We encourage visitors to arrive on foot or by public transport, with easy bus connections and Oxford station just a short walk away.
Find us
Address: Oxford University Parks, South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RF
On foot
Located just a short walk from Oxford city centre and the University Science Area, the University Parks are easily accessible on foot from every direction.
From the City Centre (10–15 mins): Walk north along Parks Road to access our western entrances, including Keble Gate, Ginkgo Gate, and North Gate.
From the Science Area & South Parks Road: Enter via the historic South Lodge gate at the corner of St Cross Road or through the dedicated Science Area pedestrian pathways along the southern perimeter.
From Marston & East Oxford: Walk along the scenic river paths of Mesopotamia or cross the River Cherwell via the iconic Rainbow Bridge to enter the eastern side of the grounds.
From North Oxford: Access the northern boundary directly via Norham Gardens or the Lady Margaret Hall entrance.
By bicycle
To keep our paths safe and pleasant for everyone, cycling is strictly prohibited inside University Parks. Please dismount and lock your bicycle at one of our designated external racks before entering:
Keble Road: Set into the pavement at the end of the road.
Genetic Garden: Located near the park entrance.
Gene Function Building: Inside the covered walkway leading into the Parks.
We recommend securing your bicycle with a sturdy D-lock. Please note that authorised University Parks and Security Services staff are permitted to cycle within the grounds for operational duties.
By bus
Several local bus routes serve the roads surrounding University Parks. Key nearby bus stops include:
- Banbury Road (Keble Road stop): Opposite St Giles' Church (convenient for western gates).
- Parks Road: Directly serving the western boundary.
- Bevington Road: Located near the North Lodge Gate entrance.
Direct Walking Routes from Bus Stops:
- From Headington / London Buses: Alight at the Queen's Lane / Examination Schools stop on High Street, then walk up Longwall Street and St Cross Road into the Parks via South Lodge.
- From Marston: Alight at the William Street stop, walk down Edgeway Road, and follow the public footpath over High Bridge directly into the Parks.
- From Gloucester Green Bus Station: Walk up St Giles', bear right onto Banbury Road, turn right onto Keble Road, and follow the road to the Parks entrance.
For live timetables and route planning, please visit Oxfordshire County Council’s public transport guidance.
By rail
Oxford Railway Station is approximately a 20-minute walk (brisk pace) from University Parks. Alternatively, taxis are available from the rank directly outside the station forecourt. For train timetables and ticketing, visit National Rail Enquiries. or Trainline
By car
Public parking in central Oxford is limited, and we recommend using the city’s Park and Ride facilities.
On-Street Parking: Limited two-hour parking spaces are available nearby on Keble Road, Norham Gardens, and Fyfield Road (subject to availability).
Accessibility at the University Parks
We want everyone to have an enjoyable time at the Parks, and we are committed to making the Parks welcoming and accessible to all visitors.
Blue Badge Parking
While there is no on-site parking at the University Parks, there are designated public Blue Badge spaces located on Keble Road, approximately 200 m from the Keble Gate entrance on Parks Road.
Entrances
Accessible Entrances:
Step-free, level access is available through the main gates. Recommended step-free entrances include Parks Road gates (Keble Gate, Ginkgo Gate, and North Gate), the South Parks Road entrance, and the Science Area entrance. Gates are held open during park opening hours.
Entrances with restricted access:
Lady Margaret Hall Gate involves a small manual compartment unsuitable for wheelchair users.
High Bridge entrance features a very steep slope (1 in 4 gradient) and an uneven approach.
The Marston cycle track gate has a narrow kissing gate; opening the adjacent wider gate requires a RADAR key.
Pathways and terrain
The Parks are largely flat, with wide, firm hoggin pathways in most places, and some tarmac and concrete sections. Paths are wide (typically 2m–4m) and generally flat with minor drainage slopes, but can be slightly uneven in areas where tree roots or stones protrude, or where rain creates puddles.
Seating
Plentiful benches with backrests and arm supports are situated at regular intervals along the paths.
Accessible Toilet
Located in the centre of the Parks next to the Cricket Pavilion. It requires a Radar Key and features an outward-opening door (86 cm clear width), grab rails, and a pull-cord alarm. Standard male and female toilets are also available here.
Café
An outdoor café is located near Keble Gate with spacious seating, though table legs may restrict close wheelchair positioning and the counter height is 1.3 m.
For more detailed accessibility information, please visit the dedicated University Parks Accessibility Guide.