In Oxford Magazine May by In Oxford

May May already! Yikes! Where does the time go???? We’ve got an action packed edition for you this May. Our lead article features the magnificent Magnolia Park Golf & Country Club. This wonderful golf course boasts fantastic facilities and a fabulous course, just outside of Oxford. Read all about the course inside and why not buy one of our special Green Fee vouchers for just £17.50 for 18 holes of golf at www.vouchoffers.co.uk. In this edition you can also read about one of our long standing customers, Didcot Railway and restaurant reviews for The Oxford Blue and The Blacks Head Inn, enjoyed by Lorna and Zoe in the office. We also enjoyed a great meal at Fallowfields sampling the new head chef’s delectable cuisine. Football fans out there should read our review on the world famous Real Madrid who are running a soccer school here in Oxford at Lady Margaret Hall in the summer. As ever there are the usual reviews and promotions for our fantastic customers inside and please don’t forget www.vouchoffers.co.uk for fantastic hotel, restaurant and other deals. Have a great May Richard Rosser Editor, In Oxford Magazine

Contents Events

Education

Attractions

Oxford City Map

Theatre

Kids

Music

Health, Sport & Leisure

Cinema

Accommodation

Arts & Antiques

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife 52

Shopping

Services

Colin Rosser Chairman

Zoe Kemp Keith Simpson Lorna Dodson Customer Liaison Web Designer Office Manager

The Team Come say hello @inoxford

Richard Rosser Tina Rosser Editor Events

Rob Scotcher Designer

Advertising: If you’d like to advertise with 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 In Oxford we can mail you a copy each month £25.00 per annum. Please call us on 01865 742211 or Email us: enquiries@designs-on.co.uk Oxspots and Stocking In Oxford Magazine, Distribution Services: To find out about receiving copies of In Oxford Magazine or becoming one of our OxSpots, please call Richard on 01865 742211 or Email: enquiries@designs-on.co.uk Contact: In Oxford Magazine, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford OX3 0BT Tel: 01865 742211 Fax: 01865 741391 Email: enquiries@designs-on.co.uk Photography: Blink Marketing, Design and Print. Contact 01865 742211 for your photographic requirements. 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.

www.inoxford.com Restaurants • Music • Events Attractions • Art & Antiques • Shopping Education • Cinema • Kids Health, Sport & Leisure • Accommodation Nightlife • Services • Reviews

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The Red Lion

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Fast becoming one of Oxford’s most versatile venues with a fantastic bar and phenomenal food, The Red Lion is a great venue for a drink, a meal or a dinner party in one of our stunning private rooms.

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The Feathers

Browns Restaurant

Eating and drinking is at the heart of The Feathers experience. The award-winning Restaurant serves the best of modern English cuisine and locally sourced ingredients – light and fresh in summer, rich and robust in winter.

Browns Oxford, set near the centre of ‘that sweet city with her dreaming spires’, was the second branch of Browns to open. It has become a landmark in the city, an institution not quite as ancient as the university’s world-famous colleges, but one which has nonetheless stood the test of time.

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The Trout

St Aldates Tavern

With a large terrace looking out onto the river Thames, it is easy to see why The Trout is the pub of dreams; from Lewis Carroll to CS Lewis you can understand why so many people love to sit outside on a summers day with a lovely glass of wine or a chilled beer and watch the fast moving waters

The St Aldates Tavern is perfectly located right in the heart of the City of Oxford. Just a stone’s throw away from the High Street in between the hustle and bustle of the shopping areas and the relative tranquillity of some of Oxford University's ﬁnest colleges.

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Lead Article

Magnolia Park, The place to be! boasting a championship 18-hole course of around 7,000 yards constructed to the very highest specifications, with superb views over the surrounding Buckinghamshire countryside. Our course is suitable for every golfer whether you are a beginner or elite performer. Set in over 200 acres of rolling Buckinghamshire countryside, the course was designed by Jonathan Gaunt, one of the UK’s leading golf architects. To many, it is known as the closest a parkland course can be to a Links due to its beautiful water features and sometimes windy conditions. Played from the forward tees, the subtle undulating fairways will offer an exciting game for golfers of all abilities, whilst the competition tees give the more experienced golfers a course with Championship potential. Magnolia Park is not a course to be taken lightly; if you’re playing well and taking full advantage of the conditions you can have a very enjoyable round. Peg it up thinking there’s a low score to be had and this course will inevitably beat you. Here at Magnolia Park Golf & Country Club we believe members and visitors alike should be able to experience the full benefits of our courses regardless of the season with the greens and tees open all year round. The course is 6,946 yards in length from the white tees, 6,556 from the yellow tees and 5,613 from the Ladies tees. The club is vibrant, dynamic, forward thinking and modern in its approach. Mark McGeehan, the clubs PGA Head Professional is proud to lead the Premier Golf Academy in Oxfordshire with the very latest diagnostic equipment. The club has an indoor swing analysis room with 3D motion to illustrate the bio mechanical moves of the golfers. Also the room is fitted with the GC2 simulator and courses to play. Home of the Srixon and Cleveland centre of excellence the player will be sure to have the most comprehensive fitting ever. Complemented with a fabulous hand mown practice ground, par 3 target golf and contoured Putting green. A well stocked shop include leading brands such as Srixon, Cleveland, Galvin Green, Adidas, Never Compromise, UKKO, Taylormade and much more. The club is growing not only in stature but with membership size. The competitive price of only £950 per annum includes gym membership, sauna and steam, reciprocal golf at over 20 other venues. Mark offers new members of Magnolia Park a free golf consultation to develop performance enhancing programmes and support the golfer in the journey. Magnolia Park is also a fabulous venue for hosting corporate golf days, Weddings, business meetings, conferences and birthdays parties. The club works alongside Greenfield Entertainment and offers the country club experience with clay shooting, archery and fishing. Ideal for corporate and team building days. If you are interested in becoming a member or any of the exciting activities at Magnolia Park. Please view our website www.magnoliapark.co.uk or call to speak to Paul Bird General Manager or Mark McGeehan Head PGA Professional on 01844 239700

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Events

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Science Oxford 1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford OX4 1BD. Tel: 01865 810000. Web and Bookings: www.scienceoxfordlive.com

Space Show Wednesday 29th May: Join Science Oxford as we take a trip across our solar system! This show looks at planets, moons, stars and the differences between them. Learn why we have day and night, and find out how old you are in Martian years! This show is part of our ‘Explore Your Universe’ set of activities that have a particular focus on how the UK is one of the leading countries for space science. This show is out of this world! SO Live Friend: FREE Per Person: £5.00 Family/Group (up to 5 people): £16.00 Times 11:00am, 2pm 3:30pm

Plane Crazy Thursday 30th May: You won’t get in trouble for throwing paper planes in this family workshop – it’s encouraged! Join us as we learn how paper planes fly, and then use this to make several different types of plane – including the current worldrecord holding design. Suitable for 6+ SO Live Friend: FREE Per Person: £5.00 Family/Group (up to 5 people): £16.00 Times: 11:00am, 2pm

Waterperry Gardens Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, England OX33 1JZ Tel: 01844 339254 Web: www.waterperrygardens.co.uk Open Times: 10am - 5pm

Artweeks in The Gallery Throughout May enjoy a showcase of work by local artists in the Gallery as part of Artweeks – Oxfordshire’s visual arts festival.

Cancer Research Walk Sunday 19th May: Anytime between 10am and 3pm. Make the most of a spring day out and raise money for Cancer Research UK at the same time with our sponsored walk. For more information call Jenny Braithwaite on 01844 208073.

Book Now For Summer Theatre! ‘As You Like It’ - The Lord Chamberlain's Men, Wednesday 12th June, matinee 1.30pm, £11 and evening 7pm, Adults £17.50 Children £13.50. Sherlock Holmes - The Pantaloons, Thursday 15th August, 6.30pm. Adults £13.50 Children £8.50.

Late Nights at Waterperry Enjoy late nights at Waterperry as we are open 10am – 6pm Wednesdays through to Saturdays until the 21st September.

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Bradwell Grove, Burford, OX18 4JW Tel: 01993 823006 Web: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Introduction to Wildlife Photography (intermediate) Friday 17th May: Photography for Big Cats will be running photography courses at the Park. These courses are aimed at Wildlife enthusiasts, who would like to get a better understanding about photography and how to capture better images of wildlife. The 1-day workshops include a detailed theory part, practical exercises and a review of the photos taken by participants on the day. It also includes tuition, lunch, refreshments and entry to the Park. The 1-day workshop costs £135 per person. For more information or to book see website.

Scruffs Dog Show Saturday 11th May: Our third annual charity dog show. Dogs of all ages and abilities welcome to take part in our fun dog show, with categories such as ‘best biscuit catcher’ and ‘waggiest tail’. All money raised will go to this year’s chosen charity Hearing Dogs for the Deaf www.hearingdogs.org.uk Normal admission price for dog owners.

