Angel & Greyhound Meadow, Oxford facts for kids

The Angel & Greyhound Meadow beside the River Cherwell

The Angel & Greyhound Meadow, also known as Angel Meadow, is a special type of field called a flood-meadow. It's located right next to the River Cherwell in Oxford, England. You can find it just north of Magdalen Bridge and across from Magdalen College.

This meadow got its name from two old inns (like hotels with restaurants) called the Angel and the Greyhound. These inns were on the High Street in Oxford. The meadow was once used as a place for horses to graze and rest, especially for horses traveling with coaches. Today, there's even a pub in St Clement's called the Angel & Greyhound, which is a fun example of a place named after a meadow, which was named after two inns!

Because the meadow is very low, it often gets partly or completely covered with water. This usually happens during February and March when the river levels are high.

What is a Flood-Meadow?

A flood-meadow is a field that is designed to flood. These areas are usually found next to rivers. When a river overflows, the water spreads out into the meadow. This helps to protect nearby towns and cities from flooding.

How Flood-Meadows Help

• Natural Flood Control: Flood-meadows act like sponges. They soak up extra water from rivers. This stops the water from rushing into homes and businesses.
• Rich Soil: When the water goes down, it leaves behind rich soil. This soil is full of nutrients. It helps plants grow very well in the meadow.
• Wildlife Habitat: These meadows are home to many different plants and animals. Birds, insects, and small mammals often live there. They depend on the wet conditions.

Location and Surroundings

The Angel & Greyhound Meadow is an important green space in Oxford. It offers beautiful views and a quiet place to relax.

Near Magdalen College

The meadow sits directly opposite Magdalen College. This college is one of the oldest and most famous parts of Oxford University. The college's tall tower and historic buildings add to the scenic beauty of the area.

The River Cherwell

The River Cherwell flows right by the meadow. This river is a tributary of the River Thames. It is popular for punting, which is a type of boating. People often enjoy punting along the river, passing by the meadow.

History of the Name

The name "Angel & Greyhound" has a long history. It connects the meadow to Oxford's past as a busy travel hub.

Coaching Inns of Oxford

In the past, before cars and trains, people traveled by horse-drawn coaches. Coaching inns were important stops along these routes. They offered food, lodging, and fresh horses for travelers. The Angel and the Greyhound were two such inns in Oxford. The meadow provided a place for their horses to rest and graze.

A Name That Lives On

Even though the original inns are gone, their names live on. The meadow keeps their memory alive. The modern pub named the Angel & Greyhound in St Clement's is a fun nod to this history. It shows how names can connect us to the past.