It is overseen by the Committee for Sport, which is distinct from the Parks Curators. The Parks have been the home venue of Oxford University Cricket Club since 1881 and the cricket ground is regarded as one of the most attractive in the country. Cricket Pavilion - designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1881. North Lodge, nearby, was built in 1866. The giant sequoia is the only species within the giant sequoia genus.
Giant sequoias are the largest trees ever to inhabit the earth, and are among the oldest.
Heights of 300 feet and diameters of 30 feet are not uncommon. North Walk - many of the larger trees on either side of the path were planted in the late 1880s. Mixed borders to the south are planted for seasonal interest. Pond - a circular lily pond was constructed in 1925. Enlargement and landscaping carried out in 1996 bring this area more into keeping with the size of the Parks and reflect the original plan of James Bateman.