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OXFORDSHIRE’S BIG AUTUMN GUIDE: Plays, musicals, festivals, big names, music, comedy, museums, art, dance and family entertainment. Get booking!
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Now's the time to plan your autumn's entertainment with so much on offer across Oxfordshire, from plays and musicals to festivals, big names,...
Review
REVIEW: A Raisin In The Sun is a life defining play that you can’t afford to miss, at Oxford Playhouse all week!
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Headlong's revival of A Raisin In the Sun at Oxford Playhouse will stay with me for a long time to come thanks to...
Musicals
REVIEW: ‘Lively, fun and colourful’ Don’t miss Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at New Theatre Oxford all week!
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There were so many unexpected things to enjoy in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; the incredible energy, the sheer scale of the singing and...
See
MUST SEE: ‘It’s a real train ride of a play’ Headlong’s revival of American classic A Raisin In The Sun at Oxford Playhouse this week
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Denzil Washington starred in the Broadway revival of A Raisin In The Sun, Sidney Poitier in the 1961 film, but the classic American...
Music
REVIEW: Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening positively blazed at Oxford Playhouse, their modern, exciting folk still anchored in tradition!
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Kathryn Tickell comes from a long line of traditional musicians and poets, although her band The Darkening, named after the Northumberland word for...
Eat
REVIEW: Opening The Grain Store in Middle Aston has been Helen Taylor’s dream for 18 years, but it’s been worth the wait!
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The Grain Store in Middle Aston has been 18 years in the making, Helen Taylor fostering a dream to open her own cafe...
Dance
KEEP DANCING: Dancin’ Oxford’s Family Dance Festival comes to Oxford, Banbury and Bicester with a world premiere, disco, hip hop, street, film and breakdancing
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If you've been thinking of giving dance a go or want to see the experts in action now's your chance because this weekend...
Musicals
REVIEW: ‘100% go! Switched up for the modern day, Grease The Musical at New Theatre Oxford earned its standing ovation’
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Grease is a hard act to follow, the 1978 cult film with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John such a beloved multi-generational classic that...
Bar & Drinks
Dishoom’s Permit Room Oxford announces its 126 seat all-day Bombay style bar/café will open on October 25 on New Inn Hall Street!
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Dishoom has announced that its latest site Permit Room Oxford, will open its doors on Friday October 25 on New Inn Hall Street,...
Do
The biggest ever Thame Food Festival boasts cookery demos, Bake Off winners, 120 stalls, DJ Supper Club, kids events, dog shows and live music!
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Thame Food Festival 2024' kicks off this weekend (Sept 28-29) at Thame Showground with cookery demos, Bake Off winners, big names, 120 stalls,...
Do
TOP PICKS: 100 events, 30 venues, vets, pets, testicles, robots, whales, magic, nature, brains, comedy – IF OXFORD Science and Ideas Festival is back
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With 100 events across Oxford to choose from at IF Oxford in October, it's hard to know where to start, but the Science...
Family
REVIEW: Floella Benjamin’s Coming to England is uplifting, joyful and positive despite its often shameful subject matter!
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The stage is one giant telly. The lights dim. It switches on and all the middle-aged mums and dads in the Oxford Playhouse...
Eat
REVIEW: ‘Definitely one of the best roasts in Oxfordshire’ Why Sunday lunch at Woodstock’s Back Lane Tavern is a force to be reckoned with!
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We'd had a tip off! Had we tried The Back Lane Tavern's roast? We'd been to the esteemed Woodstock gastropub for dinner, lunch,...
Classical
Could you be the next Pavarotti? Fancy giving opera a go? Oxford Youth Opera launches its workshops for young people from Saturday!
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Always wanted to try opera but never had the chance? Fancy yourself as the next Pavarotti? Just curious? Well your luck's in because...
Classical
TOP 10: What to book at Oxford Chamber Music Festival 2024 as world famous musicians, concerts, film and workshops honour UK classical music
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Oxford Chamber Music Festival 2024 is taking us on a joyful adventure next week as it launches 'These Enchanted Isles’ - a series...
Eat
REVIEW: ‘Like dead man’s fingers, the spam fries were absolutely irresistible’ Why dinner at The Plough in West Hanney never disappoints!
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"Spam fries really? There are so many other things to try," I begged my dining companions, but their minds were made up. Spam...
Classical
MUST SEE: Sir Michael Palin at The Sheldonian and Michael Howell of Ch4’s The Piano headline OSJ’s autumn classical music programme
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There's no holding back Orchestra of St John's this season as it prepares for a stunning concert series featuring big names from Michael...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘It’s a vicious circle’ Pickle & Lime greengrocers on Botley Road forced to reopen as a cafe and deli after road closure
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As soon as the Botley Road was closed for railway repairs, Joe Devlin who runs Pickle & Lime greengrocers READ ABOUT IT HERE...
Eat
REVIEW: ‘Worth every calorie’ Mollie’s Diner menu given a New York steakhouse twist as the concept spreads throughout the UK!
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When Mollie's Motel and Diner first opened back in 2019 with its heady mix of American food, cocktails, all day dining and a...
Family
David Wood on ‘Floella Benjamin’s Coming to England’ at Oxford Playhouse, why children’s theatre is so important and kissing Elizabeth Taylor!
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"I really hope children come to see FLOELLA BENJAMIN'S COMING TO ENGLAND, not only because it's such an entertaining show but also because...
Bar & Drinks
‘Brace yourselves! The Flight Club party is about to go off’ New social darts experience bar comes to Oxford’s Westgate in November
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It's all change at Oxford's Westgate with new darts experience bar Flight Club opening in November with a stunning bar, high-energy atmosphere, craft...
community
‘We’re just a bunch of foodies who love cooking’ Community based Oxford supper club ‘Little C’ at Flow Records’ Sunday Sessions launch at Common Ground
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To launch Oxford based Flow Records, new community supper club Little C is helping to host the first Sunday Sessions at Common Ground...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: Check out The Slow & Steady, Dodo Pubs’ newest hostelry, complete with games arcade, opening tomorrow on Oxford’s Abingdon Road!
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What a transformation! Opening tomorrow (Friday Sept 5), The Slow & Steady pub on Oxford's Abingdon Road has had a four month refurbishment,...
Do
REVIEW: Big Feastival – 60,000 steps, gold mankinis, rocking headliners, superb food, epic dancing… 2025 tickets released today!
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Big Feastival does it again, providing an incredible bill of food, entertainment and perhaps their best music line-up ever over the August Bank...
Eat
REVIEW: Kibou Oxford- Does it live up to the hype? Hell yes! Get ready for a Japanese extravaganza and savour the unexpected!
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For those of you who haven't heard about Kibou opening in the former Wilding site on Little Clarendon Street, it has been completely...
Eat
REVIEW: Lunch at the newly revamped Parsonage Grill Terrace brings an exciting Moroccan vibe to Oxford city centre
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An oasis of stylish tranquility, the newly revamped Parsonage Grill Terrace provides the perfect respite from the heat, noise and bother of the...
community
BACK WITH A BANG! Sunday’s Cowley Road Carnival boasts music, food and a colourful procession to celebrate Oxford’s wonderful diversity!
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After a long-awaited return, The Cowley Road Carnival is back this Sunday (Sept 1) for the first time since 2019!
The carnival team...
Family
Too early for the P word? Not at Oxford Playhouse where tickets for 2024 panto Sleeping Beauty are already selling fast!
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It may only be August, but preparations are already underway for the biggest and boldest Playhouse pantomime to date! Written and directed by...
See
Grab your partner by the hand! ‘A Fistful of Mondays’ comes to Witney, before world premiere of sequel ‘For a Few Mondays More’
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"Country music is now bigger than ever and A Fistful of Mondays is a play that combines country music and line-dancing in a...
Eat
REVIEW: Mozzarella infused vodka anyone? There’s a top mixologist at The White Hart, Fyfield enhancing new head chef Grahame Wickham’s superb food!
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Let's start with the Mary on Vacation which produced a tumult of sensory questions; how can a cocktail taste like a greenhouse? How...
Do
Is Padel taking over the world? North Oxford Lawn Tennis Club introduces the exciting and fast-growing sport. Fancy a go?
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Everywhere we go at the moment people are talking abut Padel. Apparently the fastest growing sport in Europe, Padel is a mix between tennis...
Do
Check out new look, sustainable Ashmolean Cafe, plus Horsebox Coffee Co’s new 2CV pop-up on forecourt!
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The Ashmolean Cafe, located on the lower ground floor of the Oxford museum, has been given a full refurbishment and menu update, while...
Christmas
THE GREAT SKATE: Tickets on sale for NEW ICE RINK opening in Blenheim Palace’s Great Court this winter!
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Blenheim Palace's Great Court is set to be transformed this winter with a covered ice rink, it has just been announced.
For the first...
Comedy
‘People say I don’t look like a comedian,’ Rachel Parris returns to Oxford Playhouse with new show ‘Poise’
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"It feels really nice to be kicking off in Oxford because it was somewhere that I used to call home," comedian Rachel Parris...
Eat
REVIEW: What’s your guilty pleasure? Six By Nico in Oxford’s Westgate has got it all figured out over six delectable courses. But book because it’s packed!
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What's your guilty pleasure? Having conducted some research amongst friends, I've realised what deviants they all are. From a Fray Bentos pie eaten...
Comedy
DON’T MISS: Offbeat Festival is back with 34 shows in 7 days of affordable theatre, dance, spoken word, comedy, poetry, music and workshops. Here’s what to see!
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Offbeat, Oxford's annual theatre festival of new work is back, supporting emerging talent and local performers with a platform for new work. It’s...
concert
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO THIS YEAR AT BIG FEASTIVAL! Are you ready for the big names, food, music, kids fun, hot tubs and feasting?
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It's nearly that time of year when Alex James' Farm in Kingham bursts to life with a glorious weekend of top bands, music,...
Music
REVIEW: ‘For a quintessential English summer evening of divine music in exquisite gardens, go to this year’s Waterperry Opera Festival!
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Be challenged, be delighted, be entranced, be well-entertained! For the perfect, quintessential English summer evening of divine music in exquisite gardens, go to this...
Bar & Drinks
TOP 65+: Oxfordshire’s best pub gardens, alfresco cafes, rooftop bars and terraced restaurants. Where to enjoy the sun!
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Now that summer is here, as far as eating outside is concerned, we've got it covered! From lush gardens and courtyards to orangeries...
Musicals
REVIEW: ‘Hats off to MYCO! We’re very tempted to return for tonight’s second and final performance of Chess’ at Oxford Playhouse
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It took the MYCO cast all of ten seconds to lose their opening-night nerves. From thereon in, I could only marvel at my...
Do
WILDERNESS REVIEW: ‘Another epic weekend of bohemian revelry!’ Our top picks from Oxfordshire’s most hedonistic festival. What did you miss?
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What a great festival of bohemian revelry yet again! The entertainment, food and impressive themed outfit commitment from the Wilderness crowd did not...
Eat
BOOK NOW: Waterside Cafe at Farmoor Reservoir celebrates first anniversary with pop-up supper club by Tikka and Tadka and lakeside views
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The Waterside Cafe on Farmoor Rervoir is holding its first ever pop-up supper club to celebrate its one year anniversary, with acclaimed Indian...
Art
SNEAK PEEK: New Ashmolean exhibition ‘MONEY TALKS – Art, Society & Power’ featuring Banksy, Klimt, Rembrandt, Grayson Perry and Queen Elizabeth II
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How do you feel about money? Ostentatious, necessary, advantageous, disgusting, consuming, covetous? It's something we can all relate to. We use it every...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: We review The Feathers in Woodstock’s courtyard garden, brasserie and some exceptional food and cocktails during the soft opening!
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After an extensive seven month, multi-million pound transformation, The Feathers has finally opened its courtyard garden and brasserie style restaurant to the public...
Bar & Drinks
REVIEW: Can there be a more glorious experience than lunch at The Perch in summertime?
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It's a bucolic scene that greets you on emerging into the gardens of The Perch behind the historic pub in Binsey. The conservatory...
Do
TRUCK FESTIVAL REVIEW: ‘Another epic year at a monumental Truck’ as 2025’s early bird tickets are released on Friday!
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In its 27th year, The Truck machine rolls into Oxfordshire once again, but this is no ordinary truck, this transports 30,000 of us...
Dance
REVIEW: ‘You’d need a cold heart not to be blown away by the dancing’ Our reviewer sees Lord Of The Dance at Oxford’s New Theatre for the first time!
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The press release for last night's performance of Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance - A Lifetime of Standing Ovations at Oxford's New...
outdoor
REVIEW: ‘The role of a lifetime’ Emily Woodward shines as Rosalind in Creation’s immensely enjoyable ‘As You Like It’ at Wycliffe Hall
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Shakespeare season is upon us and striding into the ring comes Creation's As You Like It at Wycliffe Hall - the perfect summer...
Entertainment News
‘ABBA or musical theatre fans will love this’ Third time lucky! MYCO proudly reopens Chess at Oxford Playhouse with some original cast from four years ago!
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MYCO were all ready to bring famous musical CHESS to Oxford Playhouse back in 2020 but then Covid hit and the show could...
Charity & Fundraising
Yellow Submarine charity opens third cafe at Woodstock open-air swimming pool and a cheese-on-toast tent at Truck Festival, all in one week!
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Yellow Submarine, the wonderful Oxfordshire charity that supports and trains those with learning difficulties and autism, has opened a new cafe at Woodstock's...
Eat
REVIEW: The Rickety Press in Jericho is as vibrant, busy and fun as when it first opened 13 years ago and the food is still banging!
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It has been too long! Venturing back into The Rickety Press in Jericho was like coming home, that cosy bar leading through into...
community
FREE! LEYS FESTIVAL returns this Sunday to celebrate the community with Oxford United coaching, music, dance, food, games, sport and fun for all!
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The Leys Festival, the celebrated free event provided by and for the local community, returns this year to Blackbird Leys Park on Sunday...
Do
WHAT TO SEE AND DO THIS SUMMER IN OXFORDSHIRE – music, theatre, family shows, festivals, comedy, exhibitions, parties, opera, art and open-air. Get booking!
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There is so much going on this summer in Oxfordshire we have compiled a quick guide to help you enjoy the holidays. And...
outdoor
REVIEW: ‘Successfully delivers laughs and romance in this thought-provoking Shakespeare comedy’ OTG’s Much Ado About Nothing at Oxford Uni Parks
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A Taylor Swift soundtrack, a wheelie-bin and Converse trainers root this current production of Much Ado About Nothing by Oxford Theatre Guild firmly...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: Slice & Dice opens today in The Social at Oxford’s Westgate bringing New York pizza to the city centre. Here’s what to expect!
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New York pizza is being served in Oxford's Westgate Centre from today as Slice & Dice opens its first ever outlet in The...
Do
TRAVEL REVIEW: Why our getaway at The Castle At Edgehill near Banbury was a night to remember, with stunning food, views to die for and a magical sunset!
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The views stretching out below the hotel and gastropub The Castle At Edgehill are literally breath-taking, framing the landscape where the Parliamentarians and...
Family
‘It’s not summer ’til you’ve been to a Creation show!’ Book double bill of Shakespeare’s As You Like It and kids classic Treasure Island in Oxfordshire!
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Creation Theatre has got a bumper summer in store for you with two, brilliant open air productions to enjoy. Shakespeare's romantic comedy As...
Family
EXCLUSIVE: Famous singer songwriter Nick Cope on new jukebox family musical ‘Rosie and Hugh’s Great Big Adventure’ opening at North Wall
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New jukebox family musical Rosie and Hugh’s Great Big Adventure, featuring Nick Cope's songs, opens at North Wall later this month (July 24-27).
The...
Bar & Drinks
BREAKING NEWS: New pub The Slow & Steady named by Dodo (formerly Tap Social’s The White House) plus revamp, Sept opening and pizza/burger menu!
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Standing with the keys to new pub The Slow & Steady in his hand, Dodo co-founder Leo Johnson is clearly thrilled.
“We’re excited...
Do
Top 10: Shetland Pony Grand National anyone? Our guide to The Game Fair at Blenheim Palace – family, fishing, dogs, cookery, horses, food, cocktails, shopping and big names!
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The Game Fair at Blenheim Palace is only a month away, and with so much to see and do while you're there we...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: “Let’s get the pickle party started” Cranston Pickles Summer Supper Clubs announced at Tap Social Taproom and Proof Social Bakehouse!
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Fiona Cranston is hard at work in her Oxford pickle kitchen when we speak, getting ready for her Summer Supper Club Series at...
outdoor
“It’s bursting with comic characters, jokes and humour” Wild Goose Theatre is back with a steam punk open-air production of Twelfth Night at Oxford Castle
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In the middle of final rehearsals for Shakespeare's much loved comedy Twelfth Night at Oxford Castle, which kicks off on July 1, Wild...
Eat
It’s Hamblin Snack Bar’s official launch party in Oxford’s Covered Market on Saturday, with Goodies, and you’re invited! Find out all about it here!
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Live DJs, pizza and drinks will greet you at the opening party for Hamblin Snack Bar and Goodies on Saturday night in Oxford's...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: “Oxford’s been on our radar for a long time” The lowdown on KIBOU – the new Japanese restaurant opening in July in former Wilding site!
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The excitement is building around new Japanese restaurant KIBOU opening in July in the former Wilding site on Oxford's Little Clarendon Street. But...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: Tap Social’s White House is taken over by Oxford’s Dodo Pubs for Sept re-opening, full refurb and name change
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Oxford-based Dodo Pub Co is taking over Tap Social's beloved neighbourhood pub The White House on Abingdon Road, it has been announced, while...
Comedy
REVIEW: ‘How unutterably splendid’ The 39 Steps is a simply spiffing and fun night out. Catch it at Oxford Playhouse before it hits the West End
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What to expect from the revived spoof of gripping spy thriller The 39 Steps? Much hilarity, laughter, silliness, farce, perfectly timed mis-timings and...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: “It’s so devastating but hospitality is in the eye of the storm” Why Gourdans brilliant steak frites restaurant in St Clements is closing down this weekend
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"It's so sad, but there was no light at the end of the tunnel. So while we are gutted to be closing, we...
Bar & Drinks
COMPETITION: We have three bottles of Oxfordshire’s Zimasa Vodka made with Zimbabwean masau fruit to giveaway. Enter now to win!
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Have you tried Oxfordshire's Zimasa Vodka? If not you should! Not big vodka drinkers ourselves, Zimasa Vodka was on hand at the OXINABOX...
Eat
REVIEW: ‘Exceptional from the first cocktail to the last bite’ No wonder The Duck On The Pond near Banbury is in the Michelin Guide. You must try it!
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The sense of wonder surrounding The Duck On The Pond began as we were getting out of the car; the beautiful gardens complete...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: ‘The Mole Inn has so much untapped potential’ New landlords on making the historic gastropub ‘the heart of the community again’
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Jack Anderson and Dave Phillips are proudly showing me around the The Mole Inn in Toot Baldon which they have just taken on,...
Eat
REVIEW: Enjoy a slap up Sunday lunch at Frilford Heath Golf Club with great views, food and service included!
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Frilford Heath Golf Club might not spring to mind when considering where to go for Sunday lunch, especially if you don't play golf,...
Eat
Chipping Norton MasterChef finalist Chris Willoughby on cooking, fire eating, sword swallowing, his grandma’s gravy and what happens next!
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CHRIS Willoughby took a leap of faith when he decided to swap being a circus performer for cooking on MasterChef, but his gamble...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: Gourmet dinner on a vintage double decker bus in Bicester this weekend? Yes really! Is Park Royal Oxfordshire’s most unique dining space?
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Park Royal Classic Dining is Oxfordshire's newest gourmet experience and perhaps its most unique! The upper deck of its 1960's double decker bus...
Eat
REVIEW: The Cinnamon Stick’s new Arabian Lounge and garden are summer ready and the food is excellent. Have you been?
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If you haven't been to The Cinnamon Stick in Middle Barton, it serves some of the best Middle-Eastern food in Oxfordshire. Fact.
News...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘It was a tough decision’ We talk to Wilding owner Kent Barker about closing next week and ‘head chef Ben Wood cooking in Oxford again’!
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"It's been hard. We just haven't been getting the numbers through the door," Wilding owner Kent Barker tells me.
Having relaunched Wilding in 2023...
Do
REVIEW: ‘Still head and shoulders above everything else’ There’s a new Giffords clown in town as Avalon hits Blenheim. Meet Cuttthhhbert and bring a bib!
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'My name is Cuttttthhhhbert," Giffords new clown announces, spitting all over his huge, manly side-kick Merlin the Magician. Not clown in a big...
Entertainment News
‘I’m chomping at the bit’ Famous clown Tweedy on taking a break from Giffords and his ‘Massive Circus’ coming to Oxfordshire soon!
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"it's not really massive. It's quite little really. You can actually see people's faces in the tent which is nice. But of course...
Eat
REVIEW: “A roller-coaster ride of gastronomic dexterity’ We try ‘The Chippie’ menu at new Westgate restaurant Six by Nico!
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Six by Nico opening on The Westgate rooftop yesterday was an exciting moment. Because not only does its reputation and culinary prowess precede...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: What to expect – The Feathers in Woodstock reopens with The Nest brasserie and Aviary bar after £3 million transformation!
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Builders, electricians, carpenters, stone masons and furniture restorers are swarming all over The Feathers in Woodstock inside and out, getting it ready for...
Do
Escape to The Chateau’s Dick and Angel Strawbridge on cooking at The Game Fair at Blenheim with James Martin, sustainability, family and food!
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You can't miss Escape To The Chateau's Dick and Angel Strawbridge, her inimitable red hair and his infamous moustache aways standing out from...
Eat
Heston Blumenthal and famous chefs celebrate Raymond Blanc’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2024
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World famous chef Heston Blumenthal bounded on to the North Wall stage to surprise Raymond Blanc last night as the founder of Le...
Eat
A night of surprises, laughter and celebrations: Here are the winners of THE OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2024
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The OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2024 were in full swing from the moment the doors opened at The North Wall last night, as 180 guests...
Eat
REVIEW: ‘The gourmet destination pub you can’t afford to miss’ The Greyhound in Letcombe Regis’ incredible food offering is as accomplished as ever!
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You'd never know when driving past the remote country pub The Greyhound in Letcombe Regis near Wantage that it serves some of the...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘I just want people to try my East Indian food’ Don’t miss Tikka and Tadka’s ‘Grisher Bhuribhoj’ Bengali feast at Worton Kitchen Garden!
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When Roshni Ray gave up her job in the NHS to open her own Bengali kitchen Tikka and Tadka in Wantage she had...
Eat
“We want to keep evolving” The Swan in Islip broadens its horizons by offering relaxed grazing menus due to customer demand
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The Swan at Islip is offering a new grazing menu which will run at lunchtimes and midweek evenings to give its customers a...
Comedy
Join Chippy Theatre’s epic 50th celebrations of big names, premieres, feasts, cabaret, performance tours, community plays, immersive theatre and whodunnits!
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2024 is the 50th year of The Theatre Chipping Norton, and it's celebrating in style with Life Begins at 50 - an incredible...
Bar & Drinks
BREAKING NEWS: 30,000 VOTES! HERE ARE THE FINALISTS IN THE OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2024!
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The voting is closed! And the finalists who have made it through to the OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2024 can be revealed!
The food awards are being held...
Eat
REVIEW: “Fantastic, novel and enticing food” Why The Back Lane in Woodstock deserves its newly awarded two AA rosettes
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Celebrations at The Back Lane in Woodstock are ongoing as news of their two AA rosettes for culinary excellence was announced.
The winning team...
Eat
REVIEW: Why Jericho’s Old Bookbinders, and its authentic Gallic food, is one of Oxford’s best kept secrets!
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It’s taken three attempts to get into The Old Bookbinders in Jericho for dinner, such is its popularity, regardless of the day of...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘It was now or never’ Why Table 13’s award-winning, plant-based supper club is leaving Oxford to set up in London!
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News that Table 13 is leaving Oxford to start afresh in London has plunged its endless loyal foodie followers into despair. READ OUR...
Eat
Why The Plough in West Hanney is still at the top of its game. A fun-fuelled evening with some mighty fine food!
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The rugby had long finished when we arrived for dinner at The Plough in West Hanney, but the marquee, connecting the garden with...
Bar & Drinks
“IT’S BEEN A LABOUR OF LOVE” Summertown Wine Bar Celebrates its one year anniversary and you’re invited!
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“It’s been a real labour of love,” Summertown Wine Bar co-owner Graeme Woodward tells me from the Banbury Road premises where we’re talking...
Eat
BEST BRUNCH IN OXFORD? The Yurt at Nicholsons’ new menu delivers on every front. Why you should give it a go!
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News that The Yurt at Nicholsons has a new brunch menu had us scarpering down to North Aston like rabbits down a hole....
Eat
REVIEW: ‘If you fancy a cozy, friendly gastropub with some impressive food, then The Three Horseshoes in Asthall is for you’
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The fire was roaring when we entered The Three Horseshoes In Asthall near Burford, its welcome immediately apparent during this wet, windy 2024,...
Eat
BREAKING NEWS: Six by Nico opening new restaurant on Oxford Westgate’s roof terrace in May. Prepare for its famous tasting menus!
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Six by Nico has announced it will be opening a new restaurant in Westgate Oxford on Wednesday May 22, the 15th of its...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: What to expect! New look Pit Kitchen moves from Chipping Norton to Todenham Manor Farm – opening on May 8
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Adam Thomas meets me at the end of a farm track outside a derelict barn on Todenham Manor Farm. There's work going on...
Eat
REVIEW: “Still managing to be all things to all people” The refurbed Jericho Mamma Mia is just the same but better!
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There was a family leaving as we arrived at Mamma Mia in Jericho, exiting complete with toddlers, scooters and raincoats, all very jolly...
brunch
REVIEW: Pizzetta for breakfast? The new Gees brunch provides the perfect excuse for an indolent, delicious and stylish morning…
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As if you needed an excuse, Gees has just launched a new brunch menu, giving you the perfect opportunity to nip in and...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘Our customers don’t want Mamma Mia to change’ Jericho branch to reopen after 10 week refurb while keeping its traditional look!
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The Mamma Mia restaurants are much beloved in Oxford, their branches in Jericho and Summertown teaming with families, couples and locals chowing down...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: The Oxfordshire Yeoman in Freeland near Witney is thriving again, as the village pub is given a makeover and new lease of life!
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When Louise Edwards was brought in to run The Oxfordshire Yeoman in Freeland last year, she knew just what was needed.
Because although a...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘We are fulfilling a lifelong dream by reopening The Plough at Alvescot’ Friends take on village pub and recruit head chef Luke Sushams!
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The four friends sitting in the cosy bar at The Plough in Alvescot have taken on a huge project, not only to transform...
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EXCLUSIVE: ‘We want to provide a space the village really use, a home away from home’ Young couple take over The Dashwood in Kirtlington!
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James and Flora are hard at work at The Dashwood in Kirtlington when we arrive, making coffees and chatting to the locals. That...
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EXCLUSIVE: We talk to The Feathered Nest’s new, ex-Manoir, head chef Rene Pinedo about his food, mother’s cooking and Ollie Dabbous pop up!
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You can expect some Caribbean influences, an exciting new menu and a pop up with famous chef Ollie Dabbous when you next visit...
Eat
EXCLUSIVE: ‘It’s not about numbers, it’s about consistency’ Oxford’s Dosa Park to open in Witney and Cirencester with new takeaway in Kidlington!
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It's all go at Dosa Park's central kitchen in Kidlington, where their recently launched takeaway service is based, orders flying out of the...
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CHEESILICIOUS: Why Thursdays are the new Fridays at Brasserie Blanc in Jericho as fondue, raclette and tartiflette night kicks off!
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Missing the snow? The Alps? Some mountain fodder? Fear not because Brasserie Blanc in Jericho has come to the rescue with C'est Cheese...
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‘I just want my food to make people happy!’ Don’t miss five course Punjab pop-up ‘Curry Nights With Nandita’ at Chloe’s in Charlbury!
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Fancy a five course authentic Indian dinner at Chloe's in Charlbury? Thought so, then get your tickets for Nandita Wadhwa's first ever pop...
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REVIEW: ‘A gastronomic highlight of the year’ Why head chef Samuel Squires’ is making such a name for himself at The Old Crown in Faringdon
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"That was absolutely one of the best meals I've had for a very long time. That duck... I'll never forget it," my husband...
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EXCLUSIVE: ‘It just needs a bit of love’ What to expect! The Oxford Blue is reopened by former Green Routes crew with a plant-based menu
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The Oxford Blue is one of Oxford's most quintessential pubs, its name synonymous with the famous running track opposite, where Roger Bannister''s four...
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EXCLUSIVE: ‘It’s always been my dream to open on Cowley Road’ What to expect from new restaurant Dosa Darlings, opening tomorrow!
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Michael Raphel is fulfilling a dream by opening Dosa Darlings tomorrow on Cowley Road, because having worked in a curry house up the...
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MICHELIN NEWS: Le Manoir celebrates 40 years with two Michelin stars and Nut Tree retains its star for the 16th year running!
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Staff at Le Manoir in Great Milton were still celebrating today after Raymond Blanc's famous hotel and restaurant retained its two Michelin stars...
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REVIEW: New, ex-Manoir, head chef Nat Berney is serving some of the best pub food in Oxfordshire at The Lamb in Little Milton!
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When Nat Berney left Le Manoir a few months ago he was unsure of his next move. Even though he loved his time...
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REVIEW: Our lost afternoon at The Parsonage Grill, the perfect lunch and why it’s such a great winter retreat!
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On a bitter winter's day, pushing open the ancient wooden door of The Old Parsonage, and being embraced by its warm, enticing interior,...
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Killingworth Castle, Double Red Duke and The Bull at Charlbury in ‘EstrellaDamm Top 50 Gastropubs Awards’ with The Bell at Langford in Top 100
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Today, Oxfordshire's Killingworth Castle in Wootton by Woodstock, The Double Red Duke in Clanfield and The Bull at Charlbury were named in the...
concert
BREAKING NEWS: Truckers are you ready? JAMIE T, WET LEG, THE STREETS, THE KOOKS and IDLES to headline Truck Festival 2024!
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Truck Festival has announced a kicking line-up for 2024 with headliners Jamie T, Wet Leg, The Streets and Idles promising to whip Steventon's...
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REVIEW: ‘THE KBC chicken wins hands down’ If you thought the burgers at Witney’s ‘The Edge at Lil’s’ were good, try the new menu!
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I've been dreaming about the burgers at The Edge at Lil's in Witney ever since I tried them for the first time, the...
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REVIEW: Why Oxford’s No 1 Ship Street’s set menu – £16.50 for two courses or £21.50 for three – is exceptional value for money!
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We have all tightened the purse strings in January - the excesses of Christmas reflected in our bank balances. Which means that now...
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TOP 40: OXFORDSHIRE’S BEST VEGGIE/VEGAN RESTAURANTS, PUBS, CAFES AND POP-UPS FOR VEGANUARY AND BEYOND!
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The demand for plant-based, veggie and vegan food has spiralled, everyone jumping on the bandwagon. But whether you're doing Veganuary, cutting our meat...
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‘ONLY YOU’ Kindness, friendship and rescue from Auschwitz in ‘Naomi and Arthur: Letters from Liberation’ at Woodstock Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum
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When soldier Arthur Tyler, of the Oxfordshire Yeomanry, helped liberate concentration camp Bergen-Belsen on April 15 1945, the remaining prisoners they found were...
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REVIEW: Why Il Corno, the new Neapolitan street food site at Oxford’s Covered Market, is a family affair!
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The devilled horn, Il Corno, is a sign of virility and an Italian zest for life. It is also the name for Oxford's...
Art
OUR 2024 ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE: Oxfordshire’s best musicals, concerts, plays, premieres, festivals, family, dance, music and exhibitions to book now!
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What a treat 2024 has in store for you with a smorgasbord of entertaining morsels to enjoy. Here is our bumper guide to...
Comedy
COMEDY: TOP 35 PICKS for 2024 – the best comedians and stand-up shows coming to Oxford, Didcot, Chippy and Banbury. Book now!
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There is an incredible comedy line-up coming to Oxfordshire in 2024! Here are our top picks!
1)Oxfordshire Mind Comedy Gala, Sat 13 Jan, Oxford...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: ‘A match made in heaven’ The new look Chequers in Witney, opened by Bladon White House’s Ben Bullen and Luke Buckle!
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The light, bright enticing interior, crackling log fire and gleaming bar is a far cry from The Chequers in Witney's former incarnation as...
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REVIEW: Why everyone is flocking to Great Tew’s Quince and Clover in their well-heeled droves, thanks to head chef Mary Franklin’s cooking!
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When the nights draw in, the heating goes up, and all you want is a warm bowl of soup in a cosy cafe,...
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REVIEW: The new look Brasserie Blanc in Jericho is given a fresh makeover while the menu remains as wonderfully French as ever!
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In a world of uncertainty, Brasserie Blanc stands resolute, confident in its offering, consistency it's middle name. So while other Oxford restaurants have...
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EXCLUSIVE: Sartorelli’s to open new wine and pizza emporium Fire & Wine in Milton-under-Wychwood with Eynsham Cellars!
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Sartorelli's has struck again. Not content with their brewery pizza offering at New Yatt, or their cosy spot in Oxford's Covered Market READ...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: The lowdown on Oxford’s first Absinthe bar…. Welcome to The Parlour in the basement of Lynrace in Jericho!
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Oscar Wilde once said "a glass of absinthe is as poetical as anything in the world." It's getting your hands on it that's...
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REVIEW: A heavenly night away at the Fleur De Lys in Bampton for some much needed pampering and incredible French food
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It seemed unlikely - a new French restaurant with rooms serving stunning food in the tiny Cotswold town of Bampton. Tearooms and pubs...
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REVIEW: “We won’t be eating there again” Why the new Cosy Club in Oxford is not for the faint-hearted or hungry!
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We try not to review opening nights. Too much pressure, too new, too busy, too many expectations, customers, clamour.
Better to wait until...
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Lunch at a golf club? With head chef Jamie King at the helm it’s worth a trip to Frilford Heath Golf Club for the food alone!
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It was an unlikely excursion - lunch at Frilford Heath Golf Club being a first - any golf club actually an unusual choice...
Bar & Drinks
REVIEW: ‘Lip-smackingly good’ The Three Horseshoes in Witney bridges that impossible gap between gastro pub and popular local boozer
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It's such an uplifting success story the revival of The Three Horseshoes in Witney, now positively thriving.
Previously sister pub to The Hollybush opposite,...
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REVIEW: ‘One of the most memorable meals ever’ Why our 11 course lunch at Orwells in Shiplake was such an unforgettable experience!
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It seems almost impossible that a meal of such epic proportions, dexterity, creativity, imagination, ambition, generosity, playfulness and food born of passion, could...
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REVIEW: The lowdown on the newly opened Black Horse in Salford (near Chipping Norton) and head chef Dan Smith
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"For me food is about nostalgia," Black Horse head chef Dan Smith tells me after the lunch sitting in the recently opened Black...
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REVIEW: ‘What a discovery’ Our lunch at The Chandlers Arms in Epwell was an absolute delight from start to finish and excellent value!
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The Chandlers Arms in Epwell has been on our radar for quite some time, rumours of some mighty fine cooking, in the family-run...
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REVIEW: Executive head chef Alan Gleeson is back in the driving seat as new Daylesford pub The Bell in Charlbury opens on Sunday!
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We are big fans of Alan Gleeson. The Oxfordshire chef is a great, sturdy, reliable, gifted hulk of a man whose food I...
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EXCLUSIVE: A £1.5 million refurb and 4 month closure. How Daniel Ede plans to restore The Feathers in Woodstock to its former glory!
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"We want to create a new Feathers Hotel that pays tribute to its history, by restoring the beautiful historic building to its original...
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REVIEW: “Exceptional from the word go” Best restaurant in Oxford? Wilding is what we’ve all been waiting for!
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My meal at Wilding has haunted my dreams. How to do justice to Michael Carr and Ben Wood's extraordinary cooking?
Because chefs of...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: ‘We’ve had grown men weeping at the bar’ Why the brilliant pub The Hand and Shears in Church Hanborough is having to close!
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The Hand and Shears in Church Hanborough has been a roaring success since opening its doors back in 2020, with customers and locals...
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REVIEW: The Woodstock Arms is worth it for the Bloody Mary’s alone! Oh and the tomato tart, the steak, the peach tatin, need we go on?
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It's been a rocky ride at The Woodstock Arms over the years. When the Woodstock pub reopened in 2016, it was THE place...
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TRAVEL REVIEW: The ultimate getaway – a night away at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham and dinner at its popular supper club
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The accommodation at The Wild Rabbit is literally everything you could dream of - it's beautiful, comfy, intimate cottages are just a stone's...
Charity & Fundraising
EXCLUSIVE: “We are here for everyone” Check out top community cafe Waste2Taste’s new premises in Cowley!
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"it's such an amazing space, and we needed somewhere bigger. We had grown out of our old premises," Sandra Ruge tells me proudly,...
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EPIC CELEBRATIONS at the OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2023 – winners and pics of Oxfordshire’s incredible hospitality industry!
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What an extraordinary evening. There were tears, cheers and epic celebrations taking place at last night's OXINABOX FOOD AWARDS 2023 at The North...
Eat
TOP 30 – WHERE TO FIND THE BEST PIZZA IN OXFORDSHIRE. The definitive guide! And yes we have tried them all!
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It's been a chore, tirelessly tracking down the best places to eat pizza in Oxfordshire, as you can imagine, but we've done it,...
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“I’d forgotten how good Ben Bullen’s cooking is!” Enjoy a cracking Sunday lunch at The White House community pub in Bladon
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it was lovely to be back. If only all pubs could be like The White House in Bladon. Uncomplicated, welcoming, community based, it...
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TOP 40: The definitive guide to Oxfordshire’s best veggie/vegan restaurants, pubs, cafes and food, from fine dining to pop ups!
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With Veganuary hard upon us and the excesses of Christmas to dispel, here's our guide to Oxfordshire's best veggie and vegan restaurants and...
Entertainment News
Before and After: Look how The Swing Bridge in Oxford was saved and taken off the Heritage at Risk Register!
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Oxford's Swing Bridge, one of only two moving bridges on the river Thames (the other being Tower Bridge), has been fully repaired and...
Eat
REVIEW: “That first taste of tortilla is always a seismic moment” Why Arbequina on Cowley Road has still got it!
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It's the simplicity that takes your breath away at Arbequina on Cowley Road.
Unashamedly pared back, its no frills approach still working its...
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REVIEW: ‘A culinary adventure of heroic proportions’ The Duck on the Pond near Banbury, 12 courses and a long run!
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I had high expectations. Hendrik Dutson-Steinfeld comes with an impressive pedigree, a huge passion for food and a point to prove. He left...
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REVIEW: Why Za’atar Bake on Cowley Road is such a favourite neighbourhood eatery!
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As Za'atar Bake on Cowley Road opened at 12 noon, I was already queueing, knowing how popular it was, and wanting to make...
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FOOD ENVY: The instant success of Elle’s Deli in East Oxford and it’s Oli’s Thai takeaway meals!
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Walking into Elle's Deli on Magdalen Road, East Oxford is a strange experience. Where are all the tables, the bar where hopeful diners...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: The lowdown on Oxford’s cool new cocktail bar and off licence Lynrace in Jericho? Negroni anyone?
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Let's start with the aesthetics. Lynrace in Jericho, Oxford's newest cocktail bar, is sleek, sexy and enticing. It's impossible to walk past without...
Bar & Drinks
EXCLUSIVE: Chef Hendrik takes over ‘The Duck On The Pond’ pub in South Newington, Banbury!
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Anyone who has eaten at The White Horse in Kings Sutton over the past eight years will know why chef Hendrik Dutson-Steinfeld has...
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REVIEW: Can Afternoon Tea at Oxford’s Randolph Hotel be any more quintessential? We think not…
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Can there be a more quintessential Oxford experience than eating afternoon tea in The Randolph at a table overlooking The Ashmolean, we wondered...
1) Cherwell Boathouse, North Oxford - The best riverside views with food to match - watch the punters glide by! Classy.elegant and quintessentially...
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The Cinnamon Stick in Middle Barton is as popular as ever thanks to Khalid Mohammed’s affordable and delicious Middle Eastern cooking
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The Cinnamon Stick in Middle Barton was absolutely packed to the rafters when we arrived for dinner on Friday night, which was wonderful...
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‘Revolutionary – the best vegan meal we’ve ever had.’ Table 13 – Oxford’s ‘ground-breaking’ new plant-based social dining club opens today!
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Down an unassuming driveway, off the beaten track in Wheatley, lies a ground-breaking new culinary experience set to open next month, with bookings...
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Battle of the noodles: We review street food inspired Pho and Ramen Kulture in Oxford. Here’s what we recommend!
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Popping out at the top of The Westgate Centre, it's unnerving to find so many people out shopping, socialising, going to the cinema...
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Work, rest or play? Award-winning experts Inside Out Oxford, who created Ox In A Box HQ, on how to design the ultimate bolthole!
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With 24 million Brits now working from home because of COVID-19, the trend for buying, designing and building home offices has rocketed, a...
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PIZZA PANIC: Don’t know where to go? Here’s our round up of Oxfordshire’s best 20 pizza delivery and takeaways
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If lockdown has left you desperate for pizza then look no further! We have rounded up the best places for takeaway and delivery...