Things to Do in Headington

Perched on the hilltop east of Oxford city centre, Headington combines a lively, self-contained community feel with vast green spaces and rich literary history. Renowned as Oxford’s major healthcare and academic hub—home to the John Radcliffe Hospital and Oxford Brookes University—it is equally famous for its charming stone cottages, independent cafes, and eccentric local landmarks. With quick transport links into the city centre and direct coach routes to London and regional airports, Headington offers an ideal blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience for healthcare professionals, academics, and growing families.

Highlights & Local Attractions

• The Headington Shark: Oxford’s most quirky piece of public art, featuring a 25-foot fibreglass shark embedded head-first into the roof of a traditional terraced house on New High Street.
• Bury Knowle Park: A picturesque, award-winning green space in the heart of Headington, boasting sensory gardens, open lawns, tennis courts, and a popular Narnia-themed children's play area inspired by local author C.S. Lewis.
• C.S. Lewis Nature Reserve & The Kilns: Walk through the peaceful woodland and quarry lake that inspired The Chronicles of Narnia, located right next to "The Kilns," the former home of C.S. Lewis.
• Shotover Country Park: Stretching across 289 acres of ancient woodland, hidden valleys, and open heathland, offering sweeping views across Oxfordshire and miles of trails for dog walkers, runners, and cyclists.
• Headington Hill Park: A tranquil 19th-century landscaped park featuring rare tree species, grand Victorian pathways, and rolling lawns sitting just opposite Oxford Brookes University’s historic campus.
• Bustling High Street & Markets: A vibrant suburban hub filled with independent bakeries, artisanal coffee shops, local butchers, and a weekly Saturday Farmers' Market packed with regional produce and street food.