University Parks, Oxford
A historic and scenic green oasis in Oxford offering sports, riverside walks, rare trees, and tranquil spaces for all to enjoy.
University Parks in Oxford is a 70-acre green oasis in the heart of the city, offering scenic riverside walks, diverse sports facilities, and a rich collection of rare trees and plants. Open daily from early morning until dusk, it provides a tranquil escape for locals, students, and visitors alike, with opportunities for picnics, informal games, and peaceful nature encounters along the River Cherwell.
A brief summary to University Parks
- S Parks Rd, Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RF, GB
- +441865282040
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for peaceful walks and to catch seasonal sports matches.
- Use the wheelchair-accessible gates on Parks Road and South Parks Road for easy entry.
- Bicycles are not permitted inside the park; use nearby cycle racks at Keble Road or the Genetic Garden entrance.
- Enjoy a picnic on the spacious grassy areas but please respect the rare trees and avoid climbing them.
- Public toilets are available near the Cricket Pavilion, enhancing comfort during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several local bus routes run along Parks Road and South Parks Road, providing frequent service from Oxford city centre to University Parks within 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2 to £4 one way. Buses run approximately every 10-15 minutes during the day.
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Walking
University Parks is a 20 to 30-minute walk northeast from Oxford city centre along mostly flat, paved paths. The route is wheelchair accessible and passes through quiet residential streets and university grounds.
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Car
Street parking near University Parks is limited and competitive, especially during peak times. Nearby two-hour parking is available on Keble Road, Norham Gardens, and Fyfield Road. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Consider park and ride facilities to avoid parking difficulties.
University Parks 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 University Parks
A Historic Green Haven in Oxford's Heart
University Parks, originally owned by Merton College and acquired by Oxford University in the 1850s, was laid out as a park for sports and recreation in 1864. This expansive 70-acre parkland is nestled northeast of Oxford’s city centre, bordered by the River Cherwell to the northeast and surrounded by leafy roads and academic institutions. Its rich history includes use by Royalist troops during the English Civil War, adding a layer of historic significance to its serene landscape.Sporting Grounds and Recreational Facilities
The park is a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts, hosting the Oxford University Cricket Club since 1881 and offering facilities for tennis, lacrosse, football, rugby, croquet, and hockey. The sports pitches are well-maintained and managed by Oxford University Sport, with areas designated for both official matches and informal games. Visitors can often witness seasonal sports events, including the unique sight of Quidditch matches inspired by Harry Potter.Natural Beauty and Thematic Gardens
University Parks boasts a diverse collection of rare and exotic trees, including giant sequoias planted in 1888, alongside beautifully landscaped flower beds and thematic garden sections. The park’s flat, natural paths meander alongside the River Cherwell, offering peaceful riverside strolls where visitors can spot wildlife such as ducks, squirrels, and grazing cows. The adjacent Mesopotamia Walk, a small land spur between the river’s upper and lower levels, enhances the park’s natural charm.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open daily from 07:45 until approximately 30 minutes before dusk, University Parks welcomes members of the university, local residents, and tourists alike, free of charge. The park provides wheelchair-accessible paths through most gates, with public toilets located near the Cricket Pavilion. While bicycles are not allowed inside the park, secure cycle racks are available nearby. Ample grassy areas invite picnics, informal games, and relaxation under the shade of mature trees. Seating and litter bins are well distributed, contributing to a comfortable visit.Setting and Surroundings
The park is bordered by Norham Gardens to the north, Parks Road to the west, and the Science Area along South Parks Road to the south, placing it amidst Oxford’s academic and residential quarters. Its proximity to the city centre makes it a peaceful retreat from urban bustle, yet easily accessible. The park’s natural beauty and historic atmosphere create a perfect setting for quiet contemplation, social gatherings, and outdoor activities throughout the year.Conservation and Accessibility
University Parks is committed to preserving its rare botanical specimens and natural habitats, encouraging visitors to respect the environment and avoid climbing trees. Access is facilitated by multiple entrances, including wheelchair-friendly gates with RADAR locks. The park is managed to balance public enjoyment with environmental sustainability, ensuring its legacy as a cherished green space in Oxford for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clarendon Building
0.8 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bridge of Sighs
0.8 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.8 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.9 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
0.9 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Tours UK
0.9 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Brasenose College
1.0 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
1.0 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
The painted room
1.1 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 Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
1.1 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
1.1 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
2.1
1.2 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Great Jewry Marker
1.2 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
1.2 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Oxford Castle Quarter
1.3 km
Discover the historical treasures of Oxford Castle Quarter, where rich heritage meets delightful dining in a vibrant setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford
0.3 km
Historic Oxford college blending rich heritage, scenic riverside gardens, and a vibrant academic community.
