Visitor Information

Blue Badge Parking

While there is no on-site parking at the University Parks, there are designated public Blue Badge spaces located on Keble Road, approximately 200 m from the Keble Gate entrance on Parks Road. 

Entrances

Accessible Entrances:

Wheelchair-friendly, level access is available through the main gates into the Parks. Recommended step-free entrances include Parks Road gates (Keble Gate, Ginkgo Gate, and North Gate), the South Parks Road entrance, and the Science Area entrance. Gates are held open during park opening hours.

Entrances with restricted access: 

Lady Margaret Hall Gate involves a small manual compartment unsuitable for wheelchair users. 

High Bridge entrance features a very steep slope (1 in 4 gradient) and an uneven approach. 

The Marston cycle track gate has a narrow kissing gate; opening the adjacent wider gate requires a RADAR key.

Pathways and terrain

The Parks are largely flat, with wide, firm hoggin pathways in most places, and some tarmac and concrete sections. Paths are wide (typically 2m–4m) and generally flat with minor drainage slopes, but can be slightly uneven in areas where tree roots or stones protrude, or where rain creates puddles.

Seating

Plentiful benches with backrests and arm supports are situated at regular intervals along the paths.

Accessible Toilet

Located in the centre of the Parks next to the Cricket Pavilion. It requires a Radar Key and features an outward-opening door (86 cm clear width), grab rails, and a pull-cord alarm. Standard male and female toilets are also available here.

Café

An outdoor café is located near Keble Gate with spacious seating, though table legs may restrict close wheelchair positioning and the counter height is 1.3 m.

Public toilets are located next to the Cricket Pavilion (including RADAR facilities).

There is a little cafe next to Keble Gate selling hot and cold drinks, and light bites.

Please note that commercial trading and the sale of goods within the Parks are strictly prohibited without prior written permission from the Curators.

Cycling is not permitted within University Parks. If you arrive by bike, please lock your bicycle securely at one of the designated cycle racks located nearby:

• Keble Road: Set into the pavement at the end of the road
• Genetic Garden: Near the park entrance
• Gene Function Building: Inside the covered walkway leading into the Parks. 

Head over to our 'Travelling to the Parks' page for more detailed travel information.

Waste bins and dog waste containers are located throughout the Parks. Please dispose of all litter and dog waste promptly and responsibly to help keep our wildlife safe and the Parks enjoyable for everyone.

First Aid facilities are available on-site at the University Parks office (the Tentorium) during working hours.

• Parks Office (Mon–Fri, 08:00–17:00): Call +44 (0)1865 282040
• Out of hours or if staff are unavailable: Call University Security Services on +44 (0)1865 289999 (24-hour service). All patrol staff are First Aid qualified and can coordinate with the Emergency Services if required.

In an immediate or life-threatening emergency, always dial 999 first.

• Found something? Hand items in at the Tentorium (Parks office), or contact University Security Services on +44 (0)1865 272944.
• Lost something? For lost property enquiries, please complete our lost property form and a member of our team will be in contact. 

The Parks Office is based at the Tentorium in the centre of University Parks and is open Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17:00. The office (not the Parks) is closed on Bank Holidays.