The very best 12 nightlife spots in Oxford, United Kingdom

Welcome to the City of Dreaming Spires, where night owls can rejoice in Oxford's vibrant nocturnal scene. Dive into The Tipsy Teapot, a whimsical and cozy spot that serves delightful concoctions, guaranteed to transport you to a magical wonderland. For the adventurous souls, venture into The Mad Hatter's Den, a peculiar speakeasy where mixologists craft eccentric cocktails and the occasional singing tea party may erupt. Finally, don't miss The Rooftop Rascal, a hidden gem offering stunning views of the city skyline, where you can sip on refreshing libations and maybe even catch a glimpse of a scholarly debate under the stars. Oxford offers an intoxicating blend of traditional charm and unpredictable excitement, ensuring your nights are as unique as the university itself.

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1. The Mitre

The Mitre, High St, Oxford OX1 4AG, UK

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, The Mitre is a delightful haven for both locals and weary travelers alike, eager to soak in the charm of this ancient city. Known for its quirky mishmash of historical architecture and eccentric decor, this pub is the perfect spot to grab a pint and marvel at the ceiling, which seems to have been decorated by a tipsy artist armed with a rainbow of paint cans. The friendly staff here are always more than happy to regale you with tales of famous patrons who may or may not have enjoyed one too many drinks before penning their literary masterpieces.

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2. The Duke's Cut

4.3 (22)

Duke's Cut, Oxford OX2 8JT, UK

Tucked away in the charming city of Oxford, sits the iconic Duke's Cut—a haven for those seeking a pint of laughter and a barrel of good times. As you step foot into this whimsical establishment, do keep an eye out for the amusing array of mismatched chairs and quirky wall decorations, for they will surely tickle your sense of humor. Whether you're in need of a hearty meal or a cheerful chat with friendly locals, The Duke's Cut promises to grant you an experience that will forever leave you grinning from ear to ear.

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3. The Chequers

4.3 (1597)

131 High St, Oxford OX1 4DH, UK

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, The Chequers is a pub that caters to the thirsty minds and rumbling bellies of both scholars and locals alike. With a charmingly quirky decor, including walls adorned with vintage posters and mismatched furniture, this delightful watering hole exudes a distinct "intellectual meets old-school pub" vibe. While sipping a pint of their finest ale, you may find yourself engaged in lively debates on anything from quantum physics to the questionable fashion choices of 18th-century monarchs.

www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

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4. The Jericho Tavern

4.3 (1017)

56 Walton St, Oxford OX2 6AE, UK

Nestled in the charming city of Oxford, The Jericho Tavern stands like a beacon for music lovers, history enthusiasts, and those yearning for a good pint. With its crooked beams and quirky decor, this hidden gem embraces its eccentricity with open arms. Here, you can witness the lively collision of locals and students, all seeking refuge from the scholarly pursuits of the day – intellectual conversations are optional, but the delightfully raucous atmosphere is guaranteed.

www.thejerichooxford.co.uk

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5. The Oxford Retreat

4.2 (968)

1-2 Hythe Bridge St, Oxford OX1 2EW, UK

Nestled amidst the quaint streets of Oxford, The Oxford Retreat beckons travelers like a mischievous whisper in a library. Combining the charm of an old English pub with the whimsy of a book lover's paradise, this quirky destination ensures a memorable stay. Whether you seek refuge from your failed attempt at punting or a momentary respite from the perplexing labyrinth of college rivalries, this rustic retreat offers a delightful fusion of tranquility and entertainment like no other.

www.theoxfordretreat.com

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6. The King's Arms

4.2 (1748)

40 Holywell St, Oxford OX1 3SP, UK

Welcome to The King's Arms, a charming pub nestled in the heart of Oxford where the spirits are high, both in glasses and in the atmosphere! With its age-old brick walls that have seen more students stumble out than textbooks come in, this historic watering hole exudes more character than any Shakespearean play. Soak in the jovial chatter of scholars, locals, and tourists alike, as they debate everything from philosophy to the last slice of pie over a pint or two.

www.kingsarmsoxford.co.uk

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7. The Mad Hatter

4.4 (374)

43 Iffley Rd, Oxford OX4 1EA, UK

Welcome to Oxford, home to the renowned Mad Hatter! This eccentric café, inspired by the beloved character from Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, offers a whimsical experience like no other. Step into a world where tea time is always filled with delightful surprises, funky hats are the norm, and the staff's infectious madness will leave you grinning like the Cheshire Cat. As you enter The Mad Hatter, get ready to be transported into an imaginative wonderland. The walls are adorned with peculiar art, showcasing a mishmash of tea-related paraphernalia and peculiar trinkets, which will make you feel like you've fallen down a rabbit hole. Don't be surprised if a server approaches with a lopsided hat perched on their head – eccentricity is the fashion code here! Indulge in their extensive tea selection, ranging from classic blends to peculiar infusions that may transport you to a realm of fantasy. Pair it with their scrumptious pastries, made with a touch of whimsy and a sprinkle of enchantment. Whether you're a tea connoisseur or simply a curious traveler, The Mad Hatter in Oxford promises an experience that will keep you grinning long after you've left this enchanting café!

themadhatteroxford.com

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8. The Eagle and Child

4.3 (2164)

49 St Giles', Oxford OX1 3LU, UK

Tucked away in the charming city of Oxford, The Eagle and Child pub awaits with open doors and a lively atmosphere that will make you feel like a proper literary aficionado! Formerly the meeting place of famous writers C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and their merry band of literary misfits, this historic pub has stood the test of time (and many pints) since 1650. Inside, you'll find no shortage of cozy nooks and crannies, perfect for hiding away with a good book or engaging in spirited debates about Middle Earth – just remember to leave your wizard staffs at the door!

www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

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9. The Turf Tavern

4.5 (4882)

4 Bath Pl, Oxford OX1 3SU, UK

Nestled within the cozy corners of Oxford lies the venerable Turf Tavern, a place that has witnessed more secrets whispered over pints than the plot twists in a crime novel. With its delightful maze-like layout and low ceilings that defy the notion of "stand tall," this historic pub invites you to feel like a gnome amidst its enchanting rustic decor. While navigating the narrow passageways is akin to a game of human Tetris, fear not—once you've found your little nook, you can revel in the delicious food, witty conversations, and an atmosphere that makes you wonder if every don is secretly a wizard.

www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk

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10. The Cape of Good Hope

4.2 (1260)

Iffley Rd, The Plain, Oxford OX4 1EA, UK

Welcome to The Cape of Good Hope, Oxford's own slice of South African charm that will make you feel like you're on the tip of the continent, all without leaving England! Nestled in the heart of the city, this lively establishment combines the best of both worlds, serving up delightful cocktails and scrumptious cuisine while sporting a decor that will transport you straight into the warm embrace of the Cape. With its friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere, this is the place to be if you want to experience a taste of South Africa without feeling the weight of your wallet take a journey longer than Vasco da Gama himself.

www.thecapeofgoodhopeoxford.co.uk

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11. The White Rabbit

4.5 (1799)

21 Friars Entry, Oxford OX1 2BY, UK

Welcome to the charming city of Oxford, where you'll find The White Rabbit, a whimsical establishment that is as unique as its name. This delightful venue offers a sanctuary of quirks, as if Alice herself stumbled upon it while chasing the elusive rabbit. Inside, you'll find a fusion of Alice in Wonderland-inspired decor, vintage curiosities, and a rabbit hole of delicious food and drinks that will surely make you grin like the Cheshire Cat.

www.whiterabbitoxford.co.uk

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12. The Bear Inn

4.4 (1816)

6 Alfred St, Oxford OX1 4EH, UK

Nestled in the heart of Oxford, The Bear Inn proudly stands as a treasure trove of peculiarities. With its creaky wooden floors and dimly lit interior, it seems as though time has taken a rather prolonged vacation. Here, patrons will encounter not only an extensive selection of ales but also the spectacle of endless coat of arms displayed as if competing for the title of "Most Enthusiastically Ornate."

www.bearoxford.co.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Oxford, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into London Heathrow Airport and take the direct coach service to Oxford, which takes around 90 minutes.

Car

Driving to Oxford is also an option. The A34 runs straight into Oxford from the North and South, and there are several car parks located in the city.

Train

Travelling by train is also a convenient option. Take the train from London Paddington Station to Oxford, which takes around an hour.

Boat

Oxford is not accessible by boat as it is landlocked and not near any navigable rivers or canals.

Bus

The most direct way to get to Oxford by bus is to take the Oxford Tube bus service which runs between Oxford and London every 10-15 minutes.

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