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B E S T
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O X F O R D S H I R E
Edited by Lorna Dodson
TOP100
OX F O R D T H E
CONTENTS PAGE WELCOME 04 06 08 10
Editor’s Welcome Oxford Essentials Oxford Facts & Figures The Best in Oxford 2015
12 Attractions 21 Activities 22 Oxford University Colleges
36 Shopping 40 Entertainment 48 Art
Editor: Lorna Dodson. Design: Blink Design and Print 01865 742211. Front cover photo taken at Lady Margaret Hall. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content of this publication is accurate and correct in every way, the publishers cannot be held responsible or liable for any inaccuracies or errors within the publication. Information reproduced from this publication is permitted with the permission of the publisher and advertiser, where relevant. All information is correct at time of going to press.
54 56 89 96 97
Bars & Pubs Restaurants Accommodation Sports Health & Beauty
INFORMATION 98 Information 100 Maps
The Best In Oxford and Oxfordshire Souvenir Brochure is published by Designs On Ltd, publishers of the free monthly event guide “Living In Oxford” Magazine. t: 01865 742211 f: 01865 741391 e: info@inoxford.com w: www.inoxford.com © Designs On Ltd.
EDITOR’S
WELCOME
Welcome to Oxfordshire and the city of Oxford, visitors and locals alike. Thank you for choosing The Best in Oxford & Oxfordshire.
With this guide we hope to provide a deeper look into some of the gems (both hidden and thoroughly uncovered) that Oxford and its surrounding areas have to offer. Featuring 100 of the top must-see attractions, shops, restaurants and more, you will undoubtedly find the spark of motivation to explore this wondrous slice of English heritage. Listings are in no particular order; just how the reviews and listings have come together in their relevant sections.
Having not grown up in Oxford myself, a compilation such as this one is fascinating, and extremely handy in its pocket format, and I find myself wanting to visit each and every one of the establishments represented. There is a perfect suggestion for any trip you might be planning, whether it is to a theatre, or off for a round of golf on a Summer’s day (English weather permitting, of course). Visitors like myself aside, even those native to Oxford will surely discover their new favourite place within these pages.
Oxford is one of the oldest cities in the United Kingdom, and it feels almost soaked in history – from the architecture, to the traditions still upheld today (head to Magdalen Bridge early May Day morning for an almost surreal experience). With Oxford Castle and the city’s stone perimeter, Blenheim Palace and the rolling green countryside of Oxfordshire, and the subtle joining of modernity with legacy seen in High Street shops nestled into Tudor houses, it is easy to fall in love with this
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place.
Oxford is home to more writers, artists, and musicians per square mile than anywhere else in England, as if the city itself promotes creativity in those who dwell here and understandably so. Being the home of The University of Oxford, and birthplace of The University of Cambridge, Oxford also boasts a very large percentage of students and scholars, promoting a peaceful and cultured atmosphere. Some of the greatest minds of our generation and countless generations before were moulded right here.
But Oxford, and Oxfordshire, is not just an elegant, scholastic place; it is lively and chic, bohemian and underground – from the mixing pot of cultures found on the buzzing and colourful Cowley Rd to the stylish and independent Jericho, you can and will find whatever you are looking for and The Best in Oxford & Oxfordshire is here to help. Our selection of independent reviews and listings will serve you well in your deliberations. I feel as if I could ramble on forever about all that Oxfordshire has to offer, but I’ll let the guide do the talking. Happy reading. Lorna Dodson Editor
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OXFORD
ESSENTIALS
Oxford will surprise and enchant you with its magnificent architecture, impressive yet intimate colleges, romantic rivers and hidden nooks and crannies. Explore and experience the sights and sounds of this gorgeous city with our handpicked selection of highlights that cannot be missed.
Take a stroll around
Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and a World Heritage Site. Situated in Woodstock, just 8 miles from Oxford, Blenheim Palace is surrounded by over 2,000 acres of 'Capability' Brown landscaped parkland, the great lake, and beautiful formal gardens, offering an unforgettable day out for all. See page 16.
Punt
down the Cherwell
There is nothing more enjoyable than hiring a punt to feel like you are truly a part of the Oxford scene. From March-October, visit the Cherwell Boathouse and pick up your punt. Here you will find traditional punts, built on the premises, available to rent. See page 56.
Explore the Bodleian
Library
The Bodleian contains an unrivalled 400 year record of British Literature and every book ever published in the UK is stored under the town of Oxford in tunnels, making up an underground books railway. Visitors can also see such treasures as the world’s largest copy of the Magna Carta and Shakespeare’s First Folio. See page 12. 6
Dine in style at
Browns
Browns in Oxford was the second of this famous group of restaurants to open in 1979. Standing proudly, and rightfully so, being one of the finest restaurants Oxfordshire has to offer, Browns cannot go unnoticed. Stylish branding awnings line the front of the restaurant while a tall stretch of windows beneath entices and invites passers by to get a glimpse and taste of what Browns has to offer. See page 84.
Book an
Official Guided Walking Tour
Take an Oxford Guided Walking Tour and discover the stories that make up this great city. Oxford has an exciting heritage just waiting to be explored and the best way to discover it is on foot. Let the friendly and knowledgeable guides introduce you to this wonderful city and help you unearth all its hidden glories.
Explore on a
City Sightseeing Tour
The city tour lasts approximately 1 hour and departs every 10/15 minutes in the summer and every 20/30 minutes in the winter (subject to season and traffic conditions). No need to book, just pay the driver or sales staff, your ticket is valid all day and you can get on and off at any of the stops on the tour: Magdalen College, The site of William Morris's first workshop, University Science Area, the City Walls, Sheldonian Theatre, Ashmolean Museum, Martyr's Memorial, Christ Church College, River Cherwell, Carfax Tower, Alice's Shop, Radcliffe Infirmary, Bodleian Library, The High, Broad Street and the University Parks. See page 28. These are just some of the delights that The Best In Oxfordshire has to offer. 7
OXFORD
FACTS&FIGURES
Oxford has a population of
150,000,
of which
33,000 are students.
During the English Civil War (1642 - 1651) Oxford became the base for Charles I, who stayed at Christ Church and held his court here. Oxford escaped bombing during the Blitz because Hitler was intending to use the city as his capital if he conquered England. Oxford has
1,500 listed buildings and
18% of the city is devoted to conservation areas.
Oxford has more published writers per square mile than anywhere else in the world.
Oxford is home to the creators of Alice in Wonderland, The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, Inspector Morse and the His Dark Materials trilogy as well as providing a filming location for Harry Potter.
The Ashmolean is Britain's oldest museum and has recently undergone a transformation.
ÂŁ61m
8
The first book was printed here in and now the Oxford University Press is one of the largest publishers in the world.
1478
Oxford attracts approximately
9.5 million visitors per year
Oxford University is the oldest English speaking university in the world, dating back to the end of the century.
12th
The College with the longest official name is Oriel College: ‘The Provost and Scholars of the House of the Blessed Mary the Virgin in Oxford, commonly called Oriel College, the foundation of Edward the Second of famous memory, sometime King of England.’ The University of Cambridge, was actually founded by Oxford scholars who were fleeing Oxford following riots that erupted in 1209 between students and townspeople
Bodleian Library is almost five centuries old and currently houses more than
on
11,000,000 documents
190km (120 miles) of shelves.
Oxford University has educated British Prime Ministers including Sir Robert Peel, Harold Macmillan, Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair and David Cameron.
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OXFORDSHIRE?
WHO IS THE BEST IN
Getting your favourite establishment featured in this Top 100 This year’s publication has been put together based on our knowledge of the many fantastic businesses we know in Oxfordshire, but we don’t know everything about every business and need your help.
Vote at www.inoxford.com/bestinoxford.html for your favourite Oxfordshire business and the Top 100 will appear in next year’s publication. Voting for the 2014/2015 edition will close on 31st December 2013, so make sure you get in touch to recommend some great attractions for next year’s publication. Getting your business featured in this Top 100 If you aren’t in this years Top 100, why not promote your business to your customers and get them to vote for you. How?
• Send out the voting link to your customers and ask them to vote for you • Promote your business on Twitter and ask your followers to vote for you at the link provided not forgetting to include the #bestinoxford tag Join in – We’re social! Follow the In Oxford Group, publishers of The Best in Oxford & Oxfordshire plus many more useful guides like The Oxfordshire Restaurant Guide and The Oxford Map, on Twitter: @inoxford Let us know what you think via #bestinoxford
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Appearing in next year’s Top 100 If your favourite or your business makes it into the Top 100, then the choice of a free listing or a paid for review will be offered, so there’s no requirement for you to pay to get some great publicity in next year’s Top 100. So what can be included in the Top 100? Use this edition of The Best in Oxfordshire as your guide, which will help us to produce the following: Best Oxfordshire Restaurants Best Oxfordshire Hotels Best Oxfordshire Shops Best Oxfordshire Attractions Best Oxfordshire Events Best Oxfordshire Sports Club Best Oxfordshire Golf Club Best Oxfordshire Health and Beauty Best Oxfordshire Colleges* Best Oxfordshire Villages and Towns Best Oxfordshire Pub Best Oxfordshire Bar or Club** Best Oxfordshire Entertainment***
Top 20 Top 5 Top 10 Top 5 Top 5 Top 5 Top 5 Top 5 Top 10 Top 5 Top 10 Top 5 Top 10
*including University of Oxford, Brookes and other further education establishments **can be wine bar, nightclub, comedy club ***music venue, theatre
The leading nomination in each category will be presented with a certificate and will be able to announce themselves as the best in their category to the world!
