Christ Church Meadow is a tranquil open space at the heart of the city.
The Meadow is open throughout the year (except 25 December), offering a peaceful and beautiful space for everyone to enjoy. Entry is free of charge. Go for a walk or run, sit by the river and watch the boats pass by or join friends for a picnic. Follow the historic pathways and take in the views of the river, the buildings of Christ Church and Oxford's famous skyline.
You can discover more about the Meadow with our Meadow Trail. Find out about the plants, flowers, and animals that make this area so special, and gain an insight into the history of Christ Church.
The trail is available online for free, or you can collect a printed booklet from our shop for a small fee.
For an in depth exploration of the Meadow, join our Head Gardener for a seasonal guided tour. Learn about its conservation, planting schemes and enjoy an afternoon of peace and quiet away from the bustling city.
Read John James's blogposts to find out more about Christ Church's gardens, plants and Meadow.
We ask that you observe the following when visiting Christ Church Meadow:
The Meadow is open for free all year round (closed Christmas Day). The Meadow is open from 05:30/06:00 until the following times each day:
15 April - 30 April - 20:30
1 May - 31 August - 21:00
1 - 14 September - 20:00
15 - 30 September - 19:30
1 - 14 October - 19:00
15 - 28 October - 18:30
29 October - 14 February - 17:00
The gates do close from time to time during May and June. See notices at the gates or the attached document for more details.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control by their owners. Dog waste bins are provided around the Meadow.
We ask that you leave behind only your footprints. Bins are provided for refuse and recycling.
Public bike racks are available nearby. Please leave bikes and scooters outside the Meadow.
No barbeques or music are allowed. Instead, bring a picnic, or visit our takeaway cafe!
The Meadow is open for quiet enjoyment. No ball games, kites, or frisbees are permitted.
Fishing and the catching of birds is prohibited.
Please observe the Countryside Code, and respect the flora and fauna of the Meadow.
While boats are welcome on the river, do not fasten crafts to the iron palisading or river-wall.
Do not fly drones or model airplanes over the Meadow or Christ Church.
All persons entering the Meadow do so entirely at their own risk and to the extent allowed by law. Christ Church accepts no liability for any injury, damage or loss sustained by such persons. Images are being recorded by CCTV for the purposes of crime prevention and public safety. Please contact Oxford 276151 for further information about the scheme, which is controlled by Christ Church.
