Oxford Events
Autumn on a plate: 70+ recipes to try this season
70+ recipes to try this Autumn
Autumn brings a new rhythm to the kitchen, with warming flavours, seasonal produce and the kind of comforting dishes made for cooler days and longer evenings. From pumpkin and squash to apples, plums, root vegetables and game, it’s a season with plenty to inspire.
From hearty soups and slow-cooked stews to fragrant curries, generous roasts, comforting pies and weekend baking, explore more than 70 recipes to try this season. We’ve brought them together in seven collections, making it easy to find something for a midweek supper, a relaxed weekend lunch or a cosy evening at home.
As autumn unfolds, we’ll continue to add to the collection, so check back for new recipes and ideas throughout the season.
Autumn Baking & Puddings
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Cakes & DessertsSoft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
These soft pumpkin cookies are super easy to make and offer something different for after school, especially with a big glass of milk.
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Cakes & DessertsRaymond Blanc’s Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe
This Raymond Blanc’s Bread and Butter Pudding recipe is a delicious way to use up any leftover bread. It is such a classic dessert!
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Cakes & DessertsRaymond Blanc’s Apple Tart ‘Maman Blanc’ Recipe
This Apple Tart ‘Maman Blanc’ recipe by Raymond Blanc makes the best apple tart in the world its success lies in its simplicity, and in the apples used.
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Cakes & DessertsBaked Apples Recipe
A delicious yet easy to prepare dessert that can be brought directly to the table for serving in a shallow casserole.
Autumn Casseroles, Stews & Slow Cooking
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Main CoursesChicken Casserole Recipe
Enjoy the tastes and smells of the new season with this hearty one-pot Chicken Casserole recipe using local, seasonal produce.
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Main CoursesPork Shoulder with Leeks, Chestnut Mushrooms and Cream Recipe
Perfect for the weekend ahead, this Pork Shoulder with Leeks, Chestnut Mushrooms and Cream recipe from Gill Meller is wonderfully rich and comforting.
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Main CoursesBeef Shin with Smoked Dulse Recipe by Gill Meller
Dulse seaweed adds waves of intensity to this slowly cooked Beef Shin with Smoked Dulse recipe, creating a simple yet stunning dish.
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Main CoursesSlow Cooked Rabbit Casserole Recipe
Chef Steven Ellis of The Oxford Blue fine dining Pub & Restaurant in Windsor shares his delicious Slow Cooked Rabbit Casserole recipe.
Autumn Curries & Spiced Dishes
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Main CoursesSaiphin Moore’s Tempeh ‘Chu Chi’ Curry Recipe
Saiphin Moore’s Tempeh ‘Chu Chi’ Curry is a rich and aromatic dish, combining the creaminess of coconut milk with the bold flavours of Thai red curry paste for a satisfying plant-based twist on a classic.
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Main CoursesSaiphin Moore’s Tofu Holy Basil Stir-Fry Recipe
Saiphin Moore’s Tofu Holy Basil Stir-Fry (Pad Kra Prow Taohu) recipe is a quick, flavour-packed dish that showcases the vibrant, aromatic essence of Thai cooking with simple ingredients and bold spices.
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Main CoursesSaiphin Moore’s Drunken Flat Noodles Recipe
This Drunken Flat Noodles recipe is a favourite in Thailand and Thai restaurants worldwide. You’ll be amazed at how quick and simple it is to prepare!
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Main CoursesAloo Tikki (Spiced Potato Patty) with Chickpea Curry Recipe
A great example of delicious Plant-based Indian street food that works well as a starter or lite bite or even as a main meal.
Autumn Pies & Comfort Food
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Main CoursesDeep-filled Chicken and Bacon Pie Recipe
It’s British Pie Week, and who can resist a steaming plate of pie, like this deep-filled chicken and bacon pie recipe by our food editor, Elizabeth Gibbs.
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Main CoursesSpicy Grilled Chicken with Lentils Recipe
This deliciously simple dish combines spicy grilled chicken breasts with hearty lentils and vegetables to make for a flavoursome fuss-free dinner.
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Cakes & Desserts
Raymond Blanc’s Bread and Butter Pudding Recipe
This Raymond Blanc’s Bread and Butter Pudding recipe is a delicious way to use up any leftover bread. It is such a classic dessert!
