Very large open space to walk and relax. The river runs through it and there is plenty of boat activity on the water. Wild ponies roam free and there are several places to cross the river to allow for some circular walks. The Perch and The Trout pubs are both accessible from Port Meadow both of which are good stops for a refreshment and make for a well rounded outing.
We have been blessed with great weather, since the schools went back at the end of August. Shame. I've enjoyed walking through Port Meadow over the past few weeks. I'm sure the experience will change now that the warmth is finally fading. Oxford is so lucky to have all these beautiful outside spaces so close to the city centre.
Best place in Oxfordshire to visit with yourself or your girlfriend. I miss a lot this wonderful place!
A huge open area bordered by the Isis (Thames) and the canal, close to the centre of Oxford. Lovely any time of the year for an amble across to the Perch for a pint. Kids swimming in the river and bridge jumping in the Summer. Shame about the monstrous student flats overlooking the meadow erected by the University...
Away from the tourists, this is a lovely place to walk and relax. Expansive and calm and close by the river. Make sure you go.
One of the most treasured part's of the city and steeped in all kinds of history. Alice in Wonderland was conceived here and it has the sense of being the most erudite wilderness in the world.
Very large and fresh nature to breathe deeply and clean your thoughts. People go there for morning runnings or to walk with their dogs. Sometimes there are some lovely horses too. The sound of the river is extremely calming. Perfect for a meditation. But don't forget to protect your ears from the wind!
The huge expanse of Port Meadow is always a surprise for visitors who think Oxford is all university. It is ancient common land, bounded by the river Thames ( here called the Isis) and the Oxford Canal and cows and horse roam freely over the acres of tussocky grass from Jericho to Wolvercote in the west of the city. Port Meadow is easily accessed from Oxford station using the path from the back of the bus/taxi park area alongside the Said building taking the signs to Oxford canal towpath. Exit at Walton Well Bridge and turn left, go over the bridge and Port Meadow is just visible. Good for walking, kite flying, picnics, paddling, and communing with nature!
Thankfully this area is never likely to be developed. It has few man-made atrractions, because it is an attraction in itself. I have been there in all the different seasons, the last time being this winter. You have to avoid it on the occasions that the Thames floods, but apart from that it is accessible all year round. If you choose the right paths you can avoid the mud as well, as some of the paths are quite solid for walking on.
Port Meadow offers a bit of serenity in the middle of a city covered in stone. The pathway offers the ideal location for a peaceful stroll to sort through thoughts, or to catch up with an old friend. Tucked behind the trees there is a pub called the Perch. If I could, I would live there.