Welcome to Living in Oxford Merry Christmas to all of our readers....read on to find out what you can do over the Festive period. Why not treat yourself to a night in the fabulous Vanbrugh House Hotel in the heart of Oxford? One of Oxford’s most recent hotels, The Vanbrugh oozes style and is a treat for anyone...even if you live in Oxford! We also meet the couple behind Excel Dry Cleaners, Paul and Rachel Boyes who are the driving force of this long established company in Summertown. Thinking of running and event? Then Oxford Event Hire, supporters of both The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards and The Living in Oxford Awards are your first port of call - read more inside. Finally, if you’re looking for something different, something to show you’ve thought about a present for a loved one, why not visit the fabulous Inky Fingers in Cowley Road. Our independent retailers need our support throughout the year, so make sure you visit David and the team....and enjoy a cup of coffee whilst you’re there! Thank you for your support this year and we look forward to a fantastic 2016 with you all!
Contents Oxfordshire Events
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Oxfordshire Accommodation
28
Oxfordshire Kids
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Oxfordshire Shopping
35
Oxfordshire Attractions
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Oxford City Centre Map
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Oxfordshire Theatre
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County Map
40
Oxfordshire Cinema
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Oxfordshire Sports
41
Oxfordshire Music
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Oxfordshire Restaurants
42
Oxfordshire Art & Antiques
24
Oxfordshire Health & Beauty
48
Oxfordshire Education
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Oxfordshire Services
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The Living in Oxford Team
Richard Rosser
Jessica Kimber
Colin Rosser
Lorna Dodson
Editor
Accounts
Chairman
Operations Manager
Keith Simpson
Sue Rosser
Rob Scotcher
Emma Davis
Designer/Web
vouch & R&R
Designer/Photographer
Operations Assistant
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, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford OX3 0BT 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...
Lead Article: Inky Fingers
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What Inky Fingers are hoping to show people is that comic books are not just ‘superhero’ stories - not just action for the sake of action - that there are as many comic book genres as there are book genres, from horror and crime thrillers to ‘slice of life’ and rom coms.
Vanbrugh House Hotel
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As well as a king-sized four poster bed, and en-suite rainfall shower room the Vicarage suite comes with a media hub with connection to numerous devices, complimentary wifi and a mini-fridge stocked with crisps, soft drinks and chocolate.
Excel Dry Cleaners of Oxford
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Rachel Boyes has been running Excel Dry Cleaners in Summertown for six years, having joined the business in Summertown twenty years ago under previous owner, John Warburton. Excel was recently welcomed as a member into the Guild of Cleaners and Launderers but Rachel has herself welcomed a very special person onto her staff… her husband Paul.
Oxford Event Hire
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In this environment, hiring becomes a smart alternative to buying outright and whether you are a business or a private person, there is a serious proposition to consider. People are increasingly seeing the advantages of becoming more hireconscious.
www.livinginoxford.com
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APPROVED REVIEWS FOR THE TOP 250 SO FAR...
BY LIVINGOX FO R
Accommodation
....................................................................... • Righton Group Limited • Hawkwell House • Heythrop Park Resort • Malmaison • Short Let Space • The Royal Oxford Hotel • The Feathers • The Oxford Hotel • Macdonald Randolph Hotel • The Vanbrugh • Lady Margaret Hall • The Bear & Ragged Staff • The River Hotel
Art
....................................................................... • Modern Art Oxford • Antiques on High • Sarah Wiseman Gallery • Sanders of Oxford
Attractions
....................................................................... • Blenheim Palace • Carfax Tower • Christ Church Picture Gallery • City Sightseeing • Didcot Railway Centre • Oxford Castle • Oxford Castle Unlocked • The Bodleian Library • The Cherwell Boathouse • Waterperry Gardens • Wychwood Brewery
Cafe
....................................................................... • Café Aloha • Café Rouge • Gatineau • The Rose
Events
....................................................................... • Business in Oxford, City & County • Blenheim Palace International 4
Horse Trials • Foodies Festival • Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards • Grand Prix Ball
Golf
....................................................................... • Frilford Heath Golf Club • Heythrop Park Resort
Health & Beauty
....................................................................... • Clinic95 • Diamond House Dental Practice • HIM • Kennington Osteopathic Practice • Oxford Brookes Centre for Sport • Macdonald Randolph Hotel Spa • Spirit Health Club • TAO • The Oxford Hotel • TLA Fitness
Charity
....................................................................... • Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research • Helen and Douglas House
Leisure
....................................................................... • Stagecoach Oxford • Studio 8
Music
....................................................................... • City of Oxford Orchestra • Music at Oxford • Orchestra of St John's • Oxford Philomusica
Nightlife
....................................................................... • Angels
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READ THE REVIEWS @ LIVINGINOXFORD.COM
GET APPROVED TODAY 01865 742211 Restaurants
....................................................................... • 4500 Miles From Delhi • Al-Andalus • Browns • Burford Garden Company Café • Fallowfields • Heythrop Park Resort • Iffley Blue • Jee Saheb • Lady Margaret Hall • Le Kesh • La Cucina • Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons • Magdalen Arms • Malikas • Malmaison • Mezzeto • Pierre Victoire • Macdonald Randolph Hotel Restaurant • Shanghai 30’s • The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse • The Cherwell Boat House • The Feathers • The Greyhound • The Killingworth Castle • The Oxford Hotel • The Oxford Retreat • The Oxford Kitchen • The Red Lion • The Snooty Mehmaan • The General Eliott
Services
....................................................................... • Aston & James • Breckon & Breckon • Chiltern Railways • City Audio Visual • Deliveroo • Excel Dry Cleaners • Finders Keepers • Great Experience Travel • Hedges Law • Isis Creative Framing Ltd • Oxford Event Hire • Oxford Innovation • PB Conway • Savvy • Strutt & Parker • The Lady Nuffield Home • Wellers Accountants • North Oxford Property Services • WH Mobile Valeting www.livinginoxford.com
Shopping
....................................................................... • Bicester Village • Blackwell's • Oxford University Shop • Inky Fingers • Sanders of Oxford • The Garden
Theatre
....................................................................... • Creation Theatre • Oxford Shakespeare Company • The North Wall • English Repertory Theatre
Sports
....................................................................... • North Oxford Lawn Tennis Club • Oxford Half Marathon • Lawn Tennis Association • Oxford University Rugby Club • Rye Hill Golf Club
AWARDS 2016 Sponsored by
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Lead Article:
A comic is for life, not just for Christmas Try something a little different this Christmas: Sequential art. For some strange reason there has always been a kind of taboo surrounding reading comics. Many people are of the opinion that once you ‘grow up’ you won’t have any interest in them anymore, and that the older folks who do read comics are somehow childish. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Do you love to read? Do you appreciate art? Why wouldn’t you enjoy the two combined, then? What Inky Fingers are hoping to show people is that comic books are not just ‘superhero’ stories - not just action for the sake of action - that there are as many comic book genres as there are book genres, from horror and crime thrillers to ‘slice of life’ and rom coms. If you’re on the fence about getting into comics, think of them as ‘books+’ and pop in to Inky Fingers to have a chat about your interests and let them recommend something to get you started. It has been almost a decade since any specialised comic shop existed in Oxford. For comic book lovers that’s a decade of having to travel outside of Oxford, or resorting to reading or ordering online, when what we really want is a hub - a feeling of community - back again. That is exactly what Inky Fingers hopes to achieve. Inky Fingers opened in July this year and since then has welcomed all ages to browse their comics and sit in with a lovely cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate. They stock all of the comic book staples, from Marvel (such as The Avengers) and DC (such as Batman), to lesser known ‘indie’ and self-published books, to Oxford’s very own kid’s comic publishers The Phoenix. No matter what your tastes are you will find what you’re looking for here. Inky Fingers also offer a subscription service for those series you want to keep up to date with as they’re released. Visit the website to see their full catalogue of comics.