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Main CoursesVegetarian Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A smooth autumnal soup, embellished with melting Gruyere cheese. This is roasted pumpkin and thyme soup is delicious served with pumpkin seed pesto bread.
Autumn Soups & Warming Bowls
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Main CoursesSaiphin Moore’s Coconut Soup with Oyster Mushrooms Recipe
This comforting Coconut Soup with Oyster Mushrooms (Tom Kha) soup recipe is infused with the classic Thai herbs – galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves – for a fragrant and flavourful dish.
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Soups & StartersSpiced Parsnip Bisque Recipe
This Spiced Parsnip Bisque Recipe makes for a gently spiced soup that the whole family will love in the autumn and winter months.
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Soups & StartersPantry Minestrone Recipe
Who would have thought that this comforting Pantry Minestrone Recipe could be made with just five ingredients?
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Soups & StartersRaymond Blanc’s French Onion Soup Recipe
This Raymond Blanc’s French Onion Soup recipe is a deep, savoury French classic that began life in eighteenth century Paris as a beef broth.
Autumn Roasts & Comforting Mains
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Main CoursesMasala Roast Chicken Recipe
Switch up your Sunday roast with this juicy, flavourful Indian roast chicken served with a hearty side of herby potatoes.
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Main CoursesSpice Braised Shoulder of Lamb Recipe
This recipe is a firm favourite and is perfect for entertaining lots of guests in one go. You can give this recipe a go with hogget, mutton or even goat, so long as you stick to the shoulders.
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Main CoursesSlow-braised Leg of Lamb with Cheddar, Dried Nuts & Fruits Recipe
This recipe combines a fine British ingredient – tender leg of lamb – with the culinary traditions of India to recreate this classic and timeless dinner dish.
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Main CoursesRosemary & Garlic Roast Lamb with Minted Gravy Recipe
Sweet, tender lamb is infused with the flavours of fresh rosemary and caramelised roasted garlic, and served with gravy made with the pan juices, sweet garlic pulp, lamb stock and mint sauce.
Autumn Vegetarian & Plant-based Recipes
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Main Courses
Saiphin Moore’s Drunken Flat Noodles Recipe
This Drunken Flat Noodles recipe is a favourite in Thailand and Thai restaurants worldwide. You’ll be amazed at how quick and simple it is to prepare!
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Main CoursesSpiced Whole Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
This Spiced Whole Roasted Cauliflower, topped with a lemon and yoghurt dressing, makes an impressive vegan centrepiece.
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Main CoursesCoconut and Squash Traybake Recipe
Let the oven do all the hard work. This simple Coconut and Squash Traybake Recipe will be ready to serve in less than 45 minutes.
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Salads & SidesRoasted Beetroot & Lentil Salad with Lemon & Olive Oil Dressing Recipe
This Fennel Sausage Pasta with Roasted Pear and Romanesco Recipe is courtesy of founder, editor and culinary writer behind Marmalade + Kindness, an online mindful cooking journal.
The post Autumn on a plate: 70+ recipes to try this season appeared first on The Oxford Magazine.
Whether it’s an intimate affair with your partner, after-work drinks with co-workers, or a big night out with friends, discover the best cocktail bars in Oxford with this insider’s guide from people who live, work, play and study in the city.
As you’ll expect of a city with two universities, the nightlife in Oxford bustles with energy. But the vibrant nightlife in Oxford isn’t, in any way, dominated by students’ joints. There’s a good selection of trendy cocktail bars and cosy watering holes that are not at all a part of the establishment.
32 Walton Street, Jericho, Oxford
The first place that comes to mind is Raoul’s in Jericho, and it’s easy to see why. This cosy lounge bar boasts one of the largest selection of liquors in the country and has been nominated for the ‘best UK bar’ awards in recent years.
A cocktail from Oxford’s oldest cocktail bar won’t leave much change from a tenner, but then the classics are flawless, and the contemporary mixes will delight cocktail connoisseurs. Head to Walton Street before midnight on Sundays to Tuesdays (1.00am on Wednesdays to Saturdays) to see what all the fuss is about.
5-6 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford
Around the corner on Little Clarendon Street is another fine Oxford establishment – Duke of Cambridge. They’ve been mixing great drinks in Oxford since 1981. And it’s as popular as ever, thanks in large part to its daily ‘happy hour’, or rather, ‘happy hours’.