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Oxford Inspires 15-16 Broad Street Oxford OX1 3AS Tel: 01865 252885 Web: www.oxfordinspires.org Oxford Inspires is working with Visit Oxfordshire to promote the many wonderful events, shows, exhibitions and festivals that take place across the county. Info: www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.org/whats-on

May Morning in Oxford Wednesday 1st May : A traditional celebration of the coming of Spring with music, dancing and merriment. Enjoy outbreaks of street activity across the city including High Street, Radcliffe Square and Broad Street. Many of Oxford’s pubs, bars and restaurants will open early to provide May Morning refreshment. The celebrations start at 6am with the choristers of Magdalen College choir singing from the Great Tower. Venue: Magdalen Bridge and surrounding area, Oxford city centre Web: www.oxford.gov.uk/maymorning

OCM - Sons of Kemet Friday 3rd May: One of the hippest UK bands, a quirky quartet of sax, tuba and two drummers. Expect idiosyncratic but danceable grooves, drawing on jazz tradition, Jamaican heritage and New Orleans street music. Venue: North Wall, Oxford Web: www.ocmevents.org/ocm/events/current_season.html

Britten in Oxford Festival John Mark Ainsley performs Britten & Schubert Friday 10th May: Britten's Michaelangelo Sonnets, folk song arrangements & songs by Purcell and Schubert. With renowned accompanist Roger Vignoles. Venue: University Church of St Mary the Virgin OX1 4BJ Web: www.britteninoxford.co.uk

Wallingford Vehicle Rally and Parade Sunday 12th May: Part of Morris Motors Centenary. The Rally celebrates its 9th event at the Kinecroft in Wallingford. A parade of cars will leave the Wallingford Sports Park on Hithercroft Road at 11.00am, driving a short distance through town before entering the Kinecroft OX10 0DT where the main entertainment will take place. Venue: Wallingford Web: www.wallingfordcarrally.org.uk

Trio Sospiroso 'Inspired by Dance' Sunday 12th May: Clare Mellor flute, Sue Black viola, Jenny Broome harp: Cuatro Danzas Sibilinas by Angulo - high-spirited music from Latin America. Children's Corner Suite by Debussy. Aegean Dances by Edward Watson. Light-hearted music inspired by Greek folk dances. Venue: St Nicolas Church, Abingdon OX14 3JL Web: www.abbeychamberconcerts.org

Mark Bebbington - Piano Friday 24th May: Debussy Five Preludes,Berg Piano Sonata Op 1, Bridge Piano Sonata (1921-25) Mark Bebbington’s polished and perceptive interpretations contrasts English and French Impressionism. Venue: Holywell Music Room, Oxford Web: www.musicatoxford.com/Concerts/Events1213/Bebbington.html

Lord Mayor's Celebrations & Oxford-Bonn BurgerFest Saturday 1st - Sunday 2nd June: Saturday: Parade across city centre, then family friendly celebrations in Gloucester Green/OFS & Bonn Square, including outdoor music and dance performances by local and international groups, storytelling, stalls and refreshments. Sunday: Chill to contemporary music in Gloucester Green. Web: www.oxford.gov.uk/events Time: 12 – 6 pm Venues: Gloucester Green/Old Fire Station & Bonn Square

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The Ashmolean Museum Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2PH Tel: 01865 278000 Web: www.ashmolean.org

Xu Bing: Lanscape Landscript Until Sunday 19th May: The Ashmolean’s 2013 exhibition programme opens with the Museum’s first major exhibition of contemporary art. Xu Bing has become one of China’s best known and critically acclaimed artists, exhibiting in solo exhibitions and winning awards around the world. Landscape Landscript will be the first exhibition devoted to his landscapes. Tickets: £6 full price £4 concessions Under-18s free

The Oxfordshire Museum Park Street, Woodstock OX20 1SN. Tel: 01993 811456 Web: www.tomocc.org.uk E: oxon.museum@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Open House at The Museums Resource Centre Sunday 12th May: Through guided tours and talks discover more about our collections, what we collect, why we collect it and how we use the collections for research, education and conservation. The day will showcase recent work on our collections by staff and volunteers in addition to behind the scenes look at the museum store and conservation labs. Discover some fascinating facts about a newly acquired banner and a collection of items from Longworth. Archaeology volunteers will also be on hand to share the results of some of their recent work. Time: 10am - 4pm Admission: free Museums Resource Centre, Witney Road Standlake OX29 7QG Tel: 01993 300972 Web: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/museumsresourcecentre

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

Launch Party Friday 31st May: Shop at the Old Fire Station, Oxford’s newest, unique and constantly growing treasure trove of beautiful items is growing. To celebrate the beginning of Shop at the Old Fire Station’s online ventures, please join us for the Online Shop Launch Party. Meet designers and makers, enjoy live music and sip on a glass of bubbly. Discounts in the Shop will be available on the night. Info: This event is free. Tel: 01865 263990, Email: shop@oldfirestation.org.uk Web www.oldfirestation.org.uk/shop

Blenheim Palace Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PX. Tel: 0800 849 6500 Web: www.blenheimpalace.com Open: Open Daily 10.30am-5.30pm (last admission 4.45pm). Park open daily 9am-4.45pm.

Costumed Tours by 'Dusty Chambers' Wednesday 1st - Friday 3rd May: Dusty Chambers will bring history to life with stories about the Palace, it's building, the old kitchen and the Orangery. From the Great Court and front steps of the Palace, visitors can hear about the servants quarters, peer up to the windows where they once lived, and hear and what life was like working at the Palace for the household staff. Tours will also take in the Palace chapel explaining its use in the 19th century. Tours will take place on the hour from 11.00am until 4.00pm starting in the East Courtyard. Tours are included within a Park and Gardens ticket.

The Knights of Royal England Saturday 4th to Monday 6th May: This Royal May Bank holiday battle will commence in deadly earnest and the Knights, as in medieval times, will give no quarter! Families can watch and cheer as points are awarded to the knights who compete in the skills on horseback, riding the quintain, spearing small, smaller and even the smallest rings, picking up Saracens heads from the ground, all at a gallop. The thrills continue when the knights compete in hand to hand combat with their choice of medieval weapon, on the ground. As the tension mounts, knights will gallop at full pace to meet face-to-face with a three metre lance, with only a shield and helmet to protect them!

The Sealed Knot Society Saturday 25th to Monday 27th May: Enter a world of shining armour, muskets, swords and pikes and experience what life was like during the English Civil War, both on and off the battle field, with a weekend full of action packed historical entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Blenheim Palace. Over the course of the weekend live demonstrations and battle re-enactments will take you on a journey along a historical time line, and depict the story of the formation of the British Army and series of events leading up to the momentous battle of Woodstock.

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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.

Oxford Castle 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 8 restaurants, including Malmaison, Café 1071, Prezzo, La Tasca, Pizza Express, Krispy Kreme, The Real China, The Living Room and The Swan and Castle, 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, revealing episodes of Violence, Executions, Great Escapes, Betrayal and even Romance. For art lovers there is the O3 Gallery, with a dynamic programme of 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: £2.20, 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.

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 building 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. The tower is the easiest climb in Oxford, with good solid stairs including a handrail. From the top of the tower there is a marvellous view of the city of Oxford and its famous "dreaming spires". Open: 10.30am-5pm (10.30am-4pm in Winter). Admission: Adults: £2.00, Concessionaires: £1.50, Children (under 16): £1.00

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.

Modern Art Oxford 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP. Tel: 01865 722733 Web: www.modernartoxford.org.uk Founded in 1965, Modern Art Oxford is the South East's leading Gallery for the presentation of modern and contemporary visual art. Our programme includes exhibitions by artists from all over the world, from landmark solo presentations to pioneering group exhibitions as well as educational and family activities. Funded primarily by Arts Council England, all of our exhibitions are free for visitors. You can also relax in our café, purchase unique gifts in the shop, and participate in our vibrant events programme which includes talks, discussions, contemporary music and film nights.

Tourist Information Centre 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS.Tel: 01865 252200. Email: tic@oxford.gov.uk. Web: www.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. We have a wonderful selection of tours from University and City Tours to Pottering in Harry Potters Footsteps. See in store or get in contact with us by Tel: 01865 252037 Email: wtours@oxford.gov.uk

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‘10 Years of promoting Oxfordshire’

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 in all directions across Oxford and the surrounding countryside. Open: 9am to 5pm (July and August 9am-6pm). Tower Admission: Adult £3, Children (under 16) £2.50.

Oxfordshire Attractions Didcot Railway Centre

See map p.40 R

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. Saturday 4 – Monday 6 May: Steam Gala, featuring the launch of the only Steam Multiple Unit (SMU) in the world. Saturday 25 – Monday 27 May: Diesel gala, featuring at least six visiting guest locomotives.

Buscot Park & The Faringdon Collection

Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8BU Tel: 01367 240932 (Information Line) Web: www.buscotpark.com.

One of Oxfordshire’s best kept secrets! Family home of Lord Faringdon, who looks after the property on behalf of the National Trust, together with the family collection of pictures, furniture, ceramics and objets d'art, known as the Faringdon Collection. Includes Burne-Jones's famous series, The legend of the Briar Rose.The enchanting gardens contain the spectacular Water Garden designed by Harold Peto in 1904 for the first Lord Faringdon. The house, gardens and tearoom will be open from Friday 29th March for the new season. See website for more details www.buscotpark.com

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Burford, Oxford OX18 4JP. Tel: 01993 823006. Web: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk. Closer to Wildlife! Enjoy a relaxing day out in beautiful surrounding at the Cotswold Wildlife Park, with over 260 animal species in 160 acres of spacious Parkland. Stroll up our New Giraffe Walkway and get eye-to-eye with these amazing creatures. Picnic whilst watching Rhinos and Zebras grazing outside the Manor House. Leap about with Lemurs in their walk-through enclosure. Ride on the railway around the Park or climb into the tree house in the adventure playground. There’s something for the whole family and the Park is wheelchair and pushchair friendly! A great value for money day out. Open daily from 10am.

Millets Farm Centre

Kingston Road, Frilford, Nr Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5HB. Tel: 01865 392200. Web: www.milletsfarmcentre.com. With lots to see and do, including Farm Shop selling farm produced food, Garden Centre, Restaurants, Farm Zoo, Children’s Play Area, Woodland Walk and lots of seasonal events. A great day out for ALL the family. Open: 7 days a week. Free entry and free car parking.

Crocodiles of the World

31 Crawley Mill, Dry Lane Crawley, Witney, OX29 9TJ Tel: 01993 706990 Web: www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk We're the UK's only crocodile zoo with over 80 crocodiles and 12 different species. We're open weekly on Sundays between 9.00am and 4.30pm. We also have guided tours running every Saturday afternoon and other selected days, and are open for group visits and private tours during normal opening hours.

