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Blackfriars Hall > Our Community > Blackfriars Hall Student Information > Sustainability in Blackfriars Accommodation > Traveling Sustainably

Traveling Sustainably

Travelling around Oxford, and beyond, offers countless opportunities to make environmentally conscious choices. At Blackfriars Hall, we encourage all students to consider the impact of their travel habits and to choose the most sustainable options whenever possible. Sustainable travel reduces carbon emissions, improves air quality, eases congestion, and supports a healthier, more connected community.

Whether you’re heading to lectures, exploring the city, or travelling further afield, your choices make a real difference.

 

Getting Around Oxford Sustainably

The University published extensive resources around sustainable travel, and we warmly recommend these to students: https://travel.admin.ox.ac.uk/home

 

  1. Walk Whenever You Can

Oxford is a compact, walkable city. Walking:

  • Has zero environmental impact
  • Supports physical and mental wellbeing
  • Often gets you places faster than buses or cars
  • It’s the simplest and most sustainable way to travel, and most University buildings are only a short walk from Blackfriars.

 

  1. Cycle: Oxford’s Favourite Way to Travel

Cycling is quick, affordable, and low carbon. You can:

  • Bring your own bike
  • Use Oxonbikes or other cycle hire schemes
  • Make use of city cycle lanes and University wide bike racks

If you’re new to cycling or the UK’s road rules, local bike shops and the University offer safety guides and tune ups.

Find out all about cycling in Oxford, free training, and resources available to you through the University here.

And don’t forget to make use of our cycle safety grant at Blackfriars!

 

  1. Use Public Transport for Longer Distances

Instead of driving or booking taxis, consider:

  • Oxford’s extensive bus network
  • Park & Ride services
  • Trains for regional and national travel

Public transport helps cut emissions and reduces traffic in the city centre.

 

Travelling Beyond Oxford

  1. Choose Lower Carbon Intercity Travel

When travelling across the UK:

  • Prefer trains over planes
  • Book coaches for budget friendly, lower carbon journeys
  • Share rides with friends to reduce individual impact if driving is unavoidable

 

  1. Fly Only When Necessary

If flying is essential:

  • Choose direct routes where possible (lower emissions than multi stop flights)
  • Offset carbon responsibly if you can
  • Pack light, since lighter planes burn less fuel

 

Everyday Sustainable Travel Habits

  1. Plan Efficient Routes

Combining errands into one trip or using multi mode travel (walking and bus, cycling and train) can significantly reduce emissions.

 

  1. Respect Oxford’s Pedestrian Zones

Car access is heavily restricted in parts of the city for environmental reasons. Supporting these efforts helps keep air quality cleaner for everyone.

 

  1. Maintain Your Bike or Walking Gear

A well maintained bike lasts longer and runs more efficiently.
Good shoes and waterproof layers make sustainable travel pleasant in all seasons.

 

Join Us in Sustainable Travel at Blackfriars

We welcome student ideas for making sustainable travel easier and more accessible.