If you’re planning a trip to Oxford, one of the best ways to get around is by using the Oxford Park and Ride network. With five sites located around the city, you can park your car and catch a bus into the city centre, avoiding the hassle of navigating busy roads and finding parking. This service is not only convenient, but it’s also affordable, making it an ideal option for both locals and tourists alike.
Understanding how the Park and Ride service works is essential for planning your visit. You can purchase a parking permit for the day, which includes unlimited travel on the bus service. The buses run frequently, with some routes operating every ten minutes during peak times, so you won’t have to wait long to catch a ride. Plus, the buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected during your journey.
Using the Park and Ride service is easy, and there are additional services and information available to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re looking for information on bus timetables, fares, or destinations and connections, you’ll find everything you need to know on the Oxford Park and Ride website. Plus, there are frequently asked questions that cover a range of topics, from accessibility to lost property.
Key Takeaways
- The Oxford Park and Ride network is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city.
- You can purchase a parking permit for the day, which includes unlimited travel on the bus service.
- Additional services and information are available on the Oxford Park and Ride website, including bus timetables, fares, and frequently asked questions.
Understanding Park and Ride
Concept and Benefits
Park and Ride is a system that allows you to park your car at a designated car park outside of the city centre and then take a bus to your destination. This system is designed to reduce traffic congestion in the city centre, improve air quality, and make parking more affordable.
The benefits of using Park and Ride include avoiding traffic and reducing travel time, saving money on parking fees, and contributing to a cleaner environment. Additionally, the Park and Ride system offers a convenient way to travel to the city centre without worrying about finding a parking space.
Oxford’s Park and Ride Locations
Oxford has five Park and Ride sites, each with its own unique features. The sites are located at Thornhill, Redbridge, Pear Tree, Seacourt, and Oxford Parkway. All of the sites are easily accessible from major roads and offer frequent bus services to the city centre.
| Park and Ride Site | Location | Bus Service | Parking Spaces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thornhill | Eastern Bypass, Headington, OX3 8DP | 24/7, every 10-15 minutes | 610 |
| Redbridge | Abingdon Road, OX1 4XG | 24/7, every 10-15 minutes | 1000 |
| Pear Tree | Woodstock Road, OX2 8JD | 24/7, every 10-15 minutes | 1000 |
| Seacourt | Botley Road, OX2 0HP | 24/7, every 10-15 minutes | 1000 |
| Oxford Parkway | Water Eaton, OX2 8HA | 24/7, every 10-15 minutes | 1000 |
All of the Park and Ride sites offer free parking for up to 24 hours, and the bus fares are affordable. You can purchase your bus ticket from the bus driver or use contactless payment methods such as a debit card or mobile phone. The Park and Ride system is operated by Oxfordshire County Council and is part of the Freeflow initiative, which aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in Oxford.
In summary, Oxford’s Park and Ride system is an affordable and convenient way to travel to the city centre without worrying about parking or traffic congestion. With five sites to choose from and frequent bus services, you can easily find a location that suits your needs.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit to Oxford, using the park and ride system is a great way to save time and avoid the hassle of city centre traffic. Here are some useful tips to help you plan your visit.
Operating Hours
The park and ride service operates from early morning until late in the evening, with buses running every few minutes throughout the day. The exact operating hours vary depending on the park and ride location, so it is best to check the official website for up-to-date information.
Directions and Postcodes
There are five park and ride locations around Oxford, each with its own postcode and directions. The official website provides detailed directions to each location, as well as information on parking fees and bus fares.
Locations
- Seacourt Park and Ride: Located off the A34, near Botley, this location is ideal for visitors coming from the west of Oxford.
- Pear Tree Park and Ride: Located off the A34, near the Peartree Interchange, this location is ideal for visitors coming from the north of Oxford.
- Redbridge Park and Ride: Located off the A4142, near the southern bypass, this location is ideal for visitors coming from the south of Oxford.
- Thornhill Park and Ride: Located off the A40, near Headington, this location is ideal for visitors coming from the east of Oxford.
- Oxford Parkway Park and Ride: Located off the A4260, near Kidlington, this location is ideal for visitors coming from the north of Oxford.
Route
The park and ride buses follow a set route that takes you directly into the city centre, with stops at key locations along the way. The exact route varies depending on which park and ride location you are using, so it is best to check the official website for a map of the route.
A40, M40, A420, A4260, A34
If you are travelling to Oxford by car, the park and ride locations are conveniently located near major roads, including the A40, M40, A420, A4260, and A34. This makes it easy to access the park and ride service from almost anywhere in the region.
In summary, using the park and ride system is a convenient and cost-effective way to visit Oxford. With multiple locations and frequent buses, it is easy to get to and from the city centre. Just be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information on operating hours, directions, and parking fees.
Tickets and Fares
If you are planning to use the Oxford Park and Ride service, you will need to purchase a ticket. There are different ticket types available, depending on your needs. In this section, we will provide you with information on the ticket types and payment methods.
Ticket Types
The Oxford Park and Ride service offers a range of ticket types to suit different needs. The most popular ticket types are:
- Same Day Return: This ticket allows you to travel to and from the city centre on the same day. It includes 16 hours of parking and is valid for one adult and up to three children.
- Adult Return: This ticket allows you to travel to and from the city centre on different days. It includes 16 hours of parking and is valid for one adult.
- 2 to Go: This ticket allows two adults to travel to and from the city centre on the same day. It includes 16 hours of parking.
All tickets can be purchased from the driver or via the RingGo app.
Payment Methods
There are several payment methods available for purchasing Oxford Park and Ride tickets. The most popular payment methods are:
- Cash: You can purchase your ticket from the driver using cash.
