Unconventional Oxfordshire Attractions: 7 Places You Haven't Heard About
April 11, 2025
Oxfordshire, known for its prestigious university and picturesque landscapes, hides much more than academic sights. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of seven unconventional attractions that are sure to surprise locals and tourists alike. These hidden gems offer fascinating experiences for the whole family, combining history, nature and unusual stories. Get ready to discover unusual places you may not have even known existed that will make your visit to Oxfordshire truly unique.
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Fascinating encounters with nature and history
Let's start our adventure with the extraordinary place that is the 'Crocodiles of the World'. This is the only zoo of its kind in the UK dedicated exclusively to crocodiles, located in Brize Norton. This facility, although relatively small, offers a fascinating experience for the whole family. Here you can see various species of crocodiles, alligators and caimans from around the world. What's more, the zoo organizes interesting shows and presentations, during which you can learn many interesting facts about these fascinating reptiles. Visitors praise the facility for its cleanliness, good organization and the opportunity for close contact with the animals. However, it is worth remembering that ticket prices may seem a bit exorbitant to some.
Another place that is sure to delight both children and adults is 'The Story Museum' in the heart of Oxford. This is a magical place where stories and fairy tales come to life. The museum offers interactive exhibitions that immerse you in the world of literature. Here you can walk through a closet into Narnia, visit Alice's Wonderland or feel like a character from your favorite book. Visitors praise the museum for its creative approach to presenting literature and the opportunity to actively participate in the exhibitions. The Story Museum is especially recommended for families with children, but adults will also find something to enjoy here.
For lovers of history and picturesque ruins, 'Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote' is a site not to be missed. Located on the Windrush River, these medieval ruins offer not only a history lesson, but also beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a family picnic. The ruins are open to the public and can be visited free of charge, which is a definite plus for families looking for budget attractions. However, it's worth remembering that parking nearby can fill up quickly on popular days, so it's recommended to arrive early.
Nature and culture in one
If you're looking for a place where you can combine active recreation with communing with nature, 'Shotover Country Park' is an ideal option. Located on the outskirts of Oxford, this sprawling country park offers scenic hiking trails, hidden gems for returning visitors and opportunities to encounter wildlife. The park is a great place for family walks, picnics or bird watching. Visitors praise the park for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the Oxford area. What's more, admission to the park is free, making it an attractive option for families looking for budget-friendly outdoor activities.
For those who want to explore the history and culture of the region, 'The Oxfordshire Museum' in the charming town of Woodstock is a must-stop. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the county's history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Here you'll find exhibits related to geology, archaeology, local arts and crafts. Of particular interest is the exhibition of Roman coins and other ancient finds from the area. The museum is family-friendly, offering interactive elements and special programs for children. What's more, admission is free, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget.
A slightly less well-known but equally fascinating site is the 'North Hinksey Conduit House'. This small but historically significant building was once part of Oxford's water supply system. Although the building itself is relatively small and cannot be entered, it is an interesting example of medieval engineering. The site is ideal for those interested in history and architecture, as well as those who like to explore lesser-known corners. Note that there is no parking nearby, so be prepared for a short walk. North Hinksey Conduit House, unlike the previously mentioned attractions, may not offer as many amenities or interactive elements, but its charm lies precisely in its simplicity and historical significance.
The unusual face of Oxfordshire
To conclude our tour of Oxfordshire's unconventional attractions, we can't leave out one of the region's most surprising sights - the 'Shark of Headington'. This unusual sculpture, depicting a 7.5-meter shark stuck into the roof of an ordinary house, is a true symbol of eccentricity and creativity. It is located in the quiet residential neighborhood of Headington, Oxford, and has attracted the attention of locals and tourists alike since 1986. While not a typical tourist attraction, it certainly makes for a memorable experience and a great topic for family discussions about art and its role in public space.
To sum up our journey through Oxfordshire's unconventional attractions, it is worth noting the variety of experiences available. From the fascinating world of reptiles at 'Crocodiles of the World', to the magical spaces of 'The Story Museum', to the historic ruins of 'Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote', each of these places offers a unique experience.
Shotover Country Park' and 'The Oxfordshire Museum' are excellent options for families looking to combine nature with culture, while 'North Hinksey Conduit House' will satisfy history and architecture lovers. 'Shark of Headington', meanwhile, is a perfect example of how art can surprise and inspire in the least expected place.
It is worth noting that most of these attractions offer free admission or relatively low ticket prices, making them attractive options for families traveling on a tight budget. At the same time, each of these places has its own unique character and offers something different, from interactive exhibitions to quiet spaces for contemplating nature and history.
When planning a visit to Oxfordshire, consider including these unconventional attractions in your itinerary. They will allow you to see the region from a whole new perspective, discover its lesser-known face and create unforgettable memories for the whole family. Whether you are a lover of nature, history, art or simply looking for a new and fascinating experience, Oxfordshire has much more to offer than you might think at first glance.
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