During the week, you could be sipping a cocktail for less than a fiver from 4.00pm to 9.00pm (4.00pm and 7.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays). The bar does remain open long after happy hours. Midnight on Sunday to Wednesday and 1.00am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, to be precise.
Editorial note: At the time of updating this guide, Duke Bar was closed for refurbishment following a break-in. It is expected to reopen soon.
32 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford
In an increasingly busy world, The Oxford Wine Café is a small haven of quality in Jericho, where you can meet friends and enjoy the wines you want at a great price. Ok, so it’s a wine bar and not technically a cocktail bar. But so what?
They do love their wine. And there’s a large selection at great prices because they believe that wine should be fun and that everyone’s tastes are different. Tasting is a subjective experience, and they’re keen to introduce you to wines that suit you personally.
9A High Street, Oxford
Head into the city centre, and on the High Street is The Varsity Club – an equally fine establishment. Split over four levels, with a roof terrace that gives excellent views of Oxford’s dreaming spires, The Varsity Club is the perfect place to share Pimm’s or Prosecco with friends.
And Oxford’s original roof terrace does come with its own bar, where you’re served on a first-come, first-served basis – so there’s no need to book. Extensive awnings, gas burners and magically heated seats will keep you warm and dry in all but the worst of the weather.
If you can, be sure to stop by the Moroccan inspired lounge on the 3rd floor. It’s a relaxed and intimate space that becomes livelier as the evening progresses. The 3rd floor serves coffee, cocktails and classic food dishes.
4 King Edward Street, Oxford
Sandy’s, just around the corner on King Edward Street, is an altogether more intimate affair. The bar staff know their stuff and are on hand to make sure the drinks keep flowing – until midnight on Sundays to Thursdays and 3.00am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Whether from a resident pianist or a visiting jazz band, there’s fabulous live music every night which will leave you wondering why they let people in for free. If you’re looking for a romantic evening in Oxford, trust us, this is the place.
36-37 Queen Street, Oxford
Hank’s is a late-night bar in Oxford, born from a dream of delivering the good things in life. Great drinks, great food, great fun, late nights. As well as an extensive bar list and cocktails, Hank’s offers freshly made pizzas and sharing platters.
The recently renovated venue has a large bar area surrounded by intimate booths, plus a bookable upper room – making it an ideal place for a catch up be that with a friend or as a large get-together. It’s a popular venue for dancing and drinking, with a brilliant party atmosphere. Get there early to avoid the queues on busier nights.
Rooftop, Westgate Centre, Oxford
Nestled amongst the group of restaurants above the Westgate shopping centre – with views of the dreaming spires of Oxford – is The Alchemist, a modern bar and restaurant that offers some seriously original cocktails, howbeit served with a twist on chemistry and theatre.
Behind the smoke and mirror acts are talented bartenders trained in classic drinks-making techniques, who create every cocktail with an obsessive eye for detail, orchestrated to add a devilish dash of theatre.
The Alchemist is open well after the shops have closed – until 11.00pm during the week and an hour later on Fridays and Saturdays. Be quick to make up a reason to go and treat yourself. Your first visit definitely won’t be the last.
7-8 Park End Street, Oxford
Over on the west side of the city centre is Thirst Bar, a friendly local late-night independent cocktail bar that has been on Park End Street since 1999. Split into four areas, the main bar has quite the selection of cocktails included in the famous Stupid Hour, and adjacent is the opulent chill-out lounge available for bookings.
Outside, there’s a large heated terrace with plenty of comfy seating that also has its own bar, plus it’s covered to deal with the British weather. Back inside, the dance floor regularly hosts DJ’s playing an eclectic mix of Dance, House, Pop, Indie, Hip Hop, Charts and R&B music, so get your dancing shoes on.
25-27 Cowley Road, Oxford
Leaving the city centre and heading east, down Cowley Road, not far from Magdalen Bridge, is Kazbar, a Spanish Moroccan tapas restaurant with North African souk inspired decor – think lanterns, kilims and mosaic tables – that’s just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.
If you’re looking for delicious cocktails, you’re in for a treat. The fig and vanilla daiquiri is amazing (fruity but not sickeningly sweet), and so is every cocktail on the concise cocktail menu. When the doors and windows are flung wide open, it’s a lovely corner of Oxford where you can lay back and watch the world go by until midnight on most days.