38 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1HZ Tel: 01865 421776 Web: www.inkyfingers.net www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Events Blenheim Palace Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PP Tel: 01993 810530 Web: www.blenheimpalace.com
Christmas at Blenheim Palace 7th November - 20th December: Christmas is a magical time for children and adults alike and this year we are staying open an extra week making the lead up to Christmas all the more exciting. Visit our shops to pick up that perfect present or relax in one of our cafés with a seasonal dish. Down at the Pleasure Gardens Santa will be waiting to see all children naughty and nice and there will be other activities for little ones to enjoy.
Living Crafts for Christmas Until 23rd December: Take the spirit of Christmas home with a Blenheim Palace Christmas Tree, grown and harvested on the Estate. Available at the Palace itself and at the Blenheim Palace Saw Mills in Combe, we have a range of trees available in various sizes and varieties, including Norway Spruce and Nordman Fir. Adult: £7.00 Concession: £5.00 Child: £2.00
The Oxfordshire Museum Park Street, Woodstock, OX20 1SN. T: 01993 811456. Web: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxfordshiremuseum
The Oxfordshire Craft Guild Christmas Exhibition Until 23rd December: Featuring many of the county’s leading craft designers and makers. This popular selling exhibition displays jewellery, textiles, ceramics, treasures and keepsakes – perfect for Christmas! Free Admission.
Faery Land by Anne Avery and Steve Pratley Lecture Wednesday 2nd December: Faery Land by Anne Avery and Steve Pratley. Exploring Michael Drayton’s Poly Olbion (1612-1622) 7.30PM, £2 per person
Waterperry Gardens Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX33 1JZ. Tel: 01844 339254 Web: www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
Waterperry Christmas Market 12th & 13th December: Bring the magic back to Christmas by visiting Waterperry’s Christmas food and gift Market. There will be artists and craftspeople with gorgeous gift ideas and festive food and drink, as well as the chance to buy your Waterperry-grown Christmas trees, hand made wreaths & decorations. Enjoy a festive menu in the Teashop whilst you are here too. We are a one-stop shop for all your Christmas needs! Entrance to the Christmas Market is free. 10.30am to 4pm Waterperry estate open until 5pm.
Find Santa’s Reindeer 14th November – 3rd January 2016 (Closed 25th, 26th, 31st Dec & 1st Jan): Help Rudolph find his eight friends who are lost all around the gardens and then collect your festive treat. £2 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult for whom the garden entrance fee applies. 10am – 5pm (27th-30th 10am-4pm).
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r e Fo Guid ford .1 o N x Your On In O t’s a h W
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Late Night Christmas Shopping Evenings!
Don’t miss out on our late night Christmas shopping events! Thursdays in December 9:00am to 7:00pm December 3rd · December 10th · December 17th Clothing and gifts at the official University store. 106 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW www.oushop.com 12
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Oxfordshire Kids Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford Tel: Maya Sprigg 01869 278600. Web: www.stagecoach.co.uk/oxford Email: oxford@stagecoach.co.uk We provide quality part-time training in the performing arts for children aged 4-18yrs. Our aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes in Oxford, stretching young imaginations and building confidence. We provide the right combination of learning and performing, with opportunities for all ages. Open every weekend during term time and workshops during the school holidays, come join the fun!
Pitt Rivers Museum South parks Road Oxford, OX1 3PP Tel: 01865 270927 Web: www.prm.ox.ac.uk Pitt Stop: Jingle Beads Saturday 5th December: Jingle all the way and make your own beaded Christmas decorations. 13.00 – 16.00 Under 5 event: New: A Little Look at… The Inuit Thursday 10th December: An active hands-on exploration telling the tales of objects in the Museum. Especially for under 5s | Please bear in mind that these sessions last 30 min 10.30 & 11.30 Trail: Rockin’ Reindeer trail Saturday 19th December - Sunday 3rd January: Feeling festive? Try out our Rockin’ Reindeer Christmas trail. Can you spot them all? Pitt Stop: Incredible Inuit Saturday 2nd January: Touch museum objects and find out more about the fascinating lives of the Inuit. Make an igloo to take home with you. 13.00 – 16.00
Discover...
CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE... Enjoy a host of fabulously festive events at Oxford’s Castle Quarter this season. Visit www.oxfordcastlequarter.com to discover what magic awaits this winter.
www.oxfordcastlequarter.com
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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.
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.
Carfax Tower Junction of St Aldates and High Street, Oxford OX1 4AZ. Tel: 01865 792653. Open: 10.00 to 3pm. Admission: £2.50, Children £1.50. 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-3pm Nov - Feb, Admission £2.50, Children £1.50.
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
Visitor Information Centre 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS Tel: 01865 686 430 Email: info@experienceoxfordshire.org Web: visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com The Tourist 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 Official Guided Walking Tours, the best way to explore Oxford on foot. See in store or get in contact with us by Tel: 01865 252037 Email: wtours@oxford.gov.uk
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.
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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 124 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 £3, Children (under 16) £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. Day Out With Thomas to meet Father Christmas: Saturdays/Sundays 5/6, 12/13, 19/20, & Tuesday/Wednesday 22/23 December. Book online at: www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/didcot
Oxford Official Guided Walking Tours 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS Tel: 01865 686 441 Email: officialtours@experienceoxfordshire.org Web: visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com What better way to discover our beautiful city than on foot? The Official Guided 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 Guided 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.
