Welcome to the University Parks

The University Parks is not a public park. Once agricultural fields owned by Merton College, the Parks was bought by Oxford University in the 1850s to create a space for the University community for study, sport and quiet escape along the River Cherwell.

Nevertheless, this area between the city centre and the Cherwell has been used for informal recreation for centuries, and the University still welcomes local residents and visitors from around the world to come and enjoy this beautiful amenity.

The Parks is a Grade II listed landscape, lying within the Oxford Central Conservation Area. It is a site of archaeological interest and a locally designated site of ecological interest. The Parks also contains a number of listed buildings as well as non-designated heritage assets.

Here you will find nationally important plant collections, vibrant seasonal borders and scenic walks. You may also want to participate in one of the large charity events or watch first-class cricket or just read a book.

There is so much here to explore, and we invite you first to browse this website to find out about our history, special features, walking routes, events and news. We look forward to welcoming you here.

Please note that, in order to preserve the tranquillity of the space, cycling is not permitted in the Parks but there are safe cycle routes all around the perimeter to the north, west and south.