Dog-friendly Oxford: Things to do in Oxford with a dog

Oxford isn’t just for students and history lovers—it’s a fantastic city for pets, too! This dog-friendly guide highlights the best spots for you and your pup to explore together. Plus, if you're searching for house sitting opportunities in Oxford or need a trusted Oxford pet sitter, we’ve got practical tips to help. Read on!

A pet parent and dog enjoying a sunny stroll in a leafy, dog-friendly park in Oxford.

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 Oxford city centre, this expansive park features woodlands, open fields, and streams perfect for splashing. It’s ideal for sociable, energetic dogs.
    Location: Old Rd, Headington OX3 8TA
  • Florence Park
    A well-maintained park in East Oxford, perfect for a relaxed stroll. With lush gardens and plenty of shade, it’s a favourite among local dog walkers.
    Location: 94 Cornwallis Rd, Oxford OX4 3PJ
  • Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
    Oxford’s largest park—covering 42 hectares and recently awarded a Green Flag Award—offers vast open fields and walking trails. It’s ideal for zoomies, long walks, and off-leash play (in designated areas).
    Location: Elsfield Way, Oxford OX2 8NP

Dog-friendly restaurants in Oxford

Dining out with your dog? No problem! Oxford offers a range of welcoming, dog-friendly restaurants where your furry friend is treated like family.

  • The Rickety Press
    This cozy spot serves real ale and Modern European cuisine, plus simple bar food in a warm conservatory setting. Dogs are welcome indoors and always receive a friendly greeting—and often a treat—from staff.
    Location: 67 Cranham St, Oxford OX2 6DE
  • The Handlebar Kitchen
    A quirky, laid-back café with whitewashed brick walls and cycling-themed decor. They serve artisan coffee, hearty breakfasts, and fresh snacks—all in a relaxed, fully dog-friendly environment.
    Location: 28–32 St Michael’s St, Oxford OX1 2EB
  • The Bear & Ragged Staff
    A comfortable, south-facing eatery just outside the city in Cumnor. Its conservatory and terrace make it perfect for sunny days, and well-behaved dogs are welcome in the bar—with clean water bowls provided.
    Location: 28 Appleton Rd, Cumnor, Oxford OX2 9QH
A happy dog sitting beside their owner at an outdoor table at a dog-friendly restaurant in Oxford.

Fun dog-friendly activities in Oxford

Looking for memorable ways to spend time with your pup? Oxford offers plenty of engaging, dog-inclusive adventures.

  • Riverside walks along the Thames
    A scenic stroll along the River Thames is a must-do. As England’s longest river, it supports over 25 fish species—and many local operators offer dog-friendly river cruises with stunning views of historic Oxfordshire.
  • Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
    Spanning 160 acres of landscaped parkland and beautiful gardens, this award-winning attraction hosts over 260 animal species. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you explore giraffe enclosures, zebra paddocks, and more.
    Cost: Adult £19.00, seniors (65+) £13.50, children (3–16) £13.50, under-3s free
    Hours: Daily, 10 AM–3 PM
    Location: Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP
  • Blenheim Palace grounds
    While only service animals are permitted inside this UNESCO-listed 18th-century palace, leashed dogs are warmly welcomed to roam its magnificent parkland, formal gardens, and lakeside paths—a true highlight for active pups and history-loving owners alike.
    Cost: Adult £51.00, children £41.00, family pass (12-month access) £165.00
    Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM–3:45 PM
    Location: Woodstock OX20 1PS

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Oxford

Stretch your legs—and your pup’s—with these top-rated, scenic routes across Oxfordshire.

  • Rotherfield Greys Circular Walk
    A beautiful blend of natural beauty and historic charm in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. Rolling hills, ancient footpaths, and open countryside make this 8.8 km loop especially rewarding—and dogs can go off-leash in several safe, designated areas.
    Start point: Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PN
  • Christ Church Meadow
    A peaceful, flat 1.3 km loop through one of Oxford’s most iconic green spaces. Lined with historic college buildings and riverside views, it’s perfect for a gentle morning walk with your dog.
    Start point: Oxford OX1 4JF
  • Henley-on-Thames to Aston
    A serene 9.7 km riverside trail following the Thames through pastoral landscapes and charming villages. Great for both relaxed strolls and longer hikes with your four-legged companion.

The best dog-friendly cafés in Oxford

Planning a coffee date with your furry friend? These welcoming cafés combine great brews, local treats, and genuine hospitality—for humans and dogs alike.

  • Vaults & Garden
    Housed in a historic building near the Bodleian Library, this café retains its original vaulted ceiling and characterful small windows. Guests enjoy locally sourced pastries and specialty drinks—and every pup gets a fresh water bowl and quiet corner to relax.
    Location: University Church, 1 Radcliffe Sq, Oxford OX1 4AH
  • Society Café
    A vibrant, centrally located café known for loose-leaf teas, rich bespoke hot chocolates, and delicious cakes made by local bakers. Friendly staff always greet dogs with smiles—and sometimes biscuits.
    Location: Oxford city centre

Whether you’re visiting Oxford for a weekend getaway or settling in for longer, FurPetVo makes it easy to find trusted local pet sitters and house sitters through furpetvo.com. Their verified community helps ensure your dog enjoys Oxford just as much as you do—while you explore with peace of mind.