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS Bodleian Library
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Discover the history of Oxford University and explore the incredible architecture that houses the Bodleian Library, the Old School’s Quadrangle and the Exhibition Room. The second largest library in Britain, the Bodleian has approximately 11 million volumes. Open Monday to Sunday all year round, tours available daily. Old Schools Quad, Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG. Tel: 01865 277000. www.bodley.ox.ac.uk
Botanic Gardens
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Housing a diverse and inspirational collection of plants, the Botanic Gardens consist of a Walled Garden, Glasshouse and Water Garden, and is a national reference collection of 7,000 different types of plant. Admission charges apply, check opening times before you visit. Rose Lane, Oxford OX1 4AZ Tel: 01865 286690 www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk
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Museum of Oxford
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Hertford ‘Bridge of Sighs’
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Carfax Tower
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St Michael at the North Gate
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Explore the history of Oxford and learn about the earliest residents, famous literary connections and the growth of the modern city. See original artefacts, College treasures, room settings and a film narrated by Tony Robinson. Admission by donation, check opening times before you visit, tours available. St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1BX Tel: 01865 252334 www.museumofoxford.org.uk A covered bridge over New College Lane, it is so called the ‘Bridge of Sighs’ as it resembles the Venetian bridge of the same name, although it was never intended to be a replica. Completed in 1914, it links the Old and New Quadrangles of Hertford College and was designed by Sir Thomas Jackson. New College Lane, Oxford. Located in the centre of Oxford at the junction of Queen Street, Cornmarket, St Aldates and High Street, Carfax Tower is the last remaining structure of St Martin’s Church. It stands at 23m (74 ft) and no other building in the centre can exceed that height. Climb the 99 steps for an unforgettable view of the Dreaming Spires. Admission charges apply, open all year, check times. Queen Street, Oxford OX1 Tel: 01865 790522 www.citysightseeingoxford.com/oxford-bus-tour-attractions/carfax-tower-oxford/ Originally the North Gate to the city 1000 years ago, the tower formed part of the city walls. Step inside and discover a display of silver dated as early as 1562, the clock mechanism and church bells, and enjoy a panoramic view of Oxford from the roof of the tower. Open all year round, check times before you visit. Cornmarket Street, Oxford OX1 3EY Tel: 01865 240940 www.smng.org.uk 13
OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS Museum of the History of Science
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Home to a collection of historic scientific instruments, it is also situated in the world’s oldest surviving purpose-built museum building. Housing approximately 10,000 objects, particular strengths include early mathematical and optical equipment. Free entry, closed Mondays, audio guided tour available. Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AZ Tel: 01865 277280 www.mhs.ox.ac.uk
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
8
Located in the centre of Oxford, St Mary the Virgin Church is an inclusive establishment welcoming people from all backgrounds and opinions. Due to maintenance in 2012 only the Nave is open. Small entrance fee, open all year. High Street, Oxford OX1 4BJ Tel: 01865 279111 www.university-church.ox.ac.uk
Sheldonian Theatre
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Opened in 1668 and built from a design by Sir Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian theatre is a place of historical, architectural and contemporary interest. Holds a seating capacity of 1000 for conferences and 800 for concerts. Tickets for events can be bought from the Oxford Playhouse. Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AZ Tel: 01865 277299 www.sheldon.ox.ac.uk
University Museum of Natural History
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Exhibits the University’s collection of zoological, entomological and geological specimens and is famous for housing Oxfordshire’s dinosaurs, the dodo and the swifts in the tower. The impressive Grade 1 listed building boasts incredible neo-Gothic architecture. Free entry and open 7 days a week, events throughout the year. Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PW Tel: 01865 272950 www.oum.ox.ac.uk
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Oxford Castle - Unlocked
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The popular interactive tour of the Castle and Prison provides a fascinating insight into Oxford's hidden history; one that's rich with tales of great escapes, betrayal and even romance! Take a tour with a costumed character guide and explore the prison D-wing, the 900 year old underground crypt and climb the Saxon St George's Tower. Open daily from 10am (last tour 4.20pm). Admission charges apply. 44-46 Oxford Castle, OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 260666 www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk
The Bate Collection of Musical Instruments 12
A comprehensive collection of over 2000 instruments from the Western orchestral music traditions. The Collection has a lively programme of public events including performances of historical music. Open weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings during University term. Closed Christmas and Easter. Admission free. St Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DB Tel: 01865 276139. www.bate.ox.ac.uk
Pitt Rivers Museum
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Famous for its world-class collections and leading role in contemporary research, visit the Pitt Rivers museum for an informative and fascinating experience. Open daily but check opening times as they vary Free admission. South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PP Tel: 01865 270927. Admission free. www.prm.ox.ac.uk
The Oxfordshire Museum
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The Oxfordshire Museum regails the story of Oxfordshire's past through 11 unique galleries and historical exhibitions. Events take place monthly, and there are exciting activities for children daily. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 2pm -5pm. Admission free. Park Street, Woodstock, OX20 1SN Tel: 01993 811456 www.tomocc.org.uk
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
B
lenheim Palace is home to the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Conceived in 1705 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the magnificent Palace was a gift from Queen Anne and grateful Nation to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his famous victory over the French at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704.
Blenheim Palace is a magnificent example of English Baroque architecture and a World Heritage Site. The State Rooms are graced with a priceless collection of portraits, tapestries, sculptures, porcelain and furniture. Guided tours run throughout most of the season, telling the story of the people, history and events that shaped the Palace.
The ‘Churchill Exhibition’, including the room where Sir Winston Churchill was born 1874, provides a fascinating insight into the life of the great leader. A visitor experience “Blenheim Palace: The Untold Story”brings to life 300 years of enticing tales, through the eyes of the household staff.
Follow Blenheim Palace @BlenheimPalace
Blenheim Palace is also a superb venue for weddings, corporate and private events, and is host to many special events throughout the year.
The Palace is surrounded by over 2000 acres of “Capability” Brown landscaped parkland and Great Lake, and Formal Gardens that include the Water Terraces, Secret Garden, Rose Garden.
Palace, Park & Gardens Tickets start at £21.50 for Adults, £11.80 for Children, £17 for Concessions and £57 for a Family. Entry is between 10am – 4.45pm, with the Palace and Gardens closing at 6pm. Blenheim Palace is offering an amazing annual pass ticket deal in 2014: When you buy a single day ticket to the Palace, Park and Gardens you will be able to convert it into an annual pass offering you unlimited entry for 12 months from the day of purchase. Peak pricing applies in the main season. Please check website for details. 16
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Blenheim Palace Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP. Tel: 01993 810530 Web: www.blenheimpalace.com
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
L
ying to the west of Oxford, within easy reach by public transport, the Oxfordshire Cotswolds is just waiting to be explored.
There are familiar names like Blenheim Palace, one of England’s finest houses, and Cotswold Wildlife Park, one of the country’s top animal attractions. However there are also less familiar attractions, well worth seeking out: the wonderful gardens of Rousham House; Kelmscott Manor, the country home of William Morris; Chastleton House, a Jacobean manor untouched by time; Cogges with its 13th century manor house and 17th century farm buildings; or Crocodiles of the World, the UK’s only crocodile zoo, run by “Croc Man” Saun Foggett.
Follow Oxfordshire Cotswolds @OxCots
The Oxfordshire Cotswolds offers far more than historic houses and animal collections though: there are lively market towns of honey coloured stone, like Burford, Charlbury, Chipping Norton, Witney and Woodstock, each with a distinct character, specialist independent shops (in Witney there’s even a shop dedicated exclusively to Teddy Bears!) and FREE parking throughout. There are also some wonderful museums to discover: machine enthusiasts will love the Oxford Bus Museum and Combe Mill, the original ‘workshop’ of the Blenheim Estate; there are also enchanting, little local museums in Burford, Charlbury, Chipping Norton, Churchill, Filkins and Witney, as well as the larger Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock. Whether by car, train, bike or on foot, discover for yourself the enchanting villages with their old stone pubs and medieval churches, search out Cotswold Woollen Weavers in Filkins, Aston Pottery in Aston or perhaps the Downton Abbey film locations in Bampton – there’s plenty to see and do in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds! 18
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The Oxfordshire Cotswolds
Tel: 01993 775802 Web: www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
T
he outstanding collections at the Christ Church Picture Gallery include works dating from 1300 to 1750. They span from the golden splendour and serenity of the early Italian panels to the drama of Sir Anthony van Dyck’s historical paintings. Since 1968 the collection has been housed in an award-winning building by the architects Powell and Moya; many believe it to be one of the most exciting spaces of modern architecture in Oxford.
The building and its collection are somewhat hidden within Christ Church and like in Alice in Wonderland (in whose garden the gallery is situated) only reveal themselves from within. To enter the gallery is almost like going through the ‘rabbit hole’; one has to pass through a corridor under a Georgian building to resurface into a different world – one of light, art and tranquillity.
The international fame of the gallery is also due to its exceptional collection of almost 2000 old master drawings (including such celebrated artists as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens). However, due to conservational reasons, only a selection of the drawings can be on display at any one time. The drawings exhibitions are changed every few months; please refer to the website for information on current and forthcoming shows.
Some of the paintings are quite unusual, for example Annibale Carracci’s The Butcher’s Shop. This painting has an historical significance: this was the first time that an artist treated a modest genre-subject, in this case the interior of a Butcher’s Shop, on a monumental scale. Overall, a visit to the gallery is an exceptional experience and can only be highly recommended to locals and tourists alike.
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Christ Church Picture Gallery
Christ Church, Oxford, OX1 1DP Tel: 01865 276172 Web: www.chch.ox.ac.uk
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
R
hodes House is the home of the prestigious Rhodes Scholarships, which since 1903 have brought exceptional young people – chosen on the basis of outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service – from many countries around the world to study in Oxford. Rhodes Scholars have gone on to be presidents and prime ministers, leaders in business, medicine, the law, and academia, and in many other fields. The Rhodes Scholarships aim to nurture ‘leaders for the world’s future’, and to promote international understanding. Rhodes House was completed in 1928, and was designed by Sir Herbert Baker, who had been Cecil Rhodes’s architect in South Africa, and also worked on the design of New Delhi. A hidden delight situated in the heart of Oxford, Rhodes House is a beautiful venue, steeped in history. Ideal for weddings, photo shoots, business meetings and events, Rhodes House can now be yours exclusively for the day.
For businesses needing complete privacy, Rhodes House offers three rooms of varying size and atmosphere, ensuring the venue is a great choice for board meetings, informal gatherings of executives, conferences, and product launches.
Why choose Rhodes House for your event? • Central location • Prestigious history • Architecturally stunning • Functions from 20 – 200 guests • Gourmet catering • Exclusive hire • Available for corporate or private hire • Award-winning gardens 22
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Rhodes House
South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RG Tel: 01865 282599 Web: www.rhodeshouseoxford.com
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
O
xford Castle Quarter was once home to the Norman Oxford Castle, then the infamous Oxford Prison. Parts of these historic buildings remain, and have shaped the development of Oxford Castle Quarter as it stands today, including St George’s Tower and the Castle Mound. The secrets of the site’s history are unlocked in the exciting visitor attraction Oxford Castle – Unlocked, where you can explore some of the oldest and most remarkable buildings on the site, and indeed in the city of Oxford.
Follow Oxford Castle Quarter @oxcastlequarter
Bearing the hallmark of this majestic city Oxford Castle was established by William the Conqueror in 1071, and later royally re-opened by Her Majesty the Queen in 2006 after substantial redevelopment. The excavation of archaeological artefacts during the redevelopment on site produced evidence that St George’s Tower is the oldest remaining building in Oxford, whilst Castle Mound dates back to 1071, and there is even a Saxon Wall located within Oxford Castle Quarter close to Paradise Street. The rest of Oxford Castle Quarter is now home to a vibrant hub of bars and restaurants, including the brasserie at Malmaison, the Visitor’s Room Bar in Malmaison, Café 1071, Prezzo, La Tasca, The Big Bang, Pizza Express, Café 1071, 1855 Bistro, The Swan & Castle, and The Living Room. Oxford Castle Quarter also boasts O3 Gallery, with a dynamic programme of exhibitions, gifts and cards available all year round, not forgetting the gorgeous Malmaison Boutique Hotel in the heart of this handsome heritage development that nestles peacefully in the heart of Oxford City Centre.
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Oxford Castle Quarter
44-46 New Road Oxford OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 201657 Web: www.oxfordcastlequarter.com
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OXFORDSHIREATTRACTIONS
M
odern Art Oxford is a contemporary art gallery devoted to presenting exhibitions of national and international modern art alongside a wellestablished community and education programme. Adopting a playful but critical approach to the idea of the art institution the programme celebrates the relevance of contemporary visual culture to society today. Funded primarily by Arts Council England and Oxford City Council, all of the exhibitions and many of the events, activities and workshops are free for visitors. From landmark solo presentations to pioneering group exhibitions, visiting Modern Art Oxford keeps visitors up to date with the most exciting developments in international art. You can also relax in the café, purchase unique gifts in the shop, and participate in the vibrant events programme, which includes talks, discussions, contemporary music and film nights.
