Oxford Events

96 delicious recipes for al fresco dining at home

Published

1 hour ago

May 27, 2026

info@oxinfo.co.uk

Recipes for al fresco dining

The sun is shining. The weather is glorious. Make the most of the warm weather with our collection of delicious al fresco recipes.

We’ve dug through our archives and pulled together 96 recipes perfectly suited for al fresco dining – recipes that are fit for a king (or queen) and sure to please the masses as well.

A Roasted Beetroot and Lentil Salad or a gloriously shareable Tuna Dip with Broccoli, Potatoes and Eggs is a lovely way to begin proceedings. Swiftly followed by a Parmesan Roast Chicken or perhaps a Spice Braised Shoulder of Lamb.

Of course, you’ll need something sweet to finish off. From a gloriously summery Strawberry and Passion Fruit Pavlova to a No-bake Philadelphia Cheesecake or even Raymond Blanc’s Apple Tart, there’s no shortage of contenders in our collection of recipes for alfresco dining.

So, go on then, celebrate the sunshine and treat yourself to an al fresco feast in your back garden (or whatever outdoor space you have). There is no better way to enjoy food.

Source link

Oxford Events

Restaurants in Oxford with outdoor seating

Published

3 hours ago

May 27, 2026

info@oxinfo.co.uk

With longer evenings and blue skies finally making an appearance, there’s no better excuse to head outside and soak it all in – preferably with a crisp drink in hand and something delicious on your plate.

Whether you’re after a lazy lunch in a leafy beer garden, a sun-drenched terrace for small plates and spritzes, or riverside dining with a view, Oxford and its surrounding villages have you covered.

So dust off those sunglasses, gather your crew, and discover some of the best spots for al fresco eats, scenic sips, and making the most of this glorious weather.

The Store, Oxford

Perched atop The Store on Broad Street, the rooftop bar is a hidden gem for sunseekers. With sweeping views over the city’s iconic spires, it’s a stylish spot to sip cocktails or enjoy a chilled glass of rosé as the sun sets. Sleek, contemporary and effortlessly cool, the rooftop at The Store brings a touch of laid-back luxury to alfresco drinking and dining in the heart of the city.

Quod Restaurant at Old Bank Hotel

The Quod Restaurant is a haven of tranquillity and culinary delight, away from the bustling High Street. Take afternoon tea, or enjoy a three-course meal, on the terrace, tucked away amongst the topiaries.

The Roof Terrace at The Varsity Club

Located over four levels at No.9 The High Street, Oxford, The Roof Terrace at The Varsity Club is great for drinks and dining. The roof terrace has heaters for colder evenings. Booking is advised, although several tables will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Plough Inn

This historic city centre pub serves traditional real ales and craft beer, and you can expect an a la carte menu or a more classic all-day menu that can be eaten in the new outside dining areas – on Cornmarket and on St Michael Street – both overlooked by the tower of St Michael’s, one of the oldest buildings in Oxford.

Visit The Plough Inn

The Handle Bar, Oxford

This cosy restaurant, cafe and bar in central Oxford, tucked away above a bicycle shop, offers incredible food, coffee and a rare slice of tranquillity. Enjoy its breakfasts, brunches, lunches, Tapas outside in little booths and tables on a part -pedestrianised St Michel’s Street in the City Centre Street.

The White Rabbit, Oxford

The White Rabbit is an independent pub in Oxford that claims to make the best artisan pizza this side of Naples! Pizza and a pint are what they believe in. All of their ingredients are carefully selected by their Italian head chef, with their best ingredients imported from Italy every week.

Read more or visit whiterabbitoxford.co.uk

The Ashmolean Cafe

Feast on seasonal dishes and afternoon tea with terrific views of the Oxford spires from the Rooftop Restaurant at the Ashmolean. Lunch is served between 11.30am and 3.30pm and afternoon tea is available from 11.30 to 4.00pm.

