About Port Meadow
Port Meadow is one of the largest open spaces in the north of the city (136.9ha). With the River Thames flowing through the heart of the meadow the flood plains are home to many species of cattle, horses and wildfowl. With unrestricted access, it can be enjoyed by all.
Port Meadow and Wolvercote Common are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Scheduled Ancient Monument and together with the nearby Yarnton and Pixey Mead a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the European Habitats Directive.
Please be aware of the horses, cattle and in the spring, ducklings. Dogs must be kept under control.
Access to Port Meadow is via Walton Well Road or Aristotle Lane in the south or from Godstow and Wolvercote in the north.
There are two car parks which you can use.
The first is at the north end of the meadow off Godstow Road (no charges apply – nearby postcode OX2 8PU).
The other is at the south end off Walton Well Road (charges apply – nearby postcode OX2 6ED).
Things to do
Walks
You can have a good walk without leaving the common or you can cross the river onto the Thames towpath or explore the 35ha of the neighbouring Burgess Field. Port Meadow is covered under the Countryside Act and users must follow the Countryside Code when using the site.
Picnic and BBQs
There are static picnic benches and BBQs near the Godstow Road entrance. Picnics are welcome elsewhere, but please be careful of the cattle and horses. For picnics, consider the Thames Path side on the opposite river bank, away from the grazing ponies and cattle.
Fishing
There are opportunities to enjoy coarse fishing providing you have the appropriate rod licence and permits.