Follow Modern Art Oxford @mao_gallery
Considered one of the UK’s most important galleries of modern and contemporary art Modern Art Oxford has worked with some of the most illustrious names in the contemporary visual arts – as artists, exhibition organisers and directors. Some of the world’s greatest artists have held significant, often ground-breaking exhibitions in our Pembroke Street galleries, including: Richard Long (1971); Sol Le Witt (1973) Joseph Beuys (1974); Donald Judd (1995); Marina Abramovich (1995); Carl Andre (1997), Tracey Emin,(2002), Mike Nelsom (2004) Howard Hodgkin (2010), Graham Sutherland (2011) and Jenny Saville (2012), Barbara Kruger (2014), Jeremy Deller (2014). The gallery will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2016.
Exhibitions featured in 2014/15 under Director Paul Hobson, include a major Summer exhibition of new and recent work by the ground breaking feminist post-modern American artist Barbara Kruger. Her instantly recognizable work combines bold lettering, colours and dramatic juxtapositions of text and image, investigating the machinations of power in popular culture today. Between December 2014 and March 2015, British artist Jeremy Deller curates Love is Enough – a major exhibition of the work of his two greatest influences - Andy Warhol and William Morris. With six architecturally striking exhibition spaces, the gallery also offers a contemporary, fresh and flexible environment for formal dinners, canape receptions or parties in the heart of the city centre. 26
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Modern Art Oxford
30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP Tel: 01865 722 733 Web: www.modernartoxford.org.uk
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OXFORDSHIREACTIVITIES
C
ity Sightseeing offers a very informative account of the history of Oxford and provides a unique view of the city. This really is the only way to see Oxford! The views are amazing and on a clear day an open double-decker bus is an invigorating place to be!
This tour will take you on a smooth and steady trip around the main streets of Oxford, giving you a glimpse over the city walls as well as providing a comprehensive commentary throughout. For an elevated view of the city, you can take in the history of the Colleges, some interesting facts about local landmarks and famous names linked to the city. Being able to peek in to all of the private colleges and see their lovely quadrangles and immaculate lawns for free and for the first time was a real treat! There are two types of buses to choose from; one that has a taped commentary and one with a live guide. We opted for the guide and the live commentary really brought the cityscape alive for me. The recorded commentary does come in very useful, though, especially since City Sightseeing offer commentaries in German, French, Spanish and Japanese. All seats have headphone sockets and headphones are provided so you can digest the tour at your own pace and tune in at your chosen volume. One full tour lasts one hour and you are free to hop on and off to your heart’s content. Spending the day as a tourist in the city in which you live is liberating. It was great to do the tourist thing and see people from all over the world enjoying our beautiful city. It made me very proud to be a resident and compelled me to re-evaluate and appreciate the architecture that I take for granted on a daily basis.
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City Sightseeing
Tel: 01865 790522 Web: www.citysightseeingoxford.com
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OXFORDCOLLEGES The University of Oxford comprises of 39 Colleges and 6 religious Permanent Private Halls. The following is a brief guide to the Univeristy of Oxford Colleges. Many are open to the public and offer guided tours at certain times of the day.
All Souls College
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Founded to pray for all the souls of men who died in the wars against France. Today it is an establishment for Research Fellows only. 27 High Street, Oxford OX1 4AL Tel: 01865 279379. www.all-souls.ox.ac.uk Open: Year round 2pm-4pm.
Balliol College
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Holds a large collection of medieval manuscripts. Former alumni include John Wycliffe, a Master in around 1360, who inspired the first translations of the Latin Bible into English. Broad Street, Oxford. Tel: 01865 277777 www.balliol.ox.ac.uk Open: Daily 2pm-5pm. Admission charges apply.
Brasenose College
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Founded in 1509 and overlooking one of the world’s most beautiful squares, Brasenose is a friendly and informal community with a strong tradition of academic excellence. The College prides itself on the quality of its teaching and its wide range of cultural, social and sporting activities. Radcliffe Square, Oxford OX1 4AJ Tel: 01865 277830 www.bnc.ox.ac.uk Guided groups by appointment. Entrance charge applies.
Christ Church
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Oxford’s largest College with a Cathedral within its walls. The home of Alice in Wonderland, the College is also a major set in the Harry Potter films. St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1DP Tel: 01865 276150 www.chch.ox.ac.uk Open: Mon-Sat: 9am-4.30pm and Sun: 12noon-5.30pm.
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Corpus Christi
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Corpus is one of the smaller undergraduate Colleges, but not the least important. Home of the annual tortoise reacing. Corpus remains a close-knit, humane and lively college; its small quadrangles and lovely gardens, poised between the city centre and the Meadows, house a busy and welcoming community. Merton Street, Oxford OX1 4JF Tel: 01865 276700 www.ccc.ox.ac.uk Open: 1.30pm-4.30pm. Closed Christmas and Easter.
Exeter College
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Exeter College is located in the heart of Oxford, next to the world famous Bodleian Library. The College is committed to excellence in teaching and research, and to supporting the best students. Founded in 1314 by the Bishop of Exeter. The Chapel in the front quad is open to visitors. Old members include Phillip Pullman and Imogen Stubbs. Turl Street, Oxford OX1 3DP Tel: 01865 279600 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk Open: Summer: 2pm-5pm, Winter: 2pm-Dusk.
Green Templeton College
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Green Templeton College is the University of Oxford’s newest college. International in membership and outlook, lively and supportive in spirit, and with an intellectual agenda focusing on issues relating to human welfare, it aims to lead the way in graduate education in Oxford. 43 Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HG Tel: 01865 274770 www.gtc.ox.ac.uk.
Hertford College
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Established as a Hall around 1282. One of the first Oxford colleges to admit women and has approximately 500 students. The College’s so-called Bridge of Sighs connects the Old and New Quads. Catte Street, Oxford OX1 3BW Tel: 01865 279400 www.hertford.ox.ac.uk Open: Prior appointment only.
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OXFORDCOLLEGES Lady Margaret Hall
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Lady Margaret Hall was born 135 years ago of a dual passion for learning and for equality, and it continues to draw inspiration from this great foundation vision. Set in 10 acres of tranquil grounds extending to the River Cherwell and the first college to admit women to the University of Oxford. Free Admission. Norham Gardens, Oxford OX2 6QA Tel: 01865 274300 www.lmh.ox.ac.uk Open: Grounds & Garden daily out of term.
Linacre College
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Founded in 1962, the College's name commemorates an outstanding Renaissance figure, Thomas Linacre (c.1460-1524) who was a distinguished humanist, medical scientist and classicist whose accomplishments established him as one of the great scholars of his time. The College reflects Thomas Linacre's breadth of learning in its own multi-disciplinary purpose and ideals. St Cross Road, Oxford, OX1 3JA Tel: 01865 271650 www.linacre.ox.ac.uk Open: Daily, guest dinners on Tues & Thurs
Lincoln College
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Established in 1427, Lincoln Church is one of Oxford’s oldest Colleges with an attractive medieval atmosphere. The College libraries in converted All Saints Church and Medieval Hall are striking features. Turl Street, Oxford OX1 3DR Tel: 01865 279800 www.linc.ox.ac.uk Open: Monday-Friday 2pm-5pm and Saturday & Sunday 11am-5pm.
Magdalen College
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Famous deer park, water meadow, Chapel, Hall and Great Tower. Choral services as advertised at entrance. Light lunches and teas available Jul-Sep in the Riverside Terrace. High Street, Oxford OX1 4AU Tel: 01865 276000 www.magd.ox.ac.uk Open: 1pm (12 noon in summer)-6pm/dusk.
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Mansfield College
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Mansfield College’s buildings, designed by important Victorian architect Basil Champneys, date from 1886. The College is one of the youngest and smallest. Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TF Tel: 01865 270999 www.mansfield.ox.ac.uk Open: Mon-Fri 9.00-17.00. Free admission.
Nuffield College
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Nuffield specialises in Social Sciences and contributes to major research developments. The College was founded in 1937 and currently has approximately 75 students. New Road, Oxford, OX1 1NF Tel: 01865 278500. www.nuffield.ox.ac.uk Open: daily 9.00-17.00. Free admission.
Pembroke College
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Founded in 1624, Pembroke College’s main site comprises of buildings from as early as the 16th century, with modern facilities situated throughout the city. St Aldate's, Oxford, OX1 1DW Tel: 01865 276444 www.pmb.ox.ac.uk Open: Prior appointment only.
St Catherine’s College
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St Cross College
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The College’s striking buildings of glass and concrete were designed by the Danish architect Arne Jacobsen in the 1960s. One of the largest Colleges, it is distinguished by its modernity and openness. Manor Road, Oxford, OX1 3UJ. Tel: 01865 271 700 www.stcatz.ox.ac.uk Open: daily 9.00-17.00. Free admission. Founded in 1965, St Cross is a graduate College for students studying all subjects. St Cross is not open to the public. St Giles, Oxford OX1 3LZ Tel: 01865 278490 www.stx.ox.ac.uk Open: prior appointment only.
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OXFORDCOLLEGES St Edmund Hall
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Small but beautifully formed, the history of the Hall goes back to the 13th century and is named after St Edmund of Abingdon, a former Archbishop of Canterbury. Known affectionately as “Teddy Hall”, the College is well known for its sporting achievements. Queen’s Lane, Oxford OX1 4AR. Tel: 01865 279000 www.seh.ox.ac.uk Open: During daylight hours.
St Hilda’s College
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St Hilda’s College is situated in four acres of gardens on the River Cherwell and enjoys registered charitable status.
Cowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DY Tel: 01865 276 884 www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk Open: 10am-4pm daily.
St Hugh’s College
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In 1886 Elizabeth Wordsworth founded St Hugh’s to enable women to gain an Oxford education. It is one of the few Colleges where students are permitted to walk on the grass. St Margaret's Road, Oxford, OX2 6LE Tel: 01865 274900 www.st-hughs.ox.ac.uk Open: Prior appointment only.
Trinity College
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The College’s site has been a place of study since 1286. Founded in 1555, its fine Chapel, dining hall, quads, beautiful gardens and grounds are open for public viewing. Openings subject to private functions. Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3BH Tel: 01865 279900 www.trinity.ox.ac.uk Open: 10am-12noon and 2pm-4pm.
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University College
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Situated in the city centre, University College was founded in 1249 by William of Durham, who died in the same year. One of the oldest Colleges in Oxford or Cambridge. High Street, Oxford, OX1 4BH Tel: 01865 276602 www.univ.ox.ac.uk Not open to visitors.
Wadham College
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Founded in 1610 by Dorothy Wadham, the College is one of the largest in the University and celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2010. Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PN Tel: 01865 277900 www.wadham.ox.ac.uk Open: Term time: 1pm to 4.15pm; Out of term: 10.30am to 11.45am, and 1pm to 4.15pm.
Wolfson College
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Wolfson is the largest graduate College within the University of Oxford. Its diverse student body has a wide spread of disciplines and nationalities. Linton Road, Oxford, OX2 6UD Tel: 01865 274100 www.wolfson.ox.ac.uk Open to visitors.
Worcester College
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Worcester College buildings are a beautiful combination of old and new architecture, with 15th century monks’ cottages and award winning contemporary apartments. Walton Street, Oxford, OX1 2HB Tel: 01865 278300 www.worc.ox.ac.uk. Open:between 2pm-5pm daily. Free admission
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OXFORDSHIRESHOPPING
T
he University of Oxford Shop is ideally located on the High Street, in the heart of the Dreaming Spires of Oxford. Established in 1990, the shop is the University’s only official retail store, specialising in a wide range of clothing and gifts bearing the University of Oxford crest.
