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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 28
Oxford News By Hana Edition 28
Land of the giants
Mark Skipworth
October 16, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 28
Oxford Outlook: Land of the giants
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A remarkable story of discovery reminds us this week how special is the place that we call home. I’m talking dinosaurs, of course.
Buried under tonnes of rock, a dinosaur ‘superhighway’ has been uncovered in Oxfordshire, according to a BBC report featured in our latest newsletter. A 220m trail stretching across Dewars Farm Quarry near Bicester is said to be one of the longest dinosaur tracks found anywhere in the world.
The footprints are “insanely” big, says Emma Nicholls from Oxford University’s Museum of Natural History, adding that the dinosaurs that made them were massive, long-necked sauropods. Our very own Jurassic park, you might say – well, sort of.
Fast forward 166 million years and we read that American billionaire Larry Ellison is investing a further £890 million in his namesake technology institute in Oxford. The new investment will expand the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) campus at the Oxford Science Park in Littlemore from 300,000 square feet to an eye-watering two million square feet.
EIT says the investment is a sign of the institute’s “commitment to Littlemore as a home for ambitious, groundbreaking science”.
There’s more: Oxford University has achieved a tenth consecutive year as the world's top university in the prestigious Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Judged on its teaching, research and international outlook, it beat MIT, which came second, and Cambridge and Princeton, which shared third.
Like I said, we live and work in a special place. Pity about Oxford’s congestion charge, though – no ‘superhighway’ there.
* Bicester Village, as we all know, is one of Britain’s top destinations for luxury shopping – everything from Bremont watches to Barbour jackets. And now it’s delighted to host a pop-up for Smart Works, a charity that helps unemployed women into work through high-quality clothing and one-to-one coaching (charity number: 1080609).
The Bicester Smart Works Pop Up boutique (Bicester Village OX26 6WD) opens its doors on 23 October and will run until 20 November. Designer clobber will be sold at 70-80% below retail prices. Go grab a bargain. Dress to impress and help fund an excellent cause.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Oxford’s Pitt Rivers Museum was founded in 1884 and is considered one of the world’s major anthropological museums
The museum holds more than 500,000 objects, photographs and manuscripts. The objects are from many cultures, from ritual items to everyday tools
In recent years, the museum has taken steps to address colonial legacies of some of its displays
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
MPs 'thrilled' as new Oxford United stadium given green light
BBC · October 15, 2025
Labour MPs Anneliese Dodds and Sean Woodcock welcomed the government's decision not to review Cherwell District Council's approval of Oxford United's new 16,000-capacity stadium near Kidlington, highlighting its potential economic benefits and urgency due to the expiring lease at the Kassam Stadium. The project, initially challenged for conflicting with local development plans and green belt regulations, received support as local councils were deemed best suited to make such decisions.
Council faces legal action over Oxford congestion charge
BBC · October 9, 2025
Open Roads for Oxford has launched a legal challenge against Oxfordshire County Council over a new congestion charge set to begin on 29 October, claiming the council failed to adequately consider public consultation feedback. As the council faces pressure from local business owners, it must respond to the challenge by 21 October.
Huge dinosaur ‘superhighway’ uncovered in the UK
News · October 14, 2025
Exciting discoveries at Dewars Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire have unveiled a stunning 220-meter dinosaur superhighway, offering unique insights into Jurassic-era dinosaur behaviour through preserved footprints. Palaeontologists are uncovering stories of these ancient creatures and their environments, highlighting the importance of preserving such significant sites for future research.
Tech tycoon Larry Ellison gives Oxford institute fresh £890m
Research Professional News · October 14, 2025
Larry Ellison is investing £890 million to expand the Ellison Institute of Technology in Oxford from 300,000 to two million square feet, following John Bell's departure as president. New global president Santa Ono aims to cultivate a vibrant community of scientists and innovation, building on previous collaborations with the University of Oxford that include £130 million for AI research.
Oxford named best university in the world for a record tenth consecutive year
Ox · October 9, 2025
Oxford University has achieved a remarkable tenth consecutive year as the world's top university in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, showcasing excellence in teaching, research, and international outlook. Following Oxford, MIT claimed second place, while Cambridge and Princeton shared third, highlighting the competitive landscape of global higher education.
