Welcome to Oxford Guide

E M O C L E W to D

R O F X O 8 1 / 7 1 0 2 thing for ever yone Some

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CONTENTs

While care has been taken to ensure that all information is correct at the time of going to print, we do not assume responsibility for any errors. All reviews were written by students, and are not necessarily representative of the views of Brookes Union.

If you have any enquiries regarding this Guide, feel free to contact us using the information displayed overleaf.

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Introduction Areas of Oxford top ten

Tourist Things To Do Explore The City Further Events Places to eat on campus Union Bars

top ten

Eat in Oxford

top ten

Pubs & Bars in Oxford

top ten

Cafes in Oxford

top ten

Clubbing in Oxford Shopping in Oxford Sustainability Getting around Staying safe Welfare Chaplaincy Directory

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INTRODUCTION Welcome to Oxford! We’re the full time officers from your students’ union and we’re really excited to be among the first to welcome you to the university. Together, with hundreds of students, we’ve created this guide to help you make the most of your time in Oxford.

Diko Blackings President

Oxford is a city built for students; a city laced with history; a city that will keep throwing surprises at you throughout your time at Brookes. Whatever your tastes, whatever your interests, Oxford will have something for you.

With this guide, you’ll be placed to explore the city.

It includes a custom tourist map, highlighting some of the landmarks and unique aspects of Oxford, which, if you’re new to the city, we suggest you check out. It also includes recommendations of where to eat, drink, shop and go out, with many of these reviewed by your fellow Brookes students.

Of course, with a city like Oxford, there is always something new happening, so make sure you get out there and find that thing you’ll remember long after your time at Brookes.

We all hope to meet you really soon. If there is anything that Brookes Union can do to help you settle in to Oxford, do get in touch with us. We’re here to help.

Harriet Cherry Vice President (Academic Experience)

Samuel Cockle-Hearne Vice President (Welfare)

From,

Your full-time officers

Sharelle Holdsworth Vice President (Societies Development)

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Introduction

find out more about YOUR students’ union...

We’re a charity that works hard to improve the lives of students at Oxford Brookes. All Brookes students are automatically members, and it doesn’t cost you a penny! Being a member brings a whole host of benefits, such as the opportunity to join one of our fantastic societies.

There are loads of ways that you can get involved with the Union: you could join a society, join the safety bus volunteer team or become a student representative. Our Advice Service is there to help during your University journey.

Elections...

The Union is led by a team of four full-time officers, and a team of portfolio officers, who are elected by the student body. The officer team are supported by a team of permanent staff.

Being an officer is a fantastic experience - you become a trustee of the charity, form part of the leadership team and become directors of the trading company. There aren’t many jobs that offer such a wealth of experience. Any student can run for election. You can either take a year out (a sabbatical) from your studies, or you can run in your graduating year.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the elections process, visit brookesunion.org.uk/elections, or come and speak to an officer. If you don’t fancy running in the elections this time, don’t forget to vote for the person you’d like to represent you.

Say hi...

John Henry Brookes Building, Headington Campus, Gipsy Lane, Oxford, OX3 0BP 01865 484750

brookesunion.org.uk fb.com/BrookesUnion /brookesunion @BrookesUnion BrookesUnion su@brookes.ac.uk

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Areas of Oxford

INFORMATION ON THE DIFFERENT AREAS There are some distinct areas of Oxford. Throughout this guide we have listed the three main areas where students tend to go out. You’ll quickly find your own favourite haunts and regular shopping areas, but while the city is new to you, why not let us show you around.

Centre of town The centre of Oxford blends old with new; old buildings, architecture and history sit alongside bustling modern shops.

At the heart of the city is Carfax Tower. It stands on the intersection of four main roads (Queen Street, High Street, Cornmarket Street and St Aldates). You will find the majority of shops along these four roads. You can find some of the most famous sites in Oxford in the city centre, such as the Sheldonian Theatre, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and the Bodleian Library.

The Covered Market, which is over 200 years old, is located in the city centre, and is packed with stalls selling everything from clothing to fresh food. The Castle Quarter is home to restaurants and bars, and often hosts pop-up events and street food festivals.

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Areas of Oxford

East Oxford Starting at St Clements, and encompassing the Cowley and Iffley Road, East Oxford is packed with places to go out. The cheaper rents make East Oxford a popular place for students to live.

The Cowley Road is often referred to as ‘Cowley’, although actual Cowley is much further down the road. The self-proclaimed ‘Sunny Side of Oxford, the Cowley Road is the most diverse part of the city. It is packed with vibrant places to eat and shop; from greengrocers to vintage clothing stores. If you like live music then the Cowley Road is a great place to explore - there’s a wide variety of pubs, clubs and bars, as well as the O2 Academy.

Headington, which is where the Gipsy Lane campus is situated, is popular with students renting privately due to its proximity to the Gipsy Lane campus and city centre. The ‘village’ of Headington is home to several small supermarkets, a couple of banks, lots of cafes and charity shops. Look out for the famous Headington shark - crash landed in a roof just off the London Road.

Jericho Set slightly away from the bustle of the city centre lies Jericho, an old industrial area that has become increasingly artsy over the years. Cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs line Little Clarendon and Walton Street, and are tucked away down the side streets.

There are lots of independent shops here, from a beatnik bookshop to a homeware store and many more. You’ll also find delicatessens, bakers and a shop selling liqueurs along Little Clarendon Street. There are a wide range of different pubs and bars in Jericho, including FREUD - a bar set inside a church - and the Oxford Wine Cafe.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet away from the bustle of the city, then Port Meadow - just behind Walton Street - is the perfect place to relax.

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Top Ten Tourist Attractions

Top ten tourist things to do Oxford is city full of history. There are lots of things to see and do in the city, from the historic buildings of Oxford University to punting along the River Cherwell, there’s something for everyone.

This map highlights the top ten attractions in Oxford that we think you should visit if you can.

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Top Ten Tourist Attractions

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Christ Church

Ashmolean

www.chch.ox.ac.uk

www.ashmolean.org

Famous as the setting for many scenes from the Harry Potter films, it is the most visited of the Oxford Colleges. Its grounds run along the river and it has a meadow with deer, making it a great location for a picnic. The college itself features a Picture Gallery, with an outstanding collection of Old Master paintings and drawings.

The art and archaeology museum charts the creations of humankind from the Neolithic era to the present day, and holds the world’s largest collection of Raphael drawings. It has a café and rooftop restaurant with terrace.

“For Harry Potter fans, Christ Church College.”

“The Ashmolean Museum have Live Friday events, which are free and always have a bit of everything.”

– Zoe-Maria Osborn 2

The Botanic Garden

www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk For its size, The Botanic Garden has the most diverse collection of plants in the world. Entry is free for Brookes students.

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Bodleian Library

www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk Approximately 11 million volumes are held in the library’s incredible structure. It’s open all week and tours are available.

During Oxford University’s holidays, Brookes students can also apply for a library card to use its resources.

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Admission is free and it’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm (and bank holidays).

– Millie Gardiner 5

The Covered Market

www.oxford-coveredmarket.co.uk Tucked away in the market are delicatessens, butchers, fishmongers, jewellers, cobblers and clothes shops. It has been trading for more than 200 years.

“Support the local traders in the covered market. All the butchers there have something or other on offer and it’s usually much less fatty/gristly than the ‘cheaper’ supermarket stuff. “ – Josh Wood

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Top Ten Tourist Attractions 6 T he

Natural History Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum

www.oum.ox.ac.uk www.prm.ox.ac.uk The Natural History Museum is renowned for its stunning neoGothic architecture. It holds more than 5 million specimens, including dodo and dinosaur skeletons from Oxfordshire.

It is adjoined to the Pitt Rivers Museum, which displays archaeological and anthropological collections from around the world, including African masks and Inuit costumes from North America.

Admission free.

Natural History Museum: 10am - 5pm, every day Pitt Rivers Museum: Tue-Sun 10am-4:30pm; Mon 12pm-4:30pm 7

Punting

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Port Meadow

More than 400 acres of common land is right by the city centre. You can walk along the river to The Perch and The Trout, both wonderful riverside pubs that have great pub gardens.

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Sheldonian Theatre

www.ox.ac.uk/sheldonian Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the theatre is a great concert hall, but is also worth visiting simply for its stunning architectural design.

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Brookes Union

www.brookesunion.org.uk Whether you’re based in Headington for your studies, or not, take some time to get to know the modern John Henry Brookes building. You’ll find the library, social learning space and lots of different places to eat. The JHBB is also the home to Brookes Union, so drop bye and say hello when you’re in the area.

www.oxfordpunting.co.uk In the summer, Oxford’s rivers become packed with punters. You can also hire out small rowing boats and kayaks.

For information on how to punt and where you can hire punts, visit: www.dailyinfo.co.uk/guide/punting.html

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Explore The City Further

Explore the city further…

Once you’ve checked out the places in our top ten list of tourist attractions, why not explore the city a bit further.

Here are a few ideas to get you started...

Theatres & Cinema Oxford has a range of cinemas; from small independents to multi-screen complexes, so you’re sure to find a film you fancy seeing.

The Phoenix Picturehouse in Jericho is a two-screen arthouse/world film cinema. Both cinemas offer a student membership scheme.

There are two Odeons within walking distance of one another - one on Magdalen Street and one on George Street - between these they have eight screens showing the latest cinema releases. (You’ll save 25% off Odeon student ticket prices with a NUS Extra Card.) Vue - a 12 screen multiplex - can be found just outside the ring road at the Ozone Leisure Park. There are also restaurants and a bowling alley here.

Oxford has a thriving theatrical scene, encompassing everything from amateur dramatics to largescale theatre shows.

If you’re after a slightly different experience, try the Ultimate Picture Palace or the Phoenix Picturehouse. The Ultimate Picture Palace is Oxford’s oldest - and only independent - cinema, showing a mix of arthouse releases, more mainstream films and one-off events.

There are two major theatres in Oxford. New Theatre on George Street shows national tours, musicals, ballets, comedy and more.

The Oxford Playhouse produces and tours its own shows.

You’ll also find loads of smaller arts venues scattered across the city, including Arts at the Old Firestation, the North Wall Arts Centre and Pegasus Theatre. There are lots of opportunities to get involved with theatre and the performing arts in Oxford; from joining a Brookes Union performing arts society to volunteering at a venue in town.

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Explore The City Further

Art & Culture

Take a tour

Modern Art Oxford

Do a walking tour

30 Pembroke St, OX1 1BP modernartoxford.org.uk Modern Art Oxford was founded in 1966, and is devoted to presenting exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. St Ebbe’s Kitchen is housed in the heart of Modern Art Oxford’s building. Exhibitions and events are free, and the food and coffee are good.

Oxford is full of famous and picturesque buildings, and you’ll often spot a famous Oxford landmark on TV or in a film. From Harry Potter to Downton Abbey, from Morse to Midsomer Murders, there’s sure to be walking tour for you. If you fancy being spooked, you could even try a ghost tour. Google ‘walking tours Oxford’ to find one to suit you.

Christ Church Picture Gallery

Take an open top bus tour

Christ Church, St Aldates, OX1 1DP Christ Church Picture Gallery houses an important collection of 300 Old Master paintings and almost 2,000 drawings in a purpose-built gallery of considerable architectural interest.

citysightseeingoxford.com Sit back and view the city from a different angle: take a sightseeing tour on an open top bus, encompassing the highlights and landmarks of Oxford.

£2 student ticket.

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Explore The City Further

Go outside….

Visit a park

1 1

Oxford is packed with green spaces that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, all within walking distance. Take in the view of the city from South Park, which is next to Headington Campus, or explore University Parks. Grab a picnic and take a walk along the river or canal, or wander around Christ Church Meadow.

Take to the water…

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We’ve already mentioned the famous Oxford pastime of punting, however there are loads of other ways to take to the water too: take a sightseeing cruise down the river or join an organised canoe or kayak trail. If the idea of falling overboard is putting you off punting, why not take a chauffeured punt and let someone else do all the hard work whilst you sit back and relax?

Climb a tower

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Take in the famous skyline from a different point of view. You’ve got a choice of towers: climb the 99 steps of Carfax Tower for a stunning view of the city, or try the tower of University Church of St. Mary the Virgin or the Saxon Tower at St. Michael at North Gate Church.

Costs £4 - £2 approx.

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Explore The City Further

A little further afield…

Even further afield…

There are loads of wonderful places to visit in and around Oxford.

However if you fancy exploring a little further afield, here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Visit London

Blenheim Palace blenheimpalace.com Blenheim Palace is one of England’s largest houses. It was built between 1705 and 1722, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blenheim hosts a range of sporting and cultural events throughout the year. The S3 and 500 buses run to Blenheim Palace.

Warwick Castle

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warwick-castle.com Warwick Castle is a medieval castle developed from an original built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and is one of Britain’s most iconic heritage sites. You can reach the castle via train. (You can save up to 44% on admission with an NUS Extra card.)

Bicester Village bicestervillage.com Bicester Village is a discount designer outlet and home to more than 130 boutiques of world-famous brands, with savings of up to 60%. You’ll also find a selection of restaurants and cafes there. You can get there by train or bus (S5 or X5).

It’s quick and easy to get to London from Oxford. The Oxford Tube and X90 go straight to the centre of London. BROOKESKey holders can buy a £10 period return for the X90 or Oxford Tube. Alternatively, you could take the train to London from Oxford station.

Once you’re there, the options of things to do are pretty limitless.

If it’s your first trip to London and you aren’t sure where to start, you could check out the tourist spots: Buckingham Palace, Camden Market, Covent Garden or the Houses of Parliament.

Take a look at visitlondon.com for inspiration.

Bath Visit the iconic Roman baths where you can bathe in naturally hot spa water, check out the architecture of Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey, or visit the Jane Austen Centre. There’s loads to keep you occupied for a day trip. If you visit in winter, be sure to check out the famous Christmas markets.

Accessible by train via Reading.

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events There is always something going on in Oxford. This is just a snapshot of some of the events that take place across the city every year.

LGBT History Month lgbthistorymonth.org.uk LGBT History Month takes place in February. Keep an eye out for events taking place across campus, and the city.

One World Week

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Oxford Human Rights Festival

jan

feb

19-23 Feb brookesunion.org.uk/ oneworldweek A week of free events to celebrate cultural diversity at Oxford Brookes, organised by students and staff.

The Oxford Human Rights Festival was founded in 2003, by postgraduate students on the MA course in Development and Emergency Practice at Brookes. The festival is open to everyone. Most of the events are free.

Oxford Literary Festival

mar

May Day May Day is a big part of the Oxford calendar. Bars and cafes across the city open their doors early for a May morning breakfast for the early risers, as well as those who have stayed up all night.

oxfordhumanrightsfestival.net

APR

oxfordliteraryfestival.org The Oxford Literary festival is an eight-day event that attracts writers from a range of disciplines. There is a huge range of events from talks to creative writing courses, from dinner parties to literary walks.

Common People commonpeople.net

may

Common People festival takes place on the late May Bank Holiday in the surrounds of Oxford’s South Park.

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Events

Pride oxford-pride.org.uk Taking place in June, Oxford Pride is a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer life in Oxfordshire.

Oxford Pride includes a parade, music, stalls and events.

JUN Cowley Road Carnival cowleyroadcarnival.co.uk

jul

The Cowley Road Carnival takes place every July. The carnival includes a procession along the Cowley Road, music and dancing, street food, market stalls and so much more.

AUG St Giles’ Fair 1

Foodies Festival

sep

Aug / Sep foodiesfestival.com Foodies Festival takes place in South Park, and is the UK’s largest celebration of food & drink. There will be live demonstrations, tastings, food stalls and more.

Christmas Light Festival

OCT

Oxford Food and Drink Festival oxfoodfest.com Celebrating the very best local food and drink. Free entry.

nov Oxford Christmas Market

oxfordschristmas.com The Christmas Light Festival is a city-wide celebration, which sees the late night opening of museums, galleries and cultural venues around the city.

St Giles’ Fair is a two day funfair that takes over one of Oxford’s largest roads. The Fair is held on the Monday and Tuesday following the first Sunday after St Giles’ Day (1 September).

oxfordchristmasmarket.co.uk

DEC

An annual food and craft market on Broad Street where seasonal food and gifts are sold from decorated cabins.

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Places to Eat on Campus

Places to eat on campus food at brookes is fab!

We have something for all taste buds around campus; from deliciously indulgent hot chocolates at Abercrombie Cafe, to the irresistibly fresh salad bars across campuses, finger lickin’ chicken wings at the Union Bar and everything else in between. Here is a little guide to what you can find and where...

HEADINGTON CAMPUS

Deli

At the heart of the John Henry Brookes building, in the Forum you’ll find Café Central. Serving Starbucks Coffee, Teas, Hot Chocolates & Frappuccinos, you’ll also find a selection of freshly baked pastries, homemade sandwiches, paninis and sushi. A delightful selection of sweet treats to tickle the taste buds, including freshly baked cookies, and homemade cakes.

Open from 7:30am, kick off your day at the Deli, with the best Full English breakfast on campus - also serving breakfast baguettes, if you want to grab your breakfast on the go.

At lunch you can pick up delicious artisan sandwiches, seasonal soups and artisan bread, including a range of hot sandwiches filled with handcarved local meats. Also serving Fairtrade coffee, tea and a wide selection of cold drinks.

The Terrace

Abercrombie Café

Our stunning main restaurant with panoramic views is the place to go for lunch. Indulge into our delicious street food counters from across the globe.

Fancy something healthier? Choose from our delicious range of boxed salads, salad pots & protein pots. Also serve jacket potatoes with a range of fillings, and soup. Here you’ll also find our Coffee Van, V4N3SSA serving Starbucks, and treats.

Find our contemporary café in the Abercrombie Atrium, offering an enchanting selection of teas, an amazing bespoke coffee blend and the best hot chocolate on campus.

Treat yourself to one of the delicious homemade cakes and pastries - or if you’re a tad more peckish, tuck into a sour dough bread homemade sandwich or toastie.

Café Central

11:30am - 2:30pm www.brookesunion.org.uk | fb.com/BrookesUnion | @BrookesUnion

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Places to Eat on Campus

Taylor’s Yard

Marston Café

Taylor’s Yard - named after the Taylorian in the Ashmolean, where Brookes first started as an art school. Here you’ll find a range of homemade comfort foods; from roast chicken, to pasta to a selection of seasonal specials at affordable prices. And the best bit, is you’ll be waited on hand and foot by one of our lovely waiting staff.

A cosy little coffee area, inspired by the great outdoors; a calm space where you can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, paninis, cakes and treats!

11:30am - 3:00pm

Union Bar Drink with friends, game of pool, a delicious freshly made burger? You’ll find it all at Union Bar - we’ve got a great selection of American Diner style eats, from burgers, to chili cheese fries, to some of the best wings in Oxford! Wash it all down with a beer, wine or spirit - or if you fancy a coffee or frappuccino we serve Starbucks here.

Marston ROAD Marston Restaurant Something from everyone here at Marston Restaurant; offering a range of freshly prepared hot dishes, from you classic favourites to dishes from around the world. If you fancy something a little lighter, we have a seasonal salad bar and a range of homemade toasties and paninis so whether you wish to eat in, or just grab-and-go, you will find something to tempt you.

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HARCOURT Harcourt Kitchen Harcourt Kitchen is a 1950s haven, inspired by the 1950s heritage of the building, with retro furnishings and fittings. With Wi-Fi access and power sockets, it’s the perfect space to relax, work or just meet up with friends and colleagues. Offering rotisserie chicken, an extensive salad bar with Deli tapas, as well as the usual jacket potatoes, sandwiches and a Proud to Serve Starbucks, Harcourt Kitchen has something for everyone.

WHEATLEY Wheatley Refectory The Hub at Wheatley is a cool and trendy place to grab something to eat or just chill out.

Offering both Starbucks and Fairtrade barista coffee, you won’t go thirsty. If it’s food you are after, take your pick from artisan Deli sandwiches, snacks and cold drinks from Caffe Deli. If you are looking for something hot, tuck into flavours from around the world such as Asian noodle broths, Mexican tacos or pasta on Chow. Or, stop at Nosh for something more traditional such as lasagne, pork chops or fish and chips. The choice is yours!

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Union Bars

brookes union bars Union Bar Union Bar is a social hub nestled right in the heart of the bustling John Henry Brookes Building (JHBB).

Whether you’re planning on going out, or you just want to relax with friends, Union Bar is the place to be.

If you want a break from studying, come down and have a game of pool, or relax over a coffee with friends.

If you get peckish, why not grab something from the all-day menu?

The food is inspired by an American diner, so you can choose from burgers, chicken wings, nachos and more. And of course, you can wash it all down with a cold pint, or glass of wine.

Westminster Square Westminster Square is Brookes Union’s bar on the Harcourt Hill Campus. We’ve redecorated, added some comfy sofas and have a fantastic new team looking after you. Pop in and say hi to Ed, our Bar Manager.

Westminster Square is the perfect space to play some pool with mates, hurriedly type up that assignment for that fast approaching deadline...or just relax with a drink.

The coffee is great, the beer is chilled, the staff are friendly and welcoming, and the rest...well the rest is what you make it. Come and see us!

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Top Ten Restaurants

Top ten restaurants You’ll be spoilt for choice of places to eat in Oxford. From small cafes to large chain restaurants, from late night kebab vans to fancy restaurants, we’ve got it all. Whatever cuisine you fancy trying, you’ll be able to find something that fits the bill. We asked students to tell us their favourite places to grab a bite to eat.

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Turl St Kitchen

3

Rusty Bicycle

16-17 Turl Street, OX1 3DH turlstreetkitchen.co.uk

28 Magdalen Road, OX4 1RB rustybicycle.co.uk

Turl Street Kitchen offers relaxed eating and drinking with a focus on local produce and independent drinks markers. It is a social enterprise, and all profits generated go back to their sister charity the Oxford Hub.

The Rusty Bicycle serve a well-priced brunch, burgers and stone-baked pizzas. They have lots of veg & gluten-free options on offer. Relaxed atmosphere with a good outside area.

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Thaikhun

36 George St, OX1 2BJ thaikhun.co.uk Thaikhun sells street-style Thai food.

It’s got an eclectic interior based on a Thai market - you could find yourself sitting in a bathtub or a tuk-tuk.

Thaikhun offers student discount.

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Red Star Noodle Bar

187 Cowley Road, OX4 1UT Lively cafe serving ramen, soba, curries and more on long communal benches. The food is cheap, tasty and fast.

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Top Ten Restaurants

Jacob’s & Field, Headington 5

15 Old High St, OX3 9HP jacobsandfield.com Delicatessen, bar and restaurant in Headington, serving dishes such as pizza, pasta and confit duck. They have a small terrace to the front, which is perfect for watching the world go by.

Atomic Burger & Atomic Pizza 6

Atomic Burger - 92 Cowley Road, OX4 1JE Atomic Pizza - 247 Cowley Road, OX4 1XG atomicburger.co.uk Atomic do American-style food, including burgers, wings and pizza.

Their restaurants are packed full of comic/movie/pop memorabilia and collectables, with a soundtrack straight out of the 80s/ 90s. Glutenfree options available.

7

8

The White Rabbit

21 Friars Entry, OX1 2BY whiterabbitoxford.co.uk The White Rabbit is an independent relaxed pub in the centre of Oxford, passionate about pizza and beer.

Gluten-free options available.

Gloucester Green Market 9

Gloucester Green is located in the centre of the city, off George Street.

Check out the different street food stalls at the weekly market. You’ll also find permanent stalls, such as a falafel stand, there throughout the week.

10

Cafe Coco

23 Cowley Road, OX4 1HP cafecoco.co.uk Cafe Coco is relaxed with a friendly atmosphere. They serve a range of breakfasts, mezze items, burgers and pizzas. They have a range of gluten free dishes.

Sasi’s Thai

Covered Market Tucked away in the Covered Market Sasi’s Thai sells hearty tasty Thai food at reasonable prices.

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Top Ten Restaurants

VEGETARIAN & VEGAN If you’re veggie or vegan, there are loads of places to eat in Oxford.

Here’s just a few favourites to get you started.

Gardeners Arms 39 Plantation Road, Oxford, OX2 6JE thegarden-oxford.co.uk Exclusively vegetarian (and vegan) pub in Jericho. Serving a range of food from thali platters to chilli, from nachos to burgers.

GÄF 39 Magdalen Road, OX4 1RB gafoxford.co.uk Veg-centric restaurant, serving brunch, lunch and dinner. Slightly more expensive than other places.

Alpha Bar Covered Market Alpha Bar serves a range of hot dishes such as curries or goulash, and fresh salads. Lots of vegetarian and vegan options available.

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Top ten pubs and bars Whether you’re looking for a ‘proper’ English pub with real ale and timber beams, or a sophisticated cocktail bar, we’ve got you covered. There are loads of places to choose from in Oxford; from chain pubs to small cosy nooks, from places serving gin in jam jars to those serving ale in tankards. This is the top ten places to have a drink, as chosen by Brookes’ students...

1

City Arms

3

Cafe Baba

288 Cowley Road, OX4 1UR social-squirrel.com/thecityarmsoxford

240 Cowley Road, OX4 1UH cafebaba.co.uk

The City Arms is a sociable hub in the centre of the Cowley Road, which is geared towards students; they offer charging points for your mobile, free wifi and printing. They have a good range of vegetarian and vegan food available. Their ‘more’ card rewards you with points as you spend.

A Moroccan themed cocktail bar on the Cowley Road, serving cocktails and tapas. They have a small garden to the rear. They have various special offers on drinks throughout the week.

2

The Cowley Retreat

172 Cowley Road, OX4 1UE thecowleyretreat.com The Cowley Retreat is popular with Brookes’ students; it serves burgers, hot dogs and snacks, alongside a cocktail list. It has a large garden with heated booths, and a good selection of drinks from craft beers to cocktails.

4

The Star

21 Rectory Rd, OX4 1BU Traditional pub with a pool table located just off the Cowley Road.

They have a large rear garden perfect for the summer, and a good selection of craft beers, ales and cider.

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Top Ten Pubs & Bars

5

Big Society

8

Varsity

95 Cowley Rd, OX4 1HR bigsocietyoxford.com

9 High St, OX1 4DB tvcoxford.co.uk

Relaxed bar with a small outdoor courtyard. Indoors they have pingpong and table football, and on Saturdays host a pop-up market.

Big Soc sells American-style fast food (think hotdogs, wings & fried chicken), craft beers and a selection of cocktails.

Sit on their rooftop terrace and take in the famous Oxford skyline. This is the perfect place to enjoy a Pimms with friends during the summer.

6

Turf Tavern

4-5 Bath Pl, OX1 3SU turftavern-oxford.co.uk Hidden down a small cobbled alley, this historic pub has attracted many famous faces over the years. They have a range of ales on tap and offer traditional British pub food. The Turf has a large outdoor space, but the pub is usually very busy.

7

The House

11 Blue Boar St, OX1 4EE housebar.co.uk Tucked slightly off the beaten track, The House is an intimate venue with an extensive cocktail list at reasonable prices. They have regular offers on drinks.

9

The Library

182 Cowley Road, OX4 1UE thelibrarypuboxford.com The Library has a wide selection of drinks on offer - including craft beers - alongside small plate dishes. They host live music events and DJ nights.

10

Mad Hatter

43 Iffley Road, OX4 1EA themadhatteroxford.com Answer a riddle. Enter Wonderland.

Drink gin in teapots, and every Thursday sing your heart out at karaoke.

Looking for something a little different?

Thirsty Meeples 99 Gloucester Green, OX1 2DF thirstymeeples.co.uk Board game cafe in Gloucester Green that serves light bites and a range of drinks. They’ve got over 2,500 titles available to play or buy. Simply pay a cover charge, order some drinks and settle down to play.

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Top ten Cafés You’ll find all the usual chain coffee shops in Oxford Starbucks, Costa, Caffe Nero, Pret, EAT, and so on. These are all fairly easy to find, so we asked students to tell us about those hidden gems that you might not necessarily immediately stumble across. Here are their top ten places to grab a coffee and a slice of cake.

1

The Missing Bean

14 Turl Street, OX1 3DQ themissingbean.co.uk Small and cosy cafe in the centre of town, selling a wide range of snacks, sandwiches and cakes. It’s a popular spot, so it can get very busy at peak times.

2

George St. Social

35 New Inn Hall Street, OX1 2DH georgestreetsocial.com George St. Social serve food through from breakfast to dinner, including a bottomless brunch on weekends.

They also serve a range of cakes, coffee and drinks. Grab a board game or something to read from their bookcase and settle back.

3

Society Cafe

12-16 St Michael’s St, OX1 2DU society-cafe.com Society Cafe offers a range of fresh sandwiches, cakes and coffee. They have good non-dairy milk alternatives.

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Top Ten Cafés

4

The Art Café

14 Bonn Square, OX1 1EU artcafeoxford.co.uk Small sandwich shop and cafe, with the emphasis on homemade, organic, local produce. They have lots of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. There are regular changing art exhibitions.

5

The Bear and Bean

98 Cowley Rd, OX4 1JE fb.com/thebearandthebean A small and quirky cafe on the Cowley Road, serving alcoholic beverages alongside the coffees and cakes. They also stock gifts, cameras and clothes.

6

G&Ds

gdcafe.com

Various locations across Oxford.

There are three branches of G&Ds ice cream cafes in Oxford (Cowley Road, Little Clarendon Street & St Aldates). They serve coffee, bagels and desserts alongside their famous ice cream selection.

Queen’s Lane Coffee House 7

Truck Store Mostro Coffee 8

101 Cowley Rd, OX4 1HU truckmusicstore.co.uk/mostro-coffee Truck Store is Oxford’s independent music hub. Browse their aisles of vinyls and CDs, then stop for a coffee and a slice of cake.

9

Rick’s Café

88-90 Cowley Rd, OX4 1JB Affordable cafe in the heart of the Cowley Road for a slice of cake and coffee.

Colombia Coffee Roasters 10

Covered Market colombiacoffeeroasters.com Part of a generation of independent coffee farmers and coffee roasters in Colombia. You can see - and smell! the beans being roasted in this small shop in the Covered Market. They also do a great hot chocolate.

Best place to grab a hot chocolate Coco Noir, Headington

40 High St, OX1 4AP qlcoffeehouse.com

77A London Rd, OX3 9AA coco-noir.com

Possibly the oldest coffee house in Europe! They serve a range of hot meals and paninis, alongside coffee, tea and freshly pressed juices. The food has a slight Turkish influence.

A small artisan chocolate shop serving hot chocolates made with actual chocolate. Along with a selection of handmade chocolate of course.

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Top ten nightclubs 1

The Bridge Club

6-9 Hythe Bridge St, Oxford OX1 2EW bridgeoxford.co.uk Considered to be the best nightclub in Oxford. Famous for its institutional Monday Night Bridge (MNB) with hoards of Oxford Brookes students attending each week to make the most of the best atmosphere, DJs and cheap drinks. The venue boasts 3 different rooms with the biggest smoking area in the city. The 2 main student nights are Mondays (MNB) and Fridays (ESKIMO).

2

Emporium Club

28-31 St Ebbes St, Oxford OX1 1PU emporiumoxford.co.uk Owned by The Bridge, Emporium has an incredible basement floor kitted out with LED walls and an impeccable sound system. Famous for its Thursdays – Emporium hosts the main Brookes night and it’s busy week in week out.

3

The Varsity Club

9 High Street, Oxford OX1 4DB tvcoxford.co.uk The only rooftop bar in Oxford with breathtaking views of the city of “dreaming spires”. Set on multiple levels, this venue has an eclectic sense of décor and extravagance, perfect for birthdays and cocktail drinking.

4

Anuba

13 Park End Street, Oxford OX1 1HH anubaoxford.com Anuba is the official pre drinks place for Monday night Bridge and Fridays at the Bridge. With its white cutting edge modern interior design Anuba is a great space for dancing and drinking before going out to the clubs.

34 www.brookesunion.org.uk | fb.com/BrookesUnion | @BrookesUnion

Top Ten Nightclubs

5

O2 Academy

190 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1UE academymusicgroup.com/ o2academyoxford The only large club situated in the heart of Cowley where all the students live. Famous for its Brookes Sports night on Wednesdays called Fishies, the cheapest and messiest student night for Brookes students.

Live music is also a big feature of this venue making it the only place to watch famous bands and live music acts.

6

Purple Turtle

Frewin Court, OX1 3HZ purpleturtlebar.com/oxford Purple turtle is tucked away down a side street off cornmarket next to cellar. It’s an underground maze corners that open out into dance floors. With each night being different there is something for everyone.

7

Atik

Cantay House, Park End Street, OX1 1JD atikclub.co.uk/oxford This is one of Oxford biggest clubs with four rooms of music to cater for all tastes. Wednesday being the home to Oxford University Sports Night. Unpopular with Brookes students, but caters for a strong local market on weekend and Oxford University Wednesday.

8

Cellar

Frewin Court, OX1 3HZ cellaroxford.co.uk As the name suggests, cellar is an underground club, tucked down a side street next to PT. smaller venue than normal for Oxford. But is home to music driven nights. They also host live music gigs, and the occasional comedy show.

9

Thirst

7-8 Park End Street, OX1 1HH thirstbar.com/oxford Thirst Bar is a late night cocktail bar on Park End Street opposite ATIK. Good outdoor space with good bar space.

10

The Bullingdon

162 Cowley Road, OX4 1UE thebullingdon.co.uk The Bullingdon is considered to be one of the most independent clubs in Oxford. Situated on the Cowley Road, the club boasts a mix of underground music, with a full range of music genres. Its signature nights includes Vinyl Ritchie (Disco night with past artists including Horse Meat Disco, Crazy P to name a few), Simple, Straight Outta Cowley Hip Hop night, 90s Tracksuit and Trance Rave, Nigel Garage, Raving Trippy plus recent DJs including Hunee, Midland, Dan Shake and so on.

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where to go shopping...

There are so many places to shop in Oxford, we could probably dedicate a whole guide just to this. Instead we’re giving you an overview of what types of shops you can expect to find in the different areas of the city.

Top tip: Don’t go out without your NUS Extra card.

City Centre

East Oxford

The city centre hosts all the mainstream high street shops you would expect, alongside a range of fast food and coffee outlets to keep you fuelled as you shop. There are two shopping centres: The Clarendon Centre (clarendoncentre. co.uk) and The Westgate Centre (westgateoxford.co.uk). The Westgate Centre is due to open in Oct 2017 after an extensive refurbishment, and will be home to a mix of shops and restaurants.

The Cowley Road’s unique character and cultural diversity is reflected by its shops: from wholefood stores to jewellers, from vintage clothing to Eastern food stores, you’ll find everything you need along the Cowley Road.

The High Street itself is home to more expensive fashion outlets and jewellers. Set just off the High Street you’ll find the Covered Market. The Covered Market dates from the 1770’s and is a treasure trove of stalls housing just about everything: from local food producers to clothing shops, from a chocolate shop to cafes, and much more.

For something a little different head to Gloucester Green when it is transformed into a bustling market (Wed, Thu and Sat).

Further beyond the Cowley Road, in Cowley Centre, is another shopping centre Templars Square (templarssqaure.com) where you can find stores such as Wilko and B&M bargains. Across the road is the Templars Shopping Park, a retail park that is home to TK Maxx, Matalan and JD Sports amongst others.

Keep an eye out for popup stalls from University Vintage Fair in Union Square throughout the year: brookesunion.org.uk/events

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37

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39

Shopping in Oxford

Food shopping You can find all the usual chain supermarkets in Oxford, as well as a range of health food shops and international food stores. So whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it somewhere!

The different areas of Oxford all have a slightly different vibe, which is reflected in the food stores you will find there: Headington is home to lots of small chain supermarkets: Waitrose, the Co-Operative Food, Tesco Extra, Sainsbury’s Local and Iceland. The Windmill Shop can be found on Headington High Street, selling Fairtrade products, including tea, coffee and chocolate. Thong Heng Oriental Supermarket is located on Windmill Road.

The Covered Market in the city centre houses local retailers, including several different butchers, a few greengrocers, The Oxford Cheese Shop, Haymans Fishmongers, and Nash’s Bakery. You’ll also find some great independent coffee shops and cafes tucked amongst the stalls.

The Cowley Road meanwhile, is home to wide range of international grocers, delis and supermarkets, including an Asian grocers (Jingjing) and Indian store (Tahmid Stores).

You’ll also come across Polish stores, Uhuru Wholefoods, a Moroccan deli and the Eastern & Continental Store, amongst many many others.

If you’re after a larger supermarket you’ll need to travel slightly outside of the city centre: Asda (Wheatley), Tesco (Oxford Retail Park, Cowley) and Sainsbury’s (Templars Square, Cowley). There are smaller versions of the chain supermarkets (Tesco Extra & Sainsbury’s Local etc) dotted all over the city. You’ll also find a few discount retailers, including Aldi and Lidl, around the city. And there are many smaller Co-operative stores around the city, in which you can save 10% every time you shop, with your NUS Extra Card.

Something a little different: If you fancy picking your own punnet of strawberries in the sunshine, check out Rectory Farm - a Pick Your Own (PYO) - just outside of Barton.

Oxford Food Markets: There are lots of local markets across Oxford. Markets can be a great place to pick up something local, handmade, or artisan, and support local traders.

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Shopping in Oxford

The Colonnade outside the JHBB, Headington Campus Every Tuesday, during semester, all day Fruit & vegetable market

Headington Farmers’ Market London Road and New High Street Every Saturday 10am - 2pm Produce, much sourced locally, including fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, bread, cakes and pastries, jams pickles and preserves; fish most weeks; street food and handicrafts.

Gloucester Green Market Wed & Thu 9-5, Sat 10-5 Gloucester Green hosts a few different markets throughout the week. Saturday’s market has more of a focus on street food.

East Oxford Farmers’ and Community Market East Oxford Primary School, Cowley Road (behind Tesco). 10am -1pm Small local market selling: bread, eggs, milk, veg, cheese, meats, refills for cleaning products, second-hand books, clothing and more.

Cultivate’s Veg Van Local veg van making regular stops around the city. They focus on providing local, ethical, delicious food. For stops check: cultivateoxford.org/vegvan

Bitten Street Oxford Castle Quarter (various Saturdays) Saturday street food markets at Oxford Castle Quarter, hosting a regular collection of local traders and those from further afield. Check bittenoxford.co.uk for dates.

Food & Mood: The stereotype suggests students live on cheap instant noodles and takeaway pizza.

However, eating a healthy balanced meal needn’t break the bank.

Eating a healthy diet can do a lot to improve your mood and sense of wellbeing; it can lead to calmer moods, positive feelings, more energy and clearer thinking.

Here’s a few quick tips: • Get your five a day: vegetables and fruit contain a lot of the minerals and vitamins and fibre we need.

• Eat the rainbow: eating a range of different coloured fruit and vegetables every day will give you a range of nutrients.

• Keep hydrated: if you don’t drink enough water, you may find it difficult to concentrate or think clearly.

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Shopping in Oxford • Think about your caffeine intake: caffeine can make you feel anxious.

Caffeine is a stimulant, and having too much can make you feel anxious and depressed, and disturb your sleep (especially if you have it last thing at night).

• Eat regularly: don’t skip meals. If your blood sugar dips you may feel irritable, tired or depressed.

Choose foods that release energy slowly like whole grains, nuts, oats and protein.

You can find out more about the link between food and mood at: mind.org.uk

Food shopping tips: You don’t need to blow your entire loan to eat well. We’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help your money go further, and to reduce wasted food.

• Plan ahead: plan your meals for the week, write a shopping list and then stick to it! Check what you’ve already got at the back of the fridge and cupboard before you leave the house.

• Watch out for special offers like 3 for 2, or buy-one-get-one-free. Do you actually need 3 cans of sweetcorn?

Will you use it? Can you freeze it?

However, you could save money on household items like toilet roll if you buy it in bulk and spread the cost between your housemates.

• Try downshifting brands: rather than buying branded products try the

supermarket’s own brand, or their value range, instead. You could save a third off your weekly shopping bill with one simple switch.

• Think seasonally: if you try and eat things that are in season the produce will have travelled fewer miles to get to you, and consequently will probably work out cheaper than something that has been shipped across the world.

• Don’t shop when you’re hungry: you’ll be tempted to buy more than you need. Try shopping at the end of the day when supermarkets start to discount their stock.

• Check whether you can freeze food that is close to its ‘use by date’. Check the packaging for instructions. Freeze things in portions if you can so you don’t need to defrost the entire product - like a loaf of bread - in one go.

For recipe inspiration try: bbc.co.uk/food bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/ student allrecipes.co.uk Oxford is a Fairtrade city. You can find Fairtrade products across loads of outlets in Oxford, including The Windmill shop in Headington and St. Michael’s in the city centre. All the major supermarkets stock Fairtrade products.

Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers.

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Sustainability

GET INVOLVED WITH SUSTAINABILITY AT BROOKES A warm welcome to Brookes! We are proud of our fantastic campuses and are committed to integrating sustainability into our day to day operations. Relax in the award winning gardens, savour the sustainability sourced food, and explore the many innovative building features such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation and solar PV panels.

Start your sustainability journey today and make a positive change during your time at Brookes.

Please contact us to get further involved. We’d love to hear from you!

The Sustainability Team TOP TIPS On Campus • Bring your own cup and save 10% on a hot drink at University managed catering outlets • Use our new Simply Cups recycling bins for all paper cups and lids • Use ceramic plates and metal cutlery when available at campus cafes and restaurants • When the last to leave a room close manual windows (on cold days) and turn off lights

In the Halls • Turn down radiators in your room when too hot or when leaving a window open • Report leaky water fixtures to the reception – a slow leak can cost thousands annually • Donate unwanted items at British Heart Foundation donations or charity shops • Switching off lights and appliances when not in use • Take shorter showers • Report any maintenance issues to your hall manager as soon as possible

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Sustainability • Please refer to the Halls of Residence Information Booklet for more information

Living off Campus • Donate unwanted items to your local charity shops or donation banks • Save water and money with free water saving gadgets at freebies. thameswater.co.uk • Join one of your local Community Action Groups at cagoxfordshire.org.uk

TRAVEL SUSTAINABILITY AND SAVE MONEY Sustainable travel is actively encouraged at Brookes through a wide range of travel discounts and incentives including: • Free Bike Doctor service and discounts in bike shops • Oxonbike bike hire scheme with stations at the Headington Campus and around Oxford • Discounts on buses and trains using NUS Extra and BROOKESkey card

HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES Oxford Brookes was the first Fairtrade University and offers a wide range of healthy and sustainable food choices.

• All our coffee, tea and bananas, as well as other selected food items, are Fairtrade certified

44

• Our fish is MSC certified and our meat is Red Tractor assured • Our eggs are free range and our milk is organic

BIODIVERSITY AT BROOKES Discover a rich diversity of flora and fauna as you stroll through our Green Flag award winning grounds • See what’s buzzing at our new, beecentric Freedom Bee Hives at our Headington Hill campus • Explore our wildflower meadows at our Headington Hill and Marston Road sites • Take part in one of our evening bat walks on campus • More information can be found on our sustainability webpages • www.brookes.ac.uk/about-brookes/ sustainability • www.brookes.ac.uk/socialresponsibility

CONTACT US AND GET INVOLVED For the latest sustainability news, volunteer opportunities and events follow us on social media Facebook: /SustainableOBU Twitter: @sustainableOBU Have an idea to make Brookes more sustainable? Email us at sustainability@brookes.ac.uk

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Sustainability

Waste and recycling About a third of all food that is produced is wasted; the average household throws away over £600 of food in a year.

Reducing Food Waste Too Good to Go App Too Good To Go allows restaurants to sell surplus food, for a minimal amount, rather than throwing it away, so you save money and save waste at the same time.

Download the app from: toogoodtogo.co.uk

Too Good to Waste The Too Good to Waste campaign aims to encourage diners to take home food that they haven’t finished. You’ve paid for it, why shouldn’t you take it home to eat later. Ask for a ‘Take Me Home’ box at participating restaurants (check website for a list). toogood-towaste.co.uk

Love Food Hate Waste The Love Food Hate Waste website is full of tricks on how to save money and shop efficiently, and packed with recipes for making the most of leftover food. lovefoodhatewaste.com

Recycling Where possible you can avoid waste by following the instructions on the notice boards, and resident information packs in your hall’s kitchen. For more information on what to recycle and where, please see our A to Z of Waste guide at www.brookes.ac.uk/about-brookes/sustainability

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Sustainability

Coffee Cups Did you know that an estimated 7 million coffee cups are thrown away every day in the UK? Coffee cups can’t be recycled in a normal recycling bin. Cups placed into normal recycling bins will be diverted off to landfill or incineration Bring a reusable cup, and you’ll save 10% on handcrafted drinks from Food at Brookes on campus. Most of the large coffee chains - and many of the independent coffee shops - offer a discount if you bring your own cup too. Save money, stop waste!

Look out for the Simply Cups recycling bins around campus.

These have been introduced as a result of a Brookes Union, student-led campaign last year. Disposable cups placed in these bins will be recycled into new cups and other goods.

At the end of the year…

Pack for Good Campaign When you’re moving out of halls, or your house, at the end of the year you might find that you’ve got loads of stuff left over that you no longer need. Do something amazing: pack for good.

We’ve teamed up with the University, The British Heart Foundation and the Oxford Food Bank to reduce waste.

Clothing & other items Donate these to the British Heart Foundation. Just fill a BHF bag and bring you sorted items to a drop-off point. See notices in halls for drop-off points.

Food Donate unused food to The Oxford Food Bank.

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Getting Around

getting around You can easily get around the city on foot, or bike. There is also a BROOKESbus that connects all of the campuses.

Oxford is a really well-connected city and there are frequent coaches to London and the airports.

Cycling

Buses

A lot of people to choose to invest in a bike, as cycling is a quick, easy (and free!) way to get around the city.

Most students will be eligible for an Inclusive Travel Pass that allows them to travel for free on all BROOKESbuses (£1 supplementary fare will be required for NU1 and NU5 night services). Any student can apply for a free BROOKESkey.

Don’t forget to get yourself a good quality bike lock. Stay safe: wear a helmet and hi-vis, and use front and rear lights when cycling at night.

BROOKESkey holders can benefit from the following offers: • £1 trips on BROOKESbus, Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel, and Stagecoach buses within Oxford’s cityzone

Free bike doctor This is a while-you-wait bicycle repair service on campus during semester time. You’ll only pay for parts used, as labour is free.

Oxon Bike Hire OxonBike is similar scheme to the ‘Boris Bikes’ hire scheme. Students save 20% off annual subscription: oxonbikes.co.uk

• £10 period return tickets to London on the X90 and Oxford Tube • £21 period return tickets to Heathrow (ticket must be purchased in advance) • £29 period return tickets to Gatwick (ticket must be purchased in advance).

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Advertisement

OXFORD TUBE Oxford Tube is the flexible way for students to travel between Oxford and London, providing a 24 hour service, operating every day of the year. Free Wifi and USB charging points are also available on board.

Where can I catch the Oxford Tube?

Students at Oxford Brookes University are in a perfect position to hop on to the Oxford Tube. Stops to London are on London Road stop B3 – opposite the John Henry Brookes building. There are also stops in the city at Gloucester Green, High Street, St Clements and Headington Shops.

In London, the Oxford Tube takes you to the heart of the city with central stops at Notting Hill Gate, Marble Arch and Victoria Station.

How often does the Oxford Tube run?

Oxford Tube is a frequent service running up to every 15 minutes during the day. In the evenings the service runs every 20 minutes, then every 30 minutes leading up to midnight. You won’t miss the last coach as the Oxford Tube also runs hourly between midnight and 5am – meaning you can return when you want to.

How do I book/ pay?

One of the great things about the Oxford Tube is that you don’t need to pre- book. Student tickets are priced at £11 single and returns are available from £14. You can pay the driver with cash or using your contactless payment card, ApplePay or Android pay. There is also an App available to download your ticket straight to your phone.

Visit oxfordtube.com for more details Facebook: /OxTube Twitter: @Ox_Tube

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Getting Around

Save money on travel with NUS Extra…

• 26% off National Express tickets • 10% off online with megabus.com • 10% off advance tickets with CrossCountry trains • 12% off one-year 16-25 railcards • Plus loads of international travel discounts.

Buy your NUS Extra Card from: nus.org.uk/extra

Taxis We can’t endorse any taxi firms, but here are some of the major taxi operators in Oxford.

001 Taxis: www.001taxis.com Royal Cars: www.royal-cars.com Oxford City Cars: www.oxfordcitycars.com

Getting away….

Trains Oxford train station, which is found in the city centre, is well-connected.

Great Western (gwr.com) operate trains from Oxford to London Paddington and Reading, or change at Didcot parkway for South Wales and the West of England. Chiltern Railways (chilternrailways.co.uk) run from Oxford to London Marylebone via Bicester Village and High Wycombe. Cross Country Trains (crosscountrytrains.co.uk) operate services from Scotland, North of England, Midlands and the South Coast to Oxford.

Visit the thetrainline.com or National Rail Enquiries for tickets, routes and timetables.

Don’t forget your Young Person’s Railcard! Did you know if you have an NUS Extra card you can save 12% off the cost of a 16-25 Railcard? You’ll be saving money on saving money!

Cars You really don’t need a car at Brookes, as Oxford is a wellconnected city. However, if you want to hire a car for a trip you can do so via Co-Wheels. Co-Wheels is Brookes’ onsite car club. Cars are available to hire from the Headington Campus and Cowley Road area. As an Oxford Brookes student you get free student membership (usually £25) and £10 worth of driving credit.

Visit: co-wheels.org.uk to find out more.

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Advertisement

If you ever get stuck or lost on a night out, you can always call our Safety Bus number: 0771 444 5050 It’s out 9pm to 3am every day except Sundays. Make sure you put the number into your phone now, so you aren’t without it when you need it.

su.safetybus@brookes.ac.uk

0771 444 5050

To volunteer, contact Samuel (VP: Welfare) on su.safetybus@brookes.ac.uk

999 For Emergencies; 101 For Non Emergencies

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Getting Around

STAYING SAFe BiKE SECURITY • Get a good bike lock; look for the ‘sold secure’ logo on approved locks. Did you know your local University police team and Brookes Union have discounted D-locks for students to purchase?

• Always lock your bike to a permanent object.

• If you have quick-release wheels lock them up also, as well as removing lights and panniers.

• Look at registering your bike with bikeregister.com

BURGLARY / THEFTS • Ensure windows and doors are closed and locked when you are out. Don’t leave small windows open believing them to be safe.

• Don’t leave valuables on display in front of windows, or in reach of open windows or doors.

• Personal items are your responsibility. Please do not leave them unattended, even briefly.

They are not secure in an open environment.

• Note down, and keep separate, EMEI numbers for your phone and serial numbers for your laptop and other devices.

• Make sure your electronic devices, and other items of value, are insured.

• If you do discover items missing, please report to Thames Valley Police immediately by dialling 101, and to Facility staff or the security team (ext. 3060).

Contact The University police team can be contacted on the non-emergency number 101, but in case of an emergency please use 999.

You can also contact us by email: brookesNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn. police.uk If you would like to be updated on what is going on in your area you can sign up to the Thames Valley Alert: thamesvalleyalert.co.uk or @TVP_students

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welfare We are here to give you independent advice and help. You can come to talk to us about pretty much anything. We won’t judge you and we will listen to you. Whatever you say to us is confidential, we are not part of the University.

University matters You can talk to us if you are having health or personal problems that are affecting your study. We can give you advice and help on the mitigating circumstances process. We can also help you to complain or appeal to Brookes and you can get advice from us about conduct issues. We can help you to understand your PIP and we are happy to be asked anything to do with your programme.

Money matters We can help resolve problems with Student Finance England and can advise you on whether you could get more money or challenge a decision they have made. If you are struggling financially we would be happy to explore your options with you, including the University’s hardship fund.

Housing We are happy to help you with any housing related query. We can advise you of your rights and responsibilities on your tenancy agreement and would be happy to go over it with you. If you are having a problem with your landlord or are unhappy with the state of repair of your house we can advise you of what you can do and help you to enforce your rights.

We can also help you to get your deposit back.

General matters We can give you advice on all sorts of issues from benefits, council tax disputes, consumer, employment and lots more. If we cannot help we can usually find someone who can.

Contact: 01865 484770 su.advice@brookes.ac.uk

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Useful Contacts

useful contacts Mental Health & Wellbeing

HEALTH General Health Brookes Medical Centre Contact: 01865 483 193 medical.centre@brookes.ac.uk NHS 111 Non-emergency NHS number.

Medical advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Contact: 111 Studental A dental practice on the Headington Campus, providing NHS dental care to the students and staff of Brookes.

Contact: 01865 689 997 www.studental.co.uk

Drug & Alcohol Help Alcoholics Anonymous Helpline for anyone with a drinking problem.

Contact: 0800 9177 650 Drinkline Help and information if you’re worried about your own or a friend’s alcohol consumption.

Contact: 0300 123 1110 National Drugs Helpline Confidential advice and information for those who are concerned, or have questions, about drugs; 24 hours.

Contact: 0800 77 66 00

Brookes counselling For information on the University’s counselling services visit www.brookes. ac.uk/student/wellbeing/counselling/ or go to brookes.ac.uk and search ‘Counselling’ Oxfordshire Mind Oxfordshire Mind ‘working towards wellbeing and recovery’ – providing confidential information and support for men and women with Mental Health Issues.

Contact: 01865 2477 88 www.oxforshire-mind.org.uk Samaritans 24-hour emotional support to anyone who is suicidal or despairing.

Contact: 116 123 Nightline Listening, support and information service run for students, by students, 8pm-8am.

Contact: 01865 270 270 Skype: oxfordnightline

Sexual Health British Pregnancy Advisory Service If you’re worried you may be pregnant or want advice on abortion.

Contact: 03457 3040 30 Oxfordshire Sexual Health Service Sexual health clinics offering a full range of services. sexualhealthoxfordshire.nhs.uk

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Useful Contacts Terrence Higgins Trust A national HIV and sexual health charity, offering support advice and services for anyone living with or affected by HIV. Contact: 01865 243389 www.tht.org.uk

PERSONAL AND RELATIONSHIP MATTERS Cruse Bereavement Cruse Bereavement Care is here to support you after the death of someone close.

Contact: 0808 808 1677 Oxford Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre Confidential support for females who have experienced sexual violence at any time in their lives. Also supports the (male and female) friends and family of survivors.

Contact: 0800 783 6294 www.oxfordrapecrisis.net RASASC (Rape and sexual abuse support centre) Support and counselling for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused.

Contact: 0845 122 1331

Equal opportunities Brookes Disability Services To find out about Brookes’ support for disabled and dyslexic students, visit www.brookes.ac.uk/students/ wellbeing/disability or go to brookes.ac.uk and search ‘disability’.

Brookes Dyslexia/SPLD Services Contact: 01865 484 653 www.brookes.ac.uk/students/ wellbeing/dyslexia-spld/ British Dyslexia Association Contact: 0118 966 8271 Lesbian and Gay Switchboard Information, support and referral service for lesbians, gay men and bisexual people.

Contact: 0300 330 0630

Academic Brookes Union Advice Service Independent and impartial advice on all aspects of academia at Brookes.

Contact: 01865 484770 su.advice@brookes.ac.uk Brookes English Language Support Go to brookes.ac.uk and search ‘English Language Support’.

Brookes Upgrade Confidential advice and support with maths, study skills, writing essays and more. www.brookes.ac.uk/upgrade.

Financial Brookes Union Advice Service Independent and impartial advice on student finance, student loans, grants, debt, budgeting, banking services and income tax.

Contact: 01865 484470 su.advice@brookes.ac.uk Citizens Advice Bureau Information and advice about your rights. www.adviceguide.org.uk

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Advertisement

STUDENTAL DENTAL PRACTIcE Studental is currently accepting new NHS patients!

Opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am -6pm Located in the state of art facilities with new and modern equipment Accepting new NHS and private patients even if only for a short period We are open to everyone -students, their family and general public Even if you have dentist elsewhere (back at home), you are still able to come and see us (you do not need to de-register from your other dental surgery) Some of you might be eligible for exemption from dental charges -enquire at Studental reception Emergency and short notice appointments available Experienced, friendly and fully qualified dentists and specialists (wisdom tooth extraction, periodontist, prosthodontist, implantologist, teeth whitening, orthodontics (braces) and endodontist) available Hygienist appointments available

state of the art dental care is now within everyone’s reach

01865 689997

www.studental.co.uk

reception@studental.co.uk

Say hi...

Oxford Brookes University, Headington Campus, Colonnade Building, 3rd Floor, Oxford, OX3 OBP

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Chaplaincy

OXFORD BROOKES CHAPLAINCY: SPACE TO BE Life at university can be overwhelming. The Multifaith Chaplaincy is a safe space in the midst of chaos where you can take time out to sit with your thoughts, with a friend, or with a cuppa, and just be.

Whether you’re struggling, celebrating, or just want to pass the time of day, the Chaplains are available to listen and to talk. We can offer help and advice, or talk about what faith means to you.

As a team we aim to provide spiritual encouragement and pastoral care, and a wide range of opportunities.

We regularly meet for worship, prayer and meditation, discussion, a craft community, and much more.

You can find us in the Multifaith Chaplaincy in the Buckley Building, Headington, or visit the Westminster Chapel on Harcourt Hill. chaplaincy@brookes.ac.uk www.brookes.ac.uk/chaplaincy facebook.com/BrookesChaplaincy twitter.com/BrookesChaplain

WELCOME EVENTS Mind & Spirit: How can the Multifaith Chaplaincy support your spiritual life?

Workshop for new students, on Monday 18th and Wednesday 20th September at 11am in JHB207, Gipsy Lane.

Welcome Lunch Open to all, on Monday 18th September from 12–2pm in Multifaith Chaplaincy Garden Room, Buckley Building ground floor.

Welcome Mass Catholic Mass, open to all, on Thursday 21st and 28th September at 12pm in the Garden Room Afternoon Tea Drop into the Garden Room, 3-4pm Monday-Thursday of Freshers’ Week.

Freshers’ Fair The Chaplaincy will have a stall at the Fair on Friday.

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Chaplaincy

Worship Soul Feast: Exploring Christian Spirituality on Wednesdays in the Garden Room at 12pm.

Morning Prayer is said every day in the Westminster Chapel, Harcourt Hill, at 8:45am, and on Thursdays in the Garden Room at 9.00am.

Friday Prayer is said in the Inner Room (Multifaith Chaplaincy) every week, and often at the Wheatley Campus.

Catholic Mass is offered at 62 London Road at 6pm on Sundays, all are welcome. Fr. Prem is available in the Chaplaincy House every Thursday for prayer, confession and guidance.

Other Events The Ideas CafÊ is open to all. It’s a time of discussion and debate on issues affecting the world over tea, coffee, and cake. Whatever your views are on climate change, religion, feminism, or social justice, you will find a space here to share and explore ideas. Tuesdays at 5pm.

Crafternoon Tea takes place every Wednesday at 1pm. It is open to everyone to relax midweek with craft and a cuppa. We can teach you a new skill, or you can watch, or bring your own project.

Meditation for Relaxation is on Tuesdays at 12:00pm. We work through a short non-religious meditation together, beginners are welcome at any time.

WHERE CAN I PRAY AND REFLECT? There are facilities across all campuses for students and staff.

In Headington, there are three Multifaith Chaplaincy rooms where you can find quiet space and prayer facilities (including wash rooms).

At Harcourt Hill, the Chapel is open to all and there is a prayer room with washing facilities at the entrance to the Chapel.

At Wheatley, there is a Prayer & Quiet Room.

WHO ARE THE CHAPLAINS? Christian Rev. Kate Harford, Ecumenical Chaplain: chaplain@brookes.ac.uk Revd. Dr. Robert Bates,Methodist Chaplain in Residence at Harcourt Hill: rgbates@brookes.ac.uk Fr. Prem Fernando, Catholic Chaplain: prem.fernando@brookes.ac.uk Peter Teagle, International Chaplain: p.teagle@brookes.ac.uk Jewish Rabbi Michael Rosenfeld-Schueler: rosenfeld@brookes.ac.uk Muslim Sheikh Ramzy hramezanza8deh@brookes.ac.uk Whoever you are, whatever you believe, the Chaplaincy is open to you. We invite you to come along and be a part of the community.

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Y R O T C E DIR FOR U O Y P HEL U’RE

S O LETDUWHAT Y

G N I K LOO FIN

The companies and/or products, which appear in the adverts in this handbook are in no way endorsed by Oxford Brookes Students’ Union. Brookes Union takes no responsibility for the behaviours of these companies, the qualities of their products, or the contents of their websites.

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