Follow University of Oxford Shop @OxfordUniShop
Inside the shop, I found cabinets, shelves and baskets full of quality products, leaving me spoilt for choice! Displayed at the front of the shop, college enamel cufflinks, lapel pins, tie slides and photo frames are perfect for those who have a favourite college and wish to show their allegiance or connection to it. The clothing section situated at the rear of the shop includes hoodies, T-shirts and polo shirts in a variety of sizes to suit all ages and tastes. Owned by the University, the shop likes to commission items that have a direct link to Oxford. For instance, the fritillary collection of jewellery, cushions, ceramics and stationery features the small delicate flower that blooms in Magdalen College meadow in spring. Alternatively, Oxford’s famous architectural landmarks provide the theme for the popular Oxford Cityscape collection by UK artist Lizzie Prestt, my favourite items being the candy coloured plates and mugs. The Oxford range of leather bags and accessories also caught my eye, particularly the navy ‘Barrel’ bag and the red and bright blue satchels, all of which are made in the UK. In all, the shop is a treasure trove of beautiful and quality products just waiting to be discovered, and unlike the other souvenir shops in Oxford, all profits are returned to and benefit the University. If like me you wish you’d bought more, don’t despair, as the majority of items are also available online at www.oushop.com.
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Oxford University Shop
106 High St, Oxford, OX1 4BW Tel: 01865 247414 Web: www.oushop.com
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OXFORDSHIRESHOPPING
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or 135 years Blackwell's in Broad Street has been a beacon of excellence in book-selling. From finding just-the-story to inspire a child taking their first steps in reading, to helping academics and students discover that key piece of missing data in the vast wonder of The Norrington Room, we offer the most remarkable range of titles imaginable. Right in the heart of Oxford, the shop is a hub of culture and ideas, from ancient texts to the very latest fiction titles.
We feature a year-round program of fascinating literary events, musical concerts and even theatre productions. You can sip coffee while you read up for your dissertation or find a cozy corner with a Nook and consider Shakespeare in the digital world. This is the perfect place to take a break from the race outside and enjoy a peaceful hour in one of the most remarkable Bookshops in the country.
Follow Blackwell's @BlackwellOxford
Our door is open seven days a week, with staff specializing in everything from rare books to Astronomy to Zoroastrianism, from Aristotle to Žižek, Auden to Yeats. All there to help you find the book you're searching for, and hopefully one or two treasures you didn’t even know you needed.
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Blackwell’s Bookshop
48-51 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BQ Tel: 01865 792792 Web: www.blackwell.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIREENTERTAINMENT
O
xford Philomusica, based at the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford, is the city’s professional symphony orchestra. Praised as ‘excellent’ by Gramophone Magazine and ‘thoroughly impressive’ by BBC Music Magazine, the Orchestra’s reputation is based on uncompromising artistic standards and maintained by some of the finest musicians in the country. It enjoys formal partnerships with both the City and County Councils and a close association with the University of Oxford as its Orchestra in Residence.
Under the leadership of Marios Papadopoulos, the Orchestra offers an annual programme of concerts and attracts celebrated visiting soloists to Oxford: in 2014 alone, the Philomusica is collaborating with a host of musical greats including Nigel Kennedy, John Lill, Anne-Sophie Mutter and Artist in Residence, Maxim Vengerov.
Follow Oxford Philomusica @OxfordPhil
The excellence of the Philomusica’s playing has earned it a national reputation and is recognised as the UK’s fastest growing professional symphony orchestra. An acclaimed Chamber Music Series and a Summer Baroque Festival both showcase The Soloists of Oxford Philomusica – a tight-knit family of musicians described by The Times as the Orchestra’s ‘glorious individual players’. An important aspect of Oxford Philomusica’s work is its annual Piano Festival, which this year features, among others, internationally renowned pianists Stephen Kovacevich, Janina Fialkowska and Menahem Pressler. In addition, the Orchestra offers an extensive programme of community and education work that includes Family Concerts and a range of schemes designed to nurture young musical talent in Oxford.
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Photo by Brendon Fraser
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Oxford Philomusica
Tel: 01865 980 980 www.oxfordphil.com
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OXFORDSHIREENTERTAINMENT
T
he Old Fire Station opened in November 2011 and is a social enterprise and arts centre in the heart of Oxford. It houses a Theatre, Gallery, Shop, Dance Studios and Café. The Theatre has a broad programme of events which regularly includes award winning pieces of new writing, local and national musicians as well as renowned dancers, performers and comedians including the likes of Tim Key and Alan Davies.
However, it’s not just the established acts that appear at the venue. The Old Fire Station puts artistic development at the heart, so you’ll also find examples of fresh new work from emerging theatre companies and performers.
Follow The Old Fire Station @ArtsatOFS
For Gallery goers, the exhibition space supports emerging artists and showcases the best contemporary art from Oxfordshire and the UK. Previous exhibitions have included print, sound, painting and sculpture. Take a look at the new Making Space programme packed full of exhibitions and workshops.
When visiting, make sure you head to the Shop. This independent design-led shop is stocked with a treasure trove of handmade items by over 100 UK based designer-makers and artists. If you’re visiting Oxford, this is the place to find all kinds of wonderful gifts, jewellery, prints, zines, cards, and more… If you’re staying in Oxford for a while, you’ll find it becomes your regular, go-to gift shop!
The Old Fire Station also runs a packed timetable of regular classes from Zumba to salsa, tap to contemporary and the Crisis Skylight Café serves fresh home cooked food and great coffee throughout the week. As well as being a buzzing art centre, the building houses Crisis Skylight – a training centre for homeless people.
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Old Fire Station
40 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AQ Tel: 01865 263980 Email: info@oldfirestation.org.uk Web: www.oldfirestation.org.uk
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OXFORDSHIREENTERTAINMENT
SJ was founded 48 years ago by its Director, John Lubbock, and its O original home was St John’s Smith Square in Westminster, where it still performs. OSJ appears regularly in London and at concert halls and festivals throughout the country and their concerts feature world famous soloists such as Dame Felicity Lott, Sir James Galway, John Lill, Yuri Bashmet, Tasmin Little and Steven Isserlis.
The orchestra has built a strong following in Oxfordshire where it has strong links with the Ashmolean and sponsors such as Blackwell’s Music and Oxford Instruments. It presents a series of ‘Proms’ in the Ashmolean Museum through the year, a concert series at Christmas and at Easter and an annual festival ‘Music in the Abbey’ in Dorchester every September.
The Orchestra has always been engaged at the heart of the community and its musicians provide more than fifty musical events for children with autism and for adults with dementia.
Follow Orchestra of St Johns @osjevents
Christine Cairns, the wife of John Lubbock, founded the charity Music For Autism 12 years ago when their youngest son was diagnosed with autism. Since then the charity has enabled members of the Orchestra of St John’s to give interactive concerts to 45,000 children and 30,000 carers and teachers at special schools all over the UK. There is a flourishing branch in the USA, and MFA International has been set up to take the charity’s work to other countries starting in Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong. The partnership between OSJ and MFA is unique, as is the fact that the artistic director of the orchestra takes part in every single concert the charity promotes in the UK.
The Orchestra of St John’s is enormously grateful for the generous financial support of its Patrons and Supporters. Without their assistance it would not be able to continue performing music at the highest possible standard or to carry out its community work with autistic children and their families and people with dementia. If you appreciate OSJ’s work and would like to find out more about becoming a sponsor of the orchestra, please contact Peter Cousins: peter.cousins@osj.org.uk. 44
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Orchestra of St John’s
7 Warborough Road, Shillingford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7SA Tel: 07765 252489 Web: www.osj.org.uk
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OXFORDSHIREENTERTAINMENT Faculty of Music
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Internationally renowned as a vibrant centre of musical teaching and research, the Faculty offers a stimulating and inspiring environment for composers, performers and musicologists. Alongside formal programmes are concerts and workshops open to the public. Contact directly for details of events. St Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DB Tel: General: 01865 276125 Events: 01865 276141 www.music.ox.ac.uk
Bossaphonik at The Cellar
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Firmly established as Oxford's representative hub for live jazz and world dance. Established in October 2004, Bossaphonik has played host to over 70 great bands. It has become something of a movement and a community of people passionate about quality of live music, and of course, dancing the night away. Frewin Court, Oxford OX1 3HZ Tel: 01865 244761 www.bossaphonik.com
City of Oxford Orchestra
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The City of Oxford Orchestra was founded in 1965 with a firm commitment to provide live, classical music of the highest quality to the widest possible audience. The Orchestra has played to acclaim in most of the capital cities of Europe, whilst also providing all year-round concerts in Oxford’s beautiful, historical buildings. Its summer festival of Baroque Music has become a particular magnet for tourists, and its Christmas Concerto by Candlelight is a highlight of the musical year.
The North Wall
Tel: 01865 744457 www.cityofoxfordorchestra.co.uk
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Recently built as a cutting edge centre for the Arts, there is a varied programme of theatre, music, dance, comedy and art. Praised for the ingenuity of its versatile theatre and providing high quality performances that add to Oxford’s cultural strength. South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JN Tel: 01865 319450 www.thenorthwall.com
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Oxford Shakespeare Company
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Renowned for producing highly acclaimed open air performances in Oxford and London, the OSC chooses spectacular sites that enhance the experience. These highly imaginative yet accessible productions cover works by Shakespeare and other classic texts. www.oxfordshakespearecompany.co.uk Tel: 01865 305305 or 07581 751198 for group bookings
Oxford Playhouse
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The Playhouse is one of Britain’s leading theatres, with a repertoire for hosting a rich and varied programme of drama, music, dance and musical theatre. Conveniently located near the centre of the city close to bars and to restaurants. Contact directly for a list of upcoming events. 11 - 12 Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2LW Tel: 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Coffee Concerts
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O3 Gallery
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The Oxford Coffee Concerts began in 1986 and have since established themselves as one of the most successful chamber music series in the country. The Concerts are held nearly every Sunday morning throughout the year and feature performances by the best musicians and ensembles from this country and abroad. Holywell Street, Oxford, OX1 3BN Tel: 07518 479062 www.coffeeconcerts.com The O3 Gallery is a high quality, contemporary commercial art space that offers the public affordable, original artwork and provides selling opportunities for regional artists. Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 246131 www.o3gallery.co.uk. Open: Tuesday-Sunday. Admission free.
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OXFORDSHIREART
A
ntiques on High is a destination for anyone who loves art and antiques. Thirty-five friendly dealers offer a wonderful selection of quality antiques and collectables. The Centre has been established on the ‘High’ in Oxford for more than 17 years. The Centre’s small traditional shop front hides a large and interesting selling space filled with cabinets and individual display areas. As befits a university city there is an excellent selection of antiquarian and second-hand books within. The general stock covers history, literature, children’s books, modern first editions, travel, poetry, cookery, classics, plus a specialist music section with scores and sheet music.
Browse items dating from antiquity to vintage and priced from £1 to £500+. There are thousands of pieces to choose from; silver and silver plate, fine and costume jewellery, ceramics, glass, pictures, maps and prints, books, postcards, pens, coins, antiquities, militaria, pistols and weapons, oriental, vintage fashion, toys, treen, retro and curious and quirky items too.
Antiques on High also boasts a contemporary gallery, Crafts on High. Here you will find the work of local artists and makers, including members of the Oxfordshire Craft Guild and the Oxford Art Society. There are useful and beautiful objects made of wood, pottery and glass, original works of art for your wall space plus a range of greetings cards. There are textiles for the home and to wear and unique jewellery including silver, enamel and beads. Many of the items have an Oxford theme so make perfect gifts and souvenirs. The gallery is a venue during the prestigious annual Oxford Artweeks festival and the makers are happy to work on commissions. Antiques on High is open every day - weekdays and Saturdays from 10am until 5pm, Sundays and bank holidays from 11am until 5pm.
