Living in Oxford Magazine April 2017

ISSUE 183

APRIL 2017

www.livinginoxford.com - No.1 for What’s On In Oxford

City Sightseeing Oxford See page 6 6,500 copies printed every month since 2002

/inoxford The Official What’s On Guide of Experience Oxfordshire

@inoxford

Welcome to Living in Oxford Welcome to the April edition of Living in Oxford.

It must be April because City Sightseeing are on the cover! One of our most valued and, dare I say it, longest serving customers, City Sightseeing’s Jane Marshall and her team have been steadfastly adorning our cover for over 10 years. So thank you to you all for your incredible support and April just wouldn’t be April without the big red bus on the cover!

This edition also sees some great reviews for you to take advantage of. If you’re looking for restaurants, you can’t go wrong with Pierre Victoire, another Living in Oxford Magazine favourite and, in my opinion, one of Oxfordshire’s most consistent performers….always busy, always great value for money and Claire Harvey and her team are always very welcoming so pop along to Little Clarendon Street for a great meal.

We also feature the wonderful Malikas on Cowley Road, The Bear & Ragged Staff in Cumnor and The Snooty Mehmaan on the road to Faringdon. For the more cultured of you out there, why not visit Aidan Meller in Turl Street who has some real treasures to behold and some exciting private viewing news.

Don’t forget BIO2017 – book your tickets at www.businessinoxford.com, Oxfordshire’s biggest business to business showcase.

Enjoy April Richard Rosser Editor, Living In Oxford Magazine

Contents Oxfordshire Events

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Oxfordshire Accommodation

32

Oxfordshire Education

18

Oxfordshire Shopping

34

Oxfordshire Attractions

20

Oxford City Centre Map

36

Oxfordshire Theatre

22

Oxfordshire Sports

39

Oxfordshire Cinema

24

Oxfordshire Restaurants

40

Oxfordshire Music

26

Oxfordshire Health & Beauty

54

Oxfordshire Art & Antiques

28

Oxfordshire Services

56

The Living in Oxford Team

Richard Rosser

Jessica Palmer

Colin Rosser

Lorna Dodson

Editor

Accounts

Chairman

Operations Manager

Keith Simpson

Sue Rosser

Rob Scotcher

Emma Davis

Designer

Vouch & R&R

Designer

Designer

Talk to us!

FB: facebook.com/inoxford TW: twitter.com/inoxford Email: info@inoxford.com Advertising: If you’d like to advertise with Living In Oxford Magazine or any of its sister publications please call Richard on 01865 742211 or email enquiries@designs-on.co.uk Subscriptions: If you have difficulty obtaining your copy of Living In Oxford we can mail you a copy each month at £25.00 per annum. Please call us on 01865 742211 or Email us: admin@inoxford.com Stocking Living In Oxford Magazine, Distribution Services: To find out about receiving copies of Living In Oxford Magazine or becoming an outlet, please call Richard on 01865 742211 or Email: admin@inoxford.com Contact: Living In Oxford Magazine, PO Box 388, Kidlington, OX5 9EH Tel: 01865 742211 Fax: 01865 741391 Email: admin@inoxford.com 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 express permission of the publisher and the advertiser, where relevant. All information is correct at time of going to press.

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In this issue of Living in Oxford...

City Sightseeing

6

"If you have the possibility to visit Oxford you have to do the City Sightseeing Bus Tour. During this tour you can see a lot of important monuments and famous places in Oxford."

Aidan Meller Gallery

30

"Aidan Meller gallery offers private collectors access to the best examples of original work by the world’s masters across almost 1,000 years of art history and nine gallery departments."

Pierre Victoire

46

"Pierre Victoire bistrot, located on Little Clarendon Street in the heart of Oxford’s Jericho district, has been delighting customers since 1996. If you’re looking for traditional French food which is presented well and doesn’t cost a fortune..."

• Snooty Mehmaan

48

• Malikas Restaurant

50

• Bear & Ragged Staff

52

Interested in reading more of our reviews?

Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City www.livinginoxford.com

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FACTS & FIGURES

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Lead Article:

City Sightseeing Reviewed by Shannon Durand 12th February

If you have the possibility to visit Oxford you have to do the City Sightseeing Bus Tour.

During this tour you can see a lot of important monuments and famous places in Oxford.

Moreover you can listen to information with the earphones which are provided together with the bus ticket. You can choose between 11 languages so that everyone is able to follow and enjoy the explanations.

Thanks to the tickets which are valid for 24 hours or 48 hours you are able to stop wherever you want. You can get o and on at every bus stops along the route and visit the di erent colleges and museums.

The bus has 20 bus stops which allows you to easily visit a lot of great places. You can combine your bus ticket with other city attractions like the Christ Church College with the Harry Potter Dining Room and make a real day of it.

The bus has many seats below which are covered, so having a great view doesn't rely on having great weather which we all know can be a problem in England!

It is a very interesting tour which is not only recommendable to children but also to adults and it permits to see Oxford in a historical way. Even people who have lived in Oxford for a long time can gain a new perspective and have a lovely day out with these tours.

If you are thinking of visiting Oxford, or if you are already here, the City Sightseeing bus tours are an obligation.

No 1 Shop, Railway Station, Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1HS Tel: 01865 790522 Web: citysightseeingoxford.com www.livinginoxford.com

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HAVE YOU SEEN OUR BRAND NEW LOOK? We are proud to announce that our brand new website is now live at www.livinginoxford.com.

The new website has all the great features you see on the following pages.

Visit us to find upcoming events near you, restaurants by cuisine type, hotels by rate and area, and much more.

You can post your own listing on the new website, too, so if you are a business or have an event coming up don’t hesitate to take a look.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT LIVINGINOXFORD.COM/ADVERTISING

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April Offers Take advantage of our fantastic April offers as follows: Offer One

Offer Two

Gold Package usually £2,000 reduced to £750* ONLY 10 AVAILABLE

Cover package including the Review and Video Package just £1,000+VAT (worth £3,000+VAT) ONLY 4 AVAILABLE

Living in Oxford Magazine • One x double page review for one month • Three x 12 month listing • 1/3 page advert for 12 months Living in Oxford Magazine 12 month listing to include: • Review from the magazine • 3 minute promotional video • Ability to post unlimted listing on the website • Entry into the 2017 Living in Oxford Awards

We are now selling our cover page for an extra £500+VAT on top of the £500+VAT for the Review and Video package, you can secure: • Your business’s image on the cover of Living in Oxford Magazine • Your advert on the back cover of Living in Oxford Magazine *All rates quoted net of VAT and apply to one off payments only

Why Choose Living in Oxford?

1. Over 15 years experience advertising businesses in Oxfordshire.

2. First on Google for "what's on in Oxford", "events in Oxford" etc.

3. An online readership of over 30,000 unique visitors per month.

4. Over 6,500 copies of the printed magazine are circulated monthly to over 500 visitor locations including Oxford Town Hall, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Tourist Information Centre and many more.

5. Over 10,000 followers on social media such as Twitter and Facebook.

How to Get Involved We offer a wide array of package options to help you pick what’s right for you business, from just a single listing on the website, all the way to a full advertising package involving videos, adverts and reviews.

These can be found at: promo.livinginoxford.com If you have any enquiries or would like to get involved call us on 01865 742211, or email us at info@inoxford.com.

TO GET INVOLVED CONTACT US ON 01865 742211 OR EMAIL INFO@INOXFORD.COM

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Features of the New Website By joining the Living In Oxford website you’ll have access to the following great features: Visually attractive listing pages The new website gives you a whole page for your listing, including descriptions, full size banners, galleries and all the meta information you could imagine.

Enquiry forms Allow customers to contact you directly through our website, removing a few steps to getting in touch.

Full control over your own listings No more having to ask us to change information for you.

Your pages are now completely under your control to change as you see fit. Publish and un-publish listings and edit your profile with the click of a button.

Google Maps We want to make it as easy as possible for people to find you, so all of our listings implement Google Maps, including navigation functions.

Your own “profile” page If you happen to go for one of our Event packages you’ll be posting numerous listings throughout the year – these are all easily viewable on your own profile page for visitors to find.

Intelligent opening hours Enter your opening hours on your listing page and the website will tell visitors straight away whether you’re currently open or not.

Categories & Filters Great new sortable and filterable listings pages to make your business easy to find in all the right categories.

We’ll admit the old Living In Oxford website was a little difficult to find things on, but now you can find events by date, sort by specific months, locations and even suitable weather types!

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Here's what our customers have to say...

“The Ashmolean has enjoyed working with Living in Oxford Magazine for over ten years now and remembers fondly the Living in Oxford Magazine 10th Birthday anniversary party which is still talked about as one of our best ever events!” Ashmolean Museum “Living In Oxford Magazine has helped Macdonald Randolph Hotel reach residents and visitors to the city of Oxford for over ten years. Most recently, Living in Oxford Magazine has helped us to promote our new all day restaurant and bar, Acanthus and Cartoon Bar, most certainly Oxford’s place to be seen.”

Macdonald Randolph Hotel “Living in Oxford Magazine gets you straight to the best of what’s on in the city; an indispensable monthly guide.”

Sarah Wiseman Gallery “Living in Oxford Magazine has been proved a great means of communication with new and existing audiences of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.”

