Perched on the eastern edge of Oxford, Headington is best known for its leafy streets, village-like charm and of course, the famous shark poking out of a house roof. It’s a place where city life meets suburban calm, and this summer it’s been brought to life in a slightly unexpected way. A temporary minigolf course has popped up, tucked between the parks and pavements, offering a fun and quirky outing with a distinctly local twist.
This isn’t your average round of minigolf. The course, cleverly designed with Headington in mind, has taken inspiration from its local landmarks, sayings and small-town quirks. Set in a community space near London Road, the course winds through colourful props and gentle slopes, all echoing familiar scenes and phrases you’d hear from locals on a casual stroll.
Each hole along the course brings a little piece of Headington into play. One early challenge, “Shark Attack,” is a clear nod to the town’s most iconic rooftop sculpture, with a curved ramp leading straight into a mock shark’s mouth. Another, called “Hollow Way,” features a tricky bend and a narrow path that mimics the real Hollow Way road’s tight turns. Every section has its own personality, and you get the sense that whoever designed it knows the area well.
The charm of the course comes not just from its visuals, but from the language peppered throughout. Each hole is introduced with a phrase or expression that locals might recognise. “Bit Nippy,” for example, greets you with a wind-blown tunnel that messes with your shot, while “Don’t Be Daft” is a deceptively simple-looking hole that catches more players out than it should. These little touches keep things light and playful, making it more than just a game.
To help those new to the area, there’s a small glossary at the entrance to explain a few of the Oxfordshire phrases in use. Words like “mardy” (a bit moody), “knackered” (tired), and “gaff” (home) appear on the signage, adding a friendly local touch that’s educational without feeling overdone. Even the scorecards carry a bit of banter, encouraging players to keep calm when things go awry on “That One with the Slope.”
Local artists have also added their mark to the space, with painted boards showing familiar Headington scenes – the bus stop at the top of Windmill Road, the gates of the John Radcliffe, and even the row of shops where students and locals mingle over sandwiches and strong coffee. There’s an easy-going atmosphere around the course, where people pause for a chat as much as they play.
Nearby cafés and small businesses have joined in the fun. One has added “The Putter’s Pastry” to its display, while another has created a limited-edition “Sharktail” mocktail for players looking to cool down after their round. It’s the kind of neighbourhood event that gently ripples through the community, encouraging connection and giving everyone something light-hearted to talk about.
Whether you’re young or old, skilled or just giving it a go, the Headington minigolf experience offers something a little different. It’s relaxed, well thought out and clearly shaped with local knowledge. People stop by in the early evening, putter in hand, chatting over fences and comparing scores. Even when the weather’s not on its best behaviour, there’s a steady stream of visitors giving it a try.
It’s a playful spin on familiar surroundings, with just enough challenge to keep things interesting and just enough local flavour to make you smile. Headington might not be where you’d expect to find a cheeky round of themed minigolf, but that’s part of what makes it work.
