Whether you're a city slicker, here for the weekend or study, Oxford is a historic UK spot where the number of traditional experiences are matched with great bars and stop-offs for a drink. From cocktails and happy hour through to some hidden gems you might not have tried before, check out our recommendations for Oxford's best bars.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 11th September 2024
You can always rely on St Aldates Tavern for a good ol' time in Oxford city centre. Head inside, where you'll be met with cosy interiors, cool function spaces and a plethora of fabulous HD TVs for those all-important football screenings. Hungry? There's a crackin' menu for that.
Flight Club Oxford is a lively, funfair-themed bar that's home to eleven Social Darts playing areas and delicious cocktails. Visit to get a little competitive with your mates or try out its Brunch Social on the weekends where you'll be able to enjoy two hours split into playing darts and devouring pizza, with a bottle of prosecco each too, from £30 per person.
One hell of an all rounder and one of the best places to catch a rooftop drink in Oxford would be The Alchemist. From an eclectic and Asian-leaning food menu complete with brunch, to bubbling cocktails and a view from the rooftop (if you can bag a table), it's a spot to see, and be seen.
When it comes down to Oxford's best drinking dens, Slug and Lettuce is a firm choice. Whether you fancy taking a seat at the gold bar for a lip-smacking espresso martini or heading outside to the alfresco patio and beer garden, this venue is perfect come rain or shine.
This Oxford bar is a true celebration of the classic British pub. Tucked away in the Summertown suburb, there's a menu of classic pub grub available while you're admiring the 19th century inn setting, complete with beer garden and dog-friendly vibes.
Celebrating all things great and good about craft beer is the renowned BrewDog. A global name with big burgers and veggie bites on the menu, head on over for a cold pint in a cool industrial setting with more than 17 taps to choose from.
A student favourite and classic pub that celebrates impressive food, Cape Of Good Hope is the place to eat, chill and chat. When you're not trying a patty from Ruby Jean's Burgers or something fried from the Chicken Society, grab a cold one and head on out to the beer garden.
A name known the UK over for its affordable drinks and sports vibe, is none other than O'Neill's Oxford. Set up only a short walk from the main train station, it's a stop where catching the game or a big burger are made easy thanks to their friendly team.
If anyone in Oxford knows how to serve up a top notch breakfast, it's The Breakfast Club with their huge plates and retro diner vibes. And when it comes to the fun? Discover their secret bar, attend one of their boozy bingos or get familiar with the cocktail menu. Better yet, their tropical tiki bar also hosts its own bottomless brunch.
