Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Hinksey Heaven

Now that the weather's getting nicer, there's only one place to be: Outside!

Oxford's a great place to enjoy the Great Outdoors without too much effort. Sure, there are the gloriously quaint and quintessentially British Cotswolds within easy driving distance, and the Chiltern Hills for more active pursuits, but there are also hundreds of parks. I've already given my low-down of the best parks to be in, but the one I feel the urge to discuss today is one with a rather special feature.

If you've not heard of this place, that's because those who have already visited Hinksey Park are either still there, enjoying themselves, or want to keep it a secret. I think, the more the merrier! This place needs all the publicity it can get.

So, what's so great about it?

Water! From the 'Splash' water feature, which is akin to running in a fountain or water sprinkler, to the heated outdoor swimming pool, this is the place to be. There are sun-loungers for those who prefer to make the most of being warm, and ice cream for everyone. When it's open in summer, the pool is free for under-17s and very cheap for everyone else.

If (as if!) you get bored of that, there's a lake with some unusual wildlife, tennis and lots of walks.

Bring on summer!

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