Science Oxford Visit

Kick off the weekend with an exciting visit to the Science Oxford Centre.

This award-winning science discovery centre offers hands-on exhibits perfect for curious minds aged 3-12, encouraging interactive learning and play. Explore light, sound, forces, and more through engaging displays.

Ideal for children aged 3-12. The centre has accessible facilities, including baby changing and pram access. Allow 1.5-2 hours for exploration. This is a ticketed attraction, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for after-school slots. They often have specific weekend opening hours, which should be checked for Friday evening.

Family Pizza Night

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at Franco Manca, known for its delicious sourdough pizzas.

This restaurant offers a casual, child-friendly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after an afternoon of science exploration.

Kids will love choosing their own pizzas, and the menu includes child-friendly options. Highchairs are available, and the staff are generally accommodating to families. The early timing ensures kids get to bed on time for a restful night. Bathrooms are available.

Natural History Discovery

Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the natural world at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Marvel at dinosaur skeletons, explore the diverse insect collection, and discover fascinating animal specimens. It's a free museum that truly captivates children.

Perfect for energetic kids, with plenty to see and explore. Look out for the famous Dodo and the dinosaur exhibits. The museum is stroller-accessible, and public toilets with baby changing facilities are available. They often have free family trails or activity sheets at the entrance. Combine this with the Pitt Rivers Museum, which is accessible through the Natural History Museum, for cultural artifacts from around the world.

Park Playground Lunch

Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch or grab some snacks at the café within University Parks, just a short walk from the Natural History Museum.

After lunch, let the kids burn off some energy at one of the park's expansive open spaces or designated play areas.

University Parks offers vast green spaces ideal for running around, playing games, and enjoying the fresh air. There are also designated children's play areas suitable for various ages. Public toilets are available. Pack a picnic to keep costs down, or grab a takeaway from the nearby city centre or the park café.

Botanic Garden Stroll

Discover the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom at the Oxford Botanic Garden.

This historic garden offers a serene yet engaging environment for families, with different zones to explore and plenty of space for children to wander and discover.

Great for an afternoon stroll. Kids will enjoy the various glasshouses (tropical plants, cacti) and the different garden areas. Stroller-friendly paths are available throughout most of the garden. Public toilets are on-site. The garden is suitable for all ages, offering a peaceful and educational experience.

Early Riverside Dinner

Enjoy an early family dinner at The Head of the River pub, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a riverside location.

They usually have a children's menu and outdoor seating (weather permitting), making it a lovely spot to wind down the day.

A good option for a relaxed evening meal. Kids' menus typically include classic favourites. The riverside location provides a nice view, and there's often space for children to feel comfortable. Highchairs are usually available. Early timing is perfect for young children's bedtimes.

Cutteslowe Park Fun

Spend your Sunday morning at Cutteslowe and New Hinksey Park, Oxford's largest public park, offering extensive play areas, a splash park (seasonal, check opening), miniature railway (seasonal), and plenty of open space for kids to run free.

It's a fantastic free resource for families.

This park is ideal for all ages within the target range. The large adventure playground is a major draw, and there's ample room for ball games or simply enjoying nature. Public toilets and a café are available on-site. Check their website closer to the date for miniature railway operating times in November.

Library Story Time

Engage young imaginations with a free story time session at Oxford Central Library.

Libraries often host free events for children on weekends, including readings, craft activities, and interactive sessions.

A quiet and engaging activity, perfect for winding down or escaping any afternoon drizzle. These sessions are usually suitable for pre-school and early primary school children (ages 3-7). Public toilets and baby changing facilities are available within the library and the wider Westgate Centre. Check the Oxfordshire Libraries website closer to the date for specific Sunday story time schedules and age suitability for November 2025.

Sunday Treat & Play

Round off your weekend with a visit to a local cafe for a family treat, perhaps an ice cream or a warm pastry, followed by some free play at a nearby park.

Or, if the weather isn't cooperating, consider a brief indoor soft play session (check individual venues for Sunday afternoon rates).

Gees offers a lovely setting for a treat, though it's typically a more upscale restaurant, their cafe/bar area can be good for a quick cake or drink. Florence Park offers a great playground for a final burst of energy before heading home to prepare for the school week. Alternatively, many local cafes in Jericho or Summertown are suitable for a relaxed family treat. Public toilets are available in larger parks.