Oxford Botanic Garden

Oxford Botanic Garden is the University of Oxford's historic plant garden, founded in 1621 and described on its own site as the UK's oldest botanic garden. Set on a compact site beside the River Cherwell in the city centre, it holds more than 5,000 plant species across a walled garden, a lower garden with rock and herbaceous borders, and themed planting. Families can wander the paths, look for the garden's oldest tree and find plants linked to famous stories. The garden runs family-friendly activities and seasonal fairs through the year, and it welcomes school groups. The site is wheelchair accessible and the paths suit buggies and slower walkers. Assistance dogs are the only dogs permitted, and there is no on-site parking, so walking, cycling or public transport from the centre is the practical route.