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Didcot Railway Centre It was my Grandson’s fifth birthday and a special outing was required. The choices were attractive. Anfield to see Liverpool vs. Arsenal, Cheltenham Racecourse to have a flutter or, er, A Day Out with Thomas at Didcot Railway Centre. Dilemma? No! Thomas, naturally, was the clear choice. My guests were to be two experts on the subject of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. Oliver, the five year-old and my son Alfie, eight years old. Strangely enough, on the Island of Sodor, Oliver is a 0-4-2 Tank Engine and Alfie is “a really useful Excavator” whose motto is “More help means more dirt; more dirt means more fun.” Not that different from real life then. I have visited Didcot Railway Centre many times over the past few years and every visit has been interesting and fun. Their unique collection is of Great Western Railway steam engines, coaches, wagons, buildings and small relics, all based around the original 1930’s engine shed. In addition there is the exciting interactive Science, Learning & Railways Exhibition, a reasonably priced café and a modest gift shop. I love it. In addition to the Steam days, when the locomotives pull and push coaches up and down the branch lines which are very exciting for both the children and the grown ups, Thomas occasionally makes an appearance. At such a time, there is an exponential growth in excitement and attendance. This is hardly surprising since, according to that august and reliable journal The Sun, over 100 million Thomas books have been sold worldwide putting the Oxford educated Revd. W. Awdry on a par with J.R.R. Tolkein and J.K.Rowling! Oh, and since you ask, the “W” stands for Wilbert. Literally hundreds of children were ahead of us, but as usual with the DRC, the day had been meticulously planned by the staff and we had all been allotted a time to arrive. The excitement on the boys faces when they saw the familiar visage of Thomas was palpable. Somehow in real life this short stumpy tank engine managed to convey the cheekiness that comes across in the books and on screen. To have the opportunity, in addition to seeing Thomas, to travel in a carriage pulled by him - what on earth could be better than this? In addition to the rides behind ‘Thomas’ and 'Duck' there were lots of other entertainments for the children including magic shows, Punch & Judy shows, circus workshops, balloon model makers, colouring competitions and ‘spot the character’ competitions. Each child received a souvenir Junior Engineer's certificate signed by Sir Topham Hatt himself! It was all done to perfection. That is, everything in the management’s control. We did have a couple of inches of “rather cloudy” to contend with and some delays on the main line to Oxford, but everything else was such fun it didn’t matter. The Fat Controller, who was supervising Thomas’s visit, was surprisingly svelte in his adiposity and he was convivial for all. He made me laugh anyway. For details about Didcot Steam Days check out the website: www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

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

The Wizard of Oz Wednesday 8th - Saturday 11th May: Oxfordshire Youth Music Theatre presents a magical journey to the land of Oz! Wicked witches, powerful sorcerers, flying monkeys and colourful Munchkins are joined by Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this timeless tale of self-discovery. Tickets: £17 / £16 / £13.50

Less than Kind Tuesday 14th - Saturday 18th May: London, 1944. The war is reaching its climax on the beaches of Normandy, but senior minister John Fletcher is distracted by his affair with attractive widow Olivia Brown. As Olivia’s 17 year-old son returns home, a politicised evacuee joining the rising tide of socialists, he’s outraged at the minister’s immorality and the thought of his mother marrying ‘the enemy’. Tickets: £22.50 / £19.50 / £18 / £16.50

The Oh F**k Moment Friday 17th May: A show to see if you’ve ever stood on a rake. Or got locked in a shed. Or followed your inclination to experiment and ended up in A+E. Or pressed the button that had the sign next to it saying: ‘Do not under any circumstances press this button’... Tickets: £12 (£10)

Pegasus Theatre

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Magdalen Road, Oxford OX4 1RE. Tel: 01865 812150 Booking: 01865 812150 Web: www.pegasustheatre.org.uk

Dream On… Wednesday 22nd - Saturday 25th May: In a school, courtroom, and at war Dream On… explores the space between insult and injury, vengeance and justice, imagination and truth. Ava and Kosha arrive in Oxford thinking their journey has finished but, haunted by the past they find that the hardest part is still to come. Hattie has only Alama to confide in, but if she leaves, like everyone else, who‘sleft to talk to? Tickets: £7, £5 concession, £4 U18

The North Wall Arts Centre South Parade, Oxford, OX2 7JN Booking: 01865 319450 Web: www.thenorthwall.org

Finding Joy Wednesday 1st May to Thursday 2nd May: A comic, anarchic, touching and heroic full mask adventure. Joy is creative, funny, loves to dance, and is losing her memory: her grandson Danny is rebellious, fearless, bright, and always getting into trouble. When out of the blue, Danny decides to become Joy’s carer, where will their unexpected and playful bond lead them? Tickets: £13 Concession £11, Time: 8pm

Nordost Tuesday 14th May to Wednesday 15th May: A story about protecting the people you love – and avenging their loss. It’s October 23, 2002 and Olga and her daughter are settling into their seats at the Dubrovka Theatre in Moscow. They’re about to watch ‘Nordost’ – a family musical, a song-and-dance spectacular about the glories of Russian soldiers. Tickets: £13 Concession £11, Time: 8pm

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Cornerstone 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NE Tel: 01235 515144 Web: www.cornerstone-arts.org

The Count Of Monte Cristo Saturday 4th May: Jealousy, false imprisonment, love, revenge and secret treasure – all played out beautifully by the great theatre company Company Boudin. The story goes that Edmund Dantes is wrongly imprisoned by his jealous rivals in Chateau d’If. However, a fellow prisoner befriends him and helps him escape, whilst also telling him about the existence of a secret stash of treasure on a remote island. Tickets: £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket) Time: 8pm

Bridget Christie: A Bic For Her Saturday 18th May: Bridget originally trained as an actor but wanted to write her own material. Nine years ago she performed her first gig and has been doing stand up ever since. Bridget is a great story teller and her style is to speak from her own experience. In the past she has done a lot of dressing up – as King Charles, as an ant! – but her approach on this tour is more direct and conversational. We wont’ have seen Bridget on TV because she does not plough the mainstream furrough. But she is very funny. Tickets: £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members) Time: 8pm

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

Theatre Scratch Night Tuesday 21st May: A night of works in progress by local and regional performers. Come and watch or contact us if you have an idea you would like to try out. Want to perform? Contact info@oldfirestation.org.uk with SCRATCH in the subject to request an application form. Tickets: £5 www.wegottickets.com/location/8116 Time: 7.30pm

New Theatre George Street, Oxford OX1 2AG. Tel: 0844 847 1585 www.newtheatreoxford.org.uk Tickets: Phone, go online or visit the box office, situated on George Street, Oxford.

The Sound of Music Tuesday 27th May - Saturday 1st June: Oxford Operatic Society invites you to one of the most thrilling and inspirational stories ever told - one that has given rise to the world’s most beloved musical. Based on the life of Maria von Trapp, The Sound of Music tells the story of a high-spirited postulant, sent to serve as governess to the seven children of the widowed Captain von Trapp. Tickets: £17-£23. Time: 7.30pm, 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

People who care about their eyes choose INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS

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Music Oxford Philomusica Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, Egrove Park, Oxford OX1 5NY. Tel: 01865 305 305 Web: www.oxfordphil.com. E-mail: info@oxfordphil.com.

English Strings Friday 17th May: Elgar Introduction and Allegro, Op. 47. Tippett Fantasia Concertante on a Theme of Corelli. Britten Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge, Op. 10. Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, Op. 31. John Mark Ainsley tenor Richard Dilley horn John Traill conductor.The Philomusica presents four 20th century English string compositions, beginning with Elgar’s exhilarating Introduction and Allegro and ending with two of Britten’s works for string orchestra: the first paying homage to his mentor Frank Bridge, and the second setting six poems by British authors to music. The Serenade will be performed, appropriately, by two outstanding British musicians, including Oxford Philomusica’s own principal horn, Richard Dilley. Tickets: £37 £26 £17.50 £10 Time: 8pm Venue: Sheldonian Theatre

Nicola Benedetti and Oxford Philomusica Thursday 23rd May The Anvil, 7.45pm Tickets £32 £25 £18 £10. Friday 24th May Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, 7.30pm Tickets £28.50 £24 £20 £15 £12. Saturday 25th May Sheldonian Theatre, 8pm Tickets £37 £26 £17.50 £10 Prokofiev Lieutenant Kijé Suite, Op. 60. Shostakovich Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 77/99. Stravinsky The Firebird Suite (1919). Nicola Benedetti violin Marios Papadopoulos conductor. Following her spellbinding performance at the Last Night of the 2012 BBC Proms, violinist Nicola Benedetti needs absolutely no introduction. We’re delighted that she is joining Oxford Philomusica to perform Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto in Basingstoke, Aylesbury and Oxford. The Orchestra will also showcase symphonic suites by two other great Russian composers: Prokofiev’s Lieutenant Kijé and Stravinsky’s thrilling Firebird – the work that made the composer a star when he wrote it for the legendary Ballet Russes Company in 1910.

Cornerstone 25 Station Road, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NE Tel: 01235 515144 Web: www.cornerstone-arts.org

Bella Hardy and The Midnight Watch Friday 10th May: Bella’s new band is a stunning five piece of great musicians. Bella herself sings and plays the fiddle; there is the superb Anna Massie, one of Scotland’s foremost guitarists (and guitar for Eddie Reader and Kate Rusby), on guitar; James Lindsay on double bass; Mattie Foulds playing percussion and drums; and finally Angus Lyon on keyboard, accordion and vocals. From the line up of instruments you can see that there will be a lot of lovely sounds on the stage. Time: 8pm Tickets: £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)

Eska Friday 17th May: Eska has a powerful voice, easily on a par with any chart-topping diva you’d care to mention, but she uses her vocals in intriguing ways – layering them to make new instrumental riffs, and interpreting traditional songs in new ways. She’s done re-imagined versions of songs like Fleetwood Mac’s Tell Me Lies and Baby Now That I’ve Found You by The Foundations. Her live performance is quite captivating as she brings out every nuance in the song. Time: 8pm Tickets: £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)

Piano & String Series Concerts

Family Series Concerts

Saturday 11 May, 8pm Jonathan Biss (piano) Schumann, Berg, Janáček

Sunday 19 May Tabla and Sitar

Friday 24 May, 8pm Jonathan Powell (piano) Alkan, Busoni, Sorabji

Monday 20 May Moving Music Concert Sunday 02 June Patsy Wood Family Prom

St Hilda’s College, Cowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DY Tickets: Oxford Playhouse 01865 305 305 More Information: www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

Music Jacqueline du Pré Music Building St Hilda's College, Cowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DY Tel: 01865 286660 Web: www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

Moving Music Concert Monday 20th May: A concert for people with dementia and their carers. The Madrigal Choir will perform a programme of choral music in a relaxed and informal atmosphere, with some songs to sing along. Tickets are £5 to include refreshments (carers, free). Please reserve your places in advance, and pay on the door. To reserve places and arrange access for transport telephone 01865 286660 or email movingmusic.jdp@gmail.com. 1.00pm – 2.00pm with refreshments from 12.30am 3.00pm – 4.00pm with refreshments from 2.30pm

Jonathan Powell (piano) Friday 24th May: ALKAN Concerto for solo piano, SORABJI Gulistan, BUSONI Fantasia Contrappuntistica. Jonathan Powell brings us another programme of substantial solo piano repertoire, from composers preoccupied with the transcendental power of virtuosity. Alkan's Concerto for solo piano requires the performer to act both as soloist and orchestra, and speaks a highly colouristic and perfumed musical language influenced by Liszt. Sorabji's Gulistan - which translates as 'Concerto to play by myself' - explores the furthest reaches of this language, and during its hour-long duration also demonstrates a fascination with both the mystical and the demonic. Concluding the programme, Busoni's Fantasia Contrappuntistica filters pianistic transcendentalism through a rigorous contrapuntal technique: a completion of the final, unfinished Contrapunctus from Bach's The Art of Fugue, the piece is both an expression of admiration for the German composer and, arguably, the culmination of the Romantic ideal of virtuoso piano writing.

Music At Oxford Osney Lock Boathouse, Osney Lock, Bridge Street., Oxford, OX2 0AX Tel: 01865 242865 Web: www.musicatoxford.com

The English Concert Saturday 11th May: Fabio Biondi violin. Haydn Divertimento in D major, Mozart Symphony No 21, Pugnani Sinfonia in B flat major, Haydn Violin Concerto in G major. Fabio Biondi is one of the most important and an influential figure of the baroque period-instrument movement and it’s a pleasure to welcome him here to direct Music at Oxford favourites The English Concert. He brings a distinctive Italian style, which results in some of the most spontaneous and impassioned performances of the baroque and now classical repertoire in which he specializes. Tickets: £28 £18 £10 (Students £5 off | Under 18s half price) Box Office 01865 244806, online www.musicatoxford.com Time: 7.30pm Venue: Sheldonian Theatre

Friday 24th May: Ireland The Island Spell; Month’s Mind; Elegy and Menuet; Amberley Wild Brooks, Debussy Five Preludes, Berg Sonata Op 1, Bridge Piano Sonata (1921-25). Mark Bebbington’s polished and perceptive interpretations of 20th century piano music are internationally recognised. His skill in creating insight through his programming is exemplified here, as he contrasts English and French Impressionism and explores the links between the late-romantic worlds of Alban Berg and Frank Bridge. Tickets: £20 (Students & Under 18s £5) Box Office 01865 244806, online www.musicatoxford.com Time: 7.30 pm Venue: Holywell Music Room

Oxford Philomusica Friday 17 May, Sheldonian Theatre, 8pm

ELGAR Introduction and Allegro TIPPETT Fantasia Concertante on a Theme of Corelli BRITTEN Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings John Mark Ainsley tenor, Richard Dilley horn John Traill conductor 01865 980 980 www.oxfordphil.com

Photo by Rama Knight

Mark Bebbington piano

Faculty of Music of Oxford University St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DB Tel: 01865 276133 Web: www.music.ac.uk/events

Celebrating the Rite of Spring Friday 31st May: An evening of music including Stravinsky’s arrangement of the Rite of Spring for four hands Peter Hill and Benjamin Frith – Piano Full programme: Schubert Fantasie in F minor, Debussy Epigraphes Antiques, Rachmaninov Six Morceaux Op. 11, Stravinsky The Rite of Spring (arr. Stravinsky). There will be a Pre-concert Talk at 7:15pm with Professor Jonathan Cross, Chairman of the Faculty of Music. Tickets: £14 (£10 Concessions) www.ticketsoxford.com / 01865 305 305, Time: 8pm, Venue: Holywell Music Room.

Conway Scholars’ Recital Friday 10th May: Each year the Joan Conway Fund awards scholarships in Performance Studies to students of music at Oxford wishing to undertake advanced studies in musical performance, historical performance practice or the study of musical instruments. Selected recipients of the award then take part in an annual recital at the Holywell Music Room. Admission: Free, Time: 1pm, Venue: Holywell Music Room.

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.

5 May: Ruth Rogers (violin) and Martin Cousins (piano) Mozart Violin Sonata, Strauss Violin Sonata 12 May: Angell Piano Trio. Jan Schmolck (violin) Frances Angell (piano) Sally-Jane Pendlebury (cello) programme to include: Schubert Piano Trio in E Flat 19 May: Fournier Piano Trio. Chiao-Ying Chang (piano), Sulki Yu (violin), Pei-Jee Ng (cello) Fauré Piano Trio, Fauré Piano Quartet. 26 May: James Baillieu (piano), Philip Higham (cello), Bartosz Woroch (violin), Poulenc Violin Sonata, Poulenc Cello Sonata, Hahn Piano Quartet. 2 June: Tamsin Waley Cohen (violin) Bartholemew Lafollette (cello) Ravel Duo, Kodály Duo £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

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BUY ONE DAY, GET 12 MONTHS FREE! Buy a ticket to Blenheim Palace in 2013 and get an Annual Pass - FREE! Forthcoming events 4th - 6th May - Jousting Tournament featuring ‘The Knights of Royal England’ 25th - 27th May - The Sealed Knot Society Civil War Battle Re-enactments 8th - 9th June - Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Blenheim Palace Triathlon 12th - 22nd June - Shakespeare in the Park by The Oxford School of Drama 15th June - Junior Sculling regatta 16th June - Ferrari Owners Club Rally 21st to 23rd June - The Blenheim Palace Flower Show for more information visit

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Cinema May Film Releases Select highlights of films on in Oxford and Oxfordshire over this month. Please see inoxford.com for more details and trailers. Scan QR Codes on this page to view trailers now! Tweet us what you think of this months releases @inoxford

Star Trek Into Darkness In the wake of a shocking act of terror from within their own organization, the crew of The Enterprise is called back home to Earth. In defiance of regulations and with a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads his crew on a manhunt to capture an unstoppable force of destruction and bring those responsible to justice. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.

Mud An adventure about two boys, Ellis and his friend Neckbone, who find a man named Mud hiding out on an island in the Mississippi. Mud describes fantastic scenarioshe killed a man in Texas and vengeful bounty hunters are coming to get him. He says he is planning to meet and escape with the love of his life, Juniper, who is waiting for him in town. Skeptical but intrigued, Ellis and Neckbone agree to help him. It isn't long until Mud's visions come true and their small town is besieged by a beautiful girl with a line of bounty hunters in tow.

Fast & Furious 6 Since Dom and Brian's Rio heist toppled a kingpin's empire and left their crew with $100 million, our heroes have scattered across the globe. But their inability to return home and living forever on the lam have left their lives incomplete. Meanwhile, Hobbs has been tracking an organization of lethally skilled mercenary drivers across 12 countries, whose mastermind is aided by a ruthless second-incommand revealed to be the love Dom thought was dead, Letty. The only way to stop the criminal outfit is to outmatch them at street level, so Hobbs asks Dom to assemble his elite team in London. Payment? Full pardons for all of them so they can return home and make their families whole again.

Pain & Gain From acclaimed director Michael Bay comes â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pain and Gain,â&#x20AC;? a new action comedy starring Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson and Anthony Mackie. Based on the unbelievable true story of a group of personal trainers in 1990s Miami who, in pursuit of the American Dream, get caught up in a criminal enterprise that goes horribly wrong.

The Hangover Part III "The Hangover Part III" is the third and final film in director Todd Phillips' recordshattering comedy franchise. This time, there's no wedding. No bachelor party. What could go wrong, right? But when the Wolfpack hits the road, all bets are off.

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Art, Antiques & Museums Christ Church Picture Gallery Prophecies, Histories, Legends and Law in drawings by Old Masters 20th February - 9th June In view of the important Barocci exhibition at the National Gallery in London this spring, Christ Church Picture Gallery shows five magnificent studies by the artist, on display until the end of May 2013

Opening Times October - May: Monday, Wednesday - Saturday: 10.30am - 1pm & 2 - 4.30pm Sunday: 2 - 4.30pm, Tuesday: Closed. Christ Church, Oxford. Entrance Via Oriel Square. Admission: £3/£2 Tel: 01865 276172 www.chch.ox.ac.uk/gallery

Hugo van der Goes (1437-82), Jacob and Rachel.