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Antiques on High
85 High St, Oxford, OX1 4BG Tel: 01865 251075 Web: www.antiquesonhigh.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIREART
E
stablished in the mid-19th century, Sanders is one of the largest and longest running print sellers in Britain. Featuring a varied and wide ranging stock, the shop has been a landmark on the High Street, continuing a tradition in antique prints, antique maps and drawings. Browse the shop and delight over the fascinating wealth of the collection. The range of prints and maps varies from British to foreign Topography, and the shop carries Mezzotint Portraits, maritime history, national history, literary and Fine Art Prints. With a collection as varied as this, you cannot help but be impressed (and wonderfully overwhelmed) by the place. It is a tribute to timelessness.
Follow Sanders of Oxford @SandersofOxford
Steeped in history, and situated in an old Salutation Inn, with the hallmark idiosyncratic proportions expected of a 16th century building. Its four walls are as charming as its collections and the nostalgia of the place will instantly hit you. It is one of only four antique print sellers outside the capital and offers a fascinating collection of 18th, 19th, and early 20th century Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints and illustrations. Don’t leave without having looked at the beautiful range of Oxford prints, showing images of the Colleges, Oxford University Press and views of the Thames. Whether you’re an avid art lover or just an inquisitive passer-by, this shop will charm the socks off you. Quaint, untainted and worldly – it is a little treasure trove! Go on, time-travel with Sanders.
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Sanders of Oxford
104 High St, Oxford, OX1 4BW Tel: 01865 242590 Web: www.sandersofoxford.com
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OXFORDSHIREART
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ocated in stylish, leafy Summertown in north Oxford, Sarah Wiseman Gallery showcases a huge variety of hand-picked artwork, whether you’re looking for tiny, delicate ceramics or a large-scale landscape painting. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, enabling visitors to browse at their leisure, or if more guidance is needed, Sarah and her staff are always on hand to offer advice on a purchase. ‘People always love to know the background of our artists, and we pride ourselves on knowing all our artists personally – so we have a solid, in-depth knowledge of their ideas and working practices’, Sarah explains.
Follow Sarah Wiseman Gallery @Sarah_Wisegal
Owner and director Sarah Wiseman opened her gallery in 1998, after spotting a need for a contemporary gallery in Oxford where people could buy work by both established and emerging artists and makers. More than fifteen years later, the gallery has more than met this need, becoming one of Oxford’s premier spaces to see and collect contemporary art. Collections on show include art by locally based-talent like painters Bee Bartlett and Sarah Spackman, as well as more nationally recognised artists such as printmaking by Angie Lewin, paintings by Andrew Hood and Catherine Rayner, alongside a lively mix hand-crafted jewellery, ceramics and glassware from around the U.K.
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Sarah Wiseman Gallery
40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JL. Tel: 01865 515123. Email: info@wisegal.com Web: www.wisegal.com
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OXFORDSHIREBARS & PUBS
I
n an area that is acclaimed for its cocktail bars, Angels does well to maintain a strong presence in the infinitely cool Jericho community. The retro theme that permeates this venue is evident in the art nouveau festooned across the walls, complimented by a cocktail menu with a distinctly 20’s feel about it. The two floors are different in essence but complimentary in nature. The upstairs has a bustling and busy feel to it as it welcomes new arrivals and allows existing patrons to watch the world go by on the ever cultural Little Clarendon Street. The downstairs, with a number of floor to ceiling mirrors in place, has a much more intimate feel to it with slimline furniture allowing for easy movement between tables and booths.
As any cocktail bar worth its salt crusted martini glass should, the Angels spirits display is nothing short of mesmerising. With the two bars mirroring each other, they hold an exotic array of spirits to craft all manner of cocktails- ranging from the historically warming sidecar, the after dinner friendly black star liner and the vodka lovers Black Bison. The bar staff are clearly trained to a high standard, equally at ease making recommendations or subtle tweaks to the existing menu.
For the straight spirit purists out there, Angels will surely have the beverage to tempt even the most discerning of palettes. Patron XO, Wray & Nephew Overproof and Suntory Yamazaki 10yr are just some of the more global choices on offer, in conjunction with all the usual suspects.
Angels is available for private hire and are able to comfortably cater for parties in excess of 100 guests. In an area so richly known for its cocktail bars, Angels manages to strongly differentiate themselves by offering an excellent standard of drinks (priced around the ÂŁ6 mark) in conjunction with their visually bold themes and retro but flexible approach to service the ever judicious Jericho locals. 54
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Angels Cocktail Bar
55 Little Clarendon St, Oxford, OX1 2HS Tel: 01865 554224 Web: www.angelsbar.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS
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aving served generations in Oxford since 1904, The Cherwell Boathouse is long renowned as a place to enjoy fine wine and dining in an idyllic water meadow setting. This is an iconic Oxford punt station and restaurant situated right on the river; the location is nothing short of superb and makes for a truly scenic spot.
Follow Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant @CherwellBoatH
The Verdin family set up shop here almost fourty years ago and their riverside restaurant continues to go from strength to strength. With a brightly lit conservatory and a glorious terrace to match, The Cherwell Boathouse is a year round treat: icy white in winter and leafy green in summer. The walls are dressed in a fresh minty green, fairy lights trail the timber-oaked beams and people nestle in the corners of each bay window, giving the place a most welcoming ambience.
If you can take your eyes off the water and the punters passing by, pick your way through a lovely looking menu. Expect a concise menu that specialises in imaginative and intriguing combinations, as well as being able to deliver the wonderful signature dishes so well. Fresh, modern, French in feel but with a British base – this menu has been designed to delight! The chef and his team have gone to great lengths to create a brilliantly balanced menu that stays true to locally sourced, specialised, seasonal produce. Also be sure to check out their Award winning wine list recently voted best in United Kingdom by Good food guide.
The punt season runs from mid March to mid October with over 70 handbuilt punts available. The thut bar and cafĂŠ is also open during this period serving everything from delicious fresh light lunches, cream teas, icecreams and refreshing cold drinks such as the house specialty Pimms to be enjoyed by the riverside terrace.
So push the boat out with this delightful restaurant. It really is rather stunning and is provides the perfect setting for supper outside on a summer evening. 56
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Cherwell Boathouse
50 Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6ST Tel: 01865 552746 Web: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS
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iraffe is a buzzing and vibrant restaurant situated in the heart of Oxford city centre. It is on the doorstep of Gloucester Green Coach Station, Odeon Cinemas, the Cornmarket shops, and a stone's throw from Oxford Train Station, making it a great location to meet with friends or relax after your travels.
The restaurant is an eclectic mix of 60's retro, featuring a sleek wood & chrome bar and bright, bold colours on the walls, and a refreshing summertime vibe. The menu is just as unique, with a huge selection ranging from Mediterranean and Italian to Japanese cuisine, and special offers as far as the eye can see. To name a few: 'Bar Buddies' gets you 50% off selected juicy cocktails, beers and wines. ‘Lunch for Less’ allows you to choose from a selection of great dishes for just £6.75, and the ‘Feel Good Menu’ gets you a starter and main course for only £10.75.
Follow Giraffe @GiraffeTweet
Good feelings are definitely in abundance here! giraffe are big on healthiness and there are plenty of inventive gluten free, nut free and vegetarian options available. They also offer a tantalising selection of fruity smoothies, perfect for warm summer days - Why not try a 'Giddy Giraffe' next time you're passing by? A mix of papaya, fresh mint, banana, orange and lime juice that will definitely give you a kick!
But for those of us with more of a whipped cream whimsy, the desserts here will satisfy any level of sweet-tooth; We suggest you try the Assistant Manager's favourite, a divine Apple & Red Cherry Crumble.
giraffe is popular with younger clientele, students, exchange students, families… everyone! They take bookings for parties and hen nights, and the bar stays open late. Anything you could want, you can find at giraffe.
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Giraffe
71 George St, Oxford, OX1 2BQ Tel: 01865 201 030 Web: www.giraffe.net
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS
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n the middle of the buzzing area of Cowley Road, you will find Malikas, which guarantees a superior Indian cuisine experience! The restaurant has just been refurbished and the new look is very modern. There are seats for 70, which is an extension to the space before the refurbishment, but still the atmosphere is cosy and relaxing. The restaurant is home to one of the UK’s finest Indian chefs and offers starters and mains that will undoubtedly get your taste buds sizzling! The attentive staff cater for all of their customers’ needs to create a fantastic all round dining experience.
We received a very warm and friendly welcome and our table was ready for us when we arrived. Of course, we started out with poppadoms, which dipped in the chutneys and sauces were already a delicious experience – and we could not resist asking for a second portion! We shared a good bottle of house wine to accompany our tasty intro to Malikas.
Follow Malikas @MalikasOxford
When it came to ordering our mains, not being curry aficionados ourselves, we got great advice from our waiter, who was very patient, explaining the differences of the many different dishes to us. Based on this knowledgeable advice, even my guest who normally always stays on the safe side by ordering a chicken korma went for something new.
Whether you like them hot enough to tickle your taste buds or you prefer mild and creamy, there’s a curry dish for everyone.
Malikas is friendly, elegant and very relaxed and so if you’re looking for a new Indian restaurant to try out Malikas is definitely the place for you.
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Malikas
218 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UQ Tel: 01865 723029 Web: www.malikasrestaurant.co.uk
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fter hearing about how amazing the food is, how reasonable the prices, how pleasant and relaxed the atmosphere at Pierre Victoire is, we just had to go check it out for ourselves. We were not disappointed, and spent a lovely evening enjoying all that this jewel of a French bistro has to offer. We ordered a bottle of the house red, a light and fruity wine. We chose as our starters the sautéed smoked bacon, chorizo & red pepper on mixed leaves with a balsamic reduction and the moules mariniéres la créme. The salad was flavourful and colourful, and the moules were fragrant and fresh. I followed with a duck magret sliced and pink on to a leek and potato rosti with a red wine and winterberry sauce, while my guest chose a smoked fillet of haddock on creamed spinach with a soft poached egg and a wholegrain mustard sauce. The duck was perfection, each bite a delight with the juicy sauce and cripsy rosti. The haddock, I was assured, was equally delicious. We shared a dessert of sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream, with espressos to accompany. Pierre Victoire absolutely keeps up the quality to the last! And very importantly, too, Pierre Victoire offers many ways to partake without putting a large dent in the pocketbook. The prix fixe menu offers three courses for £23.50, and the pre-theatre menu of two courses and a coffee is £11.50. For groups and parties of up to 60 wanting to celebrate a birthday or graduation, they offer several 2 and 3 course menus starting at £21.00. Allez-vous au Pierre Victoire, and have a bon soir (or tarde).
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Pierre Victoire
9 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford, OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 316616. Web: www.pierrevictoire.co.uk
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xford can now boast the best in premium pub dining with an emphasis on top quality food served in a stunning city location. The team at The Red Lion have transformed it into a premium dining experience, giving the pub a stylish, modern feel whilst promising to keep its traditional roots alive.
Follow Red Lion @RedLionOxford
It’s obvious they have put a lot of thought into every facet of this pub, from the food and the surroundings to the welcome from the team. Its menu changes with the seasons and is modern British, comfortably interwoven with elements from the Mediterranean, ranging from traditional favourites such as fish and chips and steaks to freshly made pizzas, pastas and daily chef specials. The outdoor patio is really something to encounter, and is best enjoyed with a glass of their marvelous wine, cask ale, super-chilled draft or whatever your favourite beverage may be.
