Enjoy Oxford by E-Scooter and Bike: The Ultimate Guide
Oxford is a city made for two wheels! With its charming cobbled streets, picturesque colleges, and miles of cycle-friendly routes, getting around by e-scooter or bike is not only fun but also the most efficient way to explore. Whether you’re a visitor looking for a unique way to see the city or a local wanting a new adventure, here’s everything you need to know about hiring and riding e-scooters and bikes in Oxford.
Why Choose an E-Scooter or Bike in Oxford?
Beat the Traffic : Oxford’s narrow streets can get congested, but with an e-scooter or bike, you’ll glide past the queues!
Eco-Friendly Travel: Reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the fresh air.
Save Money: Hiring a bike or scooter is often cheaper than taxis or buses, especially for short trips.
Go at Your Own Pace: Stop whenever you like to admire the stunning architecture or grab a coffee at one of Oxford’s many charming cafés.
Access Hidden Gems: Some of the best parts of Oxford are tucked away down quiet lanes that are best explored on two wheels.
How to Hire an E-Scooter in Oxford
Oxford has a well-established e-scooter hire scheme operated by Voi. Here’s how you can get rolling:
- Download the Voi App: Available on both iOS and Android, the app allows you to locate and unlock e-scooters.
- Find a Scooter: Check the map in the app for the nearest available scooter.
- Unlock & Ride: Scan the QR code on the scooter to unlock it.
- Follow the Rules: Riders must be 18+ and have at least a provisional driving licence.
- Park Responsibly: When you’re finished, park in designated scooter parking areas to avoid fines.
Pricing
- Unlocking fee: Around £1
- Pay-as-you-go: Approx. £0.20 per minute
- Day & Monthly passes available for frequent riders
Top Tips
- Helmets aren’t mandatory but are recommended for safety.
- Stick to cycle lanes where possible.
- Avoid pedestrian-only areas like Cornmarket Street.
Bike Hire in Oxford
Prefer pedalling? Oxford has plenty of options for bike hire, whether you need a standard cycle, an electric bike, or even a tandem! Here’s some of the most central place to rent a bike from:
Bainton Bikes
- Offers traditional bikes, e-bikes, and even tandem cycles.
- Perfect for full-day rentals or guided cycling tours.
- Prices start at around £20 per day.
Oxford Railway Station Bike Hire
- A convenient option if you’re arriving by train.
- Choose from standard or electric bikes.
Cycling Tips for Oxford
- Always lock your bike securely when parking.
- Use cycle lanes whenever possible: Oxford is extremely cyclist friendly with cycle paths on most roads and pavements.
- Be cautious of buses and tourists wandering into cycle paths!
Best Cycling & E-Scooter Routes in Oxford
University Landmarks Route: Start at the Radcliffe Camera, pass through the Bodleian Library, and cycle down the High Street to Magdalen Bridge.
Port Meadow & Jericho: Enjoy scenic riverside views as you head towards the historic Port Meadow and then explore Jericho’s quirky cafés, galleries and historic cinema.
Iffley Village & Thames Path: A peaceful escape along the river, ending at the charming Iffley Lock.
Cowley Road & South Park: Visit Oxford’s trendiest street and enjoy stunning views from South Park.
Exploring Oxford by e-scooter or bike is an adventure you won’t forget! It’s fast, fun, and gives you the freedom to experience the city like a local. Whether you’re zipping past historic colleges on an e-scooter or cycling through meadows on a sunny day, two wheels are the way to go in Oxford. So, grab a bike or a scooter, and start your journey!
Happy riding!