Rachel Ducker Wire Sculpture Tel: 01865 311418. M: 07855 751756. Web: www.rachelducker.co.uk. Rachel specialises in sculptured wire figures concentrating on the expressive & emotional dynamics of human nature. Handcrafted from annealed steel wire, galvanised & black. Coloured enamelled copper wire hair. From 30cm to lifesize. Price determined by size and complexity of the piece. Please call to find out more about viewing Rachel’s work.

OXFORD’S ANTIQUES & CRAFT CENTRE Choose from a wide range of Antiques, Jewellery, Collectables & Books plus original works by local Craftspeople and Artists. Antiques on High, 85 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BG. Tel:01865-251075. Open: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am - 5pm.

www.antiquesonhigh.co.uk

Catherine Rayner: ‘Hazel and Friends’ May 2013 www.wisegal.com 40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JL. Tel: 01865 515123.

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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 Bagpuize with Southmoor, OX13 5BH stay@fallowfields.com www.fallowfields.com Tel: 01865 820416

7+( 81,9(56,7< 2) 2;)25' 6+23 New official clothing range now in store!

106 High Street, Oxford

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Sanders of Oxford Rare 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.

104 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 242590. E-mail: info@sandersofoxford.com. Web: www.sandersofoxford.com. Open: Mon to Sat 10am-6pm. Admission: FREE. R

University of Oxford Shop

106 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 247414. Web: www.oushop.com. Watercolour, Acrylic, Photography and Prints of views around the City. Artists displayed include Valerie Petts, Ken Messer, David Langford, John Bastin and many more. On sale year round, commissions accepted.

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.

Modern Art Oxford

30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP Tel: 01865 722 733 Web: www.modernartoxford.org.uk

Conscious - Unconcious Sunday 16th June: British artist Stephen Willats’ visually intense works explore the nature of human interaction, communication and connection between individuals and communities.

Modern Artists Gallery High St.Whitchurch on Thames, Oxon, RG8 7EX Tel: 0118 984 5893 Web: www.modernartistsgallery.com Saturday 4th - Monday 27th May: Kate Kessling 'This Is What Happens' Image: Kessling/Kessling Dot Matrix 35/1 Pimlico 55 x 75cms Concrete and Resin Contemporary Fine Art Gallery housing an eclectic collection of Paintings & Sculpture. Own Art ‘interest free’ purchase scheme available. Children encouraged. Always phone first before setting out or check website for opening times.

The North Wall Arts Centre South Parade, Oxford, OX2 7NN Booking: 01865 319450 Web: www.thenorthwall.org

Miranda Richmond Tuesday 28th May to Friday 14th June: orn in Buckinghamshire and trained at Bristol College of Art (1977-80) , Miranda has lived and worked in the North-East of England for many years. In 1979 she met (and later married) the painter Miles Richmond who was a great teacher and strong influence on her work. He himself was a student of David Bomberg. Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm, Sat 12pm - 4pm

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

The Broken Home Collection 3rd May – 2nd June: An interactive installation, Broken Home Collection is an eclectic collection of discarded objects. Interlocking, timber-framed cubes construct a sense of home and its interior spaces, the objects within are suspended and placed as if from memory or a dream. Opening Times: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am-5pm

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Art Article Catherine Rayner ‘Hazel and Friends’ An Exhibition of Prints and Paintings By Acclaimed Artist, Illustrator and Author Catherine Rayner Friday 3rd May – Saturday 25th May Sarah Wiseman Gallery is thrilled to announce the solo show by the award winning young artist, illustrator and author Catherine Rayner. Catherine’s distinctive animals and birds are brought to life by her vivacious and lively style; her speciality is creating a character using only a few strokes of water colour, ink or pencil. In her new exhibition, she’s hoping for a more immersive experience for the viewer. ‘For this exhibition, I’ve been creating some large silk screen prints of animals, and I’ve also been playing with printing leaves and plants,’ she explains. ‘I’m hoping the exhibition will be a feast for the eyes and you’ll feel like you are in the forest with the creatures when you walk around the gallery.’ Balancing both her gallery work and her children’s stories is a natural process for the Catherine, as some of her paintings and drawings for exhibition also eventually end up as part of a brand new story. ‘I try to split my time fairly evenly between writing and illustrating children’s picture books and creating larger scale one off pieces for exhibitions’, she says. ‘I find is very easy to jump between the books and the gallery pieces as they do tend to feed in to each other quite naturally.’ ‘I can spend the morning sketching deer, studying their movement and character, whilst trying to create a character of my own to paint from, or turn in to a silk screen print. Then in the afternoon I can be doing exactly the same thing but with a character from one of my books. My one off pieces are really characters in their own stories, I just haven’t written the book yet – but I do always leave space on the page for the text to sit… just in case I get around to it one day! Catherine is a graduate of the Edinburgh College of Art, where she trained as an illustrator. Much of this time she spent watching and sketching the tigers at Edinburgh Zoo, eventually completing her first book ‘Augustus and His Smile’ which won her ‘Best New Illustrator Award’ in the Book Trust Early Years Awards in 2006, and one of four nominations for the Kate Greenaway prize. Catherine won the prize in 2009 for her book ‘Harris Finds His Feet’. She has published nine picture books to date, to critical acclaim. And with more books and exhibitions on the way, the story certainly doesn’t end there for Catherine Rayner. 40 - 41, South Parade Summertown Oxford OX2 7JL Tel: 01865 515 123 www.wisegal.com

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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.

Rowell of Oxford Ltd.

12 Turl Street, Oxford OX1 3DQ. Tel: 01865 242187. E-mail: info@rowellofoxford.co.uk. Web: www.rowellofoxford.co.uk Since 1797. The county’s leading pearl specialist. We also have an extensive collection of antique and modern silverware and beautiful diamond and mixed gem set jewellery.

Shop at the Old Fire Station Gloucester Green, Oxford, OX1 2AQ Tel: 01865 263980 Web: www.oldfirestation.org.uk Drawing in creative talent from across the UK, with a particular focus on the ‘home grown’ artists of Oxfordshire and the South East, the shop sells original prints and illustrations, jewellery, accessories, cards, zines and more…all lovingly designed and crafted by a selection of outstanding designer makers and artis. Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm

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Store & Tours

Our Brewery Store is open 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturday Come and browse the Hobgoblin’s selection of gifts and merchandise with exclusive in-store offers and promotions on bottled and cask beers. Brewery tours operate every Saturday and Sunday offering a two hour experience for those interested in seeing mischief in the making.

Come and see us if you dare but be warned… most things bite! Book online at www.wychwood.co.uk or call 01993 890 800* (*pre booking essential)Wychwood Brewery, Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney, Oxon OX28 4DP.

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Education Language Schools 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 Centre of Excellence 2010 - 2012, and a member of Quality English.

Independent Schools Bloxham School

Bloxham School, Bloxham, Banbury OX15 4PE Tel 01295 720222 Web: www.bloxhamschool.com The school offers a supportive, caring and friendly environment that allows those with talent in any area of the school’s life to contribute and to succeed. The school, which is predominately boarding, is fully co-educational. Weekly boarding for the school’s Lower School (11 and 12 year olds) enjoys fantastic and homely facilities. Day pupils are thoroughly integrated within the school and a bus service from many local towns and villages operates for all pupils of the School. Bloxham attaches great importance to the academic quality of its education. It offers a wide range of GCSE and A / AS Level courses. 98% of pupils go to University, including Oxford and Cambridge.

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3 2

Oxford City Centre Map Accommodation 1 Burlington House 2 Ethos Hotel 3 YHA 4 River Hotel 5 Randolph Hotel 6 Malmaison Hotel

Attractions 1 Christ Church Picture Gallery 2 Oxford Castle 3 Christ Church College 4 The Ashmolean Museum 5 Carfax Tower 6 Uni Church of St. Mary the Virgin

Blackwells 2 Restaurants 1 Mission Burito 2 Mission Burito 3 Shanghai 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4 Quod 5 The Perch 6 Wagamama

7 The Red Lion 8 Al-Andalus 9 Pierre Victoire 10 Malmaison 11 The Living Room 12 Cherwell Boathouse

1 6 6 4 5

2 1

County Map Around Oxfordshire 1 Didcot Railway Centre 4 Cotswold Wildlife Park 2 Buscot Park & The Faringdon Collection 5 Millets Farm Centre 3 Blenheim Palace 6 Kingston Bagpuize House

Kids Jacqueline du Pré Music Building St Hilda's College, Cowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DY Tel: 01865 286660 Web: www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

Cushion Concerts: Tabla and Sitar Sunday 19th May : Our regular Cushion Concerts on Sundays introduce children and their families to how different instruments make music. These informal concerts last 45 minutes and are led by Rozzy, with Mr Cello. Bring your own cushions! Secure your places by booking in advance. Tickets: £5, babies under 1 year, FREE Concert Times: 9.30am & 10.30am for under 5s 11.30am for over 5s

Cornerstone Arts 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE Tel: 01235 515 144 Web: www.cornerstone-arts.org.

Rumpelstiltskin and the Wheel of Fortune Sunday 5th May: Theatre of Widdershins are back with another fabulous show for little ones of four and up and adults. This lovely children’s puppet theatre company have delighted and tickled Cornerstone audiences with shows like The Elves and the Shoemaker, Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom and The King’s Got Donkey’s Ears. Time: 2pm Tickets: £8, £6 (concs) Ages: 4+

¡HOLA OXFORD! FORD!

SEE YOU THIS SUMMER.

to youth youth football football The totally unique approach to id Foundation is training from the Realmadrid coming to the University of Oxford this July 2013. Find out why there simply isn’t any other youth football or self-development course like this anywhere else in the country.

playreal.co.uk facebook.com/playrealuk - UK SUMMER CAMP 2013 -

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford Tel: Maya Sprigg 01869 278600. Web: www.stagecoach.co.uk/oxford. Email: oxford@stagecoach.co.uk. Stagecoach Abingdon provides kids ages 4 to 18, quality training in singing, dancing and acting. Whilst having fun children are also developing as individuals. Classes held on Saturdays (And Fridays from September) term time with special workshops during the holidays.