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Interested in reading more about Attractions? Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Theatre
The North Wall Arts Centre South Parade, Oxford OX2 7JN. Tel: 01865 319450 Web: www.thenorthwall.com
Treasure Island Saturday 5th December to Saturday 9th January: Cutlasses and cannon fire on the high seas. Jim and Long John Silver are on the trail of pirate treasure. Leading a crew of the scurviest sea dogs you ever saw and following a battered old map they’ll find more than they bargained for over the horizon. Scramble on deck for Creation’s fifth family Christmas show at The North Wall. From the team behind last year’s riotous and eccentric The Wind in the Willows comes a new adaptation full of sea shanties, swash buckling and sword fights. Tickets: £13.50 - £32 Times: 2.30pm, 6pm, 7.30pm – see website for details
Oxford Playhouse Oxford Playhouse 11 - 12 Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2LW. Box Office: 01865 305305. Web: www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Aladdin Friday 27th November - Sunday 10th January: Hot on the heels of last year’s spectacular Beauty and the Beast, the Playhouse brings you an Aladdin’s cave of sparkling festive entertainment, written and directed for the first time this year by Steve Marmion, Artistic Director of Soho Theatre and creator of a host of criticallyacclaimed pantos for London’s Lyric Hammersmith and elsewhere. One thing’s for sure whether you’re Mum, Dad, Nana, Grampy or one of the kids – it’ll be sheer GENIEus.
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JOB HUNTING? For job vacancies posted by some of Oxfordshire’s leading business, visit the job board at www.b4-business.com Amongst other leading employers we receive job postings from:
www.b4-business.com www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Cinema December 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
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens The further adventures of Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher). Set 30 years after the events of “Return of the Jedi, the new trilogy will see the old generation team up with a new generation of heroes to continue their fight against an oppressive force.
The Night Before In New York City for their annual tradition of Christmas Eve debauchery, three lifelong best friends (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anthony Mackie) set out to find the Holy Grail of Christmas parties since their yearly reunion might be coming to an end.
In the Heart of the Sea In 1820, crewmen aboard the New England vessel Essex face a harrowing battle for survival when a whale of mammoth size and strength attacks with force, crippling their ship and leaving them adrift in the ocean. Pushed to their limits and facing storms, starvation, panic and despair, the survivors must resort to the unthinkable to stay alive. Their incredible tale ultimately inspires author Herman Melville to write “Moby-Dick.”
Victor Frankenstein Told from Igor’s perspective, we see the troubled young assistant’s dark origins, his redemptive friendship with the young medical student Viktor Von Frankenstein, and become eyewitnesses to the emergence of how Frankenstein became the man - and the legend - we know today.
Daddy’s Home A mild-mannered radio executive strives to become the best stepdad to his wife’s two children, but complications ensue when their freewheeling and freeloading real father arrives, forcing him to compete for the affection of the kids.
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MACDONALD R ANDOLPH HOTEL
FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS Join us for magical festive celebrations at Macdonald Randolph Hotel this Christmas.
HOTEL AND SPA VOUCHERS Treat a loved one to a fabulous spa experience or treatment. Our famous afternoon tea would be a perfect gift this Christmas.
To book, call 0344 879 9132 or email general.randolph@macdonald-hotels.co.uk Contact the Spa direct on 01865 256485 or email spa.randolph@macdonald-hotels.co.uk
Macdonald Randolph Hotel, Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LN
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/RANDOLPH www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Music
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.
6th December: Navarra String Quartet Mozart String Quartet K80, Beethoven String Quartet op.131 13th December: Emperor String Quartet Haydn String Quartet “Sunrise” op.76 no.4, Debussy String Quartet 20th December: Adderbury Ensemble Chamber Orchestra Christmas Concert, Bach, Handel, Pachelbel, Corelli
Adderbury Ensemble 3rd December: Fiona Cross – clarinet at the Radcliffe Centre, Buckingham Directed by Martyn Jackson Schubert Quintet “Death and the Maiden” Mozart Clarinet Quintet 16th December : Candelit Christmas Concert- St John the Evangelist, Iffley Rd, Oxford Directed by David Le Page, Bach, Corelli, Pachelbel, Vivaldi £11 adults, £10 full time students, senior citizens and under 16s Free admission to children ages 5 -10 accompanied by an adult (under 5s not permitted entry) Tickets Available at the door or from Oxford Playhouse Tel: 01865 305305 Web: www.coffeeconcerts.com
Christmas Carol Concert Sunday 13th December at 7pm SHELDONIAN THEATRE
SLEIGH RIDE Leroy Anderson
BERLIOZ
Oxford’s Professional Orchestra
Shepherd’s Farewell
HANDEL
Zadok the Priest
DARKE
In the Bleak Midwinter Christmas Carols for Choir and Audience Onyx Brass Oxford City Choir & St. Helen’s Chapel Choir
Tickets £10 - £32 01865 744457 / 305305
Jacques Cohen Conductor
Christmas by Candlelight: The Three Countertenors Exeter College Chapel, Turl Street, OX1 3DP
From Schuetz, Dering, Couperin, Purcell & Monteverdi … to Kurt Weill, Cole Porter & Gershwin Tuesday 22nd December: Charivari Agréable: James Armitage, Rod Morris & James Potter (countertenors), dir. Kah-Ming Ng (chamber organ). Tickets: £18 (OAP £17, students £12) at the door or from the Playhouse Tel: 01865-305305 Time: 7:30pm (19:30)
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Faculty of Music, University of Oxford St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DB. Tel: 01865 276133. Web: www.music.ox.ac.uk/events
Richard Casey performs New Compositions Monday 30th November: Pianist Richard Casey will play student composers new compositions for piano solo and will discuss with them composition techniques and musical language. Admission: Free – Open to all, Time: 3pm, Venue: Ensemble Room, Faculty of Music
Research Colloquium with Tomi Mäkelä (Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg) Tuesday 1st December: Jean Sibelius and the “Forest of Fear” The Music Research Colloquia series is organised by graduate students (this year, Leah Broad and Juliana Pistorius). The Colloquia feature leading figures as well as younger scholars presenting their research in papers on all kinds of music-related topics. The speakers come from Oxford and many different universities around the world. Presentations are followed by discussion and a drinks reception. Students, staff and the general public are warmly encouraged to attend. Admission: Free, Time: 5.15pm, Venue: Faculty of Music
Ensemble ISIS performs New Compositions Wednesday 2nd December: Members of Ensemble ISIS will play student composers new composition for solo instrument with electronics or piano. Professor Robert Saxton and Professor Martyn Harry will lead the workshop. Admission: Free – Open to all, Time: 3pm, Venue: Ensemble Room, Faculty of Music
Seminar in Medieval and Renaissance Music with Jeffrey Dean (Birmingham Conservatoire) Thursday 3rd December: Loÿset Compère and the motet in France in the early 1490s The speaker’s presentation is followed by a full hour of discussion during which wine is served. Admission: Free, Time: 5pm, Venue: Wharton Room, All Souls College
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Oxfordshire Music Music At Oxford Osney Lock Boathouse, Osney Lock, Bridge Street, Oxford, OX2 0AX. Box Office: 01865 244 806. Web: www.musicatoxford.com
Christmas at Christ Church Friday 11 & 18 December: Christ Church Cathedral Choir & Stephen Darlington director Music at Oxford’s now famous, and ever-popular Christmas concerts, held in the evocative and atmospheric surroundings of Christ Church Cathedral, provide the perfect means of preparing for the joy of Christmas. Expertly directed by Stephen Darlington, the boys and men of the Choir will perform a wide range of the most glorious Christmas music, alongside carefully chosen readings, and our favourite carols for audience participation. With low lighting, and television screens to provide a close-up of the music-making, these two identical concerts are truly unmissable. Tickets: £15 (TV screen view) Students £5 off & Under 18s half-price Box Office 01865 244806, Online www.musicatoxford.com Time: 8pm Venue: Christ Church Cathedral
City of Oxford Orchestra Tel: 01865 744457. Web: www.cityofoxfordorchestra.co.uk E-mail: info@cityofoxfordorchestra.co.uk
Christmas Carol Concert Sunday 13th December: Handel Zadok the Priest, Berlioz Shepherds’ Farewell, Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride, Ravel Hansel and Gretel Overture, Fauré Pavane and Carols for Choir and Audience. Onyx Brass, Oxford City Choir and Cantores and Chapel Choir of St Helen and St Katharine add their own special magic. Venue: Sheldonian Theatre. Time: 7pm. Tickets: £10-£32 call (01865) 744457 or (01865) 305305.
