Oxford Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Oxford
This itinerary focuses on a mix of free and ticketed family attractions in Oxford, with an emphasis on keeping costs down. Parking in central Oxford is expensive; using park and ride services is highly recommended for ease and budget. Public transport is generally good. Most museums offer baby changing facilities and are buggy-friendly.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Burger Bonanza Dinner
Enjoy a fun and casual dinner at Atomic Burger, known for its quirky, themed decor and family-friendly atmosphere.
They offer a range of unique burgers and delicious milkshakes that kids will love.
Great for ages 5-12 due to the engaging decor and menu. High chairs available. Restrooms on-site. Expect a lively atmosphere, duration approx. 1.5 hours.
Located on Cowley Road, accessible by local bus routes from the city centre. Limited street parking may be available, but nearby car parks are recommended.
Covered Market Wander
Take a leisurely evening stroll through Oxford's historic Covered Market.
While many shops might be closing, you can still enjoy the ambiance, grab a cookie from Ben's Cookies or a milkshake from Moo Moos.
Suitable for all ages. Great for a casual browse and a sweet treat. Restrooms available. Buggy friendly. Duration approx. 1 hour.
Centrally located, easy walk from most city centre bus stops. No parking directly at the market; use nearby city centre car parks or Park and Ride.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Dinosaur & Dodo Discovery
Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the natural world at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.
Marvel at the impressive dinosaur skeletons, including a T-Rex and Triceratops skull, and see the famous dodo. The museum offers engaging exhibits and touchable items.
Excellent for ages 3-12, especially dinosaur enthusiasts. Numerous touchable exhibits and family trails available at the Welcome Desk. Buggy friendly with lifts. Cafe on-site. Duration approx. 2 hours.
Located near the city centre. Accessible by numerous bus routes. Park and ride recommended, then a short bus ride or walk. No on-site parking.
World Cultures Exploration
Connected directly to the Natural History Museum, the Pitt Rivers Museum houses an eclectic collection of archaeological and ethnographic objects from around the world.
On this Saturday, they are likely to host their free 'Family Activity Corner' with drop-in activities, crafts, and trails.
Fascinating for ages 6-12 (younger children might enjoy specific displays like masks or instruments). Family trails and activities are often targeted at younger children too. Buggy friendly with lifts. Duration approx. 1.5-2 hours.
Shares the same location and transportation as the Natural History Museum. No direct parking.
Story World Immersion
Step into the magical world of The Story Museum, celebrating stories through immersive exhibitions and galleries. Explore the Whispering Wood, the Enchanted Library, or for younger children, the dedicated 'Small Worlds' gallery which brings picture books to life.
Galleries suitable for ages 5+, Small Worlds specifically for under 5s. Cafe and gift shop available. Duration approx. 1.5-2 hours. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for specific time slots.
Short walk from the city centre. Accessible by various bus routes. Nearest parking is at Westgate Oxford car park, a short walk away.
Pizza & Pasta Dinner
Enjoy an early, family-friendly Italian dinner at Franco Manca, known for its delicious sourdough pizzas that are quick, cheap, and tasty.
Alternatively, try Mamma Mia Pizzeria for a classic Italian experience.
Suitable for all ages. High chairs available. Expect a casual and lively atmosphere. Duration approx. 1-1.5 hours.
Franco Manca is in the city centre, easily walkable. Mamma Mia Jericho is a short bus ride or longer walk from the centre. Park and ride recommended if going to Jericho.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Park Play & Explore
Spend the morning at Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park, Oxford’s largest park.
It features multiple play areas suitable for different ages, a large sandpit, duck pond, aviary, and plenty of open green space for children to run and play.
Perfect for ages 3-12. Bring snacks or a picnic. Toilets and a cafe (San Remo Kiosk) available. Pushchair friendly paths. Duration approx. 2-3 hours. Miniature railway and splash park are seasonal and likely closed in February.
Located in North Oxford. Accessible by Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach (routes 2, 2A, 2B). On-site parking available for a fee (e.g., £3 all day, £2 for up to 3 hours).
Indoor Soft Play Fun
Head to an indoor soft play centre for some active fun, especially if the weather is chilly.
Options include Yarnton Magic Garden (themed for ages 0-8) or Snakes & Ladders Abingdon (massive playframe, role play village for ages 3-6).
Yarnton Magic Garden is great for ages 0-8. Snakes & Ladders Abingdon is for kids aged 12 and under. Both offer cafe facilities for parents. Sessions are typically 1.5-2 hours and pre-booking online is usually required. Wear socks!
Yarnton is just north of Oxford, requires driving or bus. Free parking available at Yarnton Home & Garden (validate ticket). Snakes & Ladders is in Abingdon, a short drive from Oxford, with parking available.
Sweet Treat Stop
Before heading home, enjoy a final budget-friendly treat.
If you're near Yarnton, their cafe offers simple food. If driving back through Oxford, consider a visit to Moo Moos in the Covered Market for their famous milkshakes.
A perfect sweet ending to the weekend. Suitable for all ages. Duration approx. 30-45 minutes.
Moo Moos is central, use Park and Ride. Yarnton Home & Garden has free parking.
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