Create Holiday Club at Oxford Montessori Schools Tel: 01865 358210 Web: www.oxfordmontessori.co.uk/create Email: create@oxfordmontessori.co.uk For children aged 3 to 16. Create Club is different from traditional activity holiday camps. Active, great fun and full of adventure and the emphasis is on creative activities - arts, crafts, drama, dance, singing, music, sports and bush-craft and getting kids into the countryside. It’s educative too with special ‘history alive’ days during most holidays. Also Create staff are trained and qualified teachers. It’s a good mix and gives things a professionalism appreciated by many parents. Joining us for Create is also a great way to learn more about our Montessori schools, the nursery, primary and even senior school environments on offer.

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Kids Article

The world’s greatest football club is finally giving away its secrets to British youth for the very first time. When the opportunity arises for Britain’s youngsters to live the experience of the most iconic football club in the world, it’s time to take notice. And that’s exactly what the Real Madrid Foundation Campus Experience is doing at the University of Oxford this summer through several one-week residential courses, available to boys and girls aged 11-17 of any footballing ability. Set in the stunning surroundings of Lady Margaret Hall, one of Oxford’s 38 university colleges, the course offers an immersive educational programme with top quality coaching, both on and off the pitch. They’ll learn the values of the Real Madrid Foundation from coaches flown directly from Madrid who live and breath the club’s ethos and deliver through a course developed at the famous Real Madrid City training ground. All of which is built around the five key Real Madrid values; leadership, teamwork, selfcontrol, effort and respect for others in a programme that mixes pitch based work, group activities and practical exercises designed to help children of any ability become better players and individuals. And with a record 9 Champions League and 32 La Liga wins, the Madrid way has been tested and proven more than any other club in the world. Joaquim Sagues, Director of the Realmadrid Foundation Campus Experience worldwide said, “I’m really excited about our UK course starting in July. The new Oxford venue offers a fantastic place for our coaches to get the most out of their time with the UK players and guide them to footballing success”. Edward Durkin, UK Operations Director of the Campus Experience said, “This is a unique opportunity for UK children to learn a combination of the style of play and extraordinary mindset that makes Real Madrid CF the best football club in the world.” The Real Madrid Foundation Campus Experience is a truly unique experience designed to develop your child with skills that will be invaluable to them both on and off the pitch. “Real Values Through Real Football.” And with limited spaces, get onto www.playreal.co.uk soon to see what the fuss is about.

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Sport & Leisure

Good luck to all of our triathletes You are helping us beat blood cancer. Together we are unstoppable!

Enjoy our Super Value E SPECIAL OFFER

MIDWEEK WARMER

s 5NLIMITED 'OLF s "REAKFAST 2OLL #OFFEE s #HEF S 3PECIAL OF THE $AY -EAL

To book your tee-time phone us on: 01865 351144 or email: matt@studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk The Straight Mile, Horton-cum-Studley, Oxon OX33 1BF. www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk

STUDLEY WOOD

OXFORDSHIREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HIDDEN GEM

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SPINNING

STUDIO Classes are held at the TLA Fitness Studio, Sunningwell Village, Abingdon, OX13 6RD (opposite the Flowing Well pub)

For further information, visit our website:

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Health & Beauty Monica Franke Osteopathy & Pilates

Tel: 07970 119721. E-mail: mfranke.osteo@googlemail.com. Web: www.monicafranke.com. Established in Oxford for nearly ten years, Monica Franke offers expertise in general osteopathy, sports osteopathy and Pilates, emphasising high standards of communication, diagnosis and treatment. She is recently joined by two associates, Ben Ousey and Angela Power who also offer particular areas of expertise, including sports injuries, cranial osteopathy and mom’s and babies. Franke Osteopathy practitioners enjoy helping people to understand the origin of their aches and strains, and helping them to more pain-free function and improved performance. Visit our website or blog (frankeosteopathy.tumblr.com) to find out more.

Clinic95 – Dental Practice 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.

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.

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.

YogaVenue 2 Avenue Lane, Oxford, OX4 1YF Tel: 01865 245 754 Web: www.yogavenue.co.uk We are Oxford’s only purpose built yoga studio offering classes in Hot Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga, situated at the beginning of Cowley Road. YogaVenue was created to provide a dedicated space for students to study and enjoy their Yoga practice. All our classes aim to enhance conscious living and greater fulfilment in life through the practice of Yoga. Qualified and experienced teachers and welcoming staff will support students during their classes and time at YogaVenue.

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 66 St Clements Oxford Tel: 01865 249 740

Bare UK Boars Hill, Oxford, with private parking. Tel: 07773 764817. Web: www.bareuk.co.uk Have you got unwanted hair, leaving you feeling distressed? Well you don’t need to panic any longer, here at Bare UK we specialise in the revolutionary hair reduction method ‘Intense Pulse Light’, a form of laser treatment, designed to remove unwanted hair, so you can now say goodbye to waxing, and hello to smooth skin. After a few treatments with our high grade IPL system you will begin to notice a difference. So visit us at Bare UK today and get rid of those unwanted hairs. Visit www.bareuk.co.uk for further information, or to find out about other treatments.

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Accommodation R

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 Manor Hotel

The Manor at Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire, OX25 3QL Tel: 1869 350621 www.themanorweston.com The Manor at Weston-on-the-Green nestles in the heart of the Cotswolds. Proud of its 900-year-old history, the Manor is today a country house hotel, opening its doors to guests who seek a truly relaxed escape, with fine food, fine wine and beautiful, fascinating surroundings.We invite you to treat our hotel as your home: we do not stand on ceremony here. Explore our house and gardens, take a dip in the pool or a walk in the grounds. Our doors are open and we invite you in. Welcome to the Manor at Westonon-the-Green.

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.

River hotel

Botley Road, Oxford, OX2 0AA. Tel: (01865) 243475 Guests: 249756 Fax: 724306 Web: www.riverhotel.co.uk Email: reception@riverhotel.co.uk • Excellent City location by River Thames, originally an 1870’s Master-builder’s home, College owned property, On ‘Thames walk’ at Osney bridge. Lawn to riverbank. Residents bar. • 20 bedrooms with own bathroom, direct dial telephone, hot beverage tray, T.V. clock radio, hairdryer, free WiFi on site. • Car park/CCTV on site - free for residents. Sat Nav via Mill st. OX2 0AJ. 1 mile to A34 ring road west at Seacourt on A420. • 24-hour access for registered residents. Close-down by midnight. Airport arrival late check-in request only if pre-arranged. Daytime left luggage/car parking service available after 11am check-out. • VisitBritain ** Metro Hotel grading, breakfast service only. “Large enough to be comfortable, small enough to be friendly”

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.

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.

Our hotel....

your home from home...

THE MANOR AT WESTON~ON~THE~GREEN OXFORDSHIRE, OX25 3QL TEL: +44 (0)1869 350621 FAX: +44 (0)1869 350901 WWW.THEMANORWESTON.COM

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.

Burlington House Hotel

374 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7PP Tel: 01865 513 513 Web: www.burlington-hotel-oxford.co.uk Nestling in leafy Oxford, a short bus ride away from the bustling City Centre, Burlington House offers high quality and peaceful luxury bed & breakfast accommodation to Oxford’s many visitors. Burlington Guest House has been consistently awarded the highest accommodation rating and is now Five Stars Highly Commended under the new AA scheme. Burlington House has been recommended by both the Which? Guide to Good Hotels and its sister publication, the Which? Guide to Good Bed & Breakfasts.

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.

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.

Accommodation at

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Accommodation Review

We’d fortunately booked our stay at Oxford’s only five star hotel on the eve of Good Friday, more by luck than judgement, so knew we could fully relax as Tina enjoyed a facial in the basement spa and I caught up on a few e-mails with a glass of champagne, courtesy of the hotel’s management. The room was magnificent. As far as suites go, this was first class yet still incredibly homely. Overlooking Oxford, I soon had the windows open to enjoy the fresh breeze of an unusually balmy March evening, considering the weather’s penchant for below zero temperatures so far this year. The lounge area was beautifully furnished, with sumptuous pieces underlining the hotel’s five star status. The bedroom was generous in size with a gargantuan bed. The bathroom was impressively finished and more than large enough for two to meander in and out. Tina returned from her facial full of compliments for the knowledgeable staff who had instantly relaxed her so she could enjoy the Decléor treatment to the full. She further relaxed with a glass of champagne prior to freshening up for dinner. ‘No hair brush’ exclaimed Tina. ‘I don’t need one.’ I replied, being rather folically challenged, soon realising that Tina needed the brush, not I. Fortunately, Boots were open late on a Thursday and I returned with the required brush, and we were on our way to dinner. The Restaurant at The Randolph, a double AA Rosette winner, is striking. High ceilings, coats of arms adoring the walls, crisp white tablecloths and attentive staff. The restaurant was just about full as we entered just after 8pm. We were soon served with an aperitif, fresh bread and a menu brimming with mouth-watering options. Tina chose the hand dived scallop, whilst I had the John Ross ‘award winning’ smoked salmon, accompanied by a half bottle of Macon Villages, as Tina stayed with champagne. For our mains, Tina plumped for the loin of venison and I went for the slow roasted pork belly. The food was superb, certainly the best meal we had enjoyed in Oxford for some time. Dessert was beyond us so we retired to the room and enjoyed our night’s sleep. We were both deep in slumber when a knock at the door woke us for breakfast in the room. More smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, fresh orange juice, pastries and tea – what a marvellous start to the day. It was most certainly a Good Friday. The Randolph is an institution. Perfectly placed, bang smack in the heart of Oxford, it’s difficult to want for anything. With thanks to Michael Grange and his excellent staff for a first class experience. Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LN GB Tel: 0844 879 9132 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/Randolph

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Restaurants Shanghai 30’s

82 St. Aldates, Oxford OX1 1RA. Tel: 01865 242230. Web: www.shanghai30s.com. Situated in this 15th century building, Shanghai 30's cuisine is based on the both classic and contemporary dishes of Shanghai and the surrounding areas - Shaoxing and Yangchow, but also includes some of the most popular dishes from Sichuan, Peking and Canton. Shanghai 30’s is the perfect place for a romantic meal or a private function.

