Things to do in Summertown

Summertown is one of Oxford’s most popular neighbourhoods – a mix of leafy residential streets, independent shops, and plenty of places to eat and drink. Just north of the city centre, it’s the kind of area where you can grab a coffee, browse some boutiques, or head out for dinner without needing to go into town.

Shopping in Summertown

Summertown is home to a good mix of independents and high street names. On Banbury Road and South Parade, you’ll find fashion boutiques, bookshops, and interiors stores alongside essentials like M&S Food and Co-op. Local favourites include:

• Daunt Books – independent bookshop with a brilliant travel and lifestyle selection
• Oliver Bonas – lifestyle and fashion staples
• Grape Minds – perfect for picking up a bottle to take home

Cafés, Restaurants and Pubs

Food and drink is where Summertown really shines. Popular spots include:

• Gail’s Bakery – always busy for sourdough, pastries, and brunch
• Colombia Coffee Roasters – an independent favourite for speciality coffee
• Mamma Mia Pizzeria – a local institution, family-friendly with proper Italian pizza
• Gee’s Restaurant & Bar – technically just down the road, but one of Oxford’s best-known restaurants in a stunning Victorian glasshouse
• The Dewdrop Inn – a traditional pub with two great beer gardens
• Summertown Wine Tavern - a fantastic, independent wine bar with excellent mezza food options
• Kopitiam – well-loved for Malaysian and Pan-Asian food

Arts and Culture

Summertown has a thriving arts scene centred on The North Wall Arts Centre, which brings theatre, exhibitions, comedy, and live music to the community. For film, the Phoenix Picturehouse in nearby Jericho is the go-to for independent cinema. Regular local markets and art events add to the lively mix.

Fitness and Leisure

There’s no shortage of ways to stay active:

• Oxford University Press Sports Ground – cricket, tennis, and rugby in a beautiful green setting
• Nuffield Gym – gym, pool, spa, and racquet sports under one roof
• Summertown Stars AFC – popular local football club
• Oxford Canal Towpath – ideal for running, cycling, or just a relaxed walk

Parks and Green Spaces

Green space is a big part of life here. Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park is Oxford’s largest park and has everything from play areas and tennis courts to crazy golf and a café. The Oxford Canal is also on your doorstep, perfect for a weekend stroll or cycle.

Exploring Beyond Summertown

One of the perks of Summertown is how easy it is to get around. Frequent buses run into Oxford city centre, and you can be at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, or the Cotswolds in under half an hour by car.

Why Summertown?

Summertown has the feel of a self-contained village but with all the convenience of being minutes from central Oxford. Whether you’re here for coffee and shopping, an evening meal, or to explore the parks and canal, there’s always something to do.