The Red Lion is a favourite throughout the year, with a cosy, comforting atmosphere in the winter and a vibrant, refreshing ambiance in the summer. The team strives to use only the freshest, most seasonal ingredients in all of their cooking, so that their guests can enjoy the best dining experience they could possibly offer. And you don’t have to go for the full works if you don’t want to, just grab a light bite and your drink of choice at the bar if you prefer – there is simply something for everyone, whatever the occasion. Expect only the best in this brilliant venue, and service with a smile every time.
During the summer, The Red Lion can boast one of Oxford City Centre’s few outside spaces to enjoy a pre dinner drink or a lazy afternoon. With seating for at least one hundred, it’s a great space to meet friends, with laughter spilling out onto the adjoining streets, making The Red Lion a focal point for Oxford’s discerning pub and restaurant goers.
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The Red Lion
14 Gloucester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BN Tel: 01865 726 255 Web: www.redlionoxford.co.uk
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uite possibly the finest Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in Oxford, this is a fabulous restaurant with a big heart.
Ali Amzed and his team have established a warm and welcoming restaurant where the regular customers they have attracted from Summertown and the surrounding areas have come to expect first class food with five star hospitality. The great thing is that familiar faces greet you every time you visit Saffron, so you build up a great rapport with Ali and his team and they get to know you and what you like. It’s the perfect combination of great food and unbeatable hospitality.
Saffron is a lively, beautifully designed restaurant, with clear lines, vibrant colours but delicate touches to remind you of the restaurant’s heart. There is a main dining area with a couple of individual dining areas which are more private.
Follow Saffron @SaffronSC
Saffron has been recognised for its excellent performance with a number of awards, including the Top 30 Best in Britain (BIBA) and a Gold Award from Quality Food Online Ltd. Ali also hosts a number of charity events supporting local Oxford charities like Helen & Douglas House. Customers can also place their orders online or collection in person from the restaurant and delivery is free within a ten mile radius of the restaurant. Why not pay Saffron a visit and become part of the family.
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Saffron Restaurant
204-206 Banbury Rd, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7BY Tel: 01865 512211 Web: www.saffronrestaurantoxford.co.uk
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ituated in the heart of Oxford City Centre is Turl Street Kitchen: a dining establishment with a difference; a social enterprise giving all profits to charity. This is no volunteer outfit, however: the food’s definitely professional and consistently unfussily delicious.
Follow Turl Street Kitchen @TurlStKitchen
Down on the ground floor is the grand rustic dining room. From the quiet bustle of the open kitchen in the distance, the high Edwardian ceilings with contemporary low-hanging lamps, to the regularly changing local artwork on the walls; Turl Street Kitchen is unique in not only its kind-hearted vocation. The menu changes twice daily depending on what’s available from local suppliers: you can find out what’s on offer @turlstkitchen and on their website shortly before each mealtime. Typical dishes include a range of fresh salads; hearty braises or whole fish from sustainable sources. In terms of drinks, TSK offers a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages –including a well-chosen selection of wines and gins. As with the food, the drinks focus on independent and British producers, such as the specially produced Cotswold stout.
The bar stays open until midnight on weeknights, and past 1am on Fridays and Saturdays; it's popular and gets pretty lively at the weekend. Occasionally there is live music, and the restaurant hosts a charity quiz night on the last Sunday of every month. Turl Street Kitchen really is bringing something new to Oxford's dining scene, and cannot be recommended enough.
On the first floor you'll find Oxford Hub, the TSK's sister charity which supports student-powered social change in the community. The Hub's meeting rooms, offices, event spaces, Living Room and Library are free to charity groups and to the general public for hire for parties, meetings, and other events. This space is also great for big dining parties at lunch and dinner.
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Turl Street Kitchen
16 Turl St, Oxford OX1 3DH Tel: 01865 264171 Web: www.turlstreetkitchen.co.uk
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he Big Bang is the true gastronomic experience of Oxford, we do our best to source everything from within 20 miles of the city and in doing so, we allow you to taste the real flavour of Oxford, not a chain restaurant version of it. We also throw in the best of our art, of local live music, all served up in Oxford's prettiest corner with a touch of Oxford charm. We will rarely force feed our ethics to you, but I’d encourage you to talk with our Sausageers and find out more about the provenance of our food, the story behind the hand roasting of our coffees, or of the rearing of our pigs or the Victorian genius of our brewers, and you’ll find out what a colourful local story we are a part of.
Follow The Big Bang @BigBangOx
Great Britain has so much excellent food to celebrate and so many small, local suppliers worth supporting, that a restaurant that celebrates local cuisine and allows visitors, locals and students alike to enjoy the best of what Britain grows, has been Oxford's firm favourite since 2004. We look forward to seeing you soon! The Big Bang is always the heart of what's going on in Oxford, whether it's the Oxford Beach throughout the Summer, Live Jazz each and every Tuesday through the year, a sizzling BBQ each Summer's day or Britain's very best sausage and mash throughout the year. There's no place like it, a place to escape the traffic, the hustle and bustle of Oxford, and a place to enjoy the true taste of Great Britain. Highly Recommended across the board for the past decade.
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The Big Bang
42 Oxford Castle Quarter, Oxford, OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 249 413 Web: www.thebigbangrestaurants.co.uk
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ffley Blue - a new restaurant in Hawkwell House Hotel, the ethos of which is inspired by the sporting accolade at Oxford University and the unique location set within Iffley village (which feels like an idyllic village deep in the countryside). The relaxed ambiance of Iffley Blue is enhanced by the airy feel which has four impressive roof lights over the dining tables. The food offering is exceptional value, and boasts a regularly changing menu which features interesting grazing dishes, delicious seasonal salads and steaks. The restaurant has an impressive bar and theatre style kitchen incorporating a wood burning clay oven where handmade pizzas have become a favourite of the regular clientele.
The “inside out� theme was designed by Diana Bird of Seams Fine, and incorporates beautiful glass panels made by Jo Downs, a Devon artist. The decor is part contemporary and part traditional, with beaten copper light shades hanging low over the banquette cubicles on one side, and a silver birch montage on some of the walls.
Follow Iffley Blue @IffleyBlue
Chefs Chris Kennedy and Alex Turner try and source food with provenance as much as possible and change the menu regularly. They plan to develop their own smokehouse in the hotel grounds which will give them an opportunity for more innovative dishes. The service is friendly and informal, with Lara Avincola, the Restaurant Manager keen to give customers a warm welcome.
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Iffley Blue
Iffley Blue, Church Way, Iffley, Oxford OX4 4DZ Tel: 01865 332112 Email: reservations@iffleyblue.co.uk Web: www.iffleyblue.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS The Jee Saheb Restaurant offers cuisine from the Asian sub-continent: Classic and creative dishes from Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Neatly tucked away in the pretty little street of North Parade, Jericho, The Jee Saheb Restaurant has become a part of the family of independently-run businesses in the area. You'll often find happy locals waving as they pass. With our restaurant we have created an ambience that will make you feel relaxed and welcomed. The décor is one of class and elegance, with minimalist white walls and wooden flooring. Our waiters are extremely attentive and will help you with absolutely anything you might need, including explaining just what each dish is or recommending something to suit your tastes. Our key aim is to use fresh produce and source it from local suppliers where possible. We offer no fuss, just classic Asian cuisine. You can enjoy our food in the main dining room, with a party of friends in our function room with a capacity of 28, or if the weather permits in our garden. We offer a valuable online ordering system for takeaways - it’s much better than hanging on the phone! Orders are pre-paid and so easy to collect or for us to deliver. Also, there’s less chance of mistakes! We try our utmost to cater for any special requirements or allergies, so please do inform us if you'd like something 'off the menu'. Don't forget that you can have our delicious food at your special events too. Why don't you let our professional staff cater your business meeting, wedding, party or other occasion?
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Jee Saheb
15 North Parade Avenue, Oxford, OX2 6LX Tel: 01865 513 773 Web: www.jeesaheb.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS
slice of real Americana makes its premiere in Oxfordshire… Chariots and Cherry Pie takes inspiration from the fun and fearlessness of A 1950s, when America’s love affair with cool cars and fabulous food was in full swing. Chariots and Cherry Pie will be THE place to shine, dine and unwind in one location. As we open the doors in early June to our authentic American diner, we’ll also be launching Chariots Car Spa. You'll have the option of having your wheels washed whilst you tuck into a delicious and authentic American diner meal.
Our chefs have created a mouth-watering menu consisting of delicious, home-cooked diner food, with an extensive soft and alcohol drinks list featuring American classics. On the Cherry Pie Diner menu you’ll find freshly-made waffles and pancakes, gourmet hot dogs, mouth-watering burgers, salads, super shakes, home-made ice creams, slices of pecan, cherry and apple pies.
Follow Chariots and Cherry Pie @chariots_cherry
With free Wi-Fi, booth and bar seating, and early until late opening hours, Cherry Pie Diner looks set to become everyone’s favourite destination diner experience for miles around.
From the Chariots Car Spa menu choose from a range of hand car wash services, all provided by our highly trained team using superior Karcher equipment and products, starting with the £7 (£9 for MPVs) Dime Wash through to our all-singing, all-dancing Full Shebang Wash and Valet Service. Our passionate local team will be offering their warm welcome to everyone so, whether you’re dining solo, meeting up with business colleagues, looking for a place to break your journey or having precious time out with family and friends be sure to pop on down to Chariots and Cherry Pie.
Enjoy Us On Tour: The Cherry Pie Diner menu is also served out of our 1950s vintage-style mobile catering trailer. It’s going to be a regular feature all over the country but it’s also ideal for upmarket occasions, weddings, parties and corporate events. We can even customise our menu to suit individual tastes and themes so please get in touch if you’re interested in having us over at your celebration. 76
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Chariots & Cherry Pie
Route 420 (next to BP Garage on A420), Buckland, Faringdon, SN7 8PY Tel: 0333 121 0066 Web: www.chariotsandcherrypie.co.uk
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xford has historically struggled to maintain high standards across the range of cuisines that exist in this multicultural city. With a host of restaurants offering edible delights from the sub-continent, you are hard pressed to find one that genuinely ticks all of the boxes – that is until you have eaten at Aziz. Heading well into their second decade of business, and ably led by proprietor and restaurateur Aziz Ur Rahman, Aziz is ably to effortlessly provide an excellent quality of food, service, atmosphere and a positive customer service attitude that is all too rare in the hospitality industry these days. Upon arrival you soak up the traditional yet cosy, authentic yet classy décor, whilst being greeted by the ever gracious front of house team. The menu is simply laid out and easy to read in spite of there being over a hundred dishes to choose from.
Follow Aziz @azizoxford
The staff are extremely adept at providing recommendations based on your personal preferences when it comes to spicing levels, favourite meats or styles of cooking. There are more than enough options to concoct a veritable banquet of authentic Bangladeshi/Indian dishes or you can simply choose from one of the well thought out set-menus.
Located in the student friendly Cowley area, Aziz operates in a symbiotic manner with its cost conscious locals, with its delicious offerings being extremely well priced. Our indulgent meal for two came in just shy of £40 which included starters, mains and three rounds of drinks. You can’t help but appreciate all the subtle touches that abound at Aziz – upon completing your meal you are presented with own brand chocolates and a heavenly after dinner, fragrant spice mix to clean your palette.