Rice Box

Asian

178 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UE. Tel: 01865 202138. Web: www.riceboxrestaurant.co.uk. Located perfectly in amongst the hustle and bustle of Cowley Road, Rice Box is the place to go to if you want quick service, delicious food and a welcoming smile. Rice Box has a wide selection of dishes, including Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese and Thai.

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. Styled to suit the taste of the municipal connoisseurs, 4500 Miles from Delhi is the ideal spot from which to commence or complete the perfect evening. We have created a place that is relaxing and comfortable.

The Temple Lounge

Asian

21 Temple Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire , OX4 1JS Tel: 01865 246 660 Web: www.templeloungerestaurant.co.uk Our experienced chefs offer you a taste of the Middle East with Lebanese and Indian food prepared freshly on a daily basis. Whether you want food on the go from our café, or a meal in our comfortable restaurant, Temple Lounge is the unique venue for that special occasion. Unwind with friends in opulent surroundings while enjoying one of our hookah pipes in our dedicated sheesha garden.

Asian

The Oxford Visit the Restaurant no.1 siteGuide for What’s 2011On - Available in Oxford: now www.inoxford.com at InOxford.com

Majliss is run by veteran restauranteurs from the Sylhet region of Bangladesh. The decor is stunning and contemporary, and the food delicious. Lively and great for groups, but perfect for romantic nights out as well. Take advantage of our takeaway service, too.

110 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1JE Tel: 01865 726728 Web: www.majliss.co.uk

Annora Restaurant

63 Church Way, Iffley Village, OX4 4EY Tel: 01865 775974 Web: www.treehotel.co.uk The Award-winning Annora Restaurant is a charming pub restaurant with specialist European and Indian head chefs, championing wonderful food from around the world using the freshest ingredients, with excellent service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere

Malikas

Asian

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.

Asian

Cockadoo

Nuneham Courtenay Oxfordshire, OX44 9NX. Telephone: 01865 341 030. Web: www.cockadoo.co.uk. Cockadoo Bar & Restaurant invites you to experience sophisticated fine dining in a luxurious yet relaxing environment. The staff will ensure the highest levels of standard throughout your experience at Cockadoo. Far Eastern cuisine at its finest, why not visit soon?

Rigoletto - Ristorante Italiano

Asian

Bicester Road, Middleton Stoney, OX25 4TD. Tel: 01869 343216 Web: www.rigolettorestaurant Situated on the Bicester Road close to Middleton Stoney, the restaurant is set in idyllic surroundings with ample car parking. Serving a varied menu of Italian dishes and an excellent selection of wines, Rigoletto is recognised as one of the areas fine restaurants.

Italian

Loch Fyne Bar and Grill 55 Walton Street, Oxford, OX2 6AE Tel: 01865 292510 Web: www.lochfyne.com Loch Fyne started with one inspirational idea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to grow oysters in the clear, fertile waters of Loch Fyne â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and has developed into a cluster of businesses whose success is built on an honest approach to superb quality food.

The Bear & Ragged Staff

Seafood

28 Appleton Road, Cumnor OX2 9QH. Tel: 01865 862329. Web: www.bearandraggedstaff.com The Inn boasts a beautiful restaurant and 16th century bar restored to its stunning original glory. The dining menu features traditional English country cooking with a smattering of international dishes. The quintessential British love of game seems to be under-represented in Oxford, so The Bear is putting that right.

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Game 55

Restaurants

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 £9.90 and an evening 3 course French Prix Fixe for £19.90! We love parties whether its Christenings,Birthdays,Graduations or even Retirements,offer an incredible £18.50 menu, and can cater for groups up to 60 ...! Rustic and friendly, with lots of candles, providing great food, value and service!

Quod Brasserie & Bar

92-94 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BN. Tel: 01865 202505. Web: www.quod.co.uk. On Oxford’s famous High, Quod Brasserie with its terrace and bar forms the hub of The Old Bank Hotel. Formerly a banking hall, it was transformed by Jeremy Mogford to become Oxford’s largest and most successful restaurant. There is a huge outdoor terrace, and parking is not a problem. Open all day for breakfast, the famously good value two course set lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, this stylish, busy, bustling brasserie serves simply designed, unpretentious, robust food.

Contemporary

Al-Andalus 10 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 516688. Web: www.tapasoxford.co.uk. Situated on vibrant, centrally located Little Clarendon Street, Al-Andalus is a stylish and bustling Spanish tapas bar. Independently - owned, it serves delicious, freshly- prepared and authentic Spanish tapas dishes. In addition to the high quality of its cuisine and friendly service, Al-Andalus offers a lively and informal atmosphere, further enhanced on Friday and Saturday evenings by live and exhilarating Sevillanas dance shows. Open: Mon to Thur 12am-3pm & 5pm till late, Fri-Sun 12pm till late.

Spanish

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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.

Italian

The Chequers at Burcot Abingdon Road, Burcot, Oxon. OX14 3DP. Tel: 01865-407771 Web: www.thechequers-burcot.co.uk A roaring fire and friendly staff welcome you to The Chequers and along with the opulent dĂŠcor it is a perfect blend of contemporary and classic styles with a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The 400 year old Chequers at Burcot standing just off the A415 about 5 miles south of Oxford has come a long way since multi-awardwinning chef Steven Sanderson first took the reins in 2006.

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 Bear & Ragged Staff

Traditional

Macdonald Randolph Hotel

English Cuisine

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 - it was a firm favourite with the cast and crew of Inspector Lewis..

Contemporary

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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.

Cherwell Boathouse

Contemporary

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.

Browns

Contemporary

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.

The Trout

Contemporary

The Trout Godstow Road, Wolvercote, Oxford, OX2 8PN. Tel: 01865 510 930. Web: www.thetroutoxford.co.uk The Trout in Lower Wolvercote is genuinely part of the rich tapestry that is Oxford life. With a large terrace looking out onto the river Thames, it is easy to see why The Trout is the pub of dreams; from Lewis Carroll to CS Lewis you can understand why so many people love to sit outside on a summers day with a lovely glass of wine or a chilled beer and watch the fast moving waters.

Traditional

The Big Bang 42 Oxford Castle Quarter, Oxford, OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 249 413 Web: www.thebigbangrestaurants.co.uk The Big Bang is the true gastronomic experience of Great Britain; classic favourites done with a bit of style. We source almost everything from within 20 miles of the city and in doing so, we allow you to taste the authentic flavours of Oxford, not a chain restaurant version of it. We also throw in the best of our art, of local live music, all served up in the prettiest corner of town, the Oxford Castle Quarter.

Gee’s Restaurant & Bar

61 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 6PE. Tel: 01865 553540. Web: www.gees-restaurant.co.uk. Gee's, the Oxford restaurant where locals and visitors meet for lunch, dinner, or drinks, brings together simplicity, generosity and hospitality. We serve traditional British food in comfortable, contemporary surroundings. Gee's is a modern bistro offering diners value for money, satisfying seasonal food and a great choice of wines by the glass and carafe.

The Old Parsonage

Traditional

1 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 6NN. Tel: 01865 292305. Web: www.oldparsonage-hotel.co.uk. Our philosophy at The Parsonage is simple: to serve the very best of British food using the very best produce to create superb traditional dishes. Our classic British menu includes seasonal food that will appeal to everyone, from roast partridge with bread sauce to scampi and chips with sauce gribiche, smoked haddock with buttered jersey royals and poached eggs and treacle tart. It is classic British fare prepared with skill and care using the finest ingredients.

The Red Lion

Traditional

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.

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Traditional 61

Restaurants Old Swan & Minster Mill

School Hill, Minster Lovell, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 0RN Tel: 01993 774 441 Web: www.oldswanandminstermill.com The Old Swan captures the charm of bygone years, throw in a good measure of modern convenience, add to it the laid-back atmosphere of the gastro-pub inspired dining room and log-fired bar and you’ll feel like there’s no place like it. The setting couldn’t be more romantic if it tried.

Traditional

Modern Art Oxford Café Bar 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP. Tel: 01865 722733 Web: www.modernartoxford.org.uk/about-us/cafe-and-bar/ Modern Art Oxford’s new Café Bar has been designed to perk you up whatever the time of day. Our coffee is supplied and selected by the Monmouth Coffee Company and our wine list compiled by the Oxford Wine Company. We stock a range of local brews including our very own beer Plot 16, grown on our allotment in Rose Hill. Our changing seasonal menu and relaxing atmosphere make an ideal place to meet.

Café

Cafe Loco The Old Palace, 85/87 St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1RA. Tel: 01865 200959. Web: www.goingloco.com.

Just two minutes walk from Carfax Tower is Cafe Loco, with such delights as stunning coffee, sumptuous Eggs Benedict, Full English, homemade Specials, Scones, Teacakes and Full Afternoon Tea, it’s a wonder you haven’t been!!!!!!! Introducing NEW business lunch delivery service. For details info@goingloco.com.

Café

Crisis Skylight Cafe at The Old Fire Station 40 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AQ Tel: 01865 263 972 The Oxford Skylight Café is open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. It serves freshly ground coffees, teas and cakes as well as a range of home cooked food prepared from fresh, local produce. There are daily specials (including a vegetarian option) a range of sandwiches, hot pannini's, baked potatoes, fresh salads and the famous fireman's breakfast served all day!

