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Green Spaces OXFORD’S
Offering leafy sanctuaries from the bustling city, Oxford’s green spaces are open to the public all year round. Take some tranquil time out from your city break in these historic parks.
Port Meadow
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One of Oxford’s hidden gems, Port Meadow is a beautiful open area of ancient meadowland, north-west of the city centre and just a 5-minute walk from Jericho, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors and locals alike. Home to grazing horses and a herd of pedigree Old English Longhorn cattle, Port Meadow lies alongside the River Thames and has provided inspiration for Lewis
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Christ Church Meadow
HIDDEN GEMS
Ideal for short scenic walks and picnics, Christ Church Meadow stretches from Christ Church to the banks of the River Thames and River Cherwell. The meadow itself is an open expanse of rugged greenery, peppered with rare English Longhorn cows. Walk around the meadow to take in a variety of wildlife, watch the rowing boats passing by on the river, or see the college boathouses.
South Park
In East Oxford, at the end of St Clement’s, you’ll find South Park. The largest park in the city, with 50 acres of open green space, South Park often plays host to events and festivals throughout the year. It’s the perfect park for dog walks, sun-bathing, and meeting with friends before lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants on Cowley Road or St Clement’s.
University Parks
University Parks offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city but is also conveniently located right at the city’s heart. The beautiful park, originally created by Merton College and now owned by the University of
Oxford Botanic Garden
The University of Oxford Botanic Garden is the UK’s oldest botanic garden, founded in 1621 to grow plants for medicinal research. Situated in the heart of Oxford, the historic garden is an oasis of
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South Park also boasts excellent views over the spires of Oxford, especially in the mesmerising light of dawn or dusk.
Oxford itself, offers a choice of peaceful walks. Feed ducks at the pond and discover the park’s Genetic Garden and collection of rare trees before wandering back towards the city centre along the bank of the River Cherwell.
Oxford’s Green Spaces
See more nature along Oxford’s waterways Read More | p.40 green in the city centre. Take a stroll around the formal walled garden; see exotic, tropical and carnivorous plants in the glasshouses, and enjoy the lush herbaceous borders of the informal lower garden.
Stretch your legs further with a walk along the Ridgeway Trail
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Port Meadow Christ Church Meadow South Park Oxford University Parks