Aziz manages to provide the complete dining experience at an extremely palatable price. Any lover of curry simply has to visit this gem of an eatery. 78
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Aziz Restaurant
228-230 Cowley Rd, Oxford, OX4 1UH Tel: 01865 794945 Web: www.aziz.uk.com
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ocated in the Ozone Leisure and Entertainment Park, Aziz Express is the bouncy sibling to big brother Aziz, the original restaurant on Cowley Road and an ideal place to pop-in for an Asian buffet dining experience that’s ready when you are. Modern and colourful décor adds a cheery feel to the restaurant, which was already buzzing when we arrived as customers took advantage of the ‘buy one, get one half price’ Wednesday offer. The restaurant has a fully stocked bar with a great selection on offer, prices are reasonable with a glass of wine from £4.15 and draught lager from £3.50.
Follow Aziz Express @azizexpress
For only £12.95 per person (£13.50 on Friday & Saturday) guests can help themselves to the huge variety of dishes on offer and it’s difficult not to get carried away. I chose a modest selection of starter options of vegetable bhagi, spicy tandoori chicken wings, papadums with some sauces and onion salad. There’s also pasta salad, beans, spring rolls, chicken tikka, chips and more to choose from.
Covering Indian, Bangladeshi and Thai cuisine with a choice of vegetarian and meat selections there is literally something for everyone. As a bit of a spice girl my standout favourite was the hot Chicken Jalfrezi and a spicy spinach and lentil dal. However there are lots of milder dishes available including noodle and pasta options, with plenty of hot, fresh naan and a selection of rice dishes too. You can refill your plate as often as you wish! If you still have room for dessert you won’t be disappointed with the selection that includes traditional kheer (rice pudding) and gulab jamon (Indian doughnuts).
Whether you’re up for a game of bowling, a visit to the cinema or to watch some live sport at the Kassam Stadium, Aziz is a great place to refuel after any activity. 80
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Aziz Express
Ozone Leisure Park, Grenoble Rd, Oxford, OX4 4XP Tel: 01865 395870 Web: www.azizexpress.co.uk
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estled on the busy London Road in Headington, The Rose Tree is modern Chinese restaurant serving a wide variety of Asian cuisine. There is a pleasant ambience amidst the modern, sophisticated dĂŠcor, which sets it apart from your traditional Chinese establishment. The tinted front windows prevent outsiders from looking in but allow diners to view the bustling street outside which creates the illusion of a secret dining world.
There is a huge array of dishes on offer, covering eleven pages of menu! Why not try the Hors D'oeuvres Platter and sample a little of everything. The platter consists of Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings, Spare Ribs in Capital Sauce, Skewered Chicken Satay and Vegetable Spring Rolls. Every option is delicious with its own unique flavour and texture, and as a 'sharer for two' the size of the platter could easily satisfy 3 or even 4 people. Or how about a King Prawn Chilli Pot which comes as a mini individual wok propped above a candle to keep the dish sizzling and the flavours intense.
With a huge variety of cuisine types from traditional Chinese dishes such as crispy duck pancakes and Dim Sum to Thai curries and Japanese Bento boxes, there is literally something for every palate. Should you find it difficult to decide between them all however the friendly staff are on-hand to offer suggestions based on your favourite flavours or you could opt from one of the carefully selected set menus from ÂŁ18.95 per person. Finish off your meal with one of our many delicious desserts, both traditional and modern, or some cold and refreshing Bubble Tea (a Taiwanese favourite) or a pot of fruit tea.
With so many options available, a return visit will definitely be required!
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The Rose Tree
81 London Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9AA Tel: 01865 741888 Web: www.therosetreerestaurant.com
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rowns achieved ‘Oxford institution’ status many years ago. Located conveniently in the centre of Oxford, but just far enough away from the busiest shopping streets to give it a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, the restaurant attracts a wide range of customers from families to businessmen, students to tourists. In the summer tables spill out onto the pavement emphasising the French brasserie feel, while in the colder winter months the restaurant always looks friendly, warm and enticing.
Follow Browns @BrownsOxford
The menu is broad, offering breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner with a la carte appetizers and starters through to fish and meat courses, and dangerously tempting desserts. This wealth of choice includes the timeless Browns classics such as Fish Pie and the Browns Burger. Plus their own version of Eton Mess, as well as daily chef ’s specials and a fish of the day. A wide range of wines, by the glass or bottle, complements the food menu. Browns doesn't rest on its long-standing reputation. They also look to tempt you in with specials: Valentine’s brunch, lunch or dinner; discount cocktails Sunday to Wednesday; become a ‘Browns Friend’ and receive vouchers by email; or their delicious daily specials. On top of all these recent changes to the layout have brought the bar into the main body of the restaurant. Thus creating both a ‘new’ dining area in its old location as well as a more central location to sit and have a pre-dinner cocktail or after work drink.
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Browns
5-11 Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6HA Tel: 01865 511995 Web: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk
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e are a contemporary Multi-Cuisine Buffet Restaurant & Bar with a coffee lounge and free Wi-Fi access. Famed for our “All You Can Eat” Halal buffet, vibrant atmosphere and sophisticated interior, we have become an established favourite with locals, corporate clients and students alike since our opening in December 2008. Whilst we are known for buffet we do have an extensive A La Carte menu too. Situated in the heart of the colourful and cultured Cowley Road it’s the perfect venue to dine, drink or relax.
Follow The First Floor @BrownsOxford
Our aim is to provide a unique, fun-filled experience with a variety of freshly cooked food, in a stylish setting. We have specially trained chefs, all of whom have mastered specific cuisines to ensure an authentic taste from India, China and Thailand. When you’re looking for something a little closer to home, we you can also offer a varied Continental menu. You can sample our traditional English roast every Sunday. All our food is fresh and locally sourced, with nearly 100% of our food produced in house. The First Floor is committed to making a positive impact in every aspect of what we do. Here at The First Floor our food and drink is not only delicious but ethical. All of our tea and coffee is Fair Trade and we are consistently working to increase our amount of Fair Trade products. We are a venue that can be enjoyed day or night, for a light lunch, evening meal also cocktails and coffee! With our famous DJ night, express delivery and outdoor catering: The First Floor can rise to any occasion. The First Floor Restaurant is a food enthusiast’s paradise.
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The First Floor
158 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UE Tel: 01865 200203 Web: www.thefirstfloor-restaurant.com
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OXFORDSHIRERESTAURANTS La Cucina
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The Chequers at Burcot
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4500 Miles from Delhi
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The Rose
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The Tree Hotel
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Serving well priced robust portions of hearty and traditional Italian recipes cooked to order, using only finest produce from an open kitchen. 39-40 St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1AB Tel: 01865 793811 www.lacucinaoxford.co.uk. Open Mon to Sun: 11am to 10.30pm. A beautiful selection of delicious dishes that offer traditional values with a modern twist. Come and relax in a 400 year old inn combined with contemporary decor. Abingdon Road, Burcot, OX14 3DP Tel: 01865 407771 www.thechequers-burcot.co.uk. Open 12pm-11pm daily. Experience fine Delhi cuisine from top professional chefs and prepared to the highest quality and authenticity, and a huge selection of drinks at the bar. 40-41 Parkend Street, Oxford, OX1 1JD Tel: 01865 244922 www.4500miles.co.uk/oxford. Open 12pm-11pm daily. Small restaurant and tea room on Oxford High Street serving first class, freshly prepared food. They take great care in choosing their ingredients, from breakfasts to teas. 51 High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AS Tel: 01865 244429 www.the-rose.biz. Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm. A charming gastro pub with specialist European and Indian head chefs, championing wonderful food from around the world with excellent service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 63 Church Way, Iffley Village, OX4 4EY Tel: 01865 775974 www.treehotel.co.uk. Open 12pm-3pm, then 6pm-10pm daily. 88
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The Manor at Weston on the Green
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Fallowfields County House Hotel
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Hawkwell House
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The Feathers Hotel
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Proud of its 900-year history, The Manor is today a country house hotel with fine food, fine wine and beautiful, fascinating surroundings. Weston on the Green, OX25 3QL Tel: 01869 350621 www.themanorweston.com The tranquility of the surroundings combined with the luxuriously comfortable beds here means you are guaranteed a restful night in this home come hotel. Faringdon Rd, Kingston Bagpuize, Abingdon, OX13 5BH Tel: 01865 820416 www.fallowfields.com If you are looking for a hotel near Oxford, a wedding or conference venue there are few better places than Hawkwell House Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms in Iffley Village. Church Way, Iffley, Oxford OX4 4DZ Tel: 01865 749988 www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk
The bedrooms and suites at The Feathers come in all shapes and sizes - the very antithesis of corporate conformity. The Feathers also sets the World Record for most varieties of gin. Market Street, Woodstock, OX20 1SX Tel: 01993 812291 www.feathers.co.uk
Vanbrugh House Hotel
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There are echoes of the hotel's own 18th century heritage in the combination of highly-polished service and homeliness. To stay in Vanbrugh House is to live in the heart of Oxford past and present. 20-24 St Michael's Street, Oxford, OX1 2EB Tel: 01865 244622. www.vanbrughhousehotel.co.uk.
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he Westwood Hotel is a privately owned luxurious boutique hotel only 3 miles from the centre of Oxford. Set in landscaped gardens T of more than 3 acres and surrounded by 400 acres of ancient woodland the hotel provides an opportunity to enjoy fine dining, 20 individually designed bedrooms, a cosy relaxing bar and outstanding service. It is a striking building and has been sympathetically modernised with a large parking area and wonderful views from the rooms. The hotel is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi technology throughout and offers complimentary car parking for the duration of your stay. It also has excellent conference, meeting, wedding and private function facilities and the private grounds offer a relaxing and tranquil setting for all occasions, with outdoor furniture which is wonderful on sunny summer evenings.
Follow The Westwood Hotel @hotelwestwood
The reception staff are welcoming and will help in any way they can, be that with luggage or giving directions. The public areas of the hotel are spacious and well laid out, with areas for sitting with a drink or a coffee away from the bar, many with garden views, and a large airy dining room.
All rooms feature a very stylish shower room and the bedroom decor is chic and modern. Our beds are pure luxury and the rooms have lovely heavy curtains; Giving you a most peaceful and relaxing night's sleep.
Dinner in the Oaks Restaurant is not to be missed. There is a huge array of choices, ranging from succulent duck breast with blackberry sauce, to crunchy garlic tiger prawns. Breakfast includes a wide selection of hot and cold foods and is served in the same lovely light dining room overlooking the gardens, with charming and attentive service throughout. There is plenty of parking space off the road and large grounds for walking and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The hotel is also close to the Ring Road for easy travelling, making The Westwood Hotel ideal for both tourists and residents looking for a little respite. 90
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The Westwood Hotel
Hinksey Hill, Oxford, OX1 5BG Tel: 01865 735 408 Web: www.westwoodhotel.co.uk
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he Oxford Hotel is one of the city's leading four-star hotels, located only two miles from the City Centre and minutes from the A34 and M40. Modern and contemporary in design it offers 168 modern en-suite bedrooms. All offer you exactly what you need from your stay. If you are here on business you can easily work from your room and download emails through our wireless broadband internet access. If you are looking for the best and most advanced conference facilities in Oxfordshire, then look no further. Bright, colourful and airy, all 25 meeting rooms have natural daylight, air-conditioning and wireless broadband access. At the heart of the hotel’s Cranmer Conference Centre is the University Suite with a capacity to seat 350 delegates for a conference and 250 guests for a banquet. In addition the hotel also has a grassed activity area, which is ideal for team building activities and games. Other hotel facilities include stylish and contemporary dining in the Medio Restaurant and Bar, Health and Fitness Club (not wheelchair accessible) and free car parking for over 250 cars. Facilities: No. of rooms: 168; Non-Smoking throughout hotel; Disabled facilities throughout with Wheelchair access; 24 Hour Reception; Restaurant; Gymnasium; Indoor Pool; Fitness Centre; Sauna; Steam Rooms; Massage; Beauty Salon/Manicure; Concierge; Laundry/Valet Service; Porter; Lounge Menu; Bar; Squash Courts.