Palestinian flag could fly in Oxford during twin city visit
BBC News · October 9, 2025
Oxford Town Hall may display the Palestinian flag during a potential December visit from the mayor of Ramallah, following the cities' twinning in 2019. Councillor Saj Malik has urged the council to show solidarity with Ramallah by committing to raise the flag regardless of the mayor's visit, highlighting the importance of recognizing their twinned city.
Oxford University student arrested after chanting ‘put the Zios in the ground’
The Independent · October 15, 2025
A University of Oxford student was arrested and suspended for allegedly chanting anti-Semitic slogans during a pro-Palestine march in London. The university has reiterated its commitment to a community free from hatred while the student remains in custody on suspicion of inciting racial hatred.
Plans to reopen Tolkien and Lewis pub in Oxford approved
BBC · October 13, 2025
Plans to reopen the historic Eagle and Child pub in Oxford, once frequented by literary giants JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis, have been approved, featuring sensitive restorations and new dining spaces. The Grade II-listed venue will also offer a café and workspace for scholars, all the while preserving its unique character and history.
Jeremy Clarkson rushed to hospital after slating NHS
Oxford Mail · October 12, 2025
Jeremy Clarkson, after recently critiquing the NHS, found himself needing urgent care and humorously approached his hospital visit wearing a Piers Morgan mask. He praised the professionalism and cleanliness of the NHS staff, even enjoying children's food for lunch, ultimately expressing gratitude for the excellent care he received.
Villagers warn of new 'grey belt' rules after solar farm planning battle
BBC · October 14, 2025
The introduction of a new "grey belt" category by the UK government has led to the approval of a solar farm in Noke, Oxfordshire, despite local opposition and concerns about green belt protections. While the project promises to generate significant renewable energy and environmental benefits, community representatives fear it may open the floodgates for further development in rural areas.
Botley West solar farm developer questioned over visual impact
BBC News · October 13, 2025
Inspectors reviewing the Botley West solar farm plans expressed disappointment over the lack of visual impact data from developer Photovolt Development Partners, emphasizing the need for a more thorough assessment. Despite concerns about nearby properties and potential bird strikes, PVDP has committed to addressing issues through community consultation and implementing measures like planting hedges and expanding buffer zones.
Indigenous group call for shrunken heads repatriation from Oxford museum
BBC News · October 12, 2025
Cultural leaders from the Shuar community in Ecuador are pressing for the repatriation of shrunken heads, or tsantsas, held at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, emphasizing their significance as part of their heritage. A recent dialogue between the museum and Shuar representatives marks a step towards respectful collaboration and addressing historical injustices related to these artifacts.
Emma Watson's luxury gin brand surges in value
Oxford Mail · October 10, 2025
Emma Watson, known for her iconic role as Hermione Granger, has turned her attention to academia and entrepreneurship, pursuing a DPhil after earning a master's in creative writing from Oxford. Alongside her studies, she co-owns the thriving gin brand Renais, which has expanded internationally and significantly increased in value, drawing inspiration from childhood visits to the family's vineyard in France.
New speed restrictions for A4074 between Oxford and Reading
BBC News · October 13, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has approved new speed limits of 40mph and 50mph on the A4074 dual carriageway, aiming to improve road safety despite significant public opposition. The changes will impact several areas, including Nuneham Courteney and Wallingford, while local bus services may face delays as a result.
Oxford research finds Marie Antoinette portrait is really her sister
Oxford Mail · October 14, 2025
Professor Catriona Seth's groundbreaking research suggests that a 1762 portrait long thought to depict Marie Antoinette is actually of her sister, Maria Carolina, based on the timing of a medal worn in the painting. Meanwhile, the INTERART project aims to revolutionize the authentication of historical portraits using AI and archival research, enhancing our understanding of art history and preserving cultural heritage.
Chorister of the Year win was 'surreal'
BBC · October 14, 2025
Alastair, a student from Magdalen College School in Oxford, has been crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year, describing his win as "surreal". Judges and school officials alike have praised his exceptional talent and dedication to music, celebrating his impressive contributions both in competition and at Dorchester Abbey.
Oxford's 'biggest ever' half marathon raises more than £1.2 million for charity
Oxford Mail via Yahoo News · October 13, 2025
The Oxford Half Marathon has achieved a record-breaking £1.2 million in charity fundraising this year, attracting more participants than ever with its enhanced route showcasing the city's iconic landmarks. Organized by Motiv Sports UK, the event saw over 300 runners from Sobell House raise nearly £144,000, reflecting a vibrant community spirit and dedication to charitable causes.
Prolific Oxfordshire plant pot thieves weeded out by police
BBC News · October 10, 2025
Two men have been arrested for stealing more than 20 plant pots from homes in Grove and Wantage following a thorough investigation by Thames Valley Police sparked by social media reports. The suspects, both from outside the local area, were apprehended after police searches successfully recovered the stolen items.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Thus far, October has been a tad tough for the U’s. A ground-out away 0-0 draw with QPR was okay. But it was followed up with a 2-1 defeat at Watford, which leaves the men in yellow languishing 22nd in the Championship. A battle to avoid relegation already looms.
Next up it’s Derby County at home. The Rams are only two points ahead of the U’s and here’s hoping for a win at the lunchtime match this Saturday.
Much tougher will be the fixture against Wrexham on Wednesday, 22 October. A 7.45pm kick off in North Wales, limited capacity for away fans due to stadium development, plus the fact the men in red are owned by Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney (aka Rob Mac) who have helped the club gain cult status.
Oxford’s final October fixture is away to beleaguered Sheffield Wednesday on the 25th. If the U’s can magic up seven points from these three autumnal encounters it will show the footballing gods are smiling upon them.
Property news
Oxford’s Life & Mind building completes The University of Oxford has unveiled its new £200 million Life & Mind building, a state-of-the-art facility spanning 269,000 sq ft that will enhance research and teaching in biology and psychology for over 1,400 students and researchers. This landmark project, funded by Legal & General, features advanced labs and a vast botanical collection, showcasing a collaborative effort to advance the university and benefit the wider Oxford community. |
New York Times scouts out pair of Cotswolds homes for more than $1m Oxford Mail via Yahoo News - October 13, 2025 Discover the allure of the Cotswolds, where charming homes attract an influx of American celebrities seeking countryside tranquillity, including a stunning two-bedroom stone cottage in Windrush listed at $666,000. As the region gains popularity akin to the Hamptons, socialite Plum Sykes describes this trend as a “mass exodus” towards a lifestyle blending rural beauty with urban convenience. |
Sharks, shoes and private islands: 25 years of Rightmove’s weirdest homes Metro - October 8, 2025 As Rightmove celebrates 25 years, it showcases the UK's most extraordinary homes, including the quirky Headington Shark House and a whimsical Stiletto Bath House. These unique properties highlight innovative design and cultural significance in residential architecture, proving that creativity can transform housing into iconic landmarks. |
Listed country home estate with 27 bedrooms for sale for £18m Oxford Mail via Yahoo News - October 8, 2025 Middleton Park, a stunning 27-bedroom Grade I listed country home designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, is on the market for over £18 million. Nestled in picturesque parkland near Bicester, this historic estate offers potential for alternative uses and boasts charming cottages, extensive gardens, and leisure facilities including a swimming pool and tennis courts. |
Headington shark house back on market to rent from next year Oxford Mail - October 11, 2025 The iconic Headington Shark House, featuring a striking 25ft shark sculpture, is back on the rental market at a reduced rate of £4,000 per month starting June 26, 2026. This unique property boasts four double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, modern amenities, and a private garden, making it perfect for families or professionals. |
What’s on in and around Oxford?
James May to address Jeremy Clarkson reunion at Oxford show
Oxford Mail · October 15, 2025
James May will perform his first solo live show, The Age of Discovery Tour, at the New Theatre in Oxford on October 21, inviting locals for a unique evening filled with surprises. While he appreciates humour in the show, he stresses it's not a comedy act and doubts that his former co-star Jeremy Clarkson will attend.
Malala Yousafzai returning to Oxford University next month
Oxford Mail · October 15, 2025
Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is returning to Oxford on November 3 to discuss her new memoir, "Finding My Way," which offers an intimate glimpse into her life beyond activism, including her struggles with anxiety and moments of self-discovery. Join her at the Sheldonian Theatre for an inspiring conversation about her journey since graduating in 2021.
All photos are credited to source article or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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