Read more or visit ashmolean.org/cafe-and-restaurant

Victors

Victors Oxford is a Hamptons-inspired restaurant & bar offering a menu of modern American small plates. The menu is designed to share. Dishes are served to the centre of the table, creating a social and relaxed environment. Menu highlights include black cod, lobster tacos, sushi and raw bar platters, and lamb cutlets presented on a konro grill.

The Breakfast Club

This family caf business (caf not café) doing a mean old all-day food and drink offering. The restaurant is fairly well known for its banging brunches, but it also offers some wonderful lunches and evening meals – think the ultimate comfort grub. You can make a reservation for outdoor dining.

Pizza Pilgrims

Pizza Pilgrims’ first pizzeria outside of London town serves slow-proved Neapolitan pizza, from double fermented dough made fresh, daily, and topped with the best ingredients they can get their hands on. Bookings and Walk-ins welcome.

Alchemist, Oxford

The Alchemist are masters in the dark arts of molecular mixology and demons in the kitchen. Their mixologists create cocktails that are presented in vessels orchestrated to add a devilish dash of theatre – served with molecular magic al fresco. Also, expect a menu of classic dishes with an Alchemist Twist.

Flight Club, Oxford

Flight Club Oxford isn’t just about social darts – it’s also a great spot to soak up the sun. Its outdoor terrace offers a lively escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for enjoying cocktails, sharing plates, and catching up with friends in the open air. With vibrant décor and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s a fun, relaxed setting for an alfresco get-together.

Sticks‘n’Sushi Oxford

Sticks’n’Sushi Oxford offers a stylish and relaxed way to enjoy fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine in the heart of the city. Set on the rooftop at Westgate Centre, the outdoor seating area is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere while sharing sushi, sizzling yakitori sticks, and refreshing cocktails.

Parsonage Grill

Famous for its intimate, bohemian, clubby atmosphere, the Parsonage Grill on Banbury Road is a Sunday Times ‘Top 100 UK restaurant’. Dine bistro-style outside the Cotswold-stone house with its trails of ivy.

Pompette Restaurant, Summertown

Pompette – the charming French word for tipsy – is a stylish charcuterie wine bar and restaurant in Summertown, Oxford, by husband and wife duo Pascal and Laura Wiedemann.

Read more or visit pompetterestaurant.co.uk

Mamma Mia Pizzeria

Mamma Mia Pizzeria in Summertown is probably Oxford’s finest authentic Pizzeria. It is well regarded for its traditional pizzas and authentic pasta dishes – all made with fresh, quality ingredients – as well as sumptuous desserts and a varied wine list.

Read more or visit mammamiapizzeria.co.uk

Cherwell Boathouse

Dine outside on the banks of the River Cherwell at the Cherwell Boathouse restaurant. The family-owned restaurant, which was started in an authentic Victorian working Boathouse, alongside the punt station (established in 1904), will be using as much of their outside space as they can.

Read more or visit cherwellboathouse.co.uk

Gee’s Restaurant

What Gee’s Restaurant provides locals and visitors is a uniquely rustic Mediterranean dining experience, set in a unique Victorian Glasshouse. The terrace situated in the heart of the conservation area along the Banbury Road known as Victorian North Oxford offers Mediterranean grills and sharing plates.

Branca, Oxford

Enjoy the bold flavours inspired by Italy, southern Europe & beyond at this contemporary restaurant and brasserie that has been located in the cosmopolitan Jericho in North Oxford for nearly two decades. The beautiful terrace garden is only a 10 minutes walk from the city centre.

Joe’s Bar & Grill, Summertown

This vibrant eaterie and bar located in the heart of Summertown, Oxford offers an American diner menu with a twist – from a unique breakfast and brunch menu and famed burgers to juicy steaks, grills, salads and much more. There will be a covered terrace area in front of the restaurant, open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, coffee, cocktails and all your Joe’s favourites from 9.00am till late.

