Living in Kidlington
Looking to move to Kidlington? Learn all about what life here is like, from the local schools and transport options to things to do around town and, of course, find out about property prices in the area.
Your guide to moving and living in Kidlington
Why Kidlington is a great place to live
Kidlington is a large village located just five miles north of Oxford city centre. Sometimes described as one of England’s largest villages, Kidlington still honours its rural roots despite its increasingly suburban feel. This proximity to Oxford, coupled with a strong sense of local identity, makes living in Kidlington particularly appealing to families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Known for its blend of historic charm and modern amenity, Kidlington features a bustling High Street, characterful period cottages, and riverside walks along the Oxford Canal and the River Cherwell. The parish church, St Mary’s, with its distinctive spire, dates to the 13th century and remains an iconic local landmark. Residents of Kidlington benefit from a relaxed village pace, set against the convenience of excellent local amenities, good schools, and quick access to both the city and countryside. Its location close to Oxford Airport and the A34 also caters to commuters and frequent travellers.
Kidlington’s growth in recent decades has been managed sensitively, preserving green spaces and the village character. The community’s composition is diverse: families appreciate well-rated schools and open parks; professionals value connectivity to Oxford’s employment hubs; and older residents enjoy the village’s friendly social fabric and health facilities. Whether drawn to the area by its riverside walks, local market, or its role as a practical satellite to Oxford, Kidlington’s appeal is broad and enduring.
Community & Local Life
Community and local life in Kidlington are highly valued. The area offers an active calendar of community events, such as the annual Kidlington Village Fête, local craft fairs, and festive markets in the High Street. The Kidlington & Gosford Leisure Centre provides year-round fitness and swimming facilities, and there are several community halls for gatherings and classes.
Outstanding green spaces define the local lifestyle. The River Cherwell and Oxford Canal offer scenic walks, canoeing, and birdwatching, while play parks and public gardens provide recreational opportunities for all ages. The village has a well-established volunteering culture, with groups supporting everything from gardening to youth activities. Despite its growth, Kidlington retains a close-knit, supportive community atmosphere.
Safety & Crime Rates in Kidlington
Safety and crime rates in Kidlington are generally perceived as reassuringly low compared to nearby Oxford. The area is predominantly residential, with active community Policing initiatives contributing to a strong sense of security. Neighbourhood Watch schemes and regular engagement between Thames Valley Police and the local council help to prevent antisocial behaviour and maintain a safe environment.
Most crime in Kidlington is of a minor nature, such as petty theft or occasional vehicle crime, with violent or serious incidents being rare. Regeneration projects and CCTV provision in commercial zones have further bolstered confidence among residents. Areas close to the village centre and schools are regarded as especially safe and welcoming.
Parking & Road Access
Parking in Kidlington is generally accessible, with ample on-street parking available in residential areas and along side roads. Most houses in Kidlington offer off-road parking or driveways, while visitor parking is reasonably well provided for, especially around public facilities, shopping areas, community halls, and schools. Kidlington does offer some permit parking zones close to its village centre, which are enforced during busy periods but are manageable for both residents and visitors.
Congestion is moderate during peak hours, particularly along the main Oxford Road and around Oxford Parkway Station. The A34 and A44 provide fast, direct access to major destinations. Travel times are convenient:
- Oxford – approx. 15 minutes via A44 (5 miles)
- Bicester – approx. 20 minutes via A34/A41 (12 miles)
- Banbury – approx. 30 minutes via A4260 (20 miles)
- Woodstock – approx. 10 minutes via A44 (4 miles)
Food, Pubs & Nightlife
Kidlington offers a range of food and drink venues, reflecting its size and local character. The village centre and surrounding streets feature several traditional pubs, such as The Black Horse and The Crown, known for their welcoming atmosphere and classic pub fare. Independent cafés, including Grocer’s Brothers and The Highwayman, serve local produce and coffee, offering relaxed spots for breakfast, lunch, or a catch-up.
A variety of restaurants and takeaways cover popular cuisines—from Indian and Chinese to fish and chips and Italian. For grocery shopping, residents have access to supermarkets and local food shops along the High Street. While Kidlington’s nightlife is generally relaxed, occasional live music and events are hosted at village pubs and community halls. Those seeking livelier options can easily reach central Oxford, with its broad array of bars, clubs, and late-night venues, via a short bus or taxi ride.