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra

TO GET INVOLVED CONTACT US ON 01865 742211 OR EMAIL INFO@INOXFORD.COM

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Oxfordshire Events Calendar 2017 A quick overview of events to look forward to. For a full list of what’s going on in Oxford and Oxfordshire, see the website! www.livinginoxford.com

Easter Charity Family Fun Day Saturday 9th April: Bring the whole family along to the first ever dog & owner races in benson - raising money for the wonderful Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary. The event is taking place at Benson Parish Hall, Sunnyside within the Pavilion and recreation grounds. There will also be pet portraits, Easter arts & crafts, cakes, face painting, bouncy castles, hot food and much, much more! www.facebook.com/pawdropspetservices

Egg-citing Easter Challenge Monday 10th April: It’s time to get cracking with an Easter holiday family workshop all about eggs. Your mission is to build a car that can protect and transport your egg safely, ensuring that it survives the odd crash or two along the way! The eggcellent engineers at Science Oxford will be on hand to provide helpful tips and tricks as you work together to build, test and redesign your special crash test cars. www.scienceoxford.com

Blenheim Palace Easter Weekend Friday 14th - Monday 17th April: Explore the Formal Gardens with our first ever giant Easter Egg hunt, then join the Easter Bunny at our vintage fun fair at the Pleasure Gardens. Enjoy a Helter Skelter, chair o'planes, mini swinging chairs, game stalls, a clown and 'buttlerfly' stilt walkers, offering lots of fun for younger visitors. Families can also enjoy Punch & Judy shows, face painting, circus workshops and much more! www.blenheimpalace.com

Mummers, Maypoles and Milkmaids Until Saturday 22nd April: An exhibition of photographs by Sara Hannant featuring English customs and rituals throughout the year. From costumed processions to traditional dance and ceremonies, this exhibition is on loan from the Horniman Museum and Gardens, and marks the centenary of the death of Oxford antiquary Percy Manning. www.oxford.gov.uk/museumofoxford

Oxford Comic Con at Examination School Saturday 22nd - Sunday 23rd April: Oxford Comic Con is a unique event, merging creativity and intellect in one of the most beautiful venues in the world. It is a two day celebration of popular culture, comic books, cosplay, science fiction and intellectual debate. www.oxcon.xyz

Michael Cardew: His Years in Africa Saturday 13th May: Hear about the time Michael Cardew spent in Africa between the 1940s and 60s, setting up the Abuja pottery in Nigeria, and working with potters such as Dr Ladi Kwali. This is an Ashmolean Clay Live event. Listen to some of the leading figures of contemporary studio pottery in Britain today in the Ashmolean Pottery Programme. Tickets are £10/£8 and booking is essential. www.ashmolean.org

Come and Sing Beethoven's 9th Symphony Friday 26th May: Come and Sing Beethoven's 9th Symphony with the Oxford Studio Orchestra. Choral singers invited to join in this special performance, with 100 singers from Bonn and soloists from the Birmingham Conservatoire. www.oxford.gov.uk/townhall

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Oxfordshire Events Experience Oxfordshire 15-16 Broad Street Oxford OX1 3AS. Tel: 01865 686430. Web: www.experienceoxfordshire.org Experience Oxfordshire is pleased to promote the many wonderful cultural events, shows, exhibitions and festivals that take place across the city and county. There’s always something going on in Oxfordshire, for all interests and ages. Check our calendar to see what events are on tonight, this weekend, or during your future visit.

The Big Batsford Chicken Hunt! At Batsford Arboretum Saturday 8th – Sunday 23rd April: You may have heard of an Easter Egg hunt, now find the chickens that laid them! They’re all hiding at Batsford Arboretum - find them to win a prize! £2.50 per child, plus admission fee (children must be accompanied by an adult). No need to book, just turn up and enjoy! www.batsarb.co.uk Easter at Cogges Manor Farm Monday 10th – Friday 21st April: An eggciting two weeks of wonderful Easter activities to keep all ages busy over the holidays. Each day brings a different reason to pop along to Cogges, as well as an Easter scavenger hunt around the site available from the visitor entrance for £2 (including prize).

All additional activities are included with your entry fee or free for season ticket holders. www.cogges.org.uk How to Hide a Lion at Oxford Playhouse Wednesday 12th - Thursday 13th, Saturday 15th, Wednesday 19th - Sunday 23rd April: Helen Stephens’ rip roaring story comes to life with puppetry and songs. Join Iris on a mission to squeeze and squash her furry new friend into a variety of sneaky spots, as Helen Stephens’ magical book comes to life this Easter holiday with playful humour, dazzling puppetry and original songs. www.oxfordplayhouse.com Maundy Thursday at The Sheldonian Theatre Thursday 13th April: Left incomplete upon his untimely death aged thirty-five, Mozart's Requiem is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Joined by four leading soloists and the distinguished Choir of The Queen's College, the Requiem integrates archaic forms with divine classicism. www.oxfordphil.com/maundy-thursday-1 Offside at The North Wall Arts Centre Thursday 20th April: Four women from across the centuries live, breathe, and play football.

Offside is told through lyrical dialogue, poetry, and punchy prose, placing the audience on the touchline of the game of a lifetime. This new play from Futures Theatre continues the company’s tradition of creating and producing work that puts women’s stories centre stage. www.thenorthwall.com O No! at The Old Fire Station Friday 28th April: A psychedelic ride, and a wonky homage to the woman damned for destroying the Beatles, O No! borrows Yoko Ono’s art instructions to ask whether falling in love is always catastrophic. A sell-out success and one of the most talked about shows of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2015. It’s about reckless optimism, avant-garde art and what we might yet have to learn from the hippies. www.oldfirestation.org.uk

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Oxfordshire Events The Oxfordshire Museum Park Street, Woodstock, OX20 1SN. Tel: 01993 811456. Web: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxfordshiremuseum We are closed Good Friday and open from 12pm - 5pm on Bank Holiday Monday

Oxford Printmakers: 40 Years On… Saturday 1st - Sunday 30th April: Celebrating 40 years, this selling exhibition will feature a stunning collection of members work. Free Admission.

The Traditions of Morris Dancing by Dr. Tony Merry Wednesday 5th April: Part of the Friends of The Oxfordshire Museum lecture programme. Time: 7.30pm. Tickets: Friends FREE, Visitors £4.

Easter Holiday Activities TOM Tots Tuesday 11th & Tuesday 18th April: Stories, songs and crafts for the under 5’s Time: 10.30am 11am. Tickets: £1.50 per family group.

Brilliant Baskets Tuesday 11th April: Family Fun Drop-in. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Tickets: £2 per child.

Anglo-Saxon Fun Thursday 13th April: Family Fun Drop-in. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Tickets: £2 per child.

Perfect Prints Tuesday 18th April: Family Fun Drop-in. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Tickets: £2 per child.

Anglo-Saxon Fun Thursday 20th April: Family Fun Drop-in. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Tickets: £2 per child.

Pitt Rivers Museum South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PP Tel: 01865 270927 Web: www.prm.ox.ac.uk

Hide Tanning and Rabbit Mittens Workshop Saturday 1st April: Learn how ancient peoples tanned hide with Woodland Ways' bushcraft team before having a go at the tanning process and making your very own pair of rabbit skin mittens. Cost: £25 (Includes all tuition and materials). Time: 10am - 4pm.

Easter Holidays Trail: Eggstraordinary Easter Eggventure Saturday 8th - Sunday 23rd April: Eggsplore the Museums with an eggciting egg-hunters trail.

Easter Holiday Activities: The Great Pitt Rivers Feast Off Monday 10th - Wednesday 12th April: What's in a Japanese feast or an Inuit meal? Forage for favourite foods from across the globe. Time: 1pm - 4pm.

Folk Weekend Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd April: Join us for Folk Weekend Oxford for storytelling, songs, games and music workshops. Time: 11am - 4.30pm.

Interested in reading more Event listings?

Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City 14

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Oxford Castle Unlocked 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 260666. Web: www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk Discover 1,000 years of Oxford’s history. Oxford Castle Unlocked is a visitor attraction with a past stretching far beyond your imagination. Led by a costumed character guide, the rich history of the castle will be revealed.

Climb the Saxon St George’s Tower, descend deep underground into the Crypt, explore the Prison D-Wing and scale the Mound of the 11th century motte-and-bailey castle.

See a full list of our events at www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk. Opening Times: 10am - 5pm.

Romeo & Juliet Monday 3rd July - Saturday 29th July: Following their highly praised, sell out productions of Twelfth Night, Macbeth and A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing, Tomahawk Theatre returns to the magnificent Oxford Castle this summer to revive their critically acclaimed production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. This sumptuous, elegant and dynamic production will include song and dance and always remain faithful to the beautiful language and tragic story of love, separation and divided loyalties. Book online at oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk. Time: 7.30pm.

Bitten Oxford Web: bittenoxford.co.uk Twitter: @BittenOxford Facebook: /bittenoxford

Bitten Street Saturday 1st April: Bitten Street, Oxford’s street food market, kicked off in 2014. We’ve since made Oxford Castle Quarter our home, with a rotating selection of street food and drink. Hosting a regular collection of local traders while also playing host to a glittering selection of the UK’s best street food traders from further afield, each event is unique and each trader is hand picked for their awesome food and epic vans/trucks/stalls.

Time: 11am - 3pm.

WITH HEARPLAN YOU HAVE PEACE OF MIND Normally when you buy hearing aids you are also paying for all your initial assessments, fitting fees and ongoing hearing tests and care, but we realise that paying for all this in one go

can sometimes be prohibitive and not all hearing aid users require the same level of aftercare and end up paying for something they do not use.

So we have introduced HearPlan.

For a monthly subscription you will receive: ● All of the care and support you need to improve your hearing ● £200.00 off the cost of each hearing instrument ● Preferential pricing on new technology if you choose to upgrade your hearing aid ● Offers on accessories that you may need to help you hear in every e nvironment 01865 910 202 | enquires@tripphearing.co.uk | www.tripphearing.co.uk Clarendon Business Centre, Sandford Gate, East Point Business Park Sandy Lane West, Oxford, OX4 6LB

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BUSINESS

7 We are very excited to announce that the biggest business networking and showcase event in the county returns for a 4th year at a brand new venue for 2017! We will be at The King’s Centre in the centre of Oxford on Thursday, May 11th from 8:15am, starting with a networking breakfast with the official opening of the event following at 9am.

The 30,000sq ft. venue will welcome over 70 exhibition stands, the county’s renowned keynote speakers from some of the most innovative brands and host over 25 cutting – edge seminars, presentations and roundtable sessions that will provide you with plenty of business advice and inspiration and learn about products & services to help their business exceed its goals.

W: www.businessinoxford.com #BIO2017 16

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BIO2017 TICKETS NOW ON SALE Visit businessinoxford2017.eventbrite.co.uk to secure your place today.

At BIO2017 you can expect to meet hundreds of companies, make great new contacts and network throughout the day!

If you are serious about your business, BIO2017 is a "MUST ATTEND EVENT." TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR EARLY BIRD PRICE! REGISTER TODAY. Your BIO2017 badge gives you full access to the Exhibitor Hall & 25+ Business Critical TED style seminars and more!

Want to Exhibit/Sponsor for 11th May 2017?

