Dog-Friendly Oxford: Things To Do in Oxford with a Dog

Oxford isn’t just for students and history lovers – it’s a great city for pets too! This dog-friendly guide to Oxford highlights the best spots for you and your pup to explore.

Plus, if you're searching for house sitting opportunities in Oxford or need an Oxford pet sitter, we’ve got tips to help. Read on!

Best dog parks in Oxford

Oxford is blessed with numerous green spaces where your pup can run, sniff, and socialize. Here are some of the best dog-friendly parks the city has to offer:

Shotover Country Park

Located just outside the Oxford city centre, this is an excellent place for sociable canines. The expansive park features woodlands, open fields, and streams for splashing.

Location: Old Rd, Headington OX3 8TA

Florence Park

This well-maintained park in East Oxford is ideal for a relaxed stroll. With lush gardens and plenty of shade, it’s a favorite among local dog walkers.

Location: 94 Cornwallis Rd, Oxford OX4 3PJ

Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park

Covering 42 hectares of land and recently awarded a Green Flag Award, this is Oxford’s largest park, situated in the north. It offers vast open fields and walking trails, providing ample room for zoomies and energetic runs.

Location: Elsfield Way, Oxford OX2 8NP

Dog-friendly restaurants in Oxford

Dining out with your dogs? No problem! There is a range of dog-friendly restaurants in Oxford where your furry friends are more than welcome:

The Rickety Press

This restaurant offers real ale and Modern European cuisine, along with simple bar food and a conservatory. Canines are welcome inside and always receive a warm greeting from the staff.

Location: 67 Cranham St, Oxford OX2 6DE

The Handlebar Kitchen

A quirky restaurant with whitewashed bricks and cycling artefacts, serving artisan coffee, breakfast, and snacks in a relaxed, dog-friendly environment.

Location: 28-32 St Michael's St, Oxford OX1 2EB

The Bear & Ragged Staff

A comfortable eatery with a conservatory and a south-facing terrace just outside the city. This restaurant serves high-quality dishes, and well-behaved dogs are welcome in the bar, with pooch bowls of water available.

Location: 28 Appleton Rd, Cumnor, Oxford OX2 9QH

Fun dog-friendly activities in Oxford

Looking for things to do? There are numerous dog-friendly activities in Oxford to keep both you and your pooch entertained.

Visiting the iconic Thames River

A lovely riverside walk along the River Thames is a must-do. This waterway is part of the longest river in England and is home to over 25 species of fish. You can even take your pet on a cruise along the river to enjoy the gorgeous views.

Cost: Free (varies depending on attractions & venues)

Date and time: Open year-round

Location: River Thames, United Kingdom

Animal viewing at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

A unique destination exhibiting over 260 species of animals across 160 acres of landscaped parkland and beautiful gardens. Well-behaved canines on leashes are welcome to explore this wildlife park, where they can observe giraffes, zebras, and other fascinating creatures.

Cost: Adult £19.00, senior citizens (65+) £13.50, 3-16 years £13.50, 0-2 years FREE

Date and time: Open daily (10AM - 3PM)

Location: Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP

Admiring the historical Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is one of England's largest historic houses, built in the 18th century. While only service animals are permitted inside, leashed pets can explore the magnificent park, gardens, and grounds of this UNESCO-listed site.

Cost: Adult £51.00, children £41.00, family £165.00 (price for 12-month access)

Date and time: Open daily (10.30AM - 3.45PM)

Location: Woodstock OX20 1PS

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Oxford

Stretch those legs with these top dog-friendly walks in Oxford:

Rotherfield Greys

A beautiful circular walk that mixes natural and historic sights in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, featuring rolling hills and breathtaking countryside. Dogs are even allowed off-leash in some areas.

Location: Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PN

Length: 8.8 km loop

Christ Church Meadow

A picturesque stroll through the Christ Church grounds, this route is relatively flat and ideal for history enthusiasts.

Location: Oxford OX1 4JF

Length: 1.3 km loop

Henley-on-Thames to Aston

This riverside walk takes you along the Thames, offering fantastic views and countryside charm.

Location: Henley-on-Thames

Length: 9.7-km loop

As you can see, there are plenty of dog-friendly hikes in Oxford you can enjoy, whether you're looking for a quick sprint or have time for something more uphill.

The best dog-friendly cafes in Oxford

Planning a coffee date with your furry friend? Check out these dog-friendly cafes in Oxford:

Vaults & Garden

Set in a historic building near the Bodleian Library, this café still has a historical vaulted ceiling and small windows, and it serves up delicious treats for humans and water bowls for dogs.

Location: University Church, 1 Radcliffe Sq, Oxford OX1 4AH

Society Café

A trendy café in Oxford city centre, known for its loose-leaf teas, bespoke hot chocolates, a variety of cold drinks, delicious locally made cakes and pastries, homemade sandwiches, and a warm, pooch-friendly atmosphere.

