Oxford Outdoors 2026
Spring is here. Join the Oxford Outdoor campaign to explore the outdoors, learn and support local biodiversity through citizen science activities.
Over the next few months staff and students are invited to join a series of biodiversity walks through University Parks and Park Farm. You’ll learn more about our local wildlife and work the University is doing to protect it.
Whether you’re buzzing for biodiversity or rooting to take part in iNaturalist’s campus challenge, there is an event for you.
Did you know?
Oxford University manages over 3,000 acres of rural land for research, education, environment, and outreach. Read more on the Oxford Green Estates webpage.
Opportunities to get involved
Oxford University BioBlitz – Monday, 27 April, 12.30-2.00pm
Join a guided walk through University Parks and Park Farm to spot and identify a range of local species and log them on iNaturalist as part of the Nature Positive Universities Nature Challenge.
Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for a walk outdoors.
We recommend you bring your smartphone and download the iNaturalist app ahead of time.
Location: University Parks and Park Farm, meeting by the Life and Mind Building (What3Words ///summer.hidden.escape).
Bee Walk - Friday, 22 May, 12:30-2.30pm
Walk with expert Liam Crowley in University Parks to spot bees, learn to identify different species and discover ways to support local pollinators.
Buzz along with us to discover how you can help our insect friends thrive.
Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for a walk outdoors.
Location: University Parks, meeting by the Life and Mind Building (What3Words ///summer.hidden.escape).
University Parks is wheelchair accessible.
SSSI* Management at Park Farm walk - Thursday, 28 May, 2-3.30pm
*Site of Special Scientific Interest
Explore Park Farm with Emma Eatough, Biodiversity Programme Manager, and learn about the approaches and activities the University is undertaking to restore Park Farm, a unique area of pasture and hay meadow with rich biodiversity, and a valuable case study in biodiversity enhancement.
Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for a walk outdoors.
Location: Park Farm, meeting by the Life and Mind Building (What3Words ///summer.hidden.escape).
University Parks Tree Walk - Tuesday, 9 June, 1-2pm
Did you know that Oxford University Parks is home to more than 1,900 trees from around 380 distinct taxa?
Join Sam Prior, Arboricultural Manager, for a guided walk in University Parks. Learn about notable trees, their environmental value and management practices.
Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for a walk outdoors.
Location: University Parks, meeting by the Life and Mind Building (What3Words ///summer.hidden.escape).
University Parks is wheelchair accessible.
What else?
- Organise your own BioBlitz (and get Green Impact action points)
- Grow your own wildflower meadow (WWF guide)
- Build a Bee and other bugs Hotel (RSPB guide)
- Build a habitat heap (RSPB guide)
Support biodiversity on your day-to-day
- Consider your consumption habits and opt for more environmentally friendly choices. For example, reducing carbon-intensive foods such as meat and dairy. Eating vegetarian or vegan meals once or twice a week can make a significant difference over time.
- Buy second-hand or pre-loved items wherever possible or choose products that are certified for environmental benefits such as Fairtrade.
- Find low or zero waste alternatives to common items like disposable cups and grocery bags. You can even visit a refill store in Oxford to remove plastic packaging.