Pitt Rivers Museum
0.3 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
0.4 km
Explore Earth's natural wonders in a breathtaking neo-Gothic museum, home to iconic dinosaurs, rare fossils, and vibrant live exhibits in Oxford.
Keble College
0.4 km
Explore Keble College’s stunning Victorian-Gothic architecture, serene quads, and vibrant academic life in the heart of Oxford.
Oxford Plan Bee
0.5 km
A community-driven urban initiative nurturing solitary bees through habitat creation and volunteer engagement in Oxford.
University of Oxford
0.5 km
Explore the University of Oxford, a timeless blend of historic colleges, stunning architecture, and world-class scholarship in England’s iconic city of dreaming spires.
Somerville College
0.6 km
Historic Oxford college known for pioneering women’s education, beautiful architecture, and vibrant academic life.
Lamb and Flag
0.6 km
Historic Oxford pub cherished by literary legends Tolkien and Lewis, blending centuries-old charm with vibrant community spirit.
New Marston Meadows
0.6 km
A serene riverside sanctuary in Oxford offering rolling meadows, rich wildlife, and peaceful paths for nature lovers and families.
Rose & Crown PH
0.6 km
A charming Victorian pub in Oxford offering traditional ales, hearty fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with live jazz.
North Parade Market
0.7 km
A vibrant, artisan street market in North Oxford offering local organic produce, crafts, and lively community spirit every second and fourth Saturday.
Wadham College
0.7 km
Discover Wadham College, Oxford’s historic Jacobean gem blending centuries of tradition with progressive spirit and beautiful gardens.
St John's College, Oxford
0.7 km
Explore the historic grandeur and serene gardens of Oxford’s wealthiest college, founded in 1555 and rich in academic tradition.
Wellington Square
0.7 km
A tranquil Georgian garden square in Oxford blending rich history, elegant architecture, and serene academic ambiance.
Trinity College
0.8 km
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
Essential places to dine
Parsonage Grill
0.5 km
Sophisticated British dining in Oxford with art-filled ambiance, impeccable service, and a charming garden terrace for all-day enjoyment.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
A Mediterranean culinary retreat in a stunning Victorian glasshouse, blending seasonal dishes with elegant charm in Oxford’s Park Town.
Browns Oxford
0.6 km
A stylish Oxford brasserie blending French bistro charm with classic British fare and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
0.6 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Pierre Victoire
0.7 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
0.7 km
A vibrant Oxford wine bar and restaurant blending inventive small plates with a unique, expertly curated wine selection.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
0.8 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
The Alice
0.9 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
0.9 km
Historic riverside dining in Oxford offering modern British cuisine, award-winning wines, and scenic boat hire in a charming Victorian boathouse.
The Standard
0.9 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at The Standard in Oxford – a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
0.9 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.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
No.1 Ship Street
0.9 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
The White Rabbit
1.0 km
A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Brasserie Blanc
1.0 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets vibrant Oxford dining in Jericho’s warm and inviting Brasserie Blanc.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.8 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.9 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Cool Britannia
0.9 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.
Broad Canvas
0.9 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Watsons of Oxford
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.9 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
The Shop of Secrets
0.9 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
0.9 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
Objects of Use
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
The Oxford Gift Shop
1.0 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
1.0 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Scriptum
1.0 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
1.1 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Babylon Trading
1.1 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke Of Cambridge
0.7 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.7 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
0.8 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Jude The Obscure
0.9 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 Grapes
1.0 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
1.0 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Rickety Press
1.0 km
A lively Jericho pub blending funky vibes, quality pizzas, inventive burgers, and a welcoming community spirit in the heart of Oxford.
The Varsity Club
1.1 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
1.1 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
OXO BAR
1.1 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The House
1.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
Hanks Bar
1.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
St Aldates
1.2 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
Cow & Creek
1.2 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
Fever Oxford
0.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
1.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
1.3 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
1.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
1.3 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
1.3 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
30.9 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
37.6 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
37.6 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Popworld - Reading
39.0 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
39.0 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
39.1 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
39.3 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.5 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
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