It's a great opportunity to showcase your products and services to hundreds of delegates, connect with other local businesses and there's a guaranteed media presence.

Visit www.businessinoxford.com for more information.

T: 01865 742211 E: info@businessinoxford.com www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Education The Lake School of English Oxford 14 Park End Street, Oxford OX1 1JQ. Tel: +44 (0) 1865 724312.

Email: carmel@englishinoxford.com Web: www.englishinoxford.com In the centre of Oxford, the Lake School of English offers a professional, dynamic approach to teaching and a supportive environment for learning with intensive courses delivered by well-qualified and experienced teachers. Our students enjoy personal attention, inclusive social activities, comfortable accommodation and lovely self-study facilities. The Lake School is British Council accredited, a leading Centre of Excellence 2010 – 2015, and a member of Quality English.

Our Lady’s Abingdon Abingdon on Thames, Oxfordshire, OX14 3PS. Tel: 01235 524658. Web: www.olab.org.uk The facilities on offer are extensive. Building programmes over recent years have provided excellent teaching facilities for subjects across the curriculum including a spacious Sixth Form Centre and a purpose built Nursery. A major building programme was recently completed. This included a new auditorium, drama studio, science laboratory, exhibition and reception area, teaching space and library/resource centre.

Eckersley Oxford 14 Friars Entry, Oxford OX1 2BZ. Tel: 01865 721268. Web: www.eckersley.co.uk Over 50 years teaching English to foreign students in the centre of Oxford, with experienced and qualified teachers. Our long tradition combines with a 21st century approach and state-of-the-art facilities, including interactive whiteboards, a digital language laboratory and of course wireless access from just about anywhere in the School.

Interested in reading more Education listings?

Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City 18

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Oxfordshire Attractions City Sightseeing Bus Tours Oxford Railway Station, Park End Street, OX1 1HS. Tel: 01865 790522. Web: www.citysightseeingoxford.com Our award winning one hour tour takes you on a fascinating journey around both the famous University colleges and the historic buildings of the city itself. Hop on and off at any of our nineteen bus stops around the town. All buses have live guides or recorded commentary in up to thirteen languages. Tours operate all day every day except Christmas/Boxing and New years day.

Tickets valid on Red and Green Buses.

St Michael at the North Gate Cornmarket Street, Oxford, OX1 3EY. Tel: 01865 240940. Web: www.smng.org.uk St Michael at the North Gate is the oldest Church Tower in Oxford and is definitely worth a visit! There’s also a treasury of silver and bronze dating back to the 1600s and you can also see a copy of the church accounts dating back hundreds of years. Open: 10.30am - 5pm (10.30am - 4pm in Winter). Admission: Adults and Concessions £2.50, Students £2.00, Children £1.30, Family ticket £7.00

The James Sadler Oxford Balloon Experience Tel: 0845 116 8899. Email: info@oxfordballoonexperience.com Web: www.oxfordballoonexperience.com The James Sadler Oxford Balloon Experience, a World class attraction to commemorate James Sadler, a working-class hero who made history in 1784 by becoming the first Englishman to fly, as well as many other remarkable achievements. The Centre will offer 120 metre high balloon rides in a tethered balloon, alongside a complementary information and education centre, educating visitors about Sadler’s extraordinary achievements.

Education is key: interactive scientific concepts will be designed with children in mind.

Oxford Visitor Information Centre 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS Tel: 01865 686 430.

Email: info@experienceoxfordshire.org Web: experienceoxfordshire.org The Oxford Visitor Information Centre staff provide an extensive range of services to help make your stay enjoyable and memorable. We offer a wide range of guides, maps, souvenirs and local produce. We also can guide you to the best Oxfordshire has to offer. We are also the home of Oxford Official Walking Tours, the best way to explore Oxford on foot. See in store or get in contact with us by Tel: 01865 686430 Email: info@experienceoxfordshire.org

Oxford Official Walking Tours 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS Tel: 01865 686442. Web: experienceoxfordshire.org/official-tours What better way to discover our beautiful city than on foot? The Oxford Official Walking Tours are a fascinating and entertaining way to explore and learn about this unique city, its history, University, famous people and odd traditions. Oxford Official Walking Tours cover a wide range of topics from an introduction to the city and its University to Inspector Morse, Harry Potter, J.R.R. Tolkien and more. Email: officialtours@experienceoxfordshire.org

Carfax Tower Junction of St Aldates and High Street, Oxford OX1 4AZ. Tel: 01865 792653.

Open: 10am to 5.30pm. Admission: £2.20, Children £1.10.

In 1818 St Martin’s church was rebuilt complete with tower. However, the church, apart from its tower, was demolished in 1896. The tower is all that remains today. Two ‘quarter boys’ who hit the bells at every quarter hour adorn the east facade of the church clock. Climb up 99 steps to get a sweeping view of Oxford’s spires.

Open 10am - 5.30pm, Apr - Oct (4.30pm in October), Admission £2.20, Children £1.10.

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Oxford Castle Quarter 43 Oxford Castle, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1AY. Tel: 01865 20165. Web: www.oxfordcastle.com Oxford’s oldest new quarter, once home to the infamous Oxford Prison and now home to an exciting hub of restaurants and the gorgeous Malmaison Boutique Hotel. The Castle also has an exciting visitor attraction ‘Oxford Castle Unlocked,’ where the secrets of the castle have been unlocked. For art lovers there is the O3 Gallery, with exhibitions all year round.

Cherwell Boathouse - Punting Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6ST (1 mile from the town centre).

Tel: 01865 515978. Web: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk Enjoy the quintessential Oxford experience punting on the River Cherwell.

With over 70 hand built punts, boats and canoes. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in a beautiful tranquil environment on the river.

University Church of St. Mary the Virgin High Street, Oxford OX1 4BJ. Tel: 01865 279111. Web: www.university-church.ox.ac.uk St Mary’s is situated at the historic heart of the City and University of Oxford.

Thought to be the oldest university building in the world, the Tower was built in 1280, and the University’s reference library was added in 1320. It is worth the climb of 127 steps to make it to the top to enjoy fine uninterrupted views across Oxford and the surrounding countryside. Open: 9am to 5pm (July and August 9am-6pm).

Tower Admission: Adult £4 (Concs £2.50)

Didcot Railway Centre Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NJ. Tel: 01235 817200.

Web: www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Home of the Great Western Society and its unique collection of Great Western Railway steam engines, coaches, wagons, buildings and small relics and a recreation of Brunel’s broad gauge railway. Heritage Diesel Days: 1/2/8-9 April. Exhibition Only Days: 10-13/18/20-21 April. 50 Years at Didcot Gala: 14-17/19/22-23/29-30 April & 1 May.

www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Theatre New Theatre Oxford George St, Oxford, OX1 2AG Tel: 0844 871 3020. Web: www.atgtickets.com/oxford

The First Hippo On The Moon Friday 21st - Saturday 22nd April: From Number One bestselling children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first?

Adapted for the stage by acclaimed award winning Theatre company Les Petits comes a fantastical adventure featuring puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon! Visit www. atgtickets.com/oxford for pricing.

My First Ballet: Cinderella Friday 28th - Saturday 29th April: Enjoy everyone’s favourite rags-toriches story, in a beautifully adapted ballet version for children aged three upwards. Cinderella is tormented by her stepsisters and she can only dream of attending the Prince’s glamourous ball. Abandoned to an evening of drudgery, she is visited by her Fairy Godmother who transforms her into a glittering Princess who shall go to the ball. Visit www.atgtickets.com/oxford for pricing.

Oxford Playhouse Oxford Playhouse, 11 - 12 Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW. Box Office: 01865 305305. Web: www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Fantastic Mr. Fox Tuesday 11th - Saturday 15th April: You know as well as I do: no-one outfoxes a fox! Boggis, Bunce and Bean are three smelly, horrid farmers who all really hate the cunning Mr. Fox. Mr. Fox is smart, clever and rather fantastic, but he doesn’t realise how determined the farmers are to get him. Can he hatch a plan to save his family and friends? Can they outrun the diggers and keep one step ahead of the terrible trio? And can Rabbit shut up for long enough to not give the game away? Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com for pricing.

How to Hide a Lion Wednesday 12th - Sunday 23rd April: Helen Stephens’ rip roaring story comes to life with puppetry and songs. When a lion is chased out of town, a young girl helps him find somewhere to hide. It’s not easy – lions are too big, too fluffy and too heavy! Join Iris on a mission to squeeze and squash her furry new friend into a variety of sneaky spots, as Helen Stephens’ magical book comes to life this Easter holiday with playful humour, dazzling puppetry and original songs. Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com for pricing.

Cornerstone Arts Centre Station Rd, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11.

Tel: 01235 515144. Web: www.cornerstone-arts.org

For Kids and Childish Grown-ups Sunday 9th April: Magicians, time-travellers and all-round spiffing chaps.

Time travelling Victorian magic duo Morgan & West unload another boxful of bafflement and impossibility. Witness a mountain of mysterious magic, a hatful of hyper-reality, and of course a truck full of tricks and tea. Mixing brain busting illusion and good old fashioned tomfoolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound! Fun for all from ages 5 to 105*. Suitable for ages 5+ . Tickets: £10, Conc £9. Time: 2pm.

Tweedy's Lost Property Thursday 13th April: A comedy about a clown who gives in to society and gets a real job. Not knowing who he is anymore, Tweedy gets a job in a Lost Property Office to try and find himself. Suitable for ages 5+. Tickets: £8, Conc £6. Time: 11am & 2pm

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Creation Theatre Tel: 01865 766266 Web: www.creationtheatre.co.uk

Easter Holidays Workshops 2017 Monday 10th - Friday 21st April: Our Easter workshops are on sale and selling fast! We’ll be at d’Overbroecks for two weeks of Put on a Play in a Week workshops – we’ll be getting to grips with two classic texts and Shakespeares, and turning them into performances for friends and family. 6-8 years & 9-12 years.

Location: d’Overbroecks (Leckford Road site).

Old Fire Station 40 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AQ Tel: 01865 263980. Web: www.oldfirestation.org.uk

Tamburlaine Thursday 13th - Saturday 15th April: A startling new adaptation of Christopher Marlowe’s controversial and compelling masterpiece. The story of a lowly shepherd who rises to power and conquers half the known world through sheer brutality and self-belief. Presented by an East Asian cast in a startling new adaptation that calls into question the very nature of power, masculinity and violence. Tickets: £12, £10 (concs).

Oxford Improvisers Tuesday 18th April - Tuesday 4th July: The Oxford Improvisers invite guests from Britain and abroad to perform an evening of new and improvised music. ‘Free music’ is an internationally respected approach that embraces players from the worlds of jazz, classical, experimental and ethnic music. The Improvisers put aside the rules and structures which enclose so many forms of music. Tickets: £9, £6 (concs).

ROYAL OXFORD HOTEL 

Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1HR +44 (0)1865 248432 info@royaloxfordhotel.co.uk www.royaloxfordhotel.co.uk

www.livinginoxford.com

MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY

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Oxfordshire Cinema April Film Releases Select highlights of films on in Oxford and Oxfordshire over this month. Please see inoxford.com for more details and trailers. Tweet us what you think of this months releases @inoxford

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket and Groot are back for ‘Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2’, in a cosmos-spanning adventure to try and track down Peter Quill’s mysterious father. They know he’s not human, but it’s not much of a lead to go on. And their search doesn’t go smoothly as a new threat rears its head – after all, the galaxy isn’t going to save itself. Get hooked on a feeling all over again for ‘Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2.’

The Sense Of An Ending The Sense Of An Ending' tells the story of Tony Webster, a retired man who, out of nowhere, is forced to confront the consequences of things he did long ago. One day, he learns that his old girlfriend's mother has left a diary in her will - a diary that used to belong to Tony's best friend. His quest to recover the diary leads him to revisit the memories of his youth, and he doesn't necessarily remember how events actually turned out.

Unforgettable Tessa was barely holding it together after her divorce as it was. And then her ex-husband got engaged to another woman. Now, she's determined to make sure she'll be ‘Unforgettable'. What starts out as jealousy and anger soon turns into madness, as Tessa's grip on reality becomes ever more tenuous. David and Julia are happy and living the dream, but Tessa's obsessed with turning their life into a nightmare.

Peppa Pig: My First Cinema Experience Join Peppa in this exciting new preschool cinema experience, with plenty of snorts, giggles and jumping up and down in muddy puddles! Leading with Peppa Visits London, the first of the never-before-seen episodes, Peppa and her friends hop on board a double-decker red bus as the Queen takes them on an unforgettable tour of iconic London landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Trafalgar Square.

The Fate of the Furious Now that Dom (Vin Diesel) and Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) are on their honeymoon, Brian and Mia have retired from the game, and the rest of the crew has been exonerated, the globetrotting team has found a semblance of a normal life. But when a mysterious woman seduces Dom back into a world of crime that he can't seem to escape, the crew will face trials that will test them as never before.

Rules Don't Apply Small-town beauty queen and devout Baptist Marla Mabrey (Lily Collins), under contract to the infamous Howard Hughes (Warren Beatty), arrives in Los Angeles. At the airport, she meets her driver, Frank Forbes, only two weeks on the job and also from a religiously conservative background.

Their instant attraction not only puts their religious convictions to the test but also defies Hughes' number one rule.

Going in Style Lifelong buddies Willie (Morgan Freeman), Joe (Michael Caine) and Al (Alan Arkin) decide to buck retirement and step off the straight-and-narrow for the first time in their lives when their pension fund becomes a corporate casualty. Desperate to pay the bills and come through for their loved ones, the three men risk it all by embarking on a daring adventure to knock off the very bank that absconded with their money.

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SHOW OFF YOUR BEST SIDE WITH AN OFFICIAL LIVING IN OXFORD VIDEO Give the world a unique insight into your business.

This might include internal and external shots of your premises, an interview with a particular member of staff and for example for a restaurant, some action shots of your head chef cooking his signature dish!

View our recent videos online here: bit.ly/2bOmB1u

WWW.LIVINGINOXFORD.COM Get in touch for more information on 01865 742211 or email info@inoxford.com

Oxfordshire Music Music at Oxford Osney Lock Boathouse, Osney Lock, Bridge Street, Oxford, OX2 0AX. Box Office: 01865 244806. Web: www.musicatoxford.com

Leonore Trio Saturday 22nd April: Benjamin Nabarro Violin, Gemma Rosefield Cello, Tim Horton Piano. Bridge Phantasie in C minor, Brahms Trio no. 2 in C op.

87, Mendelssohn Trio no. 1 in D minor op. 49. Each an outstanding soloist in their own right, the three members of the Leonore Trio come together to deliver impassioned performances of three glowing masterworks from the chamber music repertoire. 'Burning passion is ignited ... something that the Leonore Trio harness to striking effect.' Gramophone Magazine. The pre-concert talk will begin at 6.30pm and is free to ticket holders. Tickets: £20 (Students £15 & Under 18s £10) Box Office 01865 244806, Online musicatoxford.com. Time: 7.30pm - 9.20pm.

Venue: Holywell Music Room

Rachel Podger Violin Kristian Bezuidenhout Fortepiano Friday 28th April: Mozart Sonatas for violin & piano K454, K306, K302, Beethoven Sonata for violin & piano in C minor op. 30 no. 2. Rachel Podger and Kristian Bezuidenhout are two of the top exponents of historically informed performance practice. The three sonatas by Mozart for violin and piano are the very embodiment of classical sonata form, while that of Beethoven — dedicated to Tsar Alexander I — has all the elegance of the form, while simultaneously pushing at the boundaries and increasing the intensity. Tickets: £10 - £42, Box Office 01865 244806, Online musicatoxford.com. Time: 7.30pm - 9.20pm. Venue: Sheldonian Theatre.

 OXFORD COFFEE CONCERTS

One of the top ten things to do in the UK (Observer) Nominated for the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards 2012. Every Sunday Morning at 11:15am. In the Wonderful Holywell Music Room (Oldest Concert Hall in Europe) Coffee Served before and after the concert at the Kings Arms and Vaults Cafe.

9th April: Leonore Piano Trio Shostakovich: Piano Trio no 2 in E minor, op 67 16th April: Adderbury Ensemble directed by Christopher Bucknell Bach: Cantata no 4 (Christ lag in Todesbanden) 23rd April: Aquinas Piano Trio Chopin: Piano Trio in G minor, op 8. Brahms: Piano Trio no 1 in B major, op 8 30th April: Piatti String Quartet Haydn: String Quartet in C major, op 33 no 3 (“The Bird”) Debussy: String Quartet in G minor, op 10 £12 Adults, £6 Children ages 11 -17. Admission is free of charge to children aged of 5-10 accompanied by an adult.

(Please note: we do not allow children under the age of 5.) Tickets Available at the door or from Oxford Playhouse.

Tel: 01865 305305. Web: www.coffeeconcerts.com

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www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Art & Antiques Sanders of Oxford 104 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 242590. E-mail: info@sandersofoxford.com Sanders of Oxford, situated in the 17th century Salutation Inn, has long been a landmark on the High Street. Our selection of prints and maps, dating from 16th – 20th Centuries, is extensive and encompasses a wide range of subjects, engravers and prices.

Kieran Stiles Art Studios Folly Bridge, Oxford. E-mail: kieran@artcoursesoxford.com Tel: 07967 075367. Web: www.artcoursesoxford.com A range of beginner and advanced courses in painting, printmaking and life drawing with a professional artist and experienced, qualified teacher.

Mid-week and weekend tuition in a friendly atmosphere. Group sessions, all day workshops and individual tutorials. Exhibition space available. All in the inspiring setting of Folly Bridge, Oxford.

Modern Art Oxford 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP. Tel: 01865 722 733. Web: www.modernartoxford.org.uk Founded in 1966, Modern Art Oxford is one of the UK’s most exciting and influential contemporary art spaces with an international reputation for ambitious and innovative projects. The gallery is open to all and all our exhibitions and events are completely free of charge, unless stated. We aim to make contemporary art accessible and engaging to the widest audience through presentation and participation.

Aidan Meller Gallery 13 Turl Street, Oxford, OX1 3DQ. Tel: 01865 580437 14 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS. Tel: 01865 250550 Aidan Meller Galleries is a specialist fine art dealer with three exhibitions spaces in Oxford showing contemporary, modernist and old master art.

Recent exhibitions have included original works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, Joan Miró, Edward Burne-Jones and John Everett Millais. Opening hours: Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm, Sun 11am – 5pm

Spring Exhibition 1ST - 29TH APRIL 2017 www.wisegal.com Tel: 01865 515 123 40-41 South Parade Summertown Oxford OX2 7JL

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Sanders of Oxford Antique Prints & Maps

Sanders of Oxford, situated in the 17th century Salutation Inn, has long been a landmark on the High Street. Our selection of prints and maps, dating from 16th – 20th Centuries, is extensive and encompasses a wide range of subjects, engravers and prices.

On display in the gallery at the moment we have a fantastic collection of early maps of Oxford, Great Britain and the rest of the World alongside some of the rarest printed views of the University City. Also keep an eye out on our social media feeds for news of our latest catalogue of recent acquisitions.

104 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 242590.

E-mail: info@sandersofoxford.com.

Web: www.sandersofoxford.com. Admission: FREE. Open: Mon to Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 11am - 5pm

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Art & Antiques Article:

Aidan Meller Gallery Aidan Meller gallery on Turl Street offer private collectors access to the best examples of original work by the world's masters from John Constable to Millais, Picasso and Warhol.

The gallery, exceptional outside London for the quality of work exhibited, is located in the heart of Oxford’s city centre. Exclusively featuring rare original work from internationally acclaimed artists, Aidan Meller has earned a reputation as one of the foremost galleries in the UK. Amongst the most popular exhibitions launched in 2016 were The Bloomsbury Set, Calder and Miro, School of Paris, and Old Masters. Other shows featured work from artists including John Constable, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol.

Only a few paces from the Bodleian, the gallery is open to all seven days a week. For clients living further afield, the gallery email newsletter and blog provide a virtual resource to keep up to date with the gallery and to discover more about the works on show.

Available both via the website and from inside the gallery by private appointment, Meller's consultancy service and ‘Spotlight Talks’ is the perfect complement to the specialist work exhibited.

Private appointments at the Director's private home provide clients with a unique opportunity to receive one-to-one advice from the Director.

Whether the client wants to discuss starting a collection, sourcing something specific, or talking through art as an investment, catering for the interests of the individual collector is the guiding principle of this service.

Meller’s Elizabethan manor, a treasure trove of historical and artistic merit, is the perfect setting for viewing ancient and modern masters alike.

For select clients wishing to develop their knowledge of art history as they sew the seeds of a private collection, Aidan Meller also offers tours of the Ashmolean collection, or famous local art- historical landmarks.

In addition to private appointments, Aidan Meller gallery regularly holds large scale Private Views and events, to illuminate an exhibition, to introduce a particular department, or to discuss building an art portfolio over a glass of prosecco.

The gallery’s programme of events is engineered not only to benefit individual clients but also to contribute to the artistic life of the local community. Recently, Meller has presented art history talks at local primary and secondary schools, bringing original artworks by famous artists to inspire students to get involved in art.

Written by Tamsin Huxford.

13 Turl Street, Oxford, OX1 3DQ Tel: 01865 250550 Web: www.aidanmeller.com www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Accommodation Macdonald Randolph Hotel Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LN. Tel: 01865 256400. Web: www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk/randolph Oxford’s leading hotel - The AA Five star Macdonald Randolph - is situated in the heart of the city opposite the world famous Ashmolean Museum. Built in 1864 and recently refurbished, the hotel offers each guest the highest level of comfort and service in a traditional and welcoming environment.

The location makes the Macdonald Randolph Hotel an ideal base for exploring the historic sights of Oxford or the thriving shopping centre just two minutes walk away.

YHA 2a Botley Rd, Oxford OX2 0AB. Tel: 01865 727275.

Web: www.yha.org.uk This modern hostel iscentrally located, right next to Oxford Train Station.

YHA Oxford offers affordable accommodation in rooms of 2, 4 or 6 beds.

There is a café/bar serving great coffee, snacks, evening meals and a full English breakfast is available each morning. We also have self-catering kitchen facilities, a garden, laundry facilities and luggage storage for guests. Just a short walk away from the historic town centre, we’re an ideal place to base for yourself to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Malmaison Oxford Malmaison, 3 New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY Tel: 0871 943 0350 Web: www.malmaison.com It’s never a hard day’s night at Oxford hotel, which is surely one of our most unique buildings around. Located in a converted prison in a medieval castle, this boutique hotel is in Oxford Castle Quarter, one of the oldest, busiest and trendiest spots in the city. So, if you’re tired of doing hard time in run-of-the-mill hotels, check into this extraordinary slammer where the only hardship is having to go home!

Holiday Inn Oxford Woodstock Rd, Oxford OX2 8JD. Tel: 0871 942 9086. Web: www.hioxfordhotel.co.uk The Holiday Inn Oxford hotel is beside the A34 and with ample free parking, it’s easy to travel into Oxford - just hop on the Park and Ride bus adjacent to the hotel. It’s also close to the M40, M4, Blenheim Palace and Silverstone.

The 154 bedroom purpose-built hotel offers Wi-Fi internet access and excellent hotel family rooms for up to 2 adults and 2 children. And because Kids Eat & Stay Free, it’s a fantastic value for families. While you’re here, enjoy the large gym, pool and beauty therapists in the Spirit health club. The Holiday Inn Oxford also boasts Academy Conference and Training Suites, with a dedicated team to help you plan your event and run the day.

The Beetle and Wedge Ferry Lane Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9JF. Tel: 01491 651381. Web: www.beetleandwedge.co.uk Set on the banks of the River Thames immortalised in ‘The Wind in the Willows’ and Jerome K Jerome’s chronicled escapades of his friends’ visits in ‘Three Men in a Boat’, the Boathouse Restaurant emphasis is on quality of food, wines and service. The older part of our beautiful old beamed Boathouse offers our famous open charcoal grill where delicacies are created before your very eyes. Join us and enjoy the tranquillity and peace of a beautiful riverside setting for relaxed dining.

Bear & Ragged Staff 28 Appleton Road, Cumnor, Oxfordshire OX2 9QH Tel: 01865 862329 Web: www.bearandraggedstaff.com The room count in Cumnor has just increased by another 125% with the opening of the last five of nine rooms at the Bear and Ragged Staff in December 2012. The Bear is just 2 miles away from the A34, 4 miles West of Oxford and without all the city centre parking issues and outside rush hour, is just a 12 minute drive away. Park and Ride facilities are just a 5 minute drive.

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Contact Us Today, and let us create your perfect event 01865 742211

THE VENUE OF CHOICE FOR ALL OCCASIONS The Westwood Hotel, Hinksey Hill Top, Near Boars Hill, Oxfordshire, OX1 5BG 01865 742211 reservations@westwoodhotel.co.uk hotelwestwood hotelwestwood the-westwood-hotel-oxford

The Feathers Hotel Market Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1SX. Tel: 01993 812 291. Web: www.feathers.co.uk The Feathers Hotel is an inviting country retreat that combines historic charm with a fun personality. Named Oxfordshire’s Restaurant of the Year 2012, it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of gin (167 varieties). “The Gin Experienceâ€? menu is ÂŁ75 per person for seven courses.

River Hotel Botley Road, Oxford, OX2 0AA. Tel: (01865) 243475.

Web: www.riverhotel.co.uk Email: reception@riverhotel.co.uk Long established local business • Excellent City location overlooking the river, by ‘Thames Walk’ towpath • Oxford College owned property, originally an 1870’s Master-builder’s home • 18 bedrooms with own bathroom, all with expected in-room facilities • 24-hr access for registered residents, free on-site car-park and wi-fi • SatNav, via Mill Street, take immediate first lane on right OX2 0AJ • On A420, 1 mile to A34 ring road, west exit at Botley/Seacourt interchange • Easy walk to City, Colleges, Venues, Conferences, near Said Business School • VisitEngland ** metro grading, breakfast table service, residents bar ‘Large enough to be comfortable, small enough to be friendly’

Righton 14 Oakthorpe Road, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7BE. Tel: 01865 318 594 Web: www.rightonproperty.co.uk. Email: stay@rightongroup.cuk Righton specialises in high quality serviced accommodation in Oxford for both short stay and longer term let. Our properties are carefully selected to be close to local amenities, transport links and key businesses and can be rented for as little as three nights through to a year or more. Our services include weekly linen and towel changes, weekly freshen-up cleans, internet access, telephone and tariffs inclusive of utilities.

Jury’s Inn Godstow Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489 988 Web: www.jurysinns.com Jurys Inn Oxford has 168 stylish rooms perfectly designed to offer guests all the comforts of home. Our spacious hotel rooms come fully equipped with free Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, a flat screen TV with Freeview, trouser press, and more.

Royal Oxford Hotel Park End Street, Oxford OX1 1HR. Tel: 01865 248432. Web: www.royaloxfordhotel.co.uk The Royal Oxford Hotel is a Non Smoking Property located 2 minutes walk to the bus and train stations and offers: * Air conditioned bedrooms * Free wireless network throughout the hotel * Spacious and well appointed accommodation * Complementary water and selection of fresh fruit in all bedrooms * Tourist Information Within easy reach of the train station and the centre of Oxford.

www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Shopping Wychwood Brewery Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 4DP Tel: 01993 890800 Web: www.wychwood.co.uk The Wychwood Brewery is tucked away behind the main street of the market town of Witney, in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. Discover the brewing process of Wychwood & Brakspear Beers, from seeing the raw ingredients to the finished product during one of our 45 minute guided tours. After the tour you are invited to sample our flagship Legendary Hobgoblin and our range of Wychwood and Brakspear bottled beers.

University of Oxford Shop 106 High Street, Oxford, OX1 4BW Tel: 01865 247414. Web: www.oushop.com Established in 1991, the University of Oxford Shop has been welcoming visitors and residents of Oxford for 25 years. Our ranges of official merchandise, clothing and gifts feature exclusive Oxford designs and where possible are made in the UK. We are wholly owned by the University and profits from every purchase help to support teaching and research.

Fairtrade at St Michaels The Basement, St Michael at the North Gate, Cornmarket Street, Oxford, OX1 3EY. Tel: 01865 722505. Web: www.fairtradeatstmichaels.co.uk Oxford’s Fairtrade at St Michaels is an Aladdin’s cave of goods. 76 different suppliers from around the world provide our diverse range of products – from quirky ornaments to functional homeware, stationery to skincare, artisan jewellery to children’s toys and clothing, plus an extensive range of delicious food. Fairtrade at St Michaels is a member of the British Association for Fair Trade Shops (BAFTS) and Cooperatives UK.

Bicester Village 50 Pingle Dr, Bicester OX26 6WD. Tel: 01869 366266. Web: www.bicestervillage.com Discover a relaxed shopping haven in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, where spacious boutiques showcase the world’s leading fashion and lifestyle brands. Quality, attention to detail and five-star service are hallmarks of the Bicester Village shopping experience.

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T H E OX F O R D C L O T H I N G C O M PA N Y LT D

OXC L O T H I N G . C O . U K

S TAY T U N E D V I A

 OXC L O T H I N G C O M PA N Y  OXC L O www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxford City Centre Map Accommodation 1 Randolph Hotel 2 River Hotel 3 Malmaison

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Attractions 1 Oxford Castle Quarter 2 Carfax Tower 3 St Michael at the North Gate

Blackwell’s

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City Sightseeing Stops

Visit the no. 1 site for What’s On in Oxford

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County Map 1 Didcot Railway Centre 2 Wychwood Brewery

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3 Bicester Village 4 Blenheim Palace

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Oxfordshire Sport Oxford United Football Club The Kassam Stadium, Grenoble Road, Oxford OX4 4XP. Tel: 01865 337533. Web: www.oufc.co.uk Oxford United Football Club is a professional association football club based in the city of Oxford, Oxfordshire, England. Get Behind The U’s! Save money by booking your tickets before the day of the game. Get the latest news straight from Oxford United. Official team updates, match previews & reviews, transfer information and much more on our website.

Frilford Heath Golf Club Oxford Rd, Frilford Heath, Abingdon OX13 5NW. Tel: 01865 390864. Web: www.frilfordheath.co.uk Frilford Heath is located to the South of Oxford on 500 acres of glorious undulating Heathland and is one of the best venues in the south of England; rarely can a club offer three championship golf courses (Red, Green and Blue) that allow the opportunity to revel in their classical or modern challenge!