Literary festivals in Oxfordshire and beyond
From intimate gatherings celebrating local writers to major festivals attracting internationally acclaimed authors, journalists, historians and public figures, literary festivals offer a chance to step beyond the page and into the conversations shaping our culture.
Oxfordshire has a particularly rich literary calendar, with festivals and literary events taking place in historic towns and city venues throughout the year. And if you’re willing to travel a little further, there are plenty more within easy reach of Oxford. Here are some of the best-known literary festivals in Oxfordshire — plus a selection just beyond the county and further afield.
Founded in 2007, the Henley Literary Festival has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s most popular literary festivals, bringing together punters and pundits from far and wide in an annual meeting-of-minds set across its stunning riverside hometown.
Henley Literary Festival is established as one of the UK’s biggest book festivals. Previous speakers have included John Mortimer, Doreen Lawrence, John Major, Julia Donaldson, Richard E. Grant, Candace Bushnell, John Sentamu, Cressida Cowell and Graham Nash.
26 October to 07 November
The Beacon and other venues across Wantage
Wantage Literary Festival returns for its 16th year, bringing acclaimed authors, historians, journalists, artists and musicians to the Oxfordshire town. The packed programme explores literature, history, politics, art, science and the natural world.
Highlights include Victoria Hislop, Jasper Fforde, Stephen Sackur and Janina Ramirez, alongside family events, music, walking tours, sea shanties and the Big Town Read.
Sheldonian Theatre & other venues
The Oxford Literary Festival offers nine days of talks, debates and cultural events centred around some of Oxford’s most iconic venues. Celebrated for its world-class line-up, the festival nurtures open dialogue and welcomes thinkers, writers and performers from around the globe.
The Sheldonian Theatre serves as a central hub for the festival, with events also taking place across Oxford’s historic university quarter. Alongside its international programmes, the festival offers an accessible and wide-ranging celebration of literature, culture and ideas.
Literary festivals beyond Oxfordshire
For those happy to venture a little further, these literary festivals offer plenty of compelling reasons to explore beyond Oxfordshire.
Cliveden Literary Festival offers a distinctive setting for lively discussion, thought-provoking ideas and political debate, bringing together leading authors, thinkers and public figures at the National Trust’s historic Cliveden estate.
Beyond the programme of talks and conversations, visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy scenic walks through the estate towards the River Thames, making the festival as much an opportunity to soak up its surroundings as it is to engage with literature and ideas.
Marlborough Literature Festival 2026
24 to 27 September
The Marlborough Literature Festival brings together writers, readers and literary enthusiasts in the beautiful Wiltshire market town of Marlborough, around 45 miles from Oxford. Its programme offers an engaging mix of author conversations, storytelling, ideas and family-friendly events.
With a focus on celebrating writing in all its forms, the festival creates opportunities to hear from bestselling authors, discover new voices and share a love of books and reading in a welcoming setting.
Bath Children’s Literature Festival 2026
25 September to 04 October
Bath Children’s Literature Festival – Europe’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival bringing some of the biggest and best loved names in the world of children’s books to a family audience of thousands.
The festival takes place across various locations in Bath, around 80 miles from Oxford (just under a two-hour drive). There’s something for everyone at this autumn’s Bath Children’s Literature Festival, which brings a host of writers and illustrators to the city for live, interactive events for young people of all ages.
Birmingham Literature Festival 2026
08 to 12 October
The Birmingham Literature Festival is a leading festival in the Midlands, showcasing the very best writers, speakers, thinkers, activists and artists from the UK and across the world.
The festival brings together writers, artists, commentators, readers, and thinkers – to share, learn, connect and enjoy three days of great creative writing – creating unique opportunities for audiences to experience high-quality events via an annual festival programme and associated projects.
Cheltenham Literature Festival 2026
09 to 18 October
Established in 1949, Cheltenham Literature Festival is one of the oldest literary events in the world. For ten days every Autumn, Cheltenham is transformed into a literary lover’s dream as it welcomes over 600 of the world’s finest writers, actors, politicians, poets and opinion formers – to help celebrate the joy of the written word.
