Garth Park
A vibrant park with a top-tier playground, serene gardens, and lively events, perfect for family fun and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Playground buzzes with families
Garth Park
Best Time
Playground buzzes with families
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant park with a top-tier playground, serene gardens, and lively events, perfect for family fun and relaxation.
"Lovely little park for a nice little walk, with a great play park for children."
☕ Cafe Reservations
Book tables in advance for the cafe, especially on weekends, as they get fully booked!
💰 Toilet Fees
Be prepared to pay a small fee (around 20p) to use the toilets. Bring change!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Children's Play Area
A fantastic, modern playground with equipment for all ages, ensuring hours of fun for kids.
Formal Gardens
Beautifully maintained gardens offering a serene escape for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.
Outdoor Events
Experience seasonal magic with light trails, open-air cinemas, and live music performances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Perks & Practicalities
Eventful Escapes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe Reservations
Book tables in advance for the cafe, especially on weekends, as they get fully booked!
💰 Toilet Fees
Be prepared to pay a small fee (around 20p) to use the toilets. Bring change!
🍦 Ice Cream Van
On hot days, an ice cream van isn't always present, so pack your own treats.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Catch open mic nights and performances for a taste of local talent.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe Reservations
Book tables in advance for the cafe, especially on weekends, as they get fully booked!
💰 Toilet Fees
Be prepared to pay a small fee (around 20p) to use the toilets. Bring change!
🍦 Ice Cream Van
On hot days, an ice cream van isn't always present, so pack your own treats.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Catch open mic nights and performances for a taste of local talent.
💡 Event Lighting
Don't miss the festive light trails during the Christmas season!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Garth Park is widely praised for its excellent children's playground and beautiful formal gardens, making it a top spot for families and leisurely strolls. Visitors appreciate the free entry and the pleasant atmosphere for picnics. However, some find the fee for toilet use and the need to reserve cafe tables inconvenient.
"Lovely little park for a nice little walk. Went to eat in the cafe but got told you have to reserve a table as they were fully booked (went on a weekend)."
Jade Bramley
"Lovely big play park for children, pity the cafe was closed, and NO icecream van close by on a very hot day!!! Disappointed you have to pay to go to the toilet with your grandchildren or any children and only 2 toilets!!!"
Elaine Stephen
"Great little park and play area for kids of all ages. Arrived quite late (6.30pm on a Saturday evening) so nearby ice cream shop was closed. And 20p to use the loo! Bit excessive in my opinion. With no change o didn't get to use them but would hope they're very clean if paying that much. Good lawns etc for picnics."
Just Debs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Garth Park is located in Bicester. It's accessible by car with nearby parking, and local bus routes also serve the area. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available near Garth Park. However, it can get busy, especially during events or on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Garth Park is a great destination for cyclists. There are often bike racks available, and it's a pleasant ride through Bicester.
The park generally offers good accessibility with paved paths, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The playground also has accessible features.
Follow local Bicester council social media pages or check community event listings online. Instagram reels often showcase upcoming events like light trails and concerts. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Garth Park itself is free to enter and enjoy its gardens and play areas. However, there is a small fee to use the public toilets.
Entry to the park is free, but specific events like outdoor cinemas or special concerts may require tickets. Check event details in advance.
Garth Park is generally open from dawn till dusk. Specific facilities like the cafe may have their own operating hours.
Dogs are typically welcome in Garth Park, but it's always a good idea to check local signage for any specific restrictions, especially in play areas or during events.
There is a small charge, around 20p, to use the public toilets. It's advisable to have some change with you.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Garth Park offers a large children's play area, beautiful formal gardens, open lawns for picnics, and hosts various events like outdoor cinemas and concerts.
Absolutely! The park boasts a fantastic, modern playground with equipment suitable for all ages, making it a top choice for families.
Yes, Garth Park has ample open lawns perfect for picnics. It's a popular spot for families and groups to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
There is a cafe at Garth Park, but it's highly recommended to reserve a table in advance, especially for weekend visits, as it can get fully booked.
Garth Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor cinema nights, Christmas light trails, and live music performances.
📸 📸 Photography
The formal gardens offer picturesque backdrops, especially during spring and summer. The playground can provide fun, candid shots of children. Event evenings, like the light trail, offer unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, events like the Christmas light trail or outdoor cinema create a magical atmosphere perfect for photography.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – offer soft, flattering light for capturing the beauty of the formal gardens.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check with the local council or park authorities before flying a drone.
The playground's modern design and the seasonal event decorations provide unique and memorable photo opportunities for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cafe is lovely, reservations are essential for weekend visits, so plan your mealtime accordingly.
Budget Travelers
While some events might have ticket costs, many community gatherings and open mic nights are free or low-cost.
Keep an eye on local event listings for free entertainment options. The park offers a high-quality experience without a significant financial outlay, making it a perfect destination for a cost-effective day out.Couples & Friends
During the festive season, the magical light trails create a wonderfully atmospheric experience, perfect for couples seeking a charming evening.
While the playground is a highlight for families, the well-maintained gardens and open spaces offer a peaceful retreat for adults. It's a versatile park that caters to various preferences, offering both lively event opportunities and tranquil moments.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Playground Paradise
The playground's popularity means it can get quite busy, especially on sunny weekends and during school holidays. While the park itself is free to enter, the nearby public toilets do have a small charge, so it's wise to have change ready if you plan on a longer visit with children. Despite this minor inconvenience, the quality and scope of the play facilities make Garth Park a standout destination for family fun in Bicester.
For those looking to make a day of it, the park's open lawns are perfect for picnics, allowing families to refuel while the kids continue to play. The proximity of the playground to these picnic spots adds to the convenience for parents. It's a well-thought-out space that prioritizes children's enjoyment and safety.
Seasonal Spectacles & Events
These events are a significant draw, offering a unique experience that complements the park's natural beauty.Beyond the winter festivities, Garth Park has also been a venue for outdoor cinema nights, where attendees can enjoy films under the stars, often with a red carpet experience adding a touch of glamour.
The park's open spaces and pleasant ambiance make it an ideal setting for such entertainment. Keep an eye on local listings and social media for announcements about upcoming concerts, open mic nights, and other community gatherings that showcase local talent. +1These events not only provide entertainment but also contribute to the vibrant community spirit of Bicester. They offer a chance to experience Garth Park in a different light, often with additional food and drink vendors, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Planning your visit around these special occasions can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.
Park Amenities & Visitor Comfort
Another point of consideration is the public toilet facilities. While functional, there is a small charge to use them, typically around 20p. Visitors are advised to carry change for this purpose.
For those seeking refreshments on warmer days, it's worth noting that an ice cream van is not a permanent fixture. On particularly hot days, visitors might find themselves without immediate access to ice cream, so bringing your own chilled treats is a sensible suggestion for a family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit