Summertown is an exclusive suburb of North Oxford boasting a lively shopping scene and some of the most attractive properties in the city. Despite its compact size, the area more than competes with the nearby attractions of Oxford. All of the high street retailers can be found on Banbury Road which is home to an exciting mix of stylish eateries, boutiques and pavement cafés.

Given the short distance to Oxford city centre, Summertown promises excellent transport links for those commuting. The Oxford Parkway Station offers direct services to London Marylebone, reaching the capital in just under an hour.

While Summertown is well-known for the abundance of period properties, many newcomers are attracted by the scenic open spaces. The River Cherwell meanders nearby and the University parks are only a stone’s throw away. Leisure attractions are just as desirable for the active individual. Aside from the sports and swimming facilities of Ferry Leisure Centre, residents can make use of a renowned tennis club and 100-year old golf course.

Summertown’s population is diverse, ranging from the young professional to academics and retirees. It’s sought- after catchment area also gives reassurance for families relocating to this suburb. An impressive choice of both state and private schools can be found in and around Summertown.

Transportation in Summertown

Despite being far removed from the hectic streets of Oxford, residents can still make use of the city’s transportation links. This includes Oxford Parkway Station which is situated only 10minutes’drive from Summertown. From here, trains connect to London Marylebone every half an hour with a journey time of just under an hour. For those commuting locally, stops also include Bicester Village, High Wycombe and Islip.

Alternatively, Oxford railway station is also within easy reach – only 12 minutes’ drive without traffic. As well as the direct service to Marylebone, trains depart to Newcastle and Manchester Piccadilly, stopping at Birmingham New Street.

Summertown’s position adjacent to the A40 provides a quick commute for those travelling by car. It links to the M40 motorway, providing convenient access to London in the south and Birmingham in the north. Heathrow Airport is also situated within a 45-minute drive without traffic.

Primary and secondary schools in Summertown

Summertown is home to an excellent choice of schools, not to mention the nearby universities and colleges of Oxford. At the primary level, a range of local schools have been judged ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by the government watchdog, Ofsted. These include SS Philip and James’, Cutteslowe Primary and Oxford High School Junior Department.

Cherwell School is the county secondary school and caters to pupils aged 11 to 18. Boasting ‘academy’ status, this continually ranks amongst the top schools of Oxford with a sixth form that’s been judged ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Alternatively, parents have a wide choice of private schools. Some of the most renowned include St Edward’s – a coeducational offering boarding facilities – and the popular Summer Fields School which is a preparatory for boys aged 7 to 13.

History of Summertown

Throughout much of its history, Summertown was little more than a quaint settlement in the shadow of burgeoning Oxford. Development was slow during those early years where an inn – known as Diamond Hall – was the only notable building of the area. An infamous hangout for highwaymen, this was later converted in to cottages which still exist today.

It wasn’t until the second half of the 19^th century that Summertown gained in size and popularity. Newly built houses replaced farmland to serve the growing university populations and local tradesmen. After a decision to extend the boundaries of Oxford City to include Summertown in 1929, more development was to follow and infrastructure improved. Despite losing its rural status as it transitioned into a city suburb, the village atmosphere remained thanks to its welcoming community and vibrant shopping district.

Things to do in Summertown

Those fortunate enough to live in Summertown enjoy a vibrant mix of local attractions, coupled with the endless array of things to do in nearby Oxford. Here are some of the main places of interest in and around the area:

• North Oxford Golf Club
• Cutteslowe Park and Miniature Railway
• The Turrill Sculpture Garden
• North Oxford Lawn Tennis Club
• Bodleian Library
• Pitt Rivers Museum
• The University of Oxford Botanic Garden
• Phoenix Picturehouse
• Summertown Farmers’ Market
• Port Meadow
• Ferry Leisure Centre
• Alexandra Park

How to get to Summertown

• By road: For those travelling from London, Summertown can be reached by taking Junction 8 of the M40 before continuing on to the A40. From here, continue 3 miles to Cutteslowe roundabout and Summertown city centre should be signposted. Visitors from the north should take Junction 9 of the M40, exiting onto the A34 South before continuing 5 miles and turning onto the Oxford A44. After a short distance, follow signs for the A40 and join the Cutteslowe roundabout. Take the ^third exit signposted Summertown city centre.
• By rail: Oxford Parkway is the nearest train station offering direct services to London Marylebone, as well as other local towns and cities.