Things To Do

The Headington Shark

2 New High Street, Oxford, OX3 7AQ, GB

Rating: 4.5 ★ (646 ratings)

Details

The Headington Shark is an extraordinary sculpture famously embedded head-first into the roof of an unassuming terraced house in Headington, Oxford. This striking fibreglass shark creates a wonderfully unexpected and surreal sight amidst the quiet suburban street, instantly capturing the imagination of passers-by. Its audacious character and incongruous setting ensure it stands out as a defiant piece of public art, sparking curiosity and conversation for all who encounter it.

The impressive 25-foot (7.6m) long sculpture, officially titled 'Untitled 1986', was installed on 9 August 1986, coinciding with the 41st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. Conceived by homeowner Bill Heine and crafted by sculptor John Buckley, it originally served as a powerful statement against war, nuclear power, and censorship. Despite an initial six-year battle with local authorities over planning permission, the shark was ultimately allowed to remain, becoming a celebrated symbol of artistic freedom and resilience against bureaucracy.

This unique landmark is perfect for visitors seeking something truly out of the ordinary, appealing to art enthusiasts and anyone with a fondness for quirky British charm. It offers a memorable diversion from Oxford’s more traditional attractions, making for an excellent quick stop and photo opportunity. The Headington Shark ultimately appeals to those who appreciate creativity, individuality, and the unexpected intrusion of art into everyday life.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hours; Thursday: Open 24 hours; Friday: Open 24 hours; Saturday: Open 24 hours; Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact

+44 7763 693225

Comments

Felix Samuel
7 Aug 2026
5.0 ★
August 2026 visit after the Oxford museums visit parking is free between Friday 18.30 to all of Saturday and Sunday and up to Monday morning lovely kids loved it very exotic house and nice experience to see such a special looking architecture and design
Georgina
27 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
A very unexpected and so totally brilliant and engaging piece of sculpture, summing up one’s worst nightmares of being chased by Jaws, and having to submit a hefty insurance claim! Worth a detour if you’re in the area…easy to pull up and take a photograph without finding an official parking space, if done discreetly!
CityStrider
26 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
A jaws dropping experience. The best shark in Oxford. Superb quality. Right next to the John Radcliffe hospital too in case of accidental injury. At first I was cautious but now I can safely say that no other shark in the Cotswolds had such an impact on me.
Mike
22 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
Awesome lil bit of artwork. Drove to Oxford just to see this. Little bit of Googling found out that this has been here since the very early 90s! Very beautiful artwork with a strong message about stopping the War (back then). Lots of local places to visit in this area so you can really male a day out of it.
Adaku Nzor
27 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
It’s an iconic sight to behold. I looked every bit of it.
Paul Elliott
25 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
It's a shark in the roof.
Not much else to say really.
Tom Ford
8 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Very random sight to behold in Oxford. I thought as I’m in Oxford then I’d stop by and have a look. Very surreal sight to see but worth it as so unusual. Just casually seeing a shark sticking out a roof of a house - not something you see every day hey ? Easy to pull over if you’re in a car and jump out and take a snap or two.
Sweat Less Travel
26 Sep 2025
4.0 ★
The Headington Shark is a famous rooftop sculpture in Oxford, England. This John Buckley fiberglass piece was installed by local radio presenter Bill Heine. It’s HUGE about 25 feet (7.6 meters) long — and is a political statement about the feeling of something “falling out of the sky” and the sense of powerlessness in the face of catastrophe.

The city of Oxford tried to have it removed for years, calling it unsafe and inappropriate, but a ruling in 1992 allowed it to stay. It has become a landmark in Oxford, and for those so inclined, the house is now an Airbnb.
Ken
12 Sep 2025
5.0 ★
The Headington Shark is one of the most unusual and entertaining attractions in Oxford. The massive shark sculpture crashing through the roof of a house grabs everyone’s attention and has become a true local landmark. Although it’s simply an art installation on a private home, it carries cultural significance and is a popular photo spot for tourists. Quirky, humorous, and a bit eccentric – it’s a must-see for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary in Oxford.
Pete / Hel
29 Jun 2025
5.0 ★
If you're visiting Oxford you have to see it, it looks a lot better visiting than pictures, couldn't believe how BIG it was, and the details are great, glad we saw it, the story about it is good and worth a read.

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