COMPLETE MASSAGE OXFORD

SPORTS AND REMEDIAL MASSAGE IN OXFORDSHIRE TREATMENTS INCLUDE; DRY NEEDLING THERAPY, SPORTS MASSAGE, SWEDISH MASSAGE, INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE, YOGA & KINESIOLOGY TAPING MASSAGE CAN WORK FOR ANYONE, FROM OFFICE WORKERS TO MARATHON RUNNERS. BOOK YOUR SESSION NOW AT SPORTSMASSAGEOXFORD.COM

 01865 236966  SPORTSMASSAGEOX  SPORTSMASSAGEOXFORD.COM

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Oxfordshire Restaurants Asian Jee Saheb 15 North Parade Avenue, Oxford, OX2 6LX. Tel: (01865) 513773. Web: www.jeesaheb.co.uk With our restaurant we have created an ambience that will make you feel relaxed and welcomed. 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 a main dining room, with a party of friends in our function room with a capacity of 28, or in our garden.

The Snooty Mehmaan Littleworth, Faringdon Oxfordshire SN7 8PW Tel: 01367 242 260 Web: www.thesnootymehmaan.co.uk Located in Faringdon, Oxford and surrounded by the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside. The restaurant itself holds many of the original buildings strong architectural features including original oak beams and flooring give the Snooty Mehmaan its strong and natural environment that amplifies both the mood and the creative food on offer.

Malikas 218 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UQ. Tel: 01865 723 029. Web: www.malikasrestaurant.co.uk In the middle of the buzzing area of Cowley Road, you will find Malikas, which guarantees a superior Indian cuisine experience! Modern decor, which seats 70, but still the atmosphere is cozy and relaxing.

Aziz Chequers 17A, Beaumont Road, Headington Quarry, Oxford, OX3 8JN Email: reservations@aziz.uk.com Tel: 01865 763321 Web: www.aziz.uk.com Aziz is now located at The Chequers Inn, Headington Quarry Oxford! Same food, with better facilities, free onsite parking and a beer garden. With our restaurant we have created and ambiance that will make you feel relaxed and welcomed and with our award winning team from the front of house staff to our award winning chefs who will offer you a great dinning experience.

Spanish Al-Andalus Tapas Bar Little Clarendon Street, Oxford. OX1 2HS. Tel: 01865 516 688. Web: www.tapasoxford.co.uk Our menus are bursting with Spanish flavours and cooked in a traditional style, a great way to enjoy the true taste of Spain! So forget the traditional way of ordering meals with starters and main courses and treat yourself to a Spanish banquet.

French Pierre Victoire 9 Little Clarendon St, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 316616. Web: www.pierrevictoire.co.uk Enjoy our authentically cooked, traditional dishes in an informal environment at reasonable prices, the way the French do… Choose from a variety of fixed price menus, which we change with the seasons, focusing on local, fresh produce! We offer a 3 course lunch or early Pre Theatre supper for £11.50 and an evening 3 course Prix Fixe for £23.50! We love parties whether its Christenings, Birthdays, Graduations or even Retirements, offer an incredible £21.00 menu, and can cater for groups up to 60 ...! Rustic and friendly, with lots of candles, providing great food, value and service!

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Our menus are bursting with Spanish flavours and cooked in a traditional style, a great way to enjoy the true taste of Spain!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10 LITTLE CLARENDON STREET | OXFORD | OX1 2HP 01865 516 688 | TAPASOXFORD.CO.UK

FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN TO THE MIDDLE EAST

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 67 WALTON STREET | OXFORD | OX2 6AG 01865 559 668 | MEZZETO.COM

Traditional The Beetle and Wedge Ferry Lane Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9JF. Tel: 01491 651381. Web: www.beetleandwedge.co.uk The Restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere and a magical combination of fabulous food, an idyllic location and great service - our mission is to ensure your time with us is as enjoyable as possible. Families are important to us at The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse and children are always welcome, we can adapt our menus to suit most tastes and provide highchairs where necessary. If you have any special requirements please contact us.

The Trout Godstow Rd, Wolvercote, Oxford, OX2 8PN Tel: 01865 510930. Web: www.thetroutoxford.co.uk Nestled on the banks of the River Thames and steeped in history this 17th century pub is a unique setting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our traditional pub building has been stylishly refurbished to make it the perfect place to find a cosy corner and take time out whilst enjoying some of our Chefs' seasonal dishes and our great selection of wines, ales and lagers.

Café Greens Cafe 50 St Giles, Oxford, OX1 3LU. Tel: 01865 316 878. Web:www.greenscafe.co.uk At Greens everything is freshly made and we use Organic, Free Range and Fairtrade produce. We cater for everyone’s taste including vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free foods. Greens Cafe has a friendly relaxed atmosphere with lots of seating available upstairs with free Wi-Fi also available.

www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Restaurants

F i s h , B a r & G r i l l | F i s h & C h i p s Ta k e ou t B r i n g i n g t h e b e s t s e as on a l s u s ta i n a b l e f i s h to Oxford from the shore at the fairest of prices.

37-38 St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1AJ 0 1 8 6 5 2 4 3 0 0 3 | w w w. c u t t l e f i s h o x f o r d . c o . u k

Café Aloha 11 The Square, West Way Shopping Centre, Botley, Oxford, OX2 9LH. Tel: 01865 792696. Web: www.cafealoha.co.uk Traditional and stylish décor provides a mixture of a sophisticated ambience combined with the fantastic food and friendly staff, makes for an eating experience.

Contemporary Acanthus Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LN. Tel: 01865 256410. Web: www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk/randolph The restaurant at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel has recently just won its second AA rosette for its cuisine and features contemporary menus in an unrivalled setting with fabulous views of the city. If a more relaxed atmosphere is desired for a quiet drink then the Morse Bar provides a peaceful environment in which you can relax and unwind in after a busy day.

Jury’s Inn Godstow Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489 988 Web: www.jurysinns.com Our Oxford hotel offers a range of places to enjoy food and drink from coffee and cocktails to grazing boards and an À la carte menu. Our Medio Brasserie offers a mouth-watering menu, the Medio Bar can rustle up fruity cocktails and more, or you can enjoy a light bite at the Cappuccino Lounge.

Cherwell Boathouse Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6ST. Tel: 01865 552746. Web: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk Beautifully located by the river Cherwell. Fine food and renowned wine list (2010 Fine Wine list of the Year) Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week Marquee and terrace available for private hire. Week day lunch menu available 2 courses from £13.50. Al fresco dining available.

Bear & Ragged Staff 28 Appleton Rd, Cumnor, Oxford OX2 9QH. Tel: 01865 862329. Web: www.bearandraggedstaff.com Whether you are looking for a simple sandwich or businessman’s lunch, a romantic dinner for two or a full on three course meal with wine, port liqueurs and coffee, we have the solution. If you want to hold that special family gathering or a sit down banquet for 80, we can accommodate and tailor our offering to your requirements.

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La Cucina are now offering a fantastic takeaway service!

The Oxford Kitchen 215 Banbury Road, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7HQ. Tel: 01865 511 149. Web: www.theoxfordkitchen.co.uk The Oxford Kitchen’s reputation for fine modern British cuisine is built around the inspired creations of Executive Chef John Footman, whose food has the critics talking. Dishes on our à la carte and set menus have been carefully designed for their sensory appeal and exquisite flavour combinations. Recognised as a leader among the best dining outlets in the city, The Oxford Kitchen provides a full café service in a contemporary, intimate setting, offering breakfasts, morning coffees, specialty teas, snacks and a specially developed children’s menu.

The Feathers Market Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1SX. Tel: 01993 812291. Web: www.feathers.co.uk Eating and drinking is at the heart of The Feathers experience. The awardwinning Restaurant serves the best of modern English cuisine and locally sourced ingredients – light and fresh in summer, rich and robust in winter.

A more informal Bar is open all day for coffee, lunch, cream tea and supper.

Patisserie Gatineau 209 Banbury Road, Summertown, Oxford. OX2 7HQ. Tel: 01865 311 779. Web: www.gatineau.uk.com Situated in the upmarket Summertown area of Oxford, Gatineau patisserie offers the finest artisan produce in the French/ European patisserie and boulangerie tradition: premium cakes, pastries, savouries and bread - all made with the highest quality ingredients, creative flair, taste combinations and attention to detail.

www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Restaurants

Classic bangladeshi and indian cuisine ◆ Beautiful location with on-site car parking ◆ Lovely garden for dining and private functions ◆ Small and large parties catered for ◆ Superb sunday buffet with over 30 selections to choose from ◆ Take away and home delivery service available ◆ Free WIFI

Visit our website aziz.uk.com or call us on 01865 763321 Aziz Restaurant, Chequers 17A, Beaumont Road, Headington Quarry, Oxford, OX3 8JN

Italian Marco’s New York Italian Oxford 73 High St, Oxford OX1 4BE. Tel: 01865 248695.

Web: www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk/restaurants/marcos-oxford This stunning Marco Pierre White restaurant is located at number 73 on High Street in the centre of Oxford. Serving an array of mouthwatering dishes from Italian sharing platters, fresh fish, home-made pizza and pasta to New York favourites such as succulent steaks, burgers and Marco’s tasty BBQ ribs and lazy fries. The restaurant and bar offers something for everyone. With a big bar area, this all-day venue is the perfect place to enjoy lunch or dinner or simply pop-in for a light bite or drinks.

La Cucina 39-40 St. Clements, Oxford, OX4 1AB. Tel: 01865 793811. Web: www.lacucinaoxford.co.uk The open kitchen allows customers to see chefs at work, tossing pizza and preparing daily specials from 11am - 10.30pm. The menu changes seasonally and caters for all - families and those looking for an authentic italian dining experience in relaxed surroundings. Open front in Summer months.

Nightlife Angels Little Clarendon Street, Oxford. OX1 2HS. Tel: 01865 544244. Web: www.angelsbar.co.uk Step into Angels and journey through cocktail history. Choose between the first vintage mixes or new trends perfected in the Angels laboratory, all carefully crafted by our expert bartenders.

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The Feathers Visit us for good food and to enjoy our Guinness Book of Records™ Gin Bar. 351 bottles and counting!