Kazbar, Cowley Road, Oxford

This popular Spanish/Moroccan tapas restaurant and cocktail bar in bustling Cowley Road in East Oxford is usually housed in a modern building with a conservatory. The North African souk inspired decor aims to provide you with a warm, snugly, romantic vibe of being in a Moroccan city. But for now, enjoy tapas, pizzas and drinks and soak up the splendid atmosphere outside on a pedestrianised Dawson Street.

Arbequina, Oxford

This lively neighbourhood restaurant on Cowley Road serves vibrant, seasonal tapas with a modern twist. Set in a relaxed, stylish space, it’s perfect for sharing plates of bold Mediterranean flavours, paired with carefully selected wines and sherries.

The Magdalen Arms, Iffley Road

Located just outside the scholarly city centre – to the east in the bustling Iffley Road – The Magdalen Arms is a gastropub with a relaxed, scrubbed-wooden ambience, and a hearty-but-interesting seasonal menu that often changes daily. The Magdalen Arms has outside seating at the back terrace.

The Rusty Bicycle

This a beloved neighbourhood pub in East Oxford serves authentic quality Neapolitan pizzas, award-winning burgers and much more. It is part of the small DoDo pub chain which includes The Up In Arms (above).

The Up In Arms, Marston

Ask anyone about the best pubs in Oxford, and we’re fairly sure The Up In Arms will get a good few mentions! The old pub on Marston Road has been given a new lease of life and is now part of the small DoDo pub chain offering a menu of pizzas, burgers, plus sides.

Flo’s Cafe

Flo’s Café in Florence Park serves freshly made brunches, curries, soups, and salads, with a cosy indoor space or takeaway option. At weekends, enjoy a Syrian-inspired menu alongside homemade cakes and pastries, including vegan and gluten-free treats. There are kid-friendly meals, snacks, and coffee that supports social enterprises and community projects.

Read more or visit flosoxford.org.uk/cafe

Tap Social, Botley, Oxford

Founded in 2016 out of a passion for good beer and social justice, their eclectic partnerships with local foodie vendors continues with the added bonus of heaters, covered seating and of course the (outside) taproom.

Read more or visit tapsocialmovement.com

The Punter, Osney Island, Oxford

The quirky gastropub is situated on the banks of the Isis, on Osney Island in Oxford. Originally the Waterman when it opened in 1871, this pub has undergone a thorough overhaul recently, including a change of name, and is now much more food-orientated with a completely vegetarian and vegan menu.

Read more or visit thepunteroxford.co.uk

The Head of the River

The riverside garden at The Head of the River promises some of the best pub food in Oxford. Enjoy the lovely riverside views while tucking into some superb contemporary pub food, accompanied, of course, by real ales on tap.

Read more or visit headoftheriveroxford.co.uk

The Folly, Oxford

Alfresco dining at The Folly in Oxford offers a truly picturesque experience, with tables set on a charming riverside terrace overlooking the gently flowing Thames. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a romantic evening meal, it’s a serene escape from the bustle of the city.

Slow & Steady

Housed in a Grade II-listed former coach, The Slow & Steady (previously The White House by Tap Social Movement) is a newly refurbished pub on Abingdon Road, reopened in September 2024 by Dodo Pub Co — their fourth venue in Oxford and ninth overall – offering a menu of pizzas, burgers, plus sides.

Read more or visit dodopubs.com/the-slow-and-steady/

Source link

Oxford Events

Legally Blonde The Musical: Heart and high-energy spectacle charms audiences at sold-out Oxford run

Published

5 hours ago

May 27, 2026

info@oxinfo.co.uk

A completely sold-out auditorium was often the clearest sign that a musical had struck a chord with audiences long before the curtain rose — and Legally Blonde The Musical proved exactly why at New Theatre Oxford.

And so it was that on one of the hottest days of the year so far, with the UK firmly in the grip of a heatwave, the stage was filled with a burst of energy, colour and unapologetic theatrical fun as the touring production arrived in Oxford with all the confidence and sparkle fans could hope for.

Conditions outside might have been testing, but any discomfort inside the auditorium was quickly forgotten as audiences were swept up in Elle Woods’ world, too engrossed to notice the rising temperature beyond the theatre doors.

