Top 10 attractions for kids in Oxfordshire

Top 10 attractions for kids in Oxfordshire

April 11, 2025

Oxfordshire is a land full of fascinating attractions for children and families. From exciting adventure parks to inspiring museums, there is something for everyone. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 places that will make your family trip unforgettable. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or just a good time, Oxfordshire has everything you need to create great memories. Get ready to explore, learn and most of all - lots of laughter and joy!

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Adventure and education in one

Start our trip with Oxford Adventure Park, which offers an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages. This adventure park, located in Abingdon, is a true paradise for little explorers. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5, the place has won praise from children and parents alike. The park offers a range of exciting activities, including outdoor laser tag games, making it ideal for birthdays or family outings. Parents praise the atmosphere and professionalism of the staff, and children are delighted with the variety of attractions.

Another must-see on our list is the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. This fascinating museum, also with a 4.8 rating, is a veritable treasure trove of knowledge for young scientists. Exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs to modern animals, offering interactive learning experiences. What's more, admission to the museum is free, making it a great option for families on a tight budget. Parents especially appreciate the opportunity to touch some of the exhibits, making learning even more engaging for children.

For nature lovers, the Oxford Botanic Garden is a site not to be missed. With a rating of 4.5, this oldest botanical garden in the UK offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Here, children can explore a variety of plant species, including a fascinating collection of insectivorous plants. Although admission is charged (£5.45 per adult, children under 5 free), the investment is worth every penny due to the educational value and beauty of the garden.

Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park is another Oxfordshire gem, ideal for families looking for active outdoor recreation. This sprawling park, with a rating of 4.6, offers many activities, including playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts and even a mini railroad on summer Sundays. It's a great place for a picnic and wildlife watching, with opportunities to see squirrels, butterflies and various species of birds.

History and imagination at its core

The next item on our list is Oxford Castle & Prison, a place that combines history and adventure. With a rating of 4.4, this historic castle and prison offers fascinating guided tours where kids can learn the dark secrets of medieval England. Although an entrance ticket costs £12.5, many parents find it well worth the price due to the educational nature and the involvement of the guides, who often impersonate historical figures.

For story lovers, The Story Museum is a true paradise. This unique museum, with a rating of 4.5, takes children on a magical journey through the world of literature. Interactive exhibits allow young readers to literally step inside their favorite books. Parents praise the museum's creative approach to teaching reading and fostering imagination. Although ticket prices are not listed, many reviews suggest that the quality of the experience is worth any price.

Harcourt Arboretum, part of the University of Oxford, is another place that will delight little naturalists. With a rating of 4.6, the arboretum offers beautiful walks among a variety of trees and plants. It's the perfect place for a family picnic and learning about nature. There is an admission fee, but prices are not listed in the reviews. Parents especially appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to observe wild animals, including peacocks.

South Oxford Adventure Playground is a paradise for children who enjoy active recreation. This playground, with a rating of 4.3, offers many opportunities for outdoor play. Parents praise the variety of play equipment and space to run around freely. Importantly, admission is free, making it a great option for families on a tight budget.

The Oxfordshire Museum is another place that combines education with entertainment. With a rating of 4.5, the museum offers fascinating exhibitions on the history and culture of the region. Here, children can see everything from dinosaurs to exhibits from modern times. Admission is free, making it attractive to families. Parents especially appreciate the variety of exhibits and the museum's friendly atmosphere.

Entertainment for everyone

To finish our list, we have Partyman World Of Play, an indoor playground that is perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from sightseeing. With a rating of 4.0, the place offers a range of activities for children, including slides, ball pools and climbing areas. Parents praise the cleanliness of the facility and the friendly staff, although some find the prices can be a bit high.

Comparing all of these attractions, we can see a few key differences. In terms of pricing, we have both free options (Oxford University Museum of Natural History, South Oxford Adventure Playground, The Oxfordshire Museum) and paid options (Oxford Castle & Prison, Oxford Botanic Garden). This gives families flexibility in planning their tour budget.

In terms of the type of attractions, there is a wide variety on offer. For families looking for an educational experience, museums such as Oxford University Museum of Natural History or The Story Museum will be ideal. And for those who prefer active outdoor recreation, Oxford Adventure Park, Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park or South Oxford Adventure Playground offer great options.

Accessibility is another important aspect. Most attractions are easily accessible and located in the center or near Oxford. However, some, like the Harcourt Arboretum, may require access by car or public transportation.

As for age groups, each attraction has something to offer different age ranges. Partyman World Of Play and South Oxford Adventure Playground are ideal for younger children, while Oxford Castle & Prison or The Story Museum may be of more interest to older children and teens.

It's also worth noting the seasonality of some attractions. Oxford Botanic Garden and Harcourt Arboretum are most attractive during the warmer months, while museums and indoor playgrounds are excellent options year-round.

All in all, Oxfordshire offers an incredibly rich and varied range of attractions for children. Whether your family prefers educational museums, adventurous parks or tranquil gardens, you'll find something for everyone. When planning a trip, consider combining different types of attractions to create a balanced and exciting program for the whole family. Remember that the most important thing is spending time together and creating unforgettable memories. Oxfordshire is sure to provide you with plenty of opportunities for family adventures and discoveries!

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