The Oxford University Museum of Natural History opened on Parks Road in 1860.

Several science departments moved within the building—astronomy, geometry, experimental physics, mineralogy, chemistry, geology, zoology, anatomy, physiology and medicine.

[3] As the departments grew in size over the years, they moved to new locations along South Parks Road.

The Radcliffe Observatory Quarter further to the west between Woodstock Road and Walton Street, where the Radcliffe Infirmary hospital used to be located, is now being developed by the University for a number of departments, following the granting of planning permission in 2009.

Terra Firma landscape architects worked with them to design the new public interest and external facilities required by staff, researchers and students.