Rothermere American Institute
University of Oxford
1a South Parks Road
Oxford
OX1 3UB
United Kingdom
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By Car
The Rothermere American Institute does not have visitor car parking, and many Oxford streets are closed to traffic. Parking is limited and expensive within the city. Instead, visitors are encouraged to use the various Park and Ride sites around the city, bus services, or taxis. For information on car parks see Oxfordshire City Council's website.
Traffic Filters
Oxfordshire County Council is running a traffic filter trial scheme starting from 28 September 2026. The traffic filters are found at six locations throughout the city and they apply to cars and motorhomes, meaning that cars and motorhomes passing through one of these filters during the operational hours will be subject to a fine, unless they are eligible for a local permit or are exempt for another reason. All other vehicles can travel through the filters at all times. Details of the traffic filter camera locations, fines, permits and exemptions can be found on the Oxfordshire County Council website here.
Opening hours
The Institute's opening hours mirror those of the Vere Harmsworth Library, where the building reception is located. Current opening hours (variable between term-time and vacation) can be found on the library homepage.
Accessibility
The Institute has an entrance ramp and normally has lift access to all floors. However, please note that the lift in our building is currently broken. Estates Services are working to fix this as soon as possible but a major repair (or replacement) is needed and it could be some time before a resolution is found. We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience this may cause. If you wish to attend one of our events (which are held in the seminar rooms on the lower ground floor) and can manage the stairs slowly but with someone at your side or providing an arm to lean on, please don't hesitate to ask us as a member of RAI staff would be happy to assist. For full details, please visit the RAI page on the University Access Guide.