- RingGo: You can purchase your ticket via the RingGo app. This app allows you to pay for your ticket using your mobile phone. You can also use the app to extend your parking time if needed.
- Mobile App: You can purchase your ticket via the Oxford Bus Company mobile app. This app allows you to purchase your ticket in advance and store it on your phone.
Please note that the Oxford Park and Ride service does not accept credit or debit cards as payment.
Using the Park and Ride Service
If you are planning a trip to Oxford, using the Park and Ride service is an easy and convenient way to get into the city centre without the hassle of driving and parking in the busy city streets.
Parking Your Car
When you arrive at the Park and Ride, you will find plenty of parking spaces available. The parking fee is affordable, and you can park your car for as long as you need to. The parking lot is secure, so you can be assured that your car is safe while you are away.
Catching the Bus
Once you have parked your car, catching the bus to the city centre is straightforward. The bus service is frequent, and the buses are comfortable and modern. The bus drivers are friendly and knowledgeable, and they will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the service or the city.
You can purchase your bus ticket from the driver, or you can use the Oxford Bus Company app to buy your ticket in advance. The app is easy to use, and it allows you to track the bus in real-time, so you know exactly when it will arrive.
The Park and Ride service is operated by the Oxford Bus Company, so you can be assured that you are in good hands. The company has been providing bus travel in Oxford for over 140 years, and they have a wealth of experience in providing a reliable and efficient service.
Overall, using the Park and Ride service is an excellent way to get into the city centre without the stress of driving and parking. The service is affordable, convenient, and reliable, and it is the perfect way to start your visit to Oxford.
Additional Services and Information
Family and Children Facilities
Oxford Park and Ride offers family-friendly facilities to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. All of the Park and Ride sites have designated family parking spaces located near the bus stops, making it easier for families with young children to access the buses.
In addition, children under the age of 16 can travel for free on Park and Ride buses when accompanied by a paying adult. This is a great way to save money when travelling with your family.
Accessibility and Additional Passengers
Oxford Park and Ride is committed to providing accessible transport for all passengers. All of the buses are wheelchair accessible and have space for pushchairs and buggies. If you require any additional assistance, please speak to a member of staff who will be happy to help you.
If you are travelling with additional passengers, such as a carer or companion, they can travel for free when accompanying a Blue Badge holder. Blue Badge holders are entitled to free parking at all of the Park and Ride sites.
Overall, Oxford Park and Ride provides a range of additional services and facilities to make your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether you are travelling with young children or require additional assistance, the Park and Ride sites are designed to cater to your needs.
Destinations and Connections
City Centre Access
Oxford Park and Ride is a convenient way to access Oxford City Centre. The five Park and Ride sites are located on the outskirts of the city, providing easy access to the city centre without the hassle of traffic, parking and congestion charges. The park and ride buses run frequently throughout the day, with the service operating every 10-15 minutes from each site.
The journey time from the Park and Ride sites to the city centre is around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses drop off passengers at convenient locations around the city centre, including the Westgate Centre, St Aldate’s, and Magdalen Street.
Regional Connections
Oxford Park and Ride also provides connections to regional destinations. The Thornhill Park and Ride, located off the A40 ring road, is a popular choice for those travelling from London or the east, with direct connections to the city centre and Oxford’s major hospitals.
The Seacourt Park and Ride, located on the A34 west of Oxford, provides easy access to the city centre and the Botley area. The Pear Tree Park and Ride, located on the A34 north of Oxford, is a popular choice for those travelling from the north, with direct connections to the city centre and Oxford’s major hospitals.
The Redbridge Park and Ride, located on the A4142 south of Oxford, provides easy access to the city centre and the Cowley area. The Water Eaton Park and Ride, located on the A34 north of Oxford, is a popular choice for those travelling from the north, with direct connections to the city centre and Oxford’s major hospitals.
Whether you’re travelling to Oxford for work, shopping or leisure, the Park and Ride service offers a convenient and affordable way to access the city centre and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours for the Oxford Park and Ride services?
The operating hours for the Oxford Park and Ride services vary depending on the site and the day of the week. Generally, the services run from early morning until late evening, with reduced hours on Sundays and bank holidays. For specific information about the operating hours of each site, please visit the Oxford City Council website.
Can you park overnight at any of the Oxford Park and Ride sites?
No, overnight parking is not allowed at any of the Oxford Park and Ride sites. All vehicles must be removed before the site closes for the day. For more information, please visit the Oxford City Council website.
What are the current parking charges for using Oxford Park and Ride facilities?
The parking charges for using Oxford Park and Ride facilities vary depending on the site and the length of stay. At the time of writing, the cost for car parking and one traveller is £4.00 and the cost for car parking and two adults is £5.00. For more information about current parking charges, please visit the Oxford City Council website.
Where are the drop-off points for the Oxford Park and Ride buses in the city centre?
The drop-off points for the Oxford Park and Ride buses in the city centre vary depending on the site and the destination. Generally, the buses stop at several locations in the city centre, including near major landmarks and shopping areas. For more information about the drop-off points for each site, please visit the Oxford City Council website.
Are there any Park and Ride options that offer direct services to London?
No, there are no Park and Ride options that offer direct services to London. However, there are several other transportation options available, including trains and coaches. For more information about transportation options to London, please visit the Transport for London website.
Do any Oxford Park and Ride sites offer free parking?
No, none of the Oxford Park and Ride sites offer free parking. However, the parking charges are generally lower than the cost of parking in the city centre. For more information about current parking charges, please visit the Oxford City Council website.