The Feathers Hotel, Woodstock OX20 1SX www.feathers.co.uk 01993 812291 Located by Blenheim Palace

www.livinginoxford.com

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Restaurant Review:

Pierre Victoire Reviewed by Rowan Ellett 15th March

Pierre Victoire bistrot, located on Little Clarendon Street in the heart of Oxford’s Jericho district, has been delighting customers since 1996. If you’re looking for traditional French food which is presented well and doesn’t cost a fortune, then get yourself over to Pierre Victoire.

As we walk into the Bistrot on a busy Saturday Lunchtime, French classical music is playing and someone is waiting to show us to our table. French prints are seen hanging on the walls as we sit down, the atmosphere is very friendly and the staff are eager to please with their quick service and happy manner. There is a selection of both a la carte and set menus. Lunch is from £8.50 and you can enjoy a three course prix fixe dinner for £24.50 I loved the food and my friends were very complimentary about what they had too. For my starter I chose the smoked Salmon paté with dill crème fraiche and warm brioche. The portion size was just right. I very much enjoyed the contrast between the sweet brioche and the creamy salmon.

My friend selected the Salade Canard Fumé - which she found very tasty, saying the walnuts in the mayo were a brilliant touch!

While we were waiting for our main courses to arrive, we admired the low lighting and the single rose which adorned all the tables in the room.

When the food arrived, it all looked very pleasing and we couldn’t wait to start eating. My friend had a child’s portion of moules. The cream was flavoured with thyme and garlic which I thought made the dish more delightful. My other friend had the Roasted Cauliflower and Parmesan Risotto. She thought that it was lovely, with a hint of cumin on the toasted almonds which added a slight Asian flavour to the main. Finally, I chose the Confit Duck which was plentiful and the Seville orange sauce which surrounded the potato and onion rösti like a moat was delicious and it definitely added a new taste to the already ‘full of flavour dish’. I also really enjoyed the creamy spinach accompanying the work of art I had to eat.

Clean plates all around.

Now to dessert, a truly wonderful ending to a very high standard meal. I had the Crème Caramel, as I am a lover of the golden sauce which floods the plate. There was Sticky Toffee Pudding. The light sponge combined with the delicious toffee sauce and double cream made for a scrumptious delight. My friend went for the Chocolate Crepe and she discovered that heaven on a plate was sitting right in front of her. Her pancake was well cooked and the presentation topped the dessert off. Each of our three desserts came with a garnish of mint which added colour and maturity to the dishes.

So if a reasonably priced delicious lunch or dinner in a rustic, authentic French restaurant is what you’re after then look no further than Pierre Victoire.

9 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford, OX1 2HP Tel: 01865 316616 Web: www.pierrevictoire.co.uk www.livinginoxford.com

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Restaurant Review:

Snooty Mehmaan Reviewed by Matt Wright 11th March

Thai or Indian?... Indian or Thai?... right, it’s definitely Indian… oh, but I really fancy a Thai… oh decisions, decisions! This is where the Snooty Mehmaan comes into its own, with only a few pages separating the two countries, and what’s more you can mix and match between courses – great for those of an indecisive nature… erm, I think.

So, we mixed a traditional curry accompaniment (you simply have to have poppadums whenever available; it's the law!) with Thai starters of salt & pepper squid and duck wraps. Having already had a couple of gin & tonics to start the evening (my partner was on a Slimming World diet and these counted towards less 'sin' points), we were already feeling rather ‘upper class’… almost snooty one might say?!

In keeping with our new-found elevated status, I plumped for the Meen Columbo, an award-winning dish from the 2014 Tiffin Cup. I did have to look this up afterwards, being described as, ’an annual competition to find the best South Asian restaurant in the UK with nominees put forward by their local MPs and the finalists participating in a cook-off event held in the House of Commons.’ Wow, how upper class is that then?! It was delicious; pan-fried sea bass marinated with salt & chilli, and served with various accompaniments including the spectacular deep-fried battered aubergine (I didn’t bother counting how many ‘sin’ points that might be!) My partner opted for Malai Jhinga; king prawns sautéed in coconut milk and simmered in garlic-scented lime curry, which she pronounced, between mouthfuls, as ‘divine’.

I managed to sneak in a lovely glass of the Chardonnay alongside my main course, whilst my partner stuck with the colonial theme, remaining firmly on the gin trail. Then, purely in the interests of research, we surveyed the dessert menu – something I very rarely do in a traditional Indian restaurant, but as this was no ordinary restaurant, I felt it was my duty to do so. Unfortunately, a plethora of chocolate-themed desserts (lots of sin points there!) tempted us both back into the fray, so when we downed tools a few minutes later, we were happily replete.

Asad, the owner, visited the tables afterwards to check everything was OK, and we found out he was about to set off to participate in a food festival in the Punjab on Tuesday. And hopefully to secure some new ideas for next year’s Tiffin Cup… yes please!

Faringdon Road, Littleworth, Faringdon Oxfordshire, SN7 8PW Tel: 01367 242 260 Web: www.snootymehmaan.com www.livinginoxford.com

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Restaurant Review:

Malikas Restaurant Reviewed by John Hobart 23rd January

In a city known for its Indian restaurants, what is there to mark one of them above the rest? Well, I believe that for restaurants you have to look first at the food and second at the service, and in both these categories Malikas excels!

We headed to Malikas on a cold, damp Thursday evening looking for a cheerful environment and good food to help shake off the January blues.

Coming in from the drizzle we were immediately welcomed, our coats taken, and a choice of tables offered in a half-full restaurant. This attentive service was going to be something we got used to during the evening always there, but never imposing on conversation or enjoyment.

The menu has all the traditional dishes you would expect, with classic Starters, Currys, Balti, Tandoori and Biryani options as well as a range of Chef’s Specialties and fish dishes. If you are overwhelmed you can opt to let the Chef choose a four-course feast for you for under £20!

I always like trying something new, so after a helpful conversation with the waiter opted for a starter of Baza Maach (Fried fish with mixed spices), main of Murgh Nawabi (chicken breast stuffed with mince and medium spiced) and a side of Sag Paneer (spinach cooked with homemade cheese) all washed down with a glass of red. Meanwhile my dining companion had asked for a special dish not on the menu (with extra green chillies!) and a pint of Cobra – the waiter was happy to oblige.

Malikas prides itself on its food, and rightly so – it was superb, beautifully presented, delicately spiced, and absolutely delicious. It was no surprise to hear the Chef has won national awards for his curries and loves experimenting, so asking for options not on the menu is welcome!

Despite well-earned confidence in their excellent food, Malikas doesn’t sit back on its laurels. They have refurbished the restaurant twice in six years and constantly update the menu - testing new dishes and exploring customers’ preferences. As a result a contemporary feel runs through the restaurant, from décor to menu, all with an effortless attention to detail, and complemented by knowledgeable and friendly staff.

We had entered Malikas wanting to cheered from the depressing January weather, we were rewarded with a warm atmosphere, superb food, and an all-round first class experience - Thank you Malikas!

218 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UQ Tel: 01865 723 029 Web: www.malikasrestaurant.co.uk www.livinginoxford.com

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Five Things We Ordered • Chargrilled Mackerel, Pickled Beetroot, Rocket and Sweet Beetroot Puree 6.95 • Confit Lamb Shoulder, Fondant Potato, Chantenay Carrots, Braised Balsamic Shallots, Madeira Jus 16.95 • Calves Liver, Crispy Pancetta, Champ Mash, Green Beans, Pan Jus 17.95 • Les Volets Malbec, Languedoc Roussillon large glass £7.00 • Crumble of the day with crème anglais £6.50 • Quady “Elysium” Black muscat £4.80

Six Things I Loved  The Black Muscat Desert Wine  Service & Atmosphere  The Mackerel & Beetroot Starter  Wine List  The Confit of Lamb  The Inn’s Character

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Restaurant Review:

Bear & Ragged Staff Reviewed by Ruth Hawkins 19th March

This was our first visit to the Bear & Ragged Staff, but won’t be our last.

This ancient inn in Cumnor just 10 or 15 minutes away from the centre of Oxford, run by General Manager Jeremy du Plessis and Assistant General Manager Lubos Stevcik is a little gem.

The atmosphere on a Saturday night was lovely and welcoming, with open fires lit in the bar. The main dining area was busy with at least two celebratory parties going on from both ends of the spectrum; one 18th birthday party and one Golden Wedding Anniversary. It was lovely to see.

But in spite of this, the restaurant was more than able to cope, and service remained efficient and friendly.

We were also lucky enough to be staying overnight in one of the well equipped bedrooms in the oldest part of the hotel, in the 450 year old Landlord’s Wing. Our room had a very comfy sleigh bed, and everything we needed for a stay, as well as some lovely touches such as homemade shortbread biscuits and a robe.

The Menu is varied, and although mostly traditional English meat and fish dishes, there are vegetarian dishes to choose from too, and sharer platters to start with as well as other starters and nibbles. The wine list was also very extensive!

To start, I had the chargrilled mackerel with pickled beetroot, rocket and beetroot puree, which was delicious. The dish looked beautiful with a stunning mix of different coloured beets and tasted as good as it looked.

My husband started with line cured trout, served with cucumber and chicory and basil and tomato salsa, which he enjoyed too, commenting on how refreshing it was.

For main courses, we went for traditional though I was tempted by the butternut squash risotto...but I went for calves liver with champ mash and crispy pancetta and John went for confit lamb shoulder and fondant potato. There was plenty of each and both went down very easily! We both had red wine; I went for a glass of Malbec and John went for tempranillo and both really complimented our meals.

For desert, I had crumble of the day. I was informed it was rhubarb crumble and the waiter informed us that the rhubarb came from the village. It was lovely, and served in a glass with a good amount of tasty and crunchy crumble on top, and some crème anglais on the side. John went for sticky toffee pudding which went very quickly! As a special treat we were tempted by a glass of desert wine, which we would not normally go for, but the description on the menu made it sound irresistible, and we went for a glass each of black muscat “Elyssium”, which was delicious and went perfectly with our puds.

