Cowley is a suburban area of Oxford in England. Historically a part of the parish of Stoke Talmage, it was formally incorporated into Oxford as part of the 1935 enlargement of the city's boundaries. Cowley is located to the east of Oxford city centre and is most notably known for its automotive industry, although many other employers are located within the area. It is also home to Oxford Brookes University.
1. Cowley parks and places for a walk on a first date
Why not beat the crowds and explore the many parks and places in and around Cowley? Start a first date by taking a leisurely stroll around the parks and pathways of South Park. Located along what was once the Cherwell meander, South Park is an area of informal parkland and woodland with formal terraces, pathways and grassy expanses, as well as a small lake, and is a great spot for a picnic. There’s also the Cowley Marsh Nature Reserve, consisting of 48 hectares of wetlands and a variety of wildlife such as kingfishers, dragonflies and badgers. The Cowley Branch Walk is a great route to try, a four-mile walk which runs alongside the old Oxford to Banbury railway line taking in sweeping views along the way.
2. Places for a coffee date in Cowley
If you’re looking for a place to catch up over a steaming cup of coffee, there’s plenty of options in Cowley. The Herb Garden Café is a vegan and vegetarian café located in the heart of Cowley, where you can relax over a selection of sandwiches, cakes and soups. For something more traditional, there’s the Marshfield Bakery, a traditional bakery and tea room, where you can treat your date to a selection of freshly baked cakes and buns. If you’re looking for something a bit special, the Cogges Tea Room is a great place to visit. Set in a Victorian walled garden, it offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks and homemade cakes.
3. Cowley galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Cowley is home to a number of galleries, museums and exhibitions, which offer a great way to spend a first date and get to know each other better. The Oxfordshire Museum is an interactive museum, where you can explore the history of the area and its people, with a collection of artefacts and interactive displays. If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not take your date to the Oxford Myomotion Gallery. This unique gallery showcases a number of interactive artworks that respond to human movement and are perfect for a first date that’s a bit out of the ordinary.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Cowley
Cowley is home to a number of live music venues and entertainment options, perfect for a first date. The Open House is a lively music venue that hosts a range of music nights, including jazz, folk and world music. The Prospect pub is located in the heart of the town and offers an array of entertainment options, from live music to comedy nights. The Jericho Tavern is another great spot for live music, hosting a range of upcoming bands, acoustic nights and open mic sessions.
5. Cowley pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Cowley is home to a number of pubs, bars and restaurants, perfect for a first date. The Cherwell Boathouse is a great spot for a romantic meal, serving a range of traditional British and contemporary dishes. The Oxford Blue is a great spot for a first date drink, offering a range of real ales and craft beers. The Victoria Arms is another great spot, located in the heart of Cowley, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames and an extensive menu of traditional pub grub.
6. Other date ideas to try in Cowley
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there’s plenty of other date ideas to try out in Cowley. Why not explore the area with a cycle tour of Cowley, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way? There’s also the Edible Oxford food tours, where you can explore the area and sample some of the best local produce. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, then why not take your date to the Cowley Road Climbing Centre for a fun-filled session of rock climbing. Or why not try a photography tour, which offers a great way to explore the area and capture some beautiful shots along the way?