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The Oxford Hotel
Godstow Road, Oxford OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489988 Web: www.pumahotels.co.uk
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he Feathers Hotel, a member of Pride of Britain Hotels, is an inviting country retreat that combines historic charm with a fun personality. Located in the historic market town of Woodstock, the hotel is close to Oxford and the Cotswolds and, just a couple of minutes walk away, Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
Follow The Feathers Hotel @FeathersHotel
There are 16 bedrooms and five suites available at The Feathers, which have undergone a major refurbishment. Each room has been given its own unique style by specialist interior designers, Trevillion, who have added boutique twists such as luxurious fabrics, ornate lighting, free-standing stone basins and even a decanter full of jelly beans! The quirky bedrooms perfectly match the rest of the hotel, with its higgledy-piggledy hallways and five different staircases that add a delightfully whimsical feel. Contemporary wallpapers adorn the walls, alongside tastefully chosen art works, such as an eye-catching dressmaker mannequin. The bespoke carpet in the dining room bearing a feather motif is also testament to the hotel’s cool outlook.
Diners heading for a pre-dinner drink should note that the hotel’s Gin Bar is listed in the Guinness Book of RecordsTM as offering the greatest variety of gins on the planet. The AA 2 rosette restaurant features English classics such as Cotswold Roast Lamb Rump alongside popular new dishes, for example Slow Roast Pork Belly. Diners can also opt for the Feathers' Tasting Menu, carefully designed to showcase some special specialities - and available with a wine flight (and sloe gin served with the pudding course). The restaurant also serves a selection of afternoon tea menus, plus a variety of traditional picnic hampers starting at £39.50. The stylish restaurant seats up to 60 guests, with room for a further 30 in the bar. Alternatively diners may prefer to dine al fresco in the beautiful, secluded outdoor Courtyard, complete with a summer house.
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The Feathers Hotel
Market Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1SX Tel: 01993 812291 Web: www.feathers.co.uk
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OXFORDSHIRESPORT Studley Wood Golf Club
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Studley Wood Golf Club offers a comprehensive 18 hole course with lush fairways and brilliant greens. It boasts excellent practice facilities, a driving range and sumptuous clubhouse. The perfect venue for golf weekends, charity events and tournaments. Horton-cum-Studley, Oxford OX33 1BF. Tel: 01865 351144. www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk
Heythrop Park Golf Club
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Open throughout the year to members, visitors and groups the Bainbridge Course at Heythrop Park Resort has been redesigned by Tom MacKenzie who has been responsible for many Open Championship venues. The 7.088 yard par 72 course weaves throughout the 440 acre estate and provides the perfect challenge for all golfers. Heythrop Park Resort, Enstone, Chipping Norton, OX7 5UE. Tel: 01608 673488. www.heythropparkgolf.co.uk
Frilford Heath Golf Club
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Frilford Heath is Oxfordshire's finest golf club, and one of the best in the south of England. Along with Woburn and Wentworth, it is one of very few clubs with three championship standard golf courses - 54 holes of top quality golf ! Oxford Rd, Frilford Heath, Abingdon OX13 5NW Tel: 01865 390864. www.frilfordheath.co.uk
Oxford United
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Oxford United Football Club is an English association football club based in Oxford, Oxfordshire. The club currently plays in League Two, first entering the Football League in 1962. The chairman is Ian Lenagan and the head coach is Gary Waddock. Grenoble Road, Oxford, OX4 4XP Tel: 01865 337500. www.oufc.co.uk 96
OXFORDSHIREHEALTH & BEAUTY
TAO Beauty Salon
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A privately owned and busy beauty centre in Oxford with a friendly team of qualified beauty therapists. Both women & men are welcome at the salon and a wide range of beauty treatments are on offer, whether you visit in your lunch hour or indulge in a longer pampering session. 99 St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1BT Tel: 01865 249347 www.taobeautyoxford.co.uk
TLA Fitness
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Oxfordshire's leading outdoor fitness provider. TLA Classes are group training sessions designed for all abilities and take place in public parks and open spaces throughout Oxford and the surrounding area. The TLA Studio houses both private and group classes. Come along and enjoy a free trial class. Sunningwell Village Hall, Sunningwell Village, Oxford, OX13 6RD Tel: 07554 400 401 www.tlafitness.com
Clinic on the Green
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Clinic on the Green offers expertise in Osteopathy, Cranial and Visceral Osteopathy, Sporting Performance and Pilates. The scope of osteopathic treatment includes back and neck pain, as well as knee, ankle, shoulder and other joint problems. The Old Blacksmith Shop, Bletchingdon Green, Weston Rd, OX5 3DH Tel: 01869 351345 www.cliniconthegreen.com
Bare UK
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With a passion for researching the most effective modern aesthetic treatments that can significantly improve your appearance, Bare offers extensive IPL Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation, as well as seamless and natural spray tanning. Their mission at Bare is to make you feel comfortable before and during the treatment, and full of confidence after it! TAO Beauty Salon, 99 St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1BT Tel: 01865 930339 www.bareuk.co.uk 97
OXFORDINFORMATION Transport
Akin to other historic cities around the world, Oxford was not built with motor transport in mind. Park and Ride Take the stress out of driving and make the most of one of giver Park and Ride facilities located within the Ring Road. This is a convenient and inexpensive way of getting to and from Oxford. Pear Tree: North of Oxford at A34/A44. Bus number 300, journey time 12 minutes to City Centre, departs every 8 to 10 minutes from 6am to 7.45pm Monday to Saturday (last bus at 11pm) and 8.30am to 7pm Sundays. Water Eaton: North of Oxford at A4260. Bus number 500, journey time 12 minutes to City Centre, departs every 15 minutes from 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday, no service on Sundays. Seacourt: West of Oxford at A420. Bus number 400, journey time 10 minutes to City Centre, departs every 10 to 12 minutes from 6am to 7pm Monday to Saturday (last bus at 11pm) and 8.30am to 7pm Sundays. Redbridge: South of Oxford at A4144. Bus number 300, journey time 10 minutes to City Centre, departs every 10 minutes from 6am to 7pm Monday to Saturday (last bus at 11pm) and 8.30am to 5pm Sundays (last bus at 7pm).
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Thornhill: East of Oxford at A40/M40. Bus number 400, journey time 15 minutes to City Centre, departs every 10 minutes from 6am to 7pm Monday to Saturday (last bus at 11pm) and 8.30am to 7pm Sundays. Oxford City Buses Oxford Bus Company (primarily red buses) and Stagecoach (primarily blue and orange buses) are the two main bus companies that operate around the city offering a comprehensive network of routes. Fares are reasonable – Expect to pay around £3 for a return ticket within Zone A. Oxford Bus Company offers a ‘Local Day Pass’ which covers most of theirs and Stagecoach’s routes within the SmartZone - £4 single day pass, £8 group day pass (the group day pass is valid for up to 2 adults and 3 children). Stagecoach also offers a Megarider ticket for unlimited travel for up to a year from £14. The services are frequent and reliable, with plenty of stops conveniently located throughout the city. For more information contact: Oxford Bus Company Tel: 01865 785400 www.oxfordbus.co.uk Stagecoach Tel: 01865 772250 www.stagecoachbus.com
Oxford to London Coach There are two direct, 24hr, high frequency coach services to the capital. The journey takes approximately 100 minutes and takes you from city centre to city centre. Both buses depart from Gloucester Green coach station and leave Oxford via the High Street, St. Clements and Headington. There are regular pick up and drop off stops along this route. Oxford X90: Information: 01865 785 400 www.oxfordbus.co.uk Oxford Tube: Information: 01865 772 250. www.oxfordtube.com Trains A frequent direct train service operates from London Paddington and Oxford (approximately 30 minutes) and between Birmingham New Street via Banbury and Coventry. For details see the National Rail Enquiries website. Oxford Train Station is located on Park End Street. There are frequent train services to all major UK destinations from Oxford. Getting to London takes roughly an hour and there are direct and indirect services running throughout the day. A frequent, direct train service operates between Oxford and Birmingham New Street via Banbury and Coventry. For information call: National Rail Enquiries: 0845 7 484950 24hr information line or visit: www.nationalrail.co.uk
Car Hire Budget: 01865 724 884 Avis Cars: 08445 446087 EuropCar: 01865 246373 Taxis Hackney Cabs can be picked up from taxi ranks at St.Giles, Gloucester Green, or the railway station, or you can hail them in the street. 001 Taxis: 01865 240 000 ABC Taxis: 01865 775 577 Royal Cars: 01865 777 333
Useful Numbers
A selection of numbers and locations for useful services in the central Oxford area. Crime Emergency: 999 Thames Valley Police: 0845 8505 505 Hospitals John Radcliffe: Headley Way, Headington 01865 741166 Churchill Hospital Old Road, headington 01865 741841 Tourist Information Oxford Information Centre: 15/16 Broad Street Post Offices 102 - 110 St Aldates, Oxford.
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42 34 15 14
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CITY ATTRACTIONSKEY: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Cherwell Boathouse Bodleian Library Botanic Gardens Museum of Oxford Bridge of Sighs Carfax Tower Church of St Michael Rhodes House
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Museum of the History of Science St Mary the Virgin Sheldonian Theatre Natural History Museum Oxford Castle Quarter Bate Collection of Musical Instruments Pitt Rivers Museum Christ Church Picture Gallery Modern Art Oxford
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COLLEGESKEY: 1 2 3 4 5 6 16
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32
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40
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All Souls Balliol
24
Brasenose
26
Christ Church
28
Exeter
30
Harris Manchester
32
Jesus
34
Kellogg
36
Linacre
38
Magdalen
40
Merton
42
Nuffield
44
Blackfriars
25
Campion Hall
27
Corpus Christi
29
Green Templeton
31
Hertford
33
Keble
35
Lady Margaret Hall
37
Lincoln
39
Mansfield
41
New
43
Oriel
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20
33
37
Pembroke Queen’s
Regent’s Park St Anne’s
St Antony’s
St Catherine’s St Cross
St Benet’s Hall
St Edmund Hall St Hilda’s
St Hugh’s St John’s
St Peter’s
St Stephen’s Somerville Trinity
University Wadham Wolfson
Worcester
Wycliffe Hall
COUNTY ATTRACTIONSKEY: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Oxfordshire Museum Waddesdon Manor River & Rowing Museum Didcot Railway Centre Roald Dahl’s Children’s Gallery Harcourt Arboretum Sulgrave Manor Cotswold Wildlife Park
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Blenheim Palace Oxford Airport Pendon Museum The White Horse Broughton Castle Millets Farm Buscot Park
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THE BEST IN OXFORD & OX F O R D S H I R E So why do we think we are so well placed to tell you what is The Best in Oxford?
Brought to you by the publishers of Living In Oxford Magazine, Oxfordshire’s Number One What’s On Guide, The Best In Oxford is a compendium of reviews and listings selected for your enjoyment. We not only independently review a wide range of restaurants, hotels, shops and places of interest each year, we only select those which we feel are of a certain quality and will be sure to meet our high standards for The Best In Oxford. Why not try them for yourself ?
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