We then retired to our room, and slept really well in that huge comfy bed, and then had a lovely cooked breakfast. There was plenty to choose from with tasty bacon and sausages and eggs cooked to order, as well as a buffet of fruit, cereals, toast, pastries and juices. I would not hesitate to recommend this to friends and family from outside of Oxfordshire, as it was so different from the formulaic hotels that you can find.

We will definitely be back.

28 Appleton Road, Cumnor, OX2 9QH Tel: 01865 723 029 Web: www.bearandraggedstaff.com www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Health & Beauty Diamond House - Dental Practice 199 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7AR. Tel: 01865 559521.

Web: www.diamondhouse.co.uk It is our aim to provide the highest quality of Dental Care in a relaxed and friendly environment, with the most up to date methods and equipment available. The safety and comfort of our patients is always our primary concern.

Clinic 95 95 West Way, Botley, Oxford, OX2 9JY Tel: 01865 241662 Web: www.clinic95.com Our experienced dental professionals pride themselves on their gentle approach to dental care. Our aim is to improve your dental wellbeing in friendly, relaxed surroundings with a thorough and unhurried service that is second to none. We offer all the private treatments you would expect, including comprehensive health checks, white fillings and preventive hygiene therapy, as well as an extensive range of cosmetic treatments, such as tooth whitening, implants, porcelain crowns & veneers and orthodontics for a great smile makeover. Nervous patients are particularly welcome at Clinic95 and our reassuring sedation techniques help aid relaxation.

Tara Tripp Hearing Sandford Gate, Oxford OX4 6LB. Tel: 01865 910202 Web: www.tripphearing.co.uk We are an independent family run private healthcare practice covering Oxfordshire and the surrounding area. Our hearing healthcare practice has earned an excellent reputation in Oxford and the surrounding areas for providing a wide range of digital hearing aids and also for our unique microsuction ear wax removal clinic.

Leisure Club and Spa at The Randolph Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LN Tel: 01865 256 400 Web: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk At Macdonald Randolph Hotel and Spa, we provide you with the perfect oasis to unwind and relax. Our calm and tranquil spa provides the most luxurious of retreats from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Voted amongst the top 50 best spas in the world, our facilities provide you with the perfect environment for a workout and Oxford’s golf courses, parks and rivers offer hours of leisure-time activities.

Spa at Jurys Inn Oxford Godstow Road, Oxford, OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489 988 Web: www.jurysinns.com Relax, unwind and let us pamper you in the tranquil surroundings of the beauty rooms at Jurys Inn Hotel, or get fit at The Health & Leisure Club at Jurys Inn (open to hotel guests and members). Facilities: 2 beauty rooms with a range of treatments, Fitness suite, Splash pool, Sauna, Steam room, Squash courts.

Spirit Health Club Holiday Inn Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 8JD. Tel: 01865 888444. Web: www.spirithealthclubs.co.uk/clubs/oxford Feel comfortable and at ease here with a great, social atmosphere and friendly staff as committed to your long term goals as you are. Whether it’s fitness, relaxation or wellbeing, we’ll help you find your true Spirit. See more at our website www.spirithealthclubs.co.uk/clubs/oxford.

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www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Services Travel Chiltern Railways Tel: 08456 005 165 Web: www.chilternrailways.co.uk We run scheduled passenger services along the M40 corridor between London Marylebone and Birmingham Snow Hill and London Marylebone to Aylesbury via Amersham along the London Underground Metropolitan line.

We also run our operations as far as Kidderminster and services between Stratford-upon-Avon and London. Why not take a look at some of the great value fares that they have on offer at www.chilternrailways.co.uk/tickets-and-fares. Our advance tickets start from as little as £6 and you can even get this ticket delivered to your mobile phone!

Accountants Wellers 8 King Edward Street Oxford OX1 4HL Tel: 01865 723 131 Web: www.wellersaccountants.co.uk Wellers is a firm of accountants who work with entrepreneurs, business owners and private individuals to deliver quality advice and solutions that help them fulfil their aspirations. Passionate about helping people and their organisations, Wellers can draw upon 70 years experience to support and advise clients on growing their businesses and protecting their wealth.

Construction, Maintenance & Renovations Savvy 253 London Road Headington Oxford OX3 9EH. Tel: 01865 920020 / 01865 920040 Web: www.group-savvy.co.uk The driving force behind some of the most prestigious construction and renovation projects in the oxfordshire area and beyond. Providing exceptional quality homes and properties on time and on budget. We work with landlords, property owners, developers and key stake holders across commercial, industry, education, healthcare, sport and leisure and private homes.

Food Delivery Deliveroo Email: support@deliveroo.co.uk Web: www.deliveroo.co.uk To bring you meals from high-quality restaurants with a transparent, speedy delivery service, courteous, friendly drivers and unparalleled customer service. We don’t want you eating low-quality pizza, kebabs, Chinese and curries just because you can’t make it out to your favourite restaurants we’re here to bring quality restaurants directly to you.

Hairdressers H.I.M 66 St.Clements, Oxford, OX4 1AH. Tel: 01865 249 740. Web: www.himoxford.co.uk H.I.M is all about quality hairdressing in a relaxed and friendly environment.

The H.I.M team is young and friendly with many years experince in the trade. We focus on our clients as individuals and deliver a high quality service at a reasonable price. New customers are always welcome in the H.I.M salon which provides a modern setting and a friendly atmosphere.

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Walk for your local hospice!

Join our riverside challenge walk over 9 or 22 miles to central Oxford on Saturday 20th May. Sign up to our enthusiasts list now and ensure you’re one of the first to know when the booking page goes live!

Email events@helenanddouglas.org.uk today!

For more information about the charity and how you can help W: www.hdh.org.uk T: 01865 799150 E: fundraising@helenanddouglas.org.uk  twitter.com/HelenAndDouglas  facebook.com/HelenAndDouglasHouse Registered Charity Number: 1085951

www.livinginoxford.com

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Oxfordshire Services Studio 8 8 Oxford Road, Kidlington, Oxford, OX5 1AA. Tel: 01865 842525. Web: www.s8.co.uk Studio8 was started by Clark and Brooke Wiseman in 2003 and has grown to become one of Oxfordshire’s best known creative studios. We provide a collection of services for both businesses and families. We work throughout the UK on many shoots and also throughout the world. Please get in touch to speak to us about your next project.

Law Hedges Law 16 Market Place, Wallingford, OX10 0AE Tel: 01865 594265 Web: www.hedgeslaw.co.uk Hedges has been delivering legal solutions to our clients for over 200 years. Our highly skilled team of lawyers have the knowledge and expertise to resolve even the most complex legal issues that you bring to us. At Hedges, however, we recognise you aren’t just looking for history, an impressive CV and an ability to recite the law.

Funeral Directors Greens Funeral Services 21 High Street Eynsham, Oxford Tel: 01865 880837 8 Bridge Street Witney, Oxford Tel: 01993 776486 Established in 1866, we are an independent family business with five generations of experience, offering a dignified 24 hour service with our personal attention to detail. Our private chapels of rest are available for visitings and prayer if required. Golden Charter pre-paid plans also available.

Property Finders Keepers 226 Banbury Road, Summertown, OX2 7BY Tel: 01865 311011 Web: www.finders.co.uk Finders Keepers is a letting and property management agency covering Oxfordshire and the surrounding area. We deliver a comprehensive service from search and acquisition through furnishing and refurbishment to letting and property management. Since our foundation in 1972, we’ve built a reputation for professionalism, rigorous processes and responsiveness.

Breckon & Breckon 274 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 7DY. Tel: 01865 310300. Web: www.breckon.co.uk An independent firm of Estate Agents est. in 1947 operating from a network of six offices in Oxfordshire offering properties for sale or for rent. We are property professionals with many years of experience in the local market.

Removals Headington Carriers The Straight Mile, Woodstock, Oxford, OX20 1PW Tel: 01993 811276/01865 300111. Web: www.headingtoncarriers.co.uk Headington Carriers Limited has been providing a first class commercial, house and office removal service throughout Oxfordshire and the UK for over 20 years. We pride ourselves on providing a personalised removal service for all our customers.

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Care Homes The Lady Nuffield Home 165 Banbury Rd, Oxford, Oxfordshire County OX2 7AW. Tel: 01865 888500. Web: www.ladynuffieldhome.co.uk The Lady Nuffield Home is a small residential home for elderly men and women and aims to provide a high standard of care, based on the individual needs of the resident whilst enabling them to remain as independent as possible.

Oxford Beaumont Care Community Bayworth Lane, Boars Hill, Oxford, OX1 5DF. Tel: 01865 730 990. Web: www.barchester.com Oxford Beaumont provides a happy and relaxed lifestyle in the heart of Boars Hill, with its scenic surroundings. Oxford city is close-by for shops, cafes and The New Theatre. Nonetheless our extensive gardens are quiet and peaceful, giving the home a feeling of space and tranquility. We offer a homely environment and the support of first class 24-hour nursing care, helping to manage disabilities such as Parkinson’s disease and sensory impairment. We provide personally tailored levels of care, helping people to enjoy life with support but as independently as possible.

Charities Bloodwise Email: hello@bloodwise.org.uk Tel: 020 7504 2200 Web: bloodwise.org.uk We are Bloodwise (formerly Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research), your UK blood cancer charity. Every year we stop more people dying of blood cancer and our researchers are even working to stop people developing blood cancer in the first place. We improve the lives of blood cancer patients with cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma because we believe everyone should be able to live their life to the full.

Thinking of Oscar Twitter: twitter.com/thinkingofoscar Email: thinkingofoscar@gmail.com Web: www.thinkingofoscar.com Thinking of Oscar is an Oxfordshire based charity set up in memory of Oscar Cole who died unexpectedly aged just 16 months in June 2014. The mission of the charity is to improve the experiences of children and their families in hospital care. The current campaign is to fund a new procedures unit into the John Radcliffe Children's Hospital, Oxford. This will benefit hundreds and hundreds of children each year by ensuring that simple operations take place within the familiar environment of the children's hospital.

On Sunday 5th June Oscar's parents, alongside 85 other family and friends, will both be participating in the Blenheim Triathlon in order to raise the ÂŁ100,000 required to build the unit.

Please come along on the day to lend your support to the team who will be starting out at 1:30pm or sponsor them direct at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/DandHTOOFundraising2016.

To find out more about the work of Thinking of Oscar please go to www.thinkingofoscar.com

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