Oxford is an ideal city for walking. The small-town feel survives in many parts of the city and getting around on foot is practical and safe. The city has numerous well-lit paths through parks and open spaces to make your journey to and from work more enjoyable. Some of the colleges’ gardens are open to visitors, and there are many other public spaces where you can walk, jog or go for a picnic. This selection of Walks in Oxford is a good way to get to know the city and learn about its history and culture.
University Parks
The 70 acres of the University Parks are surrounded by academic departments and colleges. The yearly Town and Gown 10km race departs and finishes from here and the famous Oxford Half Marathon also runs through here.
University Gardens
University members can enjoy free access to the Botanic Garden near Magdalen Bridge, which houses some of the rarest specimens left in the world and is open throughout the year. It is the oldest in Britain, founded in 1621. The University's collections also includes 130 acres of fine and rare tree species at Harcourt Arboretum, just south of the city.
Christ Church Meadow
These meadows are the ‘back yard’ of Christ Church. They extend from the college down to the River Thames (known locally as the River Isis) where the famous Oxford "bumps" rowing races are held every year.
Port Meadow
Port Meadow is the largest area of common land in Oxford. A classic Oxford activity is to walk up the west side to The Perch (17th century pub), and then continue north to the Trout Inn in Wolvercote, which was made famous by TV's 'Inspector Morse'. It will take about 50 minutes each way from the southern edge of the Meadow.
Daily Info has several suggested routes for riverside walks to explore the area further. If you are a keen walker, you may want to try your local branch of the Ramblers who offer regular group walks of various distances and difficulty.
