Father's Day in Oxfordshire: The Ultimate Guide to Family Days Out, Great Food & Adventures for Dad
Father's Day is the perfect excuse to spend some quality time together, and luckily, Oxfordshire is packed with fantastic places to eat, explore and enjoy as a family.
Whether you're celebrating a sporty dad, a foodie dad or simply looking for a memorable day out, we've rounded up some of our favourite local spots for Sunday 21st June.
For The Sporty Dad
Wet & Wild: Adventure on the Water
If Dad loves a bit of action, Wet & Wild makes for an unforgettable Father's Day outing. Choose from paddleboarding, kayaking, water skiing or tackle the inflatable aqua park together as a family. It's a brilliant way to get everyone outdoors and active, and with food available on-site afterwards, you can easily make a day of it.
Plan Your Visit:
https://oxfordwetnwild.com
Wendover Woods & Go Ape
For dads who love the outdoors, Wendover Woods is hard to beat. Spend the morning exploring beautiful woodland trails, tackling family-friendly bike routes or taking on the treetop challenges at Go Ape. Afterwards, head to the woodland café for lunch, coffee and cake while enjoying the stunning views across the Chilterns.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.forestryengland.uk/wendover-woods
https://goape.co.uk/locations/wendover
Glo Karting, Bicester
Perfect for competitive dads and older children, Glo Karting offers high-speed fun and plenty of family bragging rights. A karting session makes a great alternative to the traditional Father's Day lunch and guarantees plenty of laughs along the way.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.glokarting.com
The Best Father's Day Sunday Lunches
The Red Lion, Bicester
A firm local favourite, The Red Lion serves excellent traditional Sunday roasts in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Perfect after a morning walk or family activity.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.theredlionsteepleaston.co.uk
The Black Horse, Thame
Located in the heart of Thame, The Black Horse is known for its fantastic food, family-friendly atmosphere and excellent Sunday lunches.
Plan Your Visit:
https://heartwoodinns.com/the-black-horse-thame
Kali, Thame
Looking for something a little different? Kali offers modern Indian-inspired dishes, great coffee and a stylish setting that makes a refreshing alternative to a traditional roast.
Plan Your Visit:
Instagram: @kalicafethame
The Pointer, Brill
One of the region's most celebrated gastropubs, The Pointer is worth the trip. Located in the beautiful hilltop village of Brill, it's the perfect place to enjoy exceptional food after a family walk to the iconic Brill Windmill.
The Bell, Charlbury
A beautiful Cotswold pub serving seasonal menus, relaxed dining and plenty of charm. Ideal for families looking for a special Father's Day lunch.
The Bat & Ball, Cuddesdon
Combining traditional pub character with exceptional food, The Bat & Ball has quickly become one of Oxfordshire's most talked-about dining destinations.
The Nut Tree Inn, Murcott
For foodie dads, The Nut Tree Inn offers one of the finest dining experiences in Oxfordshire. If you're looking to really spoil Dad this Father's Day, this is a fantastic option.
The Perch, Oxford
Set beside the river, The Perch is one of Oxford's most iconic pubs. Enjoy a scenic riverside walk before settling down for lunch in its beautiful garden.
Coffee, Brunch & Relaxed Family Catch-Ups
The Baton, Upper Heyford
If Dad prefers brunch over roast potatoes, The Baton is a brilliant choice. Known for its stylish interiors, excellent coffee and relaxed atmosphere, it's ideal for a leisurely Father's Day brunch before heading out for a family walk or activity nearby.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.theheyfordoxfordshire.co.uk/baton
PROOF Bakehouse, Kennington
A favourite with local families, PROOF Bakehouse serves exceptional coffee, artisan pastries and freshly baked treats. Perfect for a relaxed Father's Day breakfast stop before a day of adventures.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.proofsocialbakehouse.com
Wells Farmshop & Café, Radley
For dads who love great food, Wells Farmshop & Café offers excellent coffee, local produce and one of Oxfordshire's best selections of British cheese. A lovely spot for a relaxed breakfast or lunch.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.wellsfarmshop.com
Whole Day Outings for All The Family
Blenheim Palace
A Father's Day classic.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace offers something for every member of the family.
Explore:
The Adventure Play area
Beautiful formal gardens
The Walled Garden
Parkland walks
Family-friendly cafés
Seasonal exhibitions and events
You can easily spend an entire day exploring one of Oxfordshire's most iconic attractions.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.blenheimpalace.com
Cogges Manor Farm
Perfect for younger families, Cogges Manor Farm offers farm animals, beautiful gardens, play areas and plenty of space to run around. A wonderful relaxed day out that younger children will love.
Plan Your Visit:
https://www.cogges.org.uk
Millets Farm
A favourite with Oxfordshire families, Millets Farm offers something for everyone. From animal encounters and play areas to shopping, cafés and seasonal activities, it's an easy Father's Day win.
Plan Your Visit:
https://milletsfarmcentre.com
Family-Friendly Bike Rides in Oxfordshire
Phoenix Trail (Thame to Princes Risborough)
One of the best family cycling routes in the area. This traffic-free trail features sculptures, artwork and plenty of places to stop along the way.
Blenheim Estate Cycle Routes
With wide paths and stunning scenery, Blenheim offers excellent family-friendly cycling suitable for all ages.
The Thames Path
Several sections provide easy, flat riding perfect for younger cyclists, with beautiful riverside scenery throughout.
Cutteslowe Park to Wolvercote
A gentle route ideal for younger children, passing parks, cafés and green spaces.
The Otmoor Cycle Route
Perfect for families with older children looking for a slightly longer ride through some of Oxfordshire's most beautiful countryside.
However You Celebrate...
Father's Day doesn't need to be complicated. Whether it's an adventure on the water, a family bike ride, a woodland walk, a long Sunday lunch or simply coffee and cake together, Oxfordshire offers plenty of ways to make Dad feel special.
Happy Father's Day from The School Mum Edit 🤍