But beneath the bright pink aesthetic and infectious pop score lay a production with genuine heart — one that continued to resonate through its themes of self-belief, resilience and challenging expectations.

Based on the much-loved 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, the musical adaptation transformed Elle Woods’ journey from fashion-focused sorority president to determined Harvard Law student into an exuberant theatrical experience packed with memorable songs, sharp comedy and emotional sincerity.

Leading the production was West End performer Amber Davies as Elle Woods, bringing charisma, warmth and commanding stage presence to the iconic role. Davies, whose previous theatre credits included Pretty Woman, Back to the Future The Musical and 9 to 5 The Musical, threw herself fully into the performance, balancing Elle’s bubbly optimism with the determination and vulnerability that made the character so enduringly likeable.

Davies arrived at Elle Woods with both affection and intent, describing the role as one she had been connected to for years when asked how long it had been on her wishlist. For her, the timing also felt deliberate rather than accidental — a role that had come at a point in her career where she felt ready to carry it.

“For a long time… I’ve actually been singing the material since college. These are songs that I’ve always loved to sing, and it’s always been a dream role. In terms of the trajectory of my career it’s one of the biggest female roles in musical theatre… I feel like the role has come into my life at a good time. You need stamina, and you need life knowledge for a part like this.”

Her performance anchored a production that rarely lost momentum. From the explosive opening number Omigod You Guys, the show moved at a relentless pace through slick choreography, high-energy ensemble sequences and a string of instantly catchy musical numbers from composers Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin.

At the heart of the production was a clear, modern interpretation of Elle Woods — one that resisted cliché and leaned into contradiction. Davies placed strong emphasis on Elle’s emotional core rather than just her comedic surface.

“She’s a force to be reckoned with… she is everything. Yes, she’s beautiful, but she’s also intelligent, and women can be both things at the same time. She’s so underestimated, and I love her story arc… first and foremost, she is a very loyal, kind friend.”

Davies followed in the footsteps of Reese Witherspoon in the film and stage performers like Sheridan Smith and Courtney Bowman, but what stood out in her approach was a clear intent to make the role her own.

She remained conscious of the legacy behind Elle Woods and the number of interpretations that had come before her. Rather than amplifying the comedy, she focused on the writing itself, which already provided enough humour, and instead humanised Elle by stripping the character back and building a more rounded, three-dimensional portrayal that felt grounded and emotionally authentic.

Supporting performances across the cast added further personality and humour throughout the evening.

George Crawford stood out as Emmett, delivering warmth, comic timing and genuine heart in one of the show’s most beloved supporting roles, while Hannah Lowther brought crisp energy and personality to Margot.

Keanna Bloomfield impressed as Paulette, combining comic flair with emotional warmth, and Bradley Delarosbel brought authority and control to Professor Callahan, anchoring the courtroom scenes with conviction. Jamie Chatterton made a confident impression as Warner, Annabelle Terry offered poise and clarity as Vivienne, and Jocasta Almgill added strength and presence as Brooke, completing a well-balanced central ensemble.

Rosanna Harris brought lively charm and precision to Serena, with Remi Ferdinand adding spirited energy as Pilar. Ty-Reece Stewart delivered a sharp comedic turn as Kyle, while Jaime Tait injected flair and personality into Carlos, and Aaron Shales rounded things out with strong character work and comic timing as Enid, keeping the ensemble sequences buoyant and engaging throughout.

And, of course, no Legally Blonde would have been complete without its four-legged scene-stealers. Bruiser Woods as Sprout and Rufus as Milo proved irresistibly adorable whenever they appeared, drawing delighted reactions from the audience and adding an extra layer of charm to an already joyfully feel-good production.

Visually, the show embraced everything audiences expected from Legally Blonde: vibrant costumes, polished choreography, energetic staging and an atmosphere of pure escapist joy. However, what continued to elevate the musical beyond surface-level comedy was its refusal to reduce Elle Woods to a stereotype. Her femininity was never treated as weakness, and the story’s message — that intelligence, ambition and kindness are not mutually exclusive — still felt refreshingly modern.

The courtroom scenes in the second half brought some of the musical’s sharpest comedy, while songs such as So Much Better and There! Right There! showcased the production at its most entertaining. Yet quieter moments of emotional reflection ensured the show never became style over substance.

More than two decades after the original film first became a cultural phenomenon, Legally Blonde The Musical remained one of the most effective feel-good productions in contemporary musical theatre. Funny, energetic and genuinely uplifting, this sold-out Oxford run demonstrated exactly why audiences continued to fall in love with Elle Woods all over again.

For theatre-goers seeking a night of escapism filled with laughter, empowerment and infectious musical energy, Legally Blonde The Musical more than earned its standing ovation.

Source link

Oxford Events

What’s on in Oxford and Oxfordshire this June

Published

2 days ago

May 26, 2026

info@oxinfo.co.uk

Hello and welcome to your invaluable guide to the best events, exhibitions and things to do throughout June in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.

June. Summer festivals, outdoor entertainment, theatrical delights, sporting spectacles, Royal events, and more, June is one of the most lively and exciting months to be in Oxfordshire.

There is a lot to do across Oxfordshire, and it goes without saying that we’ve put in the legwork and pulled together a list of brilliant things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.

As the month progresses, be sure to fit in a festival or two. From music to Shakespeare, food and drink to flowers, and contemporary art, be warned, there’s something or the other happening nearby this month.

Make time for brunch at one of the many local restaurants with outdoor seating, or pack a picnic basket and find yourself a coveted spot at any of our numerous parks, open spaces and nature reserves and other lovely places to enjoy the sun in Oxfordshire.

And if you fancy venturing further afield, consider taking a cultural day trip to London’s west end on a Sunday (the capital city is relatively calmer then) for a matinee in one of London’s theatres.

Need we say again that this is a curated list of things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this June. Take a look at the “What’s on” section, where you’ll find a growing array of events in Oxford and across Oxfordshire, plus unmissable ones beyond the county that would make for a great day out.

Got an event that should be on the list? List your event on The Oxford Magazine website and reach our growing audience of people who live, work or place in Oxfordshire. Once again, welcome to your invaluable guide to what’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this June.

Frankie Goes to Bollywood is a joyful, moving tale of ambition, identity, and finding your voice, featuring spectacular choreography, lavish costumes, a cast of unforgettable characters and original songs by Bollywood hitmaker Harry Anand.

Met Opera: El Ultimo Sueno de Frida y Diego

The Theatre Chipping Norton

Met Opera’s El Ultimo Sueno de Frida y Diego is a vibrant new production, taking enthusiastic inspiration from Frida and Diego’s paintings, directed and choreographed by Deborah Colker.

Anna Lapwood tours the UK with her bespoke organ, blending film scores and classical music in a unique live performance.

Experience the mischief with the acclaimed stage adaptation of Dr Seuss’ The Cat In The Hat, a lively and engaging first theatre experience for young children. You can also meet the Cat in the Hat after the show.

Beth Hart discusses the emotional story behind her song You Still Got Me, highlighting love, vulnerability, and the importance of support systems. Her career is defined by powerful performances, deep fan connection, and an honest exploration of struggle and resilience.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Hough Plays Hough

Sir Stephen Hough joins the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra to perform his Piano Concerto, ‘The World of Yesterday’, alongside Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis and Brahms’ Symphony No. 2, conducted by Marios Papadopoulos.

Marmozets are back. Raw, relentless, and unapologetically themselves, bringing their latest album CO.WAR.DICE., channelling heavyweight, hook laden songs which waste no time in throwing their punches.

Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny at New Theatre Oxford

If you like fast-paced and edgy one-liners, then get ready to be happy. Jimmy Carr is going back on tour with his brand-new show ‘Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny’. Jimmy tells jokes, and jokes are like magnets. Jokes attract people, but they can also repel. Some people are repelled by Jimmy’s dark brand of comedy. This show is not for them. But if it’s the kind of thing you like, then this is the kind of thing you’ll like.

The Blenheim Palace Triathlon returns for 2026, offering an unforgettable weekend of swim, cycle and run challenges set within the stunning grounds of Britain’s greatest palace. With race options for all abilities and spectacular views of the Palace and Great Lake, it’s an inspiring event for both athletes and spectators.

Every year, thousands gather for Oxford Pride, the vibrant highlight of the Oxford Pride Festival. The day celebrates visibility, love and inclusivity in the heart of the city. More than a celebration, Oxford Pride promotes diversity, solidarity, and a community where everyone can live freely and authentically.

Joyful and welcoming, the event invites people of all ages, identities and backgrounds to come together, enjoy performances, and take part in activities that champion equality and unity across Oxford. Local organisations, companies, trade unions and many more are welcome to join the parade.

Hill End Outdoor Educational Centre

Join Friends of Hill End at their annual summer festival, when hundreds of families from across Oxfordshire and beyond, come and enjoy the wonderful Hill End site. Get outdoors, relax, have fun, learn new skills and explore!

Get ready for a special outstore event as Embrace celebrate their forthcoming ninth album Avalanche. Reflective and deeply resonant, this show offers a chance to experience Embrace’s most open and human work to date.

Crendon Chamber Orchestra presents an evening of string masterpieces featuring Mozart, Suk and Tchaikovsky, led by guest director Gonzalo Acosta and leader Alan Thorogood.

Magic Queen set for live show at The Mill Arts Centre Banbury in June 2026

Magic Queen recreates the iconic sound and spectacle of Queen, capturing the glam of the ’70s and the magic of the ’80s with powerful vocals, rich harmonies and high-energy performances that deliver an unforgettable live tribute experience.

Grammy Award winner Ray LaMontagne will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed debut album ‘Trouble’, performing it in its entirety for the first time since the album’s release 20 years ago.

Broadway Village Green, Worcestershire

This is your chance to draw or paint the beautiful Cotswolds village for the day and be in with a chance of winning great prizes along with other artists from across the UK.

Join Sir David Jason at The New Theatre Oxford on Sunday 07 June 2026 for an evening of nostalgia, laughter, and exclusive insights into a career that has left an indelible mark on stage and British television history.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Jukebox Idols will feature non-stop hits from the jukebox idols of the past and present. Nadiya Bychkova and The Overtones will be joined by a stellar supporting cast of dancers as they bring classic hits from the likes of Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, The Bee Gees, The Backstreet Boys, Take That and Bruno Mars, amongst many others.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

2:22 A Ghost Story is a brilliantly funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

The Marquise is Noël Coward’s sparkling romantic comedy featuring a remarkable ensemble of acclaimed stage and screen talent, led by BAFTA Award winner Juliet Aubrey as The Marquise Eloise de Kestournel, alongside Simon Shepherd as Raoul de Vriaac and Tristan Gemmill as Esteban el Duco Santaguano, who together bring Coward’s world to life with charm, wit and irresistible chemistry.

The Karate Kid The Musical brings the iconic film to life on stage with dazzling choreography, powerful storytelling, and a talented cast.

Hampton Court Palace Festival has been running nearly 30 years, with a lineup of world-class artists taking to the stage in the intimate surrounds of the historic Base Court for an unforgettable evening like no other. Accompanying each performance is an array of delicious food and drink. Join in another sensational series of concerts this summer, and experience concerts from legendary performers and exquisite culinary adventures.

The Theatre Chipping Norton

Matt Forde returns with Defying Calamity, a sharp and witty live show blending political satire and personal insight as he finds humour and optimism in challenging times.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Daniel Harding Conducts

Join Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra for an unforgettable performance as the acclaimed conductor Daniel Harding leads the Orchestra in a programme that promises to blend musical depth with dramatic flair.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

A landmark new documentary unveils hidden truths about Caravaggio, exploring self-portraits, personal turmoil and the clues embedded within his masterpieces. Five years in the making, it offers the most comprehensive film ever produced on the elusive Baroque master.

Witney Music Festival - Gallery Image 02

Witney Music Festival is a fantastic two-day open-air music festival for all the family in Witney, Oxfordshire. It is the biggest music event in the Witney calendar, drawing in a record-breaking crowd of more than 15,000 in 2019. The event is the climax of a 2-week program of entertainment throughout the town.

Festival lineup includes: Henge / Fun Lovin’ Criminals / Ava Joe / Dub Catalyst / Bobbie Dazzle / The Zoots / Mark Broom / GrooveTown / Sons Of The Seventies / Sandi Thom / Charlie Tee / Gina Larner / Lucille & The Lightning Soul Train / The Beatles Dub Club / Katalyst / DJ Amnesia.

One of Ireland’s most popular music acts, The Tumbling Paddies head back on the road with their exuberant, energy-filled, live show. Dance and sing along to the greatest Irish anthems with the Paddies uplifting versions of ‘Dirty Old Town’, ‘Fields of Athenry’ and ‘Zombie’, in what promises to be an incredible night of live music.

Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot

Prepare for a night of queer, neo, and boundary-pushing cabaret at Cornerstone Arts Centre because OxPHWOARd is back! Serving fierce, funny and frisky cabaret acts – an electric evening showcasing burlesque and drag as you’ve never seen it before. Phwoar!

Summer Comedy Club in association with Rock the ATIC

Enjoy a night of laughs at Oxford’s Summer Comedy Club, featuring top emerging comedians in a relaxed, air conditioned setting.

Grove & Wantage Extravaganza returns through new charity and rugby club partnership

A new partnership will bring the Grove & Wantage Extravaganza back in 2026 with free family entertainment and fundraising. Whether you’re coming along to enjoy the atmosphere, support local causes, or simply spend a summer’s day with friends and family, the Grove and Wantage Extravaganza promises to be a true celebration of local life.

Primary and Secondary schools from across Oxfordshire come together to perform in the annual festival celebrating all things dance at The Great Big Dance Off – Grand Final.

34: The critical raw materials shaping our future

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

This major new exhibition at Oxford University Museum of Natural History examines the 34 raw materials considered essential to the UK’s future, revealing the global supply chains, ethical challenges and scientific innovations behind the minerals that underpin everyday technology — from smartphones and batteries to medical equipment and jet engines.

Venus & Adonis is a unique production that blends comedy, tragedy and Shakespeare’s incredible poetry in a rich theatrical experience. Drawing inspiration from the bewitching artistry of Japanese Bunraku puppets and the Jacobean Court Masque, this spellbinding production tells the story using marionettes, rod, shadow and table-top puppets.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Gidon Kremer

Violin virtuoso Gidon Kremer joins the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra alongside conductor and Music Director Marios Papadopoulos for an evening of exceptional music.

The Blenheim Palace Flower Show is the perfect place to discover your favourite plants, flowers and an array of gardening goodies from unique garden gazebos, greenhouses and arbours to beautiful flowers, gardening sundries and hundreds of other products.

Join BAFTA-winning actor, comedian, director, and writer Richard Ayoade for an evening of reflections as he shares insights from his latest book, Afterthoughts

Oxford Rugby Football Club

Join MyVision’s Walk Oxford 2026 at Oxford University Rugby Club on Sunday 21 June and take in the views of the famous spires and River Thames. Team MyVision will be walking 10 miles through Oxford and the surrounding countryside, raising vital funds to support blind and visually impaired people living across Oxfordshire.

Oxford University Rugby Club

Bike Oxford 2021 welcomes riders of all ages and abilities from all parts of the community and aims to attract over 800 cyclists and 200 walkers who will complete rides and walks of varying distances. The event, with real community spirit, is championed by Oxford City and Oxfordshire County councils as a way of encouraging active transport and a healthy lifestyle.

The Oxford Shakespeare Festival is back for its 16th year! This outdoor theatre experience that takes place in the castle yard of Oxford Castle & Prison will see Wild Goose Theatre, BMH Productions, Siege Theatre, and Greensleeved will be putting on marvellous performances of Shakespeare’s finest classics.

Join Organ Recital with Jed Hughes at Oxford Town Hall in the stunning Main Hall for some beautiful music performed on the famous Father Willis Organ.

Magdalen College School returns with this electrifying production of Sherlock Holmes and the Napoleon of Crime, performed by its pupils and featuring original songs, spectacular action, and a healthy dose of mystery.

The Theatre Chipping Norton

Got the blues? Well, step right up, because The Jive Aces are bringing their Feelin’ Happy Tour to town, and it’s gonna flip your frown upside down! Grab your dancing shoes and get ready for a night of swing, jive, and pure, unfiltered entertainment.

Experience a summer of world-class music and culture at the debut Blenheim Palace Festival, set against the stunning backdrop of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taking place across June and July 2026, this open-air festival promises an unforgettable five-day celebration of international talent, immersive cultural experiences, and elevated hospitality.

Festival lineup includes: Pete Tong Ibiza Classics / Teddy Swims / Katy Perry / Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts / Michael Bublé

Cogges Manor Farm presents Cogges Summer Fête, a family fun with activities, crafts, and fête games. Experience BBQ & Bar, Meet the animals, Adventure play and nature trail, and Summer Fête.

All Floyd – The Best of Pink Floyd 2026 Tour tribute show performs the very best of Pink Floyd’s iconic tracks with a stunning light and laser show.

The Race for Life Oxford 2026 returns to University Parks, offering 5k and 10k courses for participants aged 16 and over. Walk, jog, or run at your own pace along flat, scenic routes entirely on park paths and closed roads while raising funds for Cancer Research UK.

Take part solo or with a group. Shake off pre-race nerves in the fun warm-up session warm-up sessions and enjoy a post-race picnic with friends, family and fellow participants. Suporters and spectators are welcome, with plenty of space to cheer on runners.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

OAGPA Summer Show is an annual show by gymnasts allowing you to witness the music of movies and musicals, with a vibrant mix of gymnastics and dance routines set to some of your favourite soundtracks. It’s a chance for the gymnasts to shine on stage and for friends and family to celebrate everything they’ve achieved this year.

The hit musical comedy Waitress returns for a UK tour, telling the heartwarming story of Jenna, a talented pie-maker searching for happiness. Featuring music by Grammy-winner Sara Bareilles, this five-star show celebrates love, laughter, and friendship in delicious style.

Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly one of the best-known regattas in the world; and a highlight of both the summer sporting calendar and the English social season. The Regatta attracts thousands of visitors over the six days of action-packed racing. Spectators are thrilled by over 200 races of an international standard which can include Olympic rowers, as well as crews new to the event.

Songs of the Bulbul, a captivating new dance work by Rani Khanam, inspired by the Sufi myth of a caged songbird. Featuring choreography by Rani Khanam and music by Rushil Ranjan, this exquisite performance blends Sufi Kathak, orchestral and Indian classical traditions, and Islamic poetry.

Every Saturday (Except 26 December)

Out of the Deep is a family-friendly specimen handling and exploration of the underwater world of marine reptiles.

Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections showcases the Hong Kong-born artist’s mastery of painting, calligraphy, and poetry, presented alongside works by her teacher Lui Shou-Kwan and other historical examples. The exhibition highlights Hui’s contemporary approach, blending abstract ink and colour washes with poetic inscriptions exploring love, loss, and life’s quiet joys.

In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World at the Ashmolean Museum uncovers the hidden histories behind Britain’s most beloved blooms. Explore over 100 artworks and objects that reveal how plant exploration and trade shaped landscapes, cultures, and economies – from roses and tulips to camellias and peonies.

The Bodleian Libraries’ Wonder of Birds exhibition explores art, science and culture through the lens of avian life. Featuring rare archives, manuscripts and immersive sound, it invites visitors to reflect on both the beauty of birds and their decline.

Source link