Location: 12-16 St Michael's St, Oxford OX1 2DU

Green Routes Cafe

A plant-based café with a homey, intimate atmosphere, serving delicious vegan cakes, brunch, and coffee.

Location: 39 Magdalen Rd, Oxford OX4 1RB

Annual dog events in Oxford

Mark your calendars for these dog-friendly events in Oxford:

DogFest - Oxfordshire

Claimed as the UK's favorite dog-friendly festival, this event features pet experts, play zones, dog schools, shows, and various activities.

Cost: Pre-sale £14.50, standard £17.5

Date and time: Typically in June or July

Location: Blenheim Palace

Canine Country Fair

Canine Country Fair is a fun charity dog show with educational workshops, free photo shoots, and various other fun activities.

Cost: £10 per person

Date and time: Typically in June or July

Location: Berkshire College of Agriculture

Maggie's Oxford Mutt Strutt

During National Pet Month, this event challenges you to complete a 100km charity dog walk to raise funds for cancer support services.

Cost: Free (£150 donation)

Date and time: Annually in April

Location: Oxford, UK

The best dog-friendly pubs in Oxford

Enjoy a refreshing beer at one of these top dog-friendly pubs in Oxford:

The Fishes

A riverside Victorian gastropub offering seasonal food, well-kept ales, and fine wine, along with a pet-friendly seating area.

Location: N Hinksey Village, Oxford OX2 0NA

The Trout Inn

A 17th-century country pub with Thames River views and a beer garden where dogs are treated like VIPs (Very Important Pups)!

Location: 195 Godstow Rd, Wolvercote, Oxford OX2 8PN

The Chester Arms

Famous for its steaks, locally produced ales, and welcoming industrial vibes, this pub warmly accommodates both humans and their leashed canine companions.

Location: 19 Chester St, Oxford OX4 1SN

Dog-friendly wineries in Oxford

Planning a relaxing wine-tasting session with your pawed pal while visiting Oxford? These wineries make it possible:

Greyfriars Vineyard

Located just outside the city of Oxford, this artisanal vineyard produces award-winning English Sparkling wine. Visitors are welcome to stroll through the vines with their dogs.

Location: The Hog's Back, Puttenham, Guildford GU3 1AG

Brightwell Vineyard

A beautiful destination for wine lovers and their dogs, offering high-quality English white, rose, red, and sparkling wines.

Location: Shillingford Rd, Wallingford OX10 8LJ

Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery

Surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty, this award-winning English vineyard offers craft wines and beers to savor with your leashed, well-behaved companion by your side.

Location: Old Luxters, Henley-on-Thames RG9 6JW

Tips for pet parents in Oxford

Are you a pet parent in Oxford? Lucky you! Not only do you have an adorable pet companion, but you get to explore this beautiful historic city with them. Here are some of our top tips for pet parents in Oxford.

Explore Oxford’s green spaces

From riverside walks along the Thames to scenic parks and meadows, there are plenty of places for your pup to stretch their legs and sniff around. Make sure to keep your dog on a leash near livestock and wildlife if exploring the countryside or nature reserves.

Get to know dog-friendly places in Oxford

Oxford is full of dog-friendly places for you and your pooch to enjoy. Why not stop by Vaults & Garden after a leisurely stroll through the historic streets? And you never know, you might just meet some new pup pals.

Scout out dog-friendly accommodation in Oxford

Visiting Oxford with your pup from afar? There are numerous options for dog-friendly accommodation in Oxford, from pet-friendly hotels to cozy cottages your furry friend will adore.

Find a reliable pet sitter

When it’s your turn to travel without your pooch, keeping them at home is often best. Vets agree – pets thrive in familiar surroundings! Consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to care for them while you're away. Learn more below:

Finding a pet sitter

How it works

Tips for pet sitters in Oxford

Pet sitting in Oxford is a unique opportunity to enjoy one of England’s most beautiful cities – think riverside walks, historic colleges, and green spaces galore – all while bonding with a four-legged friend. Here’s how to make the most of your stay and provide excellent care:

Get to know the pet’s personality

Spend time observing their behaviors, noting what makes them anxious or excited. Some dogs love cuddles, while others prefer space. Understanding their personality will help build trust and ensure a positive experience.

Engage in stimulating activities

Stick to the dog's usual routine, but don’t be afraid to spice things up with a stroll through University Parks or along the Thames Path. Oxford has plenty of dog-friendly spots where you can mix playtime with a bit of local charm – just be sure to keep within the comfort zone of your canine companion.

Supervise outdoor time

Whether you’re heading out to Port Meadow or the local dog park, always follow the owner’s leash preferences and be alert to your surroundings. Keep ID tags secure and bring water, especially in warmer weather. A well-prepared sitter means a happy, safe pup!

Finding a house sit