South Park, Oxford

South Park, located on Headington Hill in the eastern part of Oxford, is the largest park within Oxford's city boundaries. It's more than just a green area; it's a spot that offers a wide view of Oxford's city center, including the iconic spires and towers of Oxford University. This makes it a favorite place for people who love taking photos.

The park is surrounded by well-known roads and landmarks. Headington Road runs along one side, and Saint Clement's connects it to central Oxford. There's a 19th-century bridge that links South Park with the neighboring Headington Hill Park, and the southern edge is lined by Morrell Avenue, named after a famous local brewing family. At the top end of the park, you'll find the Oxford Artisan Distillery, set up in 2017 in the old Cheney Farm buildings.

South Park has a strong connection to the Morrell family, who used to live in Headington Hill Hall. Originally their private property, the Oxford Preservation Trust bought the land in 1932 to keep it as a public space. In 1951, they handed it over to the city of Oxford. One artistic feature in the park is a carved stone made by the well-known sculptor Eric Gill.

But South Park isn't just a quiet place; it's also a center for cultural and social events. It's where the Lord Mayor's annual parade happens, and there's a big fundraising fireworks event organized by the Oxford Round Table. It can hold big events, too – like on July 7, 2001, when the famous band Radiohead played to more than 40,000 people. This was possibly the biggest gathering in Oxford's history.

The park is also a place for food lovers, with the Foodies Festivals hosting events that include cooking masterclasses by famous chefs like Levi Roots and Ed Baines.