Concerto by Candlelight Sunday 20th December: Corelli Christmas Concerto, Bach Air on the G string, Albinoni Oboe Concerto, Vivaldi Winter, Pachelbel Canon, Bach In Dulci Jubilo and Morricone Gabriel’s Oboe. Owen Dennis Oboe and Roland Roberts Director/Violin. ‘The perfect way to start Christmas: sublime music in an enchanting chapel and the magic of Candlelight.’ Cantabile. Venue: Exeter College. Time: 5pm and 8pm. Tickets: £24 call (01865) 744457.
www.therandrcollection.co.uk
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Arrive at London Marylebone cool, calm and connected to the city – with a choice of five tube lines within five minutes’ walk. To find out more, go to chilternrailways.co.uk
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. Tel: 07967 075367. Web: www.artcoursesoxford.com E-mail: kieran@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.
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Sanders of Oxford Antique Prints & Maps
Sanders are ready for Christmas, with our wide selection of 17th to 20th century prints and maps, there’s something for everyone and every pocket. New stock for Christmas includes: Japanese woodblocks, regional and world maps, caricatures and new work by contemporary printmakers, alongside a wide selection of beautiful and unusual Oxford prints and photographs. Let our friendly, knowledgeable staff help you find a unique and personal gift this Christmas. 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
Christ Church Picture Gallery A View of Venice: An exploration of a rare and unknown panorama of Venice from the late 16th century 15 October 2015 - 26 January 2016 Opening Times
Mon, Wed - Sat, 10.30am - 1pm & 2pm - 4.30pm. Sun, 2 - 4.30pm. Closed on Tuesdays Christ Church, Oxford Entrance via Oriel Square Admission: £4/£2 Tel: 01865 276172 www.chch.ox.ac.uk/gallery
Christmas Exhibition www.wisegal.com Tel:01865 515 123 40-41 South Parade Summertown Oxford OX2 7JL
Interested in reading more Art listings? Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Education EF International Language Centre Pullens Lane, OX3 0DT, Headington, Oxford. Tel: +44 (0) 1865 759 660. www.ef.co.uk – Facebook: EF Oxford – Twitter: @efoxford EF International Language centres, is a Modern campus with disabled friendly facilities. Situated in the prestigious area, Pullens Lane in Oxford. We offer English courses and University preparation to students from more than 50 countries. Our courses are flexible in length to suit you, from 2 weeks to 52 weeks a year. Our EF Efektatm learning system is widely known to be the most effective way to learn. You are guaranteed to learn faster with our experienced teachers, the latest language technology and interaction with the local culture plus we will help you prepare for and take official language proficiency exams for example, IELTS and Cambridge ESOL, being also an examination centre for the Cambridge exams. EF offers you a complete study experience, including free-time activities and excursions. We arrange accommodation, meals, visa guidance, medical insurance and anything else you can think of, so you are able to just focus on learning and enjoying your course and exciting experience.”
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.
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Exclusive Hotels, Restaurants, Golf Clubs and Spas
For more information, contact The R&R Collection on 01865 742211
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Oxfordshire Accommodation Hotels 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.
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.
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.
YHA 2a Botley Rd, Oxford OX2 0AB. Tel: 01865 727275. Web: www.yha.org.uk The best value budget accommodation in town. Centrally located with en-suite rooms, breakfast buffet, bar and Great British menu, YHA Oxford redefines what you can expect from a hostel. We offer 24 hr access, internet access, luggage store and private rooms all 5 minutes walk from the city centre.
Malmaison Oxford Oxford Castle, 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!
Hawkwell House Church Way, Iffley Village, Oxford, OX4 4DZ. Tel: 01865 749988. Web: www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk If you are looking for a hotel near Oxford or a wedding venue in Oxfordshire, there are few better-placed than Hawkwell House Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms in Iffley Village. The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has something for everyone, including beautiful English villages, a wealth of National Trust stately homes and gardens, and for children, the Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens.
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Fallowfields Country House Hotel Faringdon Rd, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5BH. Tel: 01865 820416. Web: www.fallowfields.com Fallowfields is one of the leading boutique hotels in Oxfordshire. Our fine dining restaurant is outstanding. Guests come here for wonderful food, bedrooms and calm, tranquil surroundings. “Boutique hotels in Oxfordshire don’t get much better than this”
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 Experience” menu is £75 per person for seven courses.
The Oxford Hotel Godstow Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489 988 Web: www.pumahotels.co.uk/hotels/the-oxford-hotel With great transport links into Oxford, The Oxford Hotel is the ideal place to stay when exploring Oxford and the surrounding area. Features: Free WiFi, 168 bedrooms, Easily accessible from M40, Health Club with swimming pool, Close to Blenheim Palace, Conference facilities, AA Rosette restaurant, Free car park, Beauty rooms, 2 miles from city centre.
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.
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’
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Oxfordshire Accommodation Heythrop Park Resort Enstone, Oxfordshire, OX7 5UE or OX7 5UF. Tel: 01608 673 333. Web: www.heythroppark.co.uk A unique venue set in 440 acres of stunning Oxfordshire Countryside, seamlessly combining elegance with style and boasting two individual hotels: the elegant DeVere Venues Heythrop Park Hotel and the stylish Crowne Plaza Hotel. The Resort also offers a championship 18 hole standard golf course, health club & spa together with state of the art conference facilities.
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.
