys.
City Sightseeing Oxford
0.5 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.
0.5 km
Discover Oxford’s premier antiques centre with over 40 dealers offering unique vintage treasures in a historic High Street setting.
St Edmund Hall
0.5 km
Discover Oxford’s oldest academic society, St Edmund Hall, where medieval charm meets centuries of scholarly tradition in the city’s historic heart.
The Queen's College
0.5 km
Explore The Queen's College in Oxford, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and rich academic traditions in a vibrant university setting.
Merton College
0.6 km
Explore Merton College, Oxford’s medieval academic pioneer with historic quads, literary heritage, and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.
Christ Church Meadow
0.6 km
A serene riverside meadow in Oxford offering scenic walks, historic views, grazing wildlife, and a peaceful escape in the city’s heart.
University College
0.6 km
Step into centuries of academic tradition and medieval charm at University College, Oxford’s historic scholarly heart.
High St
0.6 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
Corpus Christi College
0.7 km
Discover Corpus Christi College, Oxford’s intimate Renaissance college with iconic architecture, serene gardens, and a rich scholarly heritage.
Oriel College
0.7 km
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
Essential places to dine
Kazbar Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and North African tapas in a cozy Moorish-inspired setting on Oxford’s lively Cowley Road.
Moya
0.1 km
Discover authentic Slovak cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy Oxford setting on St Clement's Street.
CuttleFish
0.2 km
Fresh, beautifully cooked seafood with a relaxed vibe in the heart of Oxford’s vibrant St Clement’s district.
La Cucina
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover vibrant pan-Asian flavors and casual dining charm at Pan Pan, Oxford’s hotspot for authentic small plates and bubble tea.
Spiced Roots Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Caribbean cuisine and rum cocktails in Oxford's most celebrated island-inspired restaurant.
Arbequina
0.3 km
Bold Spanish tapas in a converted chemist with bohemian buzz and impeccable service.
The Coconut Tree Oxford
0.4 km
Discover vibrant Sri Lankan flavors and lively vibes at The Coconut Tree Oxford, a must-visit spot for authentic cuisine and creative cocktails.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Vaults & Garden
0.7 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
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.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.8 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.9 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
The Head of the River, Oxford
0.9 km
Charming riverside pub, restaurant, and hotel at Oxford’s Folly Bridge, blending British tradition with contemporary dining and cozy waterside stays.
OLD TOM PUB
0.9 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
0.3 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
0.5 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
The Chapter House Shop
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and exclusive Christ Church memorabilia in a charming shop nestled within historic college grounds.
The Varsity Shop
0.8 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.8 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Scriptum
0.8 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Blue Boar Court, Alfred Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
0.9 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.
Goodies Oxford
0.9 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Space Store Oxford
0.9 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
0.9 km
Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Objects of Use
0.9 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
The Crafters Emporium
0.9 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.9 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Soctopus
0.9 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cape Of Good Hope
0.1 km
A lively Oxford pub blending traditional charm with modern vibes, great food, craft beers, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Mad Hatter
0.2 km
A quirky bar and boutique hotel in Oxford offering creative cocktails, themed rooms, and lively nightlife in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
The House
0.8 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
All Bar One Oxford
0.8 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.9 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
The Baron
0.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar on Oxford’s Cowley Road, offering creative drinks and a welcoming late-night atmosphere for all.
The Varsity Club
0.9 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
0.9 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
White Horse
0.9 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
Hanks Bar
1.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Royal Blenheim
1.0 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
1.1 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Grapes
1.1 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
Cow & Creek
1.1 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The Alchemist Oxford
1.2 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
1.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
1.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
1.5 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
1.5 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
1.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
1.5 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.6 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
36.5 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
36.6 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
36.8 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
37.7 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
39.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly