South Park Commemoration Stone

South Park Commemoration Stone Oxford: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Perched atop Headington Hill in East Oxford, South Park is the city’s largest and most celebrated green space. Renowned for its panoramic views of Oxford’s iconic skyline, the park is both a tranquil retreat and a living testament to Oxford’s commitment to heritage and preservation. At the heart of this landscape lies the South Park Commemoration Stone—a monument symbolizing conservation efforts, community collaboration, and intercultural dialogue. Designed by the acclaimed British artist Eric Gill in 1935, the stone commemorates the Oxford Preservation Trust’s successful acquisition of South Park in 1932, made possible by the Pilgrim Trust and the Randall-MacIvers. A second commemorative stone within the park marks the Dalai Lama’s 2002 visit and his planting of a tree symbolizing peace and unity (Historic England, Friends of South Park, Oxford City Council, Oxford Mail).

This guide offers comprehensive, non-duplicative information for visitors—including essential details on visiting hours, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions—ensuring a rewarding experience at one of Oxford’s most meaningful landmarks.

Overview of South Park
Visiting South Park: Practical Information
Highlights of South Park
The South Park Commemoration Stone
The Dalai Lama Commemoration Stone
Visiting Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions
Visual Gallery and Resources
Plan Your Visit

Overview of South Park

South Park is a vast, open expanse covering approximately 50 acres (20 hectares) on Headington Hill. It is celebrated for its sweeping lawns, mature trees, and extraordinary vantage points across Oxford’s spires and towers. The park is a haven for walkers, families, and anyone seeking an escape into nature without leaving the city.

Visiting South Park: Practical Information

Opening Hours and Admission

Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Admission: Entry is free; no tickets are required.

Accessibility

Paths: Main routes are paved and wheelchair-accessible, though some areas have natural terrain and gentle slopes.
Benches and Shaded Rest Areas: Available throughout the park.

Location and Directions

Address: Headington Road (A420), East Oxford.
On Foot/Bike: About 20 minutes’ walk or a short cycle from the city centre.
By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop near the main entrance.
By Car: Limited street parking; public transport is recommended due to congestion.

Facilities and Visitor Rules

Facilities: Benches, picnic areas, and open lawns; public toilets near the main entrance.
Food: No permanent cafés, but food trucks may appear during events.
Dogs: Welcome on leads; owners must clean up after pets.
Etiquette: Quiet reflection is encouraged near memorials; respect for the park’s natural environment and other visitors is expected (Oxford City Council).

Highlights of South Park

Panoramic Views: The elevated position provides some of the best views of Oxford’s historic skyline.
Walking and Picnic Areas: Well-marked trails wind through meadows and wooded areas; benches and open lawns are ideal for relaxation or picnics.
Seasonal Events: The park hosts Oxford’s largest charity fireworks display, concerts, and community festivals—check event listings for details (The Oxford Magazine).

The South Park Commemoration Stone

Eric Gill’s Design and Artistic Value

Eric Gill, famed for his typographic and sculptural work, designed and carved the South Park Commemoration Stone in 1935. The Portland stone monolith, standing about 3.6 meters (12 feet) tall, features Gill’s signature lettering—simple, bold, and beautifully proportioned. The inscription commemorates the park’s acquisition in 1932:

“This park was/acquired by the/Oxford/Preservation Trust through/the liberality/of the/Pilgrim Trust/and David/and Joanna/Randall-MacIver/1932.”

Its rough-hewn form symbolizes resilience and permanence, while the clarity of the inscription reflects Gill’s belief in the power of crafted lettering (Historic England).

Historical and Cultural Context

South Park was once part of the Morrell family’s Headington Hill Estate. In 1932, the Oxford Preservation Trust, with significant contributions from the Pilgrim Trust and Randall-MacIvers, secured the land for public use. The stone embodies the collaborative effort that transformed private estate into cherished public green space. In 1951, it was gifted to the city as part of the Festival of Britain (Wikipedia: South Park, Oxford).

Heritage Status

The Commemoration Stone is Grade II listed, recognized for its special architectural and historic interest. This status ensures its preservation and acknowledges its significance within Oxford’s urban landscape (Historic England).

Cultural Impact

Beyond its role as a monument, the stone is a symbol of community spirit and civic pride. South Park is a hub for public events, and the stone stands as a reminder of the city’s dedication to green spaces and cultural heritage (The Oxford Magazine).

The Dalai Lama Commemoration Stone

In May 2002, His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited South Park, planting a tree as a symbol of peace and unity. A separate commemoration stone, near the park’s main entrance, marks this event. The site has become a place for quiet reflection, surrounded by seasonal flowers and mature trees (Oxford Mail).

Visiting Tips and FAQs

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Daily, dawn until dusk.
Admission: Free; no tickets required.

Accessibility

Paths: Paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Proximity: Both commemoration stones are near the main entrance, minimizing walking distance.

Facilities

Restrooms: Located near the main entrance.
Food: Bring your own, or enjoy event-time refreshment stands.

Safety and Etiquette

During Events: South Park can be busy; check the event calendar for quieter times (Oxford City Council Events).
Respect: Quiet reflection is encouraged at all memorials.

FAQs

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is free.

Q: Where are the commemoration stones located?
A: Near the main entrance off Headington Road.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No official guided tours, but some Oxford walking tours include South Park.

Q: Is the park accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, main paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is welcome, but please be respectful.

Nearby Attractions

Headington Hill Hall: Historic building now part of Oxford Brookes University.
Cowley Road: Vibrant area with diverse restaurants and shops.
Oxford City Centre: Explore colleges, museums, and the Radcliffe Camera.
(PlanetWare – Oxford Attractions)

Visual Gallery and Resources

High-quality images of the South Park Commemoration Stone, the Dalai Lama’s tree, and Oxford’s skyline enhance the visitor experience. Alt tags such as “South Park Commemoration Stone by Eric Gill” and “Dalai Lama commemoration stone in Oxford” improve accessibility and SEO.