Short Lets Righton Group Limited 8 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JL. Tel: 01865 311 696 Web: www.rightonstay.co.uk Righton Group Limited specialises in the provision of high quality serviced accommodation in Oxfordshire and locations in south east England. 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 service includes weekly linen and towel changes, weekly freshenup cleans, internet access, telephone and tariffs inclusive of utilities.
Short Let Space Tel: 01993811711 Web: www.shortletspace.co.uk Short Let Space provides fully furnished, short let accommodation for business and leisure visitors to Oxford and the Thames Valley. We offer apartments, houses and cottages, from studios to one, two and threebedroom properties. Our portfolio covers Oxford and the county of Oxfordshire, including Abingdon, Banbury, Bicester, Henley-on-Thames, Leamington Spa and many smaller towns and villages in between. Based near Oxford, our team of short let consultants know our properties and the region well. So whether you are coming to enjoy afternoon tea in the Cotswolds or to work on fusion research at Culham, we hope to have a suitable short let property for you.
Guest House Conifers Guest House 116 The Slade, Headington Oxford OX3 7DX. Tel: 01865 763055. Web: www.conifersguesthouse.co.uk A 4 star Guest Accomodation located in Headington area of Oxford, Conifers offers en-suite bedrooms with free Wi- Fi internet access, flat screen multichannel TV’s and free parking.
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Blackwell’s In Oxford - December We have an exciting line-up of events for you in September. Please check our events page on the website: www.blackwell.co.uk Tickets are available from our Customer Service Department, Blackwell’s Bookshop, 48-51 Broad Street, Oxford. Telephone: 01865 333623 We hope to see you at one of our events soon!
Winter is Coming : A Game of Thrones evening Thursday 3rd December at 7pm. Tickets: £5
Celebrate the phenomenon of ‘Game of Thrones’ with a talk from Carolyn Larrington, music and mead. Fancy Dress encouraged.
Late Night Shopping with Martin Stott’s ‘Cowley Road Cookbook’ Thursday 10th December at 7pm. FREE
Martin Stott will be launching his history of cooking on the Cowley Road, plus will be serving an array of nibbles.
Blackwell’s Christmas Walking Tours with Mulled Wine Tickets: £9 (Price includes a glass of hot mulled wine.
On this year’s Christmas tours you will get to see the famous ‘Adoration of the Magi’ tapestry, hear about the famous Boar’s Head Feast, traditionally celebrated every Christmas. You will also be taken to the first coffee house in England which Jacob the Jew started in 1650 and view the beautiful 16th Century Wall coverings in the tavern which Shakespeare stayed. To book a tour call 01865 333602 or email oxford@blackwell.co.uk From Tue 10th Nov - Fri 18th Dec inclusive
To book these tours, please call 01865 333602 or email: oxford@blackwell.co.uk
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Accommodation Review:
Twenty first century luxury at the historic heart of Oxford
Reviewed by Stephen Jones 5th November
The Vanbrugh House Hotel is a boutique hotel situated right in the centre of Oxford. The original building, located at 20-24 St Michael’s street, has stood since the late sixteenth century. The building takes its name from the renowned Sir John Vanbrugh, famous for his work on the Grand Bridge at Blenheim palace and Castle Howard. It is widely believed that he designed the stone facade that you see on the building today. My room was the Vicarage Suite, and is one of the Vanbrugh’s premier rooms. It is thus named as the part of the building within which it is situated, once housed the Vicarage for St Michael’s at the North Gate Church. As well as a king-sized four poster bed, and en-suite rainfall shower room the Vicarage suite comes with a media hub with connection to numerous devices, complimentary wifi and a mini-fridge stocked with crisps, soft drinks and chocolate. It is a mixture of old and new luxuries. The room is furnished with warm greens and greys, a plush sofa sits at the end of the bed, offering the perfect perch to sit back relax and relax. If all this wasn’t enough, the Vicarage Suite comes with its very own private city garden. Breakfast is served between seven and eleven. An array of fruits, pastries and cereals provide a welcome continental spread. Fresh coffee and loose leaf tea is on offer as well as a variety of freshly pressed fruit juices. The Vanbrugh also offers a selection of wonderfully prepared cooked breakfast options using a variety of locally sourced and high quality ingredients. The staff are gentle but attentive; just what you need at seven in the morning, and went out of their way to make your breakfast all the more enjoyable. All in all I would say my stay at the Vanbrugh was a huge luxurious success. The location of the hotel, at the very centre of Oxford, provides the perfect base from which you can explore a city rich in culture and romance, although any excuse not to leave the room would be enough! The Vanbrugh is truly spectacular, and must surely set the pace as one of Oxford’s leading hotels.
20 - 24 St Michael’s St, Oxford OX1 2EB Tel: 01865 244622 Web: www.vanbrughhousehotel.co.uk www.livinginoxford.com
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ROLL OF HONOUR
2015 Winners Restaurant of the Year: The White Hart at Fyfield Gastronomic Restaurant: Restaurant 56 at Sudbury House Hotel, Faringdon Gastro Pub / Brasserie: The White Hart at Fyfield Traditional Pub: The White Hart, Minster Lovell Asian: Yeti Nepalese, Oxford Express, Deli, Café: Aston Pottery Country Café, Aston Outstanding Service: Malmaison, Oxford Belmond Le Manoir Award for Excellence: The Mole Inn, Toot Balden Public Vote: The Greyhound, Besselsleigh City of Oxford College Trainee of the Year: Amy Bulgin from The Red Lion, Northmoor Living In Oxford Editor’s Choice: The Oxford Kitchen, Oxford Outstanding Contribution: Donald Sloan, Oxford Gastronomica / Oxford School of Hospitality Management
2014 Winners Restaurant of the Year: Shaun Dickens at The Boathouse, Henley on Thames Gastronomic Restaurant: Shaun Dickens at The Boathouse, Henley on Thames Gastro Pub / Brasserie: The White Horse, King’s Sutton Traditional Pub: The King and Queen, Longcot Asian: The Snooty Mehmaan, Faringdon Express, Deli, Café: Reg’s Café, Banbury Outstanding Service: The Randolph Restaurant, Oxford Award for Excellence: Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons, Great Milton Public Vote: Café Aloha Living In Oxford Editor’s Choice: La Cucina
AWARDS 2015 2015 Winners Favourite Attraction: Oxford Castle Favourite Charity: CLIC Sargent Favourite Event: Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials Favourite for Accommodation: The Randolph Hotel Favourite for Art and Culture: Modern Art Oxford Favourite for Education: City of Oxford College Favourite for Health & Beauty: Bare UK Favourite for Kids: Stagecoach Oxford Favourite for Leisure: Millets Farm Falconry Favourite for Nightlife: The Duke of Cambridge Favourite for Shopping: Blackwell’s Favourite Other Business: Hedges Law Favourite Place to Eat: La Cucina
Oxfordshire Shopping University of Oxford Shop 106 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 247414. Web: www.oushop.com The University of Oxford Shop is wholly owned by the University and offers a fantastic range of clothing, gifts and stationery for visitors and local residents alike. All of the profits are given back to the University, making a valuable contribution to the work and teaching of this world-famous establishment.
