A short step away from the local gym, the patisserie, the farmers’ market on Saturdays, homeopathic clinics and pubs as well as boasting excellent transport links to the City Centre, Oxford Parkway, the hospitals and the ring road. This is one of the most desirable locations in Oxford to raise a family and an escape from the bustling streets of the rest of Oxford.
There are several options when it comes to schooling, regardless of age. The Oxford Nursery, St Philip and James and Cutteslowe are a few of the younger schools. In addition to this, Cherwell School, Wychwood, Oxford High and St Edwards are well known amongst the most attentive of parents wishing to prioritise their children’s education. There are also a few international schools and private tutoring located along the main road and adjacent streets.
Grab a coffee and cake from Gail’s followed by a massage at Cannelle’s lose yourself amongst the pages of your next adventure from Daunt Books or the local library. If this isn’t your scene, Cherwell Boathouse is located walking distance and offers a fantastic selection of food and punting options along the river – perfect for a summer’s day!
The Ramen Noodles from Koto are not to be missed – this Japanese cuisine offers one of the best tasting ramen in Oxford. Oxo’s an independent café which offers a quick breakfast or baguette and is a short walk to a river which is a nice picnic spot. Gee’s – a stylish conservatory with fairy lights and plants for dinner or cocktails. Unique Creations – decorate your own pottery and pick it up a week later once it has been glazed. This is really fun and a great keepsake for a special occasion (a date, your first child’s handprint). Gail’s Bakery – they do a fantastic selection of items for lunch that is baked fresh every morning. Port Meadow – Walk to the meadow and appreciate the meandering river, wild horses running through the fields and just unwind in nature. If you get hungry, you can easily get to The Perch for a quick bite or drink and head back to watch the sunset.
Summertown is my favourite part of Oxford. Lockdown involved a lot more exploring of the local area – Port Meadow is within walking distance and has wild horses, cows and a winding river that you can swim in. Very picturesque and perfect for a summer picnic – I popped to Jericho for a supply of food and drinks and then enjoyed the sun by the river. When not in lockdown, The Perch is a great spot to grab a lunch/early dinner and easily accessible from the meadow. Walking around Summertown, there are lots of quiet side roads giving the feel of Narnia as it’s so unexpected for a busy main road to be so near. In September, St Giles fair is a regular and traditional fair that sprawls in up toward Summertown from the City Centre and easy to walk to – a treat before the children go back to school!
