Nature Reserves

Simons' Land
Managed by:	Oxford Preservation Trust
OS grid reference:	SP 528 024
Nearest Postcode:	OX4 4YH
Usual work:	Scrub clearance

Simons' Land is a half-acre parcel of urban-fringe land located alongside the River Thames in South Oxford, between Kennington and Littlemore. It was formerly used as a boat mooring area for its previous owners, Mr. and Mrs. Simons of Boars Hill, who donated the land to the Oxford Preservation Trust in March 2007.

Conservation Management

Since 2009, OCV have been collaborating with the Oxford Preservation Trust to enhance the ecological balance of the site. We have been clearing the invasive garden plants and trees that have encroached upon the area, facilitating the growth and nurturing of indigenous flora and fauna. Another vital undertaking involves the removal of accumulated refuse left behind from previous years, serving a dual purpose: benefiting the local wildlife and ameliorating the river's drainage system. The overarching objective for Simons' Land is to fashion a flourishing wildlife garden that not only offers public access to the river but also preserves captivating native habitats on this urban-fringe terrain.

Historic England have a link showing an aerial photograph taken in 1947 of flooding around Simons' Land and Rose Isle.

Location

From Oxford, leave the ring road at the A4074 (sign-posted to the Oxford (Kassam) Football Stadium). Take the first exit from the A4074 towards the Football Stadium, but go around the roundabout and under the A4074 to Sandford on Thames. Turn right at the T-junction. Before you go over the bridge (over the A4074) turn left down Heyford Hill Lane. Simons' Land through a gate on the left near the end of Heyford Hill Lane.