Mad Hatter illustration with cakes and footprints promoting the Hatter’s Hunt at Westgate Oxford
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Westgate Oxford has a week of free, family-friendly activities for October half term — from a new Alice in Wonderland treasure trail to hands-on crafts and the centre’s first ever dog “catwalk”.

What’s on (dates & times)

Hatter’s Hunt trail (launches Sat 25 Oct)

  • A brand-new, permanent Alice-themed trail created with The Story Museum.
  • Pick up a free trail map at Guest Services (opposite JD Sports), solve the clues to find five hidden plaques, then return the completed map for a prize.
  • Suitable for all ages; self-guided; free to take part.
Alice in Wonderland artwork for the Hatter’s Hunt trail at Westgate Oxford
The Hatter’s Hunt artwork for Westgate Oxford’s trail, produced with The Story Museum.

Crafting Club (Mon 27–Fri 31 Oct, 11am–5pm)

  • Drop-in Halloween-themed makes inside Social Street Food: bracelet & necklace beading, colouring, painting and mask decorating.
  • Free; materials provided while stocks last. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Westgate Woofer’s “Mutt Strutt” (Sat 1 Nov)

  • To celebrate Westgate’s dog-friendly amenities (water bowls, treats and waste-bag dispensers), dogs and owners are invited to strut the “dogwalk” in Middle Square.
  • Goodie bags provided by premium dog-food brand Butternut Box for participants.
  • Free to enter; well-behaved dogs on leads, please.

Brendan Hattam, Centre Director, said: “We know school holidays can be a juggle, so we’re thrilled to offer free activities whatever the weather — from our new Hatter’s Hunt trail to craft sessions and a warm welcome for four-legged visitors at our first ever Mutt Strutt.”

Plan your visit

  • Location: Westgate Oxford, city centre (OX1).
  • Guest Services: Opposite JD Sports (trail maps/prizes).
  • Opening hours: Centre Mon–Sat 9am–8pm, Sun 10am–4pm (individual store hours may vary).
  • Accessibility: Lifts and step-free access throughout; accessible facilities signposted.
  • Dogs: Water bowls, treats and bag dispensers available; assistance dogs welcome across the centre.

Getting there

  • Park & Ride: From Tue 29 Oct, selected Oxford Park & Ride services are offering free bus fares for three months (T&Cs apply; check operator details).
  • Public transport: Regular buses serve the city centre; nearest rail station: Oxford (approx. 10–12 mins’ walk).

At a glance

  • Trail: Hatter’s Hunt (from Sat 25 Oct) — free map & prize on completion
  • Crafts: Mon 27–Fri 31 Oct, 11am–5pm — free Halloween makes in Social Street Food
  • Dogs: Mutt Strutt, Sat 1 Nov — red carpet in Middle Square, goodies by Butternut Box
  • Cost: All activities free; first-come, first-served

Check Westgate’s channels on the day for any late changes or capacity updates.

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