Blackwell’s 51 Broad St, Oxford, OX1 3BQ. Web: www.blackwell.co.uk we have been serving the needs of book-lovers since 1879. Our booksellers are passionate about the books that we sell and there is nothing that we enjoy more than making a perfect recommendation to a customer. For those of you who do not know the shop we trade across four floors, including the cavernous Norrington Room basement, and you will find new and secondhand books on every subject under the sun.
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.
Stella & Dot Web: www.stelladot.co.uk A social selling company that creates flexible entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Our boutique-style jewellery and accessories line is available exclusively through in-home Trunk Shows by Independent Stylists and online. Get in touch with your local Independent Stylist, Jana Saunders, on 07763 743783 or visit www.stelladot.co.uk/janasaunders
Inky Fingers 38 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1HZ Tel: 01865 421776 Web: www.inkyfingers.net The one-stop-shop in Oxford for comics, graphic novels, art books and more from both indie and mainstream publishers. We also do teas and coffees!
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Great Oxfordshire Deals
Vouch is Oxfordshire’s very own discount deals website So what can we offer you? We are passionate about bringing you great local deals for fantastic restaurants, luxurious hotels and wonderful events, not to mention a growing number of retail, beauty and sporting vouchers. The best part about vouch is that it’s easy to take advantage of our offers.
Oxford Hotel
£125 voucher for just £50 Have a better nights sleep with our deal for only £50!
La Cucina
£30 voucher for just £15 Book a table at La Cucina and embrace a real Italian experience.
Randolph Rooms
£270 voucher for just £150 Situated in the heart of the city opposite the world famous Ashmolean Museum
The Snooty Mehmaan
£30 voucher for just £15 With an emphasis on refined yet creative Indian cuisine
For a full selection of vouchers, visit vouchoffers.co.uk These are not vouchers and will not be accepted as such
Bear & Ragged Staff
£30 voucher for just £15 Unpretentious Wining & Dining with Accommodation in the Oxfordshire Countryside
Oxford Hotel Spa
£58 voucher for just £29 Sooth those stresses away at the Oxford Hotel Spa!
The Feathers
£20 voucher for just £10 Take this opportunity to eat at Oxfordshire's Restaurant of the Year 2012
Iffley Blue
£30 voucher for just £15 Try the newly opened Restaurant at Hawkwell House for Stunning Food
Fallowfields
£270 voucher for just £135 Room, breakfast, 2 glasses of bubbly & £85 towards your meal
The Red Lion
£35 voucher for just £17.50 Already one of Oxford's Favourite Eateries. Don't miss out!
Aziz
£30 voucher for just £15 Eat at either Aziz on Cowley Road or Aziz Express at The Ozone Leisure Park
www.vouchoffers.co.uk
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Didcot Railway Centre Wychwood Brewery Buscot Park & The Faringdon Collection Millets Farm Centre
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Oxfordshire Sport Oxford University Rugby Football Club Jackdaw Lane, Iffley Road, Oxford OX4 1SR. Tel: 01865 432000. Web: www.ourfc.org.uk Wed 2nd Dec: Bristol University v Whippets - Time: 12:00 - (H) Wed 2nd Dec: Cambridge LX Club v Greyhounds - Time: 14:30 - (H) Thu 10th Dec: Cambridge University v Blues - Time: 14:30 - (A) All home matches take place at the Iffley Road Stadium. For further details please visit our @sport.ox.ac.uk or call 01865 432000
Oxford United Football Club The Kassam Stadium, Grenoble Road, Oxford OX4 4XP. Tel: 01865 337533. Web: www.oufc.co.uk Sat 12th Dec: Carlisle v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (H) Sat 19th Dec: Wycombe v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (A) Sat 26th Dec: Exeter v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (H) Mon 28th Dec: Yeovil v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (A) Sat 2nd Jan: Notts County v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (A) Sat 9th Jan: Mansfield v Oxford United - Time: 15:00 - (H) Get Behind The U’s! Save money by booking your tickets before the day of the game.
Oxford City Football Club Marsh Ln, Oxford OX3 0NQ. Tel: 01865 744493. Web: www.oxfordcityfc.co.uk Sat 15th Dec: Eastbourne Borough v OCFC - Time: 15:00 - (A) Tue 10th Dec: Hemel Hempstead Town v OCFC - Time: 15:00 - (H) Sat 14th Dec: Maidenhead United v OCFC - Time: 15:00 - (H) Sat 21st Dec: Weston-Super-Mare v OCFC - Time: 15:00 - (A)
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!
Heythrop Park Resort Enstone, Oxfordshire, OX7 5UE or OX7 5UF. Tel: 01608 673 333. Web: www.heythroppark.co.uk Open 365 days of the year the Bainbridge Course at Heythrop Park was redesigned in 2009 by Tom MacKenzie the golf course architect responsible for many Open Championship venues. The 7088 yard par 72 course weaves throughout the 440 acre Heythrop estate and provides the perfect challenge for all golfers.
Rye Hill Rye Hill Golf Club Milcombe Banbury Oxfordshire, OX15 4RU. Tel: 01295 721818. Web: www.ryehill.co.uk No matter where you are with your game, or how much time you have to spare, play golf at Oxford’s Rye Hill and find a membership to suit your skill level and budget. You can play our full 18 hole Championship course, or opt for a shorter 5 hole game if you’ve only got an hour to spare. Come and learn the finer points of golf on our par 3 Academy course or warm up on our practice ground. You can even get the kids involved on our specially designed Junior Academy course.
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Oxfordshire Restaurants Asian 4500 Miles From Delhi 40-41 Parkend Street, Oxford, OX1 1JD. Tel: 01865 244 922. Web: www.4500miles.co.uk Not just another ‘up market’ Indian restaurant, quite literally 4500 Miles from Delhi, the restaurant offers diners an ingenious fusion of Asian herbs, spices, fresh meat and vegetables. We have created a place that is relaxing and comfortable.
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.
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.
The Snooty Mehmaan ittleworth, 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.
Contemporary Fallowfields Hotel & Restaurant Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, Oxfordshire, OX13 5BH. Tel: 01865 820 416. Web: www.fallowfields.com The restaurant at Fallowfields is renowned for serving excellent food prepared using only the finest fresh produce. Our Head Chef, Matt Weedon last year was number 45 in the Sunday Times top 100’Restaurants Awards and, previously gained a Michelin star at Glrnnap Castle and Lords of the Manor. Seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown in the hotel’s kitchen gardens and orchards and whenever possible meat and poultry is sourced from our own farm. The restaurant faces south to overlook the hotel’s croquet lawn and offers the perfect ambience.
Browns Bar & Brasserie 5-11 Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6HA. Tel: 01865 511995. Web: www.browns-restaurants Browns in Oxford was the second of this famous group of restaurants to open in 1976. Standing proudly, and rightfully so, being one of the finest restaurants Oxfordshire has to offer, Browns cannot go unnoticed. Stylish branded awnings line the front of the restaurant while a tall stretch of windows beneath entices and invites walkers by to get a glimpse and taste of what Browns has to offer.
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Past Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards Winner
Iffley Blue Church Way, Iffley Village, Oxford, OX4 4DZ. Tel: 01865 749988. Web: www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk Situated just a couple of miles from the centre of Oxford, Iffley Blue is the new restaurant at Hawkwell House Hotel in the beautiful village of Iffley. There is an open style kitchen featuring a wood burning oven, as well as new furniture throughout. The emphasis is on delivering regularly changing seasonal menus with local provenance – as well as exceptional value.
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.
The General Eliott 37 Manor Rd, Oxford OX1 5AS Email: info@thege.co.uk Tel: 01865 608567 Web: www.thege.co.uk The GE now has a fantastic Christmas Menu £22.50/£27.50 & Bar Snack Menu. Look out for all our events on Facebook & book your Xmas Dinner/ Party Now. ‘There will always be found room for one more at The General Eliott..The Telegraph ‘Pubby Paradise’ Oxford Times.
Macdonald Randolph Hotel 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.
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.
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.
Interested in reading more Restaurant listings? Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Restaurants 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.
The Oxford Hotel Godstow Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX2 8AL. Tel: 01865 489 988. Web: www.pumahotels.co.uk Our modern and colourful Medio restaurant has been designed to cater for couples, families and large groups. The friendly evening ambiance sets a relaxing mood to enjoy the fresh, seasonal and varied cuisine. Unwind and relax in the comfortable Medio bar for a pre or post-dinner drink. Free parking and only 2 miles from the City centre.
Traditional The Red Lion The Red Lion 14 Gloucester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BN. Tel: 01865 726 255. Web: www.redlionoxford.co.uk Our menu changes with the seasons and is modern British, comfortably interwoven with some Mediterranean influences. It ranges from traditional favourites such as fish and chips and steaks to freshly made pizzas and pastas with the chef’s daily specials showcasing the finest market fresh ingredients. There’s something for everyone and for all occasions too.
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.
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Past Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards Winner
The Oxford Retreat 1-2 Hythe Bridge Street Oxford OX1 2EW. Tel: 01865 250309. Web: www.theoxfordretreat.com We have recently refurbished our venue to bring you a new, exciting Retreat. Our stylish rejuvenation of the venue, recreates a warm and relaxed vibe whilst open until 3am at weekends, offering visitors a late night hangout, and a place to be and be seen. Take a trip around the world with our sharing inspired menu. Taste the delights of Egypt with our Dukkah or get your Spanish kick from our guindillas.
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.
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.
www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Restaurants Café Loco 85-87 St Aldate’s, City Centre, Oxford OX1 1RA Tel: 01865 200959 Web: www.goingloco.com A 5 minute walk from the centre of Oxford brings you to this beautiful cafe serving delicious food throughout the day with views of Christ Church and its meadow. Lewis Carrolls ‘Alice in Wonderland’ has inspired Cafe Locos Mad Hatters Tea Party. Come and have a cream tea and experience the best coffee in Oxford as you visit the city and enjoy its amazing History.
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 laboratry, all carefully crafted by our expert bartenders.
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Past Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards Winner
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!
Italian 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.
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.
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.
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Oxfordshire Health & Beauty Kennington Osteopathic Practice The Village Centre, Kennington Road, Oxford OX1 5PG Tel: 07787 404419 Web: kenningtonosteo.co.uk Sophie and the team at Kennington Osteopathic Practice in Oxford are dedicated to helping patients with all types of pain. We offer daytime and evening osteopathy, sports injury and sports massage appointments. We also provide morning and evening Pilates classes. Our aim is to ensure that you can recover as quickly as possible.
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.
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.
Oxford Brookes Centre for Sport Headington Campus, Gipsy Ln, Oxford, OX3 0BP Tel: 01865 484373 Web: www.brookes.ac.uk/brookes-sport Whether new to a gym or looking to keep or develop your health and fitness, the Oxford Brookes Sports Centre and Health Suite is the ideal starting point to get in shape and stay fit. For anyone looking to gain the winning edge through superior exercise our free weights room has everything you need.
Spa at The Oxford Hotel Godstow Road, Oxford, OX2 8AL Tel: 01865 489 988 Web: www.pumahotels.co.uk/hotels/the-oxford-hotel/spa Relax, unwind and let us pamper you in the tranquil surroundings of the beauty rooms at The Oxford Hotel, or get fit at The Health & Leisure Club at The Oxford Hotel (open to hotel guests and members). Facilities: 2 beauty rooms with a range of treatments, Fitness suite, Splash pool, Sauna, Steam room, Squash courts.
TAO Beauty Salon 1st floor, Above The Globe Newsmarket, 99 St Aldates OX1 1BT. Tel: 01865 249347. Web: www.taobeautyoxford.co.uk Established in 1968, Tao offers a wide range of beauty treatments including Dermalogica, St Tropez Airport, Jessica Nail Care, Microdermabrasion, Non Surgical face lifts, and much more. Open: Monday to Saturday.
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.
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Fallowfields Restaurant is located only 20 minutes from Oxford. This elegant country house is a small, independently owned, providing fine British dining. Head Chef Matt Weedon and his team use wonderful fresh produce, much of it grown or reared on its own farm. The restaurant faces south, overlooking a croquet lawn, and offers the perfect ambience at any time of day to enjoy a relaxing, peaceful and unrushed lunch or dinner. In the summer months, food and drinks can be taken on the terrace, with its uninterrupted view of the Ridgeway. The well-stocked bar, offers plenty of variety with a wide range of single malt whiskeys, five different gins and locally brewed bottled beer and ten different wines by the glass. Open Mon-Sun noon- 2.30pm, 7pm-10pm Kingston 5BH InterestedBagpuize in readingwith moreSouthmoor, about HealthOX13 & Beauty? stay@fallowfields.com www.fallowfields.com Just visit livinginoxford.com Your Guide To The City Tel: 01865 820416 www.livinginoxford.com
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Oxfordshire Services
Excel Dry Cleaners 274 Banbury Road, Oxford. Tel: 01865 511773. Oxford’s specialist Dry Cleaners, experts in cleaning all delicate items including silks to wedding dresses. Full repair and alteration service.
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 Savvy 253 London Road Headington Oxford OX3 9EH. Tel: 01865 920020. Web: www.group-savvy.co.uk Savvy works in a wide range of properties including domestic, leisure, educational and commercial, as well as Oxfordshire’s leading businesses that entrust Savvy with beautiful historic buildings. We take great pride in our work and, by working hand in hand with our clients, Savvy has earned a reputation as one of Oxford’s most reliable, trusted and helpful building companies.
Care Home 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.
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Need To Freshen Up Your Image?
For all your Graphic Design, Photography & Print needs
Tel: 01865 742211 Web: www.hothdesign.co.uk
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Modern and traditional styling for men Gents wet cut £12.50 . Student wet cut from £11 No appointment necessary Opening Hours Mon-Wed 10am - 5.30pm, Thurs & Fri 10am - 7pm, Sat 9am - 5pm
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.
Audio & Visual City Audio Visual Unit 19, Kingsmeadow, Ferry Hinksey Rd, Oxford OX2 0DP. Tel: 01865 722800. Web: www.cityav.co.uk Oxford’s leading specialists in audio visual hire, sales, installation and live event support. From Projector hire and AV Support to installation of a bespoke audio visual presentation system, we pride ourselves in offering a quality driven professional service with a personal touch.
Property Finders Keepers 27 St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1AB Tel: 01865 204844 Web: www.finders.co.uk Finders Keepers Letting Agents have been renting Flats and Houses in Oxford since 1972. With a hands-on and personal service, finding a rental property in Oxfordshire couldn’t be easier. If you are looking to rent in Oxford get in touch today!
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.
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Oxfordshire Services Strutt and Parker 269 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 7LL Tel: 01865 366660 Web: www.struttandparker.com Strutt & Parker’s estate agents and property consultants work in partnership with clients to deliver their goals – whether their interests are in residential, commercial, rural or development property.
Design, Print, Photography & IT 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.
Charities Helen & Douglas House 14A Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1RW Tel: 01865 794749 Web: www.helenanddouglas.org.uk We provide medical, emotional and practical support, helping families deal with the implications of living with a child who will die prematurely, so they can make the most of their time together. We care for children and young adults, aged from birth to 35, from Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and parts of London.
Leukaemia Research Twitter: twitter.com/beatbloodcancer Web: www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk We are 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.
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Service Review:
Excel Dry Cleaners A Tried and Tested Partnership Rachel Boyes has been running Excel Dry Cleaners in Summertown for six years, having joined the business in Summertown twenty years ago under previous owner, John Warburton. Excel was recently welcomed as a member into the Guild of Cleaners and Launderers but Rachel has herself welcomed a very special person onto her staff… her husband Paul. This is the fruition of a plan which has been long in the making, as Rachel explains. “Paul and I have been together for 20 years and not only are we husband and wife, we’re also best friends and really enjoy eachother’s company. The problem was, we just weren’t seeing enough of one another as Paul was working shifts and we were literally like ships passing in the night.” Paul continues. “Rachel’s right. I was working at Smurfit Kappa and as I would come in from a shift, Rachel would be leaving for work. She’s done a great job here at Excel since taking over but she’s been working so hard and to a certain extent I felt a little helpless watching her take the burden of what is quite a physical business squarely on her own shoulders. We’d had conversations about me joining the business and now we’ve finally done it, I think Rachel’s happy.” Rachel steps in, keen to praise Paul. “He’s been fantastic. I’ve had a huge weight lifted from my shoulders and it’s so nice to be able to shift some of the work onto him. Paul’s great on the parts of the business I’m not so fond of, like the administration, machine repairs etc…. He just gets on with it whilst I concentrate on supporting the team to get through our never ending workload! It’s crazy and the piles never seem to get smaller but Mark, Kevin, Lilian and Jenny just keep on going and between us we get there.” The shop is also expanding towards the road which will give this likeable young couple more space to breathe and create more of a frontage, explains Rachel. “The expansion is long overdue and we really need the space, so we can’t wait for it to happen. We can have an actual shop front, which will be fantastic, and perhaps an opportunity to sell some essentials like buttons, needles and thread etc…. which nobody seems to sell anymore.” As well as the shop, Rachel is delighted with the way the collection and delivery side of the business is going plus the two agency outlets in St Giles News and the Post Office in Stanton St John. “We bought a van a few years ago and the collections business has gone really well. We have picked up some lovely contracts and I can only see the collections side of the business going from strength to strength. “We’ve built up an excellent reputation as we have been here so long. There are lots of familiar faces coming in to the shop every day and it’s really nice to see so many loyal customers coming back, time and again. This has certainly helped us to expand the collection and delivery side of the business so quickly.”
Oxfam House, 274 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 7DY Tel: 01865 511773 Web: www.exceldrycleanersofoxford.co.uk www.livinginoxford.com
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Service Article:
The benefits of ‘Hire vs Buy’ Oxford Event Hire is aware that the tough economic climate means that capital costs and spending decisions are coming under greater scrutiny. In this environment, hiring becomes a smart alternative to buying outright and whether you are a business or a private person, there is a serious proposition to consider. People are increasingly seeing the advantages of becoming more hire-conscious. We want to raise public awareness of the real economic and other gains that may accrue from questioning one’s purchasing decisions and opting to hire. The benefits of hiring they point to include: • No capital investment or capital replacement programme is required • Offers immediate availability to meet short-term needs • Eliminates storage requirements and downtime when equipment is not in use • No direct maintenance or transport costs – equipment can be delivered and collected from site • Vast ranges of high quality equipment available and updated by suppliers • Consumable items are supplied on sale or return basis, thus avoiding overstocks • Up-to-date safety advice and safety demonstrations are provided by suppliers There are also compelling environmental reasons for choosing to hire, bought equipment often languishes unused for long periods and is essentially wasteful in an era when resources are scarce and people are increasingly conscious of their carbon footprint. How many of us have bought DIY or other equipment and used it once or twice before it gets lost in the garage or garden shed? Hiring is often a better use of money and better for the environment, because hire equipment tends to be better-maintained and will be used many times over during the course of its hire lifespan.
Web: www.oxfordeventhire.co.uk www.livinginoxford.com
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AWARDS 2016
Living in Oxford Magazine, our great monthly publication, has been Oxfordshire’s leading What’s On guide for the past 14 years. We’re also held in high regard by a number of the county’s leading organisations. With a fantastic track record of delivering a quality publication every month and a client base including leading attractions such as Blenheim Palace and Oxford Castle, leading hotels such as Macdonald Randolph Hotel and Malmaison, leading entertainment from a wide range of organisations and an endless list of leading restaurants, But that’s just the start... We have now launched our very own Living in Oxford Awards which will be decided by you the readers of Living in Oxford Magazine and the general public. Visit awards.livinginoxford.com for details on how to vote for your favourite business and how to add your business to the awards.
Thursday 25th February 2016 Weston Library, Oxford Sponsored by