Cheltenham Literature Festival is part of Cheltenham Festivals – a charity delivering a pioneering year-round educational programme culminating in four internationally-acclaimed Jazz, Science, Music and Literature Festivals. Cheltenham Festivals creates experiences that bring joy, spark curiosity, connect communities and inspire change.
London Literature Festival 2026
20 October to 01 November
There’s always a heavyweight line-up of the biggest authors and speakers at the capital’s most talked-about literary festival of the year. Previous speakers have included Hillary Clinton, Philip Pullman, and Tom Hanks take to the stage for individually ticketed events. This year’s festival reflects on what it means to be friends today.
Taking place at the Southbank Centre – the largest arts centre in the UK and one of the country’s top five visitor attractions – London Literature Festival is always full of encounters with the writers shaping our cultural life and a line-up of eminent authors alongside rising literary stars.
Winchester Books Festival 2027
16 to 18 April 2027
Winchester Books Festival brings authors, readers and ideas together in one of England’s most historic cities. With a programme spanning fiction, history, politics, culture and current affairs, the festival offers a varied mix of author talks, conversations and literary events.
Winchester’s compact centre and rich literary heritage make it an appealing destination for Oxfordshire readers looking to venture further afield for a weekend of books and conversation.
Swindon Festival of Literature 2027
May 2027 (TBC)
Swindon Festival of Literature brings together authors, readers and thinkers for a varied programme celebrating books, ideas and storytelling. Events take place at the Swindon Arts Centre and a host of other venues around town, with talks, discussions, workshops and family events spanning fiction, poetry, history, culture and current affairs.
Within easy reach of Oxfordshire, Swindon offers a straightforward literary day out for readers looking to explore events beyond the county. Its broad programme and welcoming atmosphere make it a useful addition to a wider regional literary festival round-up.
Buckingham Literary Festival 2027
June 2027 (TBC)
BuckLitFest brings writers, readers and literary enthusiasts together in the historic market town of Buckingham. Its programme features author talks, conversations and events spanning fiction, history, politics, culture and more, offering plenty for curious readers to discover.
Just beyond Oxfordshire, the festival makes an easy day trip for local readers seeking new voices, fresh ideas and lively discussion. Its welcoming community atmosphere makes it an appealing literary escape without travelling too far from home.
What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September
Hello and welcome to your invaluable guide to the best events, exhibitions and things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire throughout September.
September in Oxfordshire may be ‘back to school’ time, but it’s also when the county comes alive with a lot of the cultural scene that goes into semi-hibernation mode over the summer, returning to life in the autumn.
From comedy to concerts, funfairs to country fairs, there’s something in stock for everyone in Oxfordshire this September. And if you fancy venturing further afield, consider a cultural day trip to London’s west end for a weekend matinee in one of London’s theatres (the capital city is relatively calmer then).
And while it may officially be the end of summer, the British Autumn may yet surprise us with some spectacular sunny spells. If that be the case, make the best of it with brunch at one of Oxfordshire’s best restaurants with outdoor seating or afternoon tea in a country house that’s within easy reach.
Needless to say, this is a curated list of things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September. 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 play in Oxfordshire. Once again, welcome to your invaluable guide to what’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September.
Blenheim Palace is delighted to be hosting a series of exclusive watercolour workshops led by acclaimed Woodstock artist Rod Craig.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Welcome to The Choir of Man, the best pub in the world. Come ready to drink in the excitement. Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry and many more.
Salon Privé returns to Blenheim Palace with their most sensational line-up to date. For four days, the South Lawn will be overcome with the finest super and classic cars in the world, accompanied by luxury brands and exquisite hospitality to form the UK’s Most Exclusive Motor Show.
The North Wall Arts Centre
BAFTA-winning writer and recovering spoken-word artist Jack Rooke brings back his debut comedy-theatre show ‘Good Grief’ featuring the original show, some present day musings and a decade retrospective of Jack Rook capitalising on his dead dad to varied levels of failure and success.
Ruby Wax and Clive Tulloh review clips from Ruby’s extraordinary shows, tell scandalous stories never before heard, and take the audience along for the ride.
On the banks of the Thames in South Oxfordshire, Wallingford BunkFest is a free-access community festival providing a unique, family-friendly celebration with something for everyone. From a small marquee in a pub car park to filling the KineCroft and providing entertainment throughout Wallingford, on the River Thames and the Bunk Railway line.
Festