Love Oxford
Love Oxford

Love Oxford: Reconnect with an outdoor event in the new marquee in the Parks

A new marquee has been set up in University Parks to safely host outdoor events this term and into the Long Vacation, regardless of the weather. 

We want to help you enjoy Oxford as much as you can after the challenges of the pandemic this past year, so as restrictions on outdoor gatherings ease to allow up to 30 people together, we're giving departments the chance to help you reconnect with other students in this new, designated space.

The new marquee is available to book from Monday 24 May via Estates Services until early July.

Enquire now

Should you wish to make an enquiry, contact the Facilities Helpdesk on T: 01865 270087 E: [email protected], Monday – Friday 08.30-17.00.

Where is the marquee? – The marquee is in the University Parks, behind the Sherrington Building, occupied by the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics – see map for its exact location.

What days and times can I book it? – The marquee is open from Monday – Friday 09.00–20.00, and on Saturdays from 09.30–18.30. You must choose a time slot when booking. The available time slots are a) 09.00-11.00, b) 12.00-15.00, and c) 16.00-20.00. The gaps between sessions are needed for clearing and cleaning.

Do I need to pay? – There are no charges for the use of the marquee and its facilities. Should you wish to book catering then this will be charged as per the costs in our menu (link).

What size is the marquee and what is supplied with it? – The marquee measures 6 x 12 metres and can accommodate up to 30 people comfortably. Given government guidance, you must ensure no more than 30 people attend your event. The marquee is open-sided and has tables and chairs for 30 people. Accessible toilet facilities are available. Nothing else is supplied but you are welcome to bring in games. Should you wish to make deliveries these need to be dropped off at the South Lodge in the Parks. No music can be played.

Are there toilet facilities? – Yes, accessible ‘portaloo’ facilities are available.

Do I need to tidy up? – Waste disposal and cleaning will be provided, but to aid a prompt turnaround, it is your responsibility to ensure the marquee is left clean and tidy at the end of your session.

Do you provide catering or can I bring my own food? – You can bring your own picnic food but no barbecues are permitted. Alternatively catering can be supplied by Compass who provide a range of tasty afternoon tea options, sandwiches and snacks – view the menu here. No other commercial caterers are permitted to serve food in the marquee. You may bring your own alcohol for your personal consumption but alcohol must not be sold.

What’s the priority order for booking? – Departmental staff are welcome to book for student or staff events. Where there is more than one request for the same slot, bookings will be prioritised as follows:

  • departmentally organised events involving students
  • departmental events organised by students
  • departmental events for staff only

How much notice do I have to give to make a booking? – We require three days’ notice of events. For more information contact the Facilities Helpdesk, who are managing enquiries.

Given COVID, how do I know this environment will be safe? – The Estates Services’ Facilities Management team will be cleaning and clearing the marquee in a COVID-secure way in between every session. All University risk assessments and COVID guidance will be followed.

Your behaviour and conduct – Please be aware that the way you and your guests behave in the University Parks is subject to the Public Space Protection Order. Breaching this order may lead to criminal conviction for those involved. Inappropriate behaviour by staff or students may lead to disciplinary action so please act responsibly and safely at all times when using the facilities. You should ensure that ensure the marquee is left clean and tidy at the end of your session. No music can be played.

 Find out about events that are taking place in the marquee and other venues on the Love Oxford events page.