OXFORD residents will not have to travel far for a free day out at the beach this month, with a ‘pop up’ beach appearing near Abingdon.

Notcutts Garden Centre, in Nuneham Courtenay, has brought the seaside to the city with a free pop-up beach, open to the public every day until the August 27.

Families can soak up the unseasonably warm weather and feel the sand between their toes, whilst enjoying refreshments from the Notcutts’ restaurant or relaxing in a seaside deckchair under the ‘palm trees’.

There is also a traditional children’s funfair and entertainment by The Hatwell Brothers.

Jonathan Tew, centre manager at Notcutts Oxford, said: “Here in Oxford, we’re over 100 miles away from the nearest coast so we’ve decided to bring all the fun of the seaside to Notcutts.

“Our wonderful beach is free to enjoy and a great activity to keep families busy in the school holidays.

“We hope people will pop in and enjoy spending time at Notcutts this summer.”

The Notcutts beach is one of many events hosted at the garden centre throughout the year.

Last month, it hosted its annual car show, which attracted more than 500 motoring enthusiasts, and raised £500 for charity.

For more information call the garden centre on 01865 343 454 or visit notcutts.co.uk.