Café

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.

Nightlife R

The House Blue Boar Street, Oxford OX1 4EE. Tel: 01865 724433. Web: www.housebar.co.uk. Email: private@housebar.co.uk

The House cocktail bar is Oxford’s secret place for those in the know. Nestled down Wheatsheaf Yard, just off High Street, it offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle in what can only be described as an interior which boasts style, sophistication and class. The Games Room is available.

Duke of Cambridge

Nightlife

5-6 Little Clarendon St, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 558173. Web: www.dukebar.com. The Duke is Oxford’s oldest and most established cocktail bar and has been serving classic and contemporary cocktails for over twenty five years. At 33ft, The Duke boasts the longest bar in Oxford, and the mahogany focal point is certainly impressive.

Nightlife

See Restaurant Reviews online

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A brave new world is soon to be here...

A new dining experience will arrive in Iffley village...

Make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready for it!

www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk

Restaurant Review

When the charming Peta and Anthony Lloyd, the owners of Fallowfields Country House Hotel and Restaurant invited us to dinner, we took the opportunity to take the children along to sample recently appointed award winning head chef, Matt Weedon’s, exciting new menu. Based in Kingston Bagpuize, less than twenty minute’s drive from Oxford, Anthony explains how his vision is coming to life. “We passionately believe in respecting the food we eat and, if we are controlling our own food chain, we can show maximum respect to our charges. We produce real food with real taste, reared with love, in as sustainable manner possible. Creating a true connection with ‘real’ food is a way of life at Fallowfields. The aim is for your vegetables and herbs to be served within hours, if not minutes of harvesting and all ingredients are selected for their taste. In addition, bread is freshly made every day and biscuits, scones, cakes, chutneys and jams are also produced in our kitchens. “With Matt at the helm in the kitchen and Rachel in the restaurant, Fallowfields will move forward and become ‘one of the best fine dining experiences in Oxfordshire and surrounding counties.’” Matt Weedon first gained a Michelin star at Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire and then at Lords of the Manor near Cheltenham. Altogether he has held the accolade for a total of six years, and is said to be one of the top 100 chefs in the country. While Matt heads up the kitchen, his wife Rachel will run the Fallowfields restaurant. Rachel brings her experience as Restaurant Manger for some of Britain’s top Country House Hotels, having worked at Hambleton Hall, Blantyre, L’ortolan, The Waterside Inn, Glennapp Castle and Lords of the Manor. Asked why they chose to move to Fallowfields, Rachel and Matt said: “Our hearts have always been in the small Country House Hotel environment; and in Fallowfields, we saw owners with a clear vision that matched our own: - Exceeding guest expectations by delivering superlative food and service.” “In addition,” said Matt, “for me, it is also the perfect opportunity to increase my skills as I work with my own farm, kitchen garden and orchards – an amazing “field to fork” control over my ingredients has to be every chef’s dream come true.” It was certainly a ten out of ten experience for all of us. This welcoming sanctuary provides guests with a real home from home. The restaurant is stunning, not jampacked full of tables, rather considerately spacious with an elegant feel throughout. The food, from the exquisite canapés served as we enjoyed an aperitif in the bar, through to the Confit of Loch Duart Salmon, the Roasted Cornish Scallops, Roasted Rump and Braised Cheek of Longhorn Rare Breed Beef and the divine Cotswold Roe Deer Loin 75% Bitter Chocolate, Port Venison Jus, was impeccable. Beautifully crafted dishes, fresh ingredients, wonderful flavours…..you have to try it for yourself to understand just how good this restaurant is. The service, the food knowledge, the décor…..I could go on. It’s the complete package, and a restaurant who’s reputation will grow and grow and no doubt emulate its owners’ expectations. As if that’s not enough, just wait for the decadent box of chocolates at the end of the meal – Pandora step aside! Faringdon Road Southmoor with Kingston Bagpuize, Oxfordshire, OX13 5BH Tel: 01865 820416

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Restaurant Review

I stepped in to Oxford Blue on Marston Street on a surprisingly pleasant April evening – it had been a busy day and I was looking forward to relaxing in a cosy pub with some delicious grub, and was not disappointed. The décor is wonderfully kitsch and intriguing: The walls and glass wine display cabinets feature some impressive taxidermy and there is a selection of classic board games for those in for the night. Unfortunately we decided Yahtzee was probably best saved for a time when we wouldn’t be dining. Also on display was their certificate from The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards 2012 – Oxford Blue placed 2nd in the ‘Traditional Pub’ category. Oxford Blue also features a great beer garden with lots of tables, cover for rainy days, and plenty of space. We were seated immediately by a lovely waitress who took great care of us for the remainder of the evening. All of the staff at the Oxford Blue were very helpful and cheerful, and added greatly to the relaxing atmosphere of the restaurant. That, and Alanis Morissette drifting quietly from the sound system. The menu was wonderful, and made it very difficult to pick just one dish! Choices ranged from a homely and traditional burger with thick triple baked chips, to pan fried potato gnocchi with Oxford Blue cheese sauce. After mulling it over for about 20 minutes we decided on pheasant scotch eggs with homemade mayo for a starter, the burger for my partner’s main, and I opted for a baked smoked haddock with cream, spinach, parmesan and a poached egg. All dishes were heavenly – the eggs in the scotch eggs and my haddock dish were done to perfection, and went wonderfully with our chosen wines. All dishes at Oxford Blue are locally sourced with seasonal ingredients. The selection behind the bar and on the drinks menu at Oxford Blue leaves nothing to be desired, featuring unique and speciality liquors and wines; something a little different from your standard pub brands. The bar snacks here are also pleasantly original and it is great to see that the care taken in the kitchen for the ‘restaurant’ side of the establishment also carries over to the ‘pub’ aspect. The dessert menu tempted us greatly, and if we weren’t so stuff from the amazing mains I would definitely have gone for either their flourless chocolate cake with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream or the vanilla panna cotta with rhubarb compote. Next time you’re in the Cowley Road area pop in for a hearty meal and a fine bevvy, and be sure not to miss out on “Jazz night at the Oxford Blue” every third Wednesday courtesy of Nick Gill from Oxford Classic Jazz. Reviewed by Lorna Dodson 32 Marston Street Oxford, OX4 1JU Tel: 01865 460215 Email: info@theoxfordblue.com Web: http://www.theoxfordblue.com/

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Zoe’s Pick of the Month In Oxford’s Zoe Kemp tells us about her personal restaurant of the month: The Blacks Head in Bletchington. A hidden gem!

Just five miles from the centre of Oxford and minutes from the A34 and M40, the picturesque village of Bletchingdon is a peaceful retreat from Oxford City Centre’s tourist hot spots. In the heart of the village, The Blacks Head Inn is a charming Country pub providing hearty meals made with local, fresh produce. The Blacks Head Inn reopened in October 2012 after the new proprietors, Zayna and Will, refurbished the pub and updated the accommodation. Dating back to the 17th century, The Blacks Head Inn is brimming with character which Zayna and Will have retained whist providing the Inn with a new lease of life. Zayna and her family have lived in Bletchington for generations. Zayna’s great grandparents once ran the pub and her grandmother, Evelyn, spent time growing up at the pub so The Blacks Head Inn has a special connection to the family. With a wide selection of drinks, including real ale, wines, and soft drinks, you will be spoilt for choice. The Blacks Head is the only pub to be serving Flintknapper ale which has proven to be popular with the locals, outselling other stocked ales four times over. Even the home made beer batter has the Flintknapper ale added for a unique taste that will not be found anywhere else in the county. I certainly recommend stopping by for The Black Head Inn’s steak and wine for £20 available Monday to Saturday 6-9pm . Choose from, rump, sirloin, gammon, belly pork, ribs, venison and butternut squash lasagne. Accompanied with either a baked potato, chips sweet potato crisps, bubble and squeak or new potatoes. Cooked to perfection and rested on a bed of fresh vegetables, it certainly went down well after a long day exploring the Cotswolds. Their regular menu also applies which provides more choice at a great price. This family friendly pub also caters for the little ones, ensuring their meals are fresh and homemade with plenty of room for them to run around in with the large beer garden. The effort that Zayna and Will have put into the Inn is evident for all to see. It is obvious that Zayna and Will and their team have their customers and the local community at the forefront of their minds at all times. This is evident in their due care and attention in servicing and integrating with their customers, with free hire of their function room, quiz nights, darts and pool teams. The pub really is a key part of the local community. Zayna also regularly decorates the pub to celebrate iconic dates and hold themed nights such as ‘May the 4th be with you’ where customers are encouraged to dress to suit. Zayna and Will hope to hold special events and weekend festivals to celebrate local produce and Ales. Make sure to take a look at Will’s illustration of Thame High Street that is on display within the pool room. Whether it be a friendly drink with the locals, a family meal with locally sourced produce or a comfortable room for the night, make the Blacks Head Inn your local. The Green Bletchington OX53DA Tel: 01869 350315 Email: info@Blackshead.com Web: www.blackshead.com

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Services R

The Lady Nuffield Home 165 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7AW. Tel: 01865 888500. Web: www.ladynuffieldhome.co.uk.

A small residential care home for the older person, conveniently situated in Summertown. Close to shops, local medical centres and on the main bus route.

HILLTOP CHAUFFEURS P R I VAT E

Service

H I RE

Reliability

Standards

Call 07825 500852

Excel Dry Cleaners 274 Banbury Road, Oxford. Tel: 01865 511773. Oxfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialist Dry Cleaners, experts in cleaning all delicate items including silks to wedding dresses. Full repair and alteration service.

Cocktail Bar Games Room Terrace

11 Wheatsheaf Yard, Blue Boar Street, Oxford OX1 4EE Tel: 01865 724433 info@housebar.co.uk