Headington, Oxford is often known for its leafy streets, strong sense of community, and its proximity to the bustling city centre. But beneath the surface, this charming suburb is packed with fascinating facts and quirky features that are bound to surprise both adults and kids alike. From its unusual sculptures to its hidden connections with crazy golf, Headington offers a treasure trove of interesting stories. Here are five fun facts about Headington that will make your kids go “Wow!” and ignite their curiosity about the world around them.
1. The Shark House
The most iconic and easily recognisable feature of Headington is the Headington Shark. Imagine waking up in a quiet suburban street only to find a 25-foot-long shark crashing headfirst through the roof of one of the houses! This isn’t a scene from a science fiction movie; it’s a real sight in Headington. Officially called “Untitled 1986,” but more commonly known as the Headington Shark, this sculpture was installed on 9 August 1986, by local radio presenter Bill Heine.
The sculpture is made of fibreglass and weighs around 200 kilograms. It was designed by artist John Buckley as a protest against the use of nuclear weapons. The shark caused quite a stir when it first appeared, with many people baffled by its sudden appearance, but it has since become one of Headington’s most loved and quirky landmarks. Kids are always fascinated by the sight of this gigantic shark seemingly stuck in someone’s roof, and it’s one of those things that makes Headington truly unique.
2. The Origins of Narnia
Here’s a fact that’s bound to enchant any young reader or budding writer! Headington has a magical connection to one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time—The Chronicles of Narnia. The author, C.S. Lewis, lived in Headington during the later years of his life. His house, called The Kilns, is located just off Kiln Lane and was where he wrote some of his most famous works, including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Lewis’s time in Headington was deeply influential in shaping his stories. In fact, some say the area around his home inspired parts of Narnia’s magical landscapes. Today, The Kilns is preserved as a literary landmark and museum. Kids who love the idea of walking in the footsteps of the great C.S. Lewis will be delighted to know that they can visit his house and explore the neighbourhood that helped bring Narnia to life.
3. The Origins of The Windrush
Another interesting historical fact about Headington is its connection to the Windrush generation. Many people know of the historical significance of the Windrush, the ship that brought hundreds of Caribbean migrants to the UK in 1948, helping to shape modern British society. But not many people realise that the name “Windrush” itself has a connection to Headington.
The River Windrush, which flows through Oxfordshire, was the inspiration behind the name of the famous ship. The river starts its journey near the Cotswolds and winds its way through the countryside, passing near Headington. While the river may not flow directly through the suburb, its name has a deep historical resonance that your kids might find surprising. Headington’s connection to such a pivotal event in British history is a testament to the area’s hidden significance.
4. Crazy Golf in Headington
Every kid loves a bit of crazy golf, and Headington has its own fun-filled connection to this classic family activity. Hidden away within the bounds of The Quarry Sports Centre, you’ll find one of Oxford’s best-kept secrets: a fantastic mini-golf course that’s perfect for a family day out. This crazy golf course is packed with colourful obstacles, winding pathways, and tricky holes that will test the putting skills of everyone from beginners to mini-golf pros.
But Headington’s crazy golf heritage goes back further than you might think. In the mid-20th century, local parks and recreation grounds in Headington hosted makeshift mini-golf tournaments, where families and friends would gather to play using homemade obstacles and creatively designed courses. It was a popular way for the community to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and have some competitive fun. Today, crazy golf remains a beloved activity in Headington, and it’s a great way to introduce your kids to a bit of local tradition while having a blast!
5. Headington’s Roman Heritage
One of the most surprising facts about Headington is its connection to ancient history. Headington has a long and rich history dating back to Roman times. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of Roman settlements and pottery in the area, suggesting that Headington was once home to a small Roman community. One of the most notable discoveries is the remnants of a Roman villa that once stood on the site of what is now Bury Knowle Park.
This park, a favourite spot for families today, is steeped in history. Kids will be amazed to learn that the ground they’re running on was once home to Romans! Bury Knowle Park is also home to other surprises, including sculptures and a play area modelled after some of Oxford’s literary figures. Next time you visit the park, why not take a moment to explore its rich past and imagine what life was like for the Romans who once lived there?
Headington, Oxford might seem like an ordinary suburb at first glance, but it’s packed with surprises that will fascinate kids and adults alike. From a giant shark sculpture crashing through a roof to a magical connection with Narnia and even a hidden Roman past, Headington has a rich tapestry of stories to tell. And with its own slice of crazy golf fun, Headington proves that it’s a place where history, imagination, and adventure come together to create a truly special part of Oxford. So next time you’re exploring Headington, keep an eye out for these amazing facts that are sure to make your kids go “Wow!” and leave them with stories to tell.
