Statue of Aslan

You'll find this rather unexpected bronze figure tucked away in Oxford - a life-sized statue of Aslan, C.S. Lewis's great lion from the Narnia chronicles. It's the sort of thing you stumble upon and think, 'Why is that here?' which is precisely what makes it worth seeking out. The sculpture captures the beast mid-stride, powerful and contemplative, and there's something oddly moving about coming face-to-face with a character you've only met in books. Lewis spent much of his life in Oxford, so the placement makes sense, even if the statue itself feels delightfully out of place among the dreaming spires and medieval colleges.

This works best for families with older kids who've read the books - younger children might find it a bit underwhelming if they're expecting a theme park experience. History buffs and Narnia devotees will absolutely get more from it. You're looking at twenty minutes maximum, including the walk to find it and a proper look around. It's free to visit, which helps.

The real appeal is combining it with a proper Oxford wander - grab a coffee, visit the colleges, then duck into this quiet corner as a little bonus. From Cedar Hollow Oxford or The Oaks, both within spitting distance, you're well-placed to explore the city properly. If you're staying further out at one of the farmsite options, it's worth the drive in for a half-day trip. Don't expect grand facilities or even clear signposting - that's rather part of the charm.