This southern Oxford trail is little known, but it is definitely worth the walk. It starts on Abingdon Road and continues through the University of Oxford boathouses, Christ Church Meadow, Folly Bridge, and Grandpont, a suburb dating back to medieval times. The tour ends in Hinksey Park, the perfect spot for a picnic.
This Oxford self-guided walking tour may be a hidden gem, but it is certainly a walk worth taking for those who wish to explore the quieter yet richly historical side of the city. In summary, this southern Oxford trail is a delightful blend of history, nature, and culture, offering walkers a chance to explore a side of Oxford that is often overlooked. Whether you’re a local looking for a new route to discover or a visitor seeking an authentic Oxford experience, this walk is sure to leave you with lasting memories of the city’s southern charm.
Oxen Ford and Grandpont Walking Tour
Tour Duration: 60 minutes (About 2 miles)
Here’s the suggested path you can follow. You can open this route in your own Google Maps here. However, keep in mind that the link won’t show the walking paths you can take. I will explain these below.
- Start at Hinksey Park carpark. The first step is to cross Abingdon Road (there’s a crossing right in front of the playground) and take the first left-turn path.
- Walk up to the University boathouse and turn left, following the river bank until you reach Folly Bridge.
- Cross the road and continue alongside the river. You will have to walk under the Grandpont footbridge first, and then you will notice a second bridge, this time made of iron and called Gasworks Pipe Bridge.
- Take the left fork, but do not cross the bridge. Instead, follow the path straight ahead (your back should be at the bridge crossing) and enter the Grandpont Nature Park.
- Keep walking until you reach a large area of parkland with some carved wooden figures. Turn left at the T junction and continue until you see large trees. Here, take the right-hand path, go down the steps, and go across the bridge.
- Come out of the bridge and into Grandpont Nature Park recreation ground. Follow the right edge until you see another path, this time with a tarmac road and a small green railway bridge. Turn left and follow the railings.
- When you reach a crossroads, continue straight. Then, take the right-hand path and exit at the gate that has the children’s playground.
- Cross the small wooden bridge and enter Dean Ham’s Meadow. There’s a path on its right-hand side. Follow it until you find a gate connecting Marlborough Road.
- Cross the bridge and turn left back into the Hinksey Park carpark.