Is Kidlington Family Friendly
School Quality: Schools in Kidlington are consistently rated good, with a variety of primary and secondary options and nearby access to Oxford’s educational institutions. The presence of choice and the supportive school communities help attract families to the area.
Parks and Green Spaces: Families benefit from Kidlington’s numerous parks and riverside walks, such as Exeter Close, which features extensive play equipment and picnic spots. The village’s proximity to countryside ensures plenty of outdoor options for children.
Childcare: A range of nurseries and preschools are available locally, supporting working parents with full- and part-time provision, as well as after-school and holiday clubs.
Safety: Low levels of crime and strong neighbourhood policing initiatives mean parents feel confident about their children’s safety in Kidlington.
Family Activities: In addition to playgrounds, swimming, and sports at Kidlington & Gosford Leisure Centre, families enjoy regular events such as fêtes, Christmas lights, and storytelling sessions at the local library—offering a welcoming family environment throughout the year.
Pet Friendly Living
Pet-friendly living is a notable feature of the Kidlington lifestyle. With its direct access to the Oxford Canal towpath, River Cherwell walks, and broad open green spaces, the area is ideal for dog-walking and enjoying the outdoors. Parks like Exeter Park and Lyne Road Green offer safe places for play and socialisation for dogs and owners alike.
There are several local veterinary practices and pet shops serving the community, along with various dog-friendly pubs and cafés. Attitudes toward pets in public spaces and housing tend to be positive, and many rental properties are open to pet ownership upon consultation. The nearby countryside extends the opportunity for longer walks, making Kidlington an attractive choice for animal lovers.
Transport & Accessibility
Kidlington benefits from a broad range of transport links, making it highly accessible for commuters and travellers. The village lies close to both the A34 and A44, providing swift road connections to central Oxford, Banbury, and the wider Oxfordshire region.
Public transport provision is excellent. Regular bus services link Kidlington directly with central Oxford (journey time around 20 minutes) and with Bicester, Witney, and other neighbouring towns. The new Oxford Parkway railway station on the village’s southern edge offers rail services to London Marylebone in about an hour and to Bicester Village in under 15 minutes, making rail commuting straightforward.
Kidlington is also adjacent to Oxford Airport, primarily catering to private and charter flights, and within an hour’s drive of London Heathrow Airport. The village’s foot and cycle paths encourage sustainable travel into Oxford and the surrounding countryside.
Key commute times:
- Oxford – 20 minutes by bus or car
- London (Marylebone) – around 1 hour by train from Oxford Parkway
- Bicester – 20 minutes by bus, 12 minutes by train from Oxford Parkway
- Banbury – approx. 30 minutes via A4260
Schools & Education in Kidlington
Schools in Kidlington are a key draw for families, with a selection of primary and secondary options known for their supportive environments and respectable academic standards.
Primary Schools:
North Kidlington Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2021) serves much of the village and is recognised for its strong community ethos and focus on pupil development. West Kidlington Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2022) is another popular choice, offering a well-rounded curriculum and vibrant arts programme. Edward Feild Primary School has also maintained a good reputation locally for its inclusive approach to learning. Finally, St Thomas More Catholic Primary School offers faith-based education and family support.
Secondary Schools:
Most children in Kidlington attend Gosford Hill School (Ofsted: Requires Improvement, 2022), which provides education for ages 11–18 and offers a good range of academic and vocational courses. A number of pupils also travel to nearby Oxford or Woodstock for alternate secondary schooling options, given Kidlington’s excellent transport links.
Colleges and Sixth Forms:
While Kidlington itself doesn’t have a dedicated further education college, many students attend Oxford City College or The Oxford Academy Sixth Form in nearby Oxford, both easily accessed by bus or car.
Universities:
Proximity to Oxford’s world-renowned universities is a significant benefit. University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University are both within a short commute, trusted by locals for both undergraduate and professional education opportunities. This easy access to higher education contributes to Kidlington’s appeal among families and academics alike.