By Chrissie, Oxfordshire mum & Bubele Local Editor.
I feel pretty lucky to live in Oxfordshire, and here’s why!
1. Gorgeous Open Spaces
Take in a panoramic view of the city from South Park, or relax in Britain’s oldest Botanic Garden.
2. A Wide Selection of Museums
The Pitt Rivers Museum has treasure hunts and puppet shows to keep the kids engaged and kickstart their love of history.
Alternatively, visit The Oxfordshire Museum for its interactive dinosaur galleries and compete to make the best bucket of poop!
3. The Music
Nick Cope’s fabulous weekly musical sessions can be found all over Oxfordshire, with songs to delight both kids and parents.
We also have one of the best ‘anti-major-festivals’, Steventon’s Truck Festival, which offers offbeat fun and an emerging music scene.
And how could we not mention the Wilderness Festival..?
4. Culinary Innovation
One for the budding gastronomers – the Oxford Foodie Festival returns this September with baking classes, eating competitions, and the most creative cuisine out there!
Our kids know what real food tastes like thanks to Oxfordshire’s many farmers’ markets, which are reliable sources of organic, locally grown artisan produce.
5. A Rich History
Blenheim Palace is a classic example of Baroque architecture, but should the little ones be less than interested, the grounds feature a hedge maze to get lost in, creative art workshops and miniature pony rides!
Dignified, yet dripping with atmosphere, Oxford Castle provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with history.
6. Parental Networking
Perfect for restless babies, The Ultimate Picture Palace’s Baby Club screenings and Picturehouse’s Big Scream events provide the perfect setting for meeting other parents while taking in a film.
7. Fun at the Farm
Pull on a pair of dungarees and find some peace at one of Oxfordshire’s many farms.
The Waterfowl Sanctuary is perfect for cuddling and feeding animals, while Cogges is great for learning the history of farming and traditional growing methods.
8. A Moment of Rest
You may find yourself spoilt for choice when considering family-friendly tea rooms and cafés in the area.
The café at the Pegasus Theatre offers a large children’s area with beanbags and a bus to play on.
At The Garden Café there’s a play area with books and toys, shaped sandwiches, as well as free goody bags!
9. Getting Active
Even on cooler days, the Hinksey Heated Outdoor Pool is a great choice for families.
10. A Stepping Stone
Oxford’s location is an ideal starting point for exploring other parts of the country, with London, Bristol, Bath and Southern Wales all manageable within a day.
And the beaches in Bournemouth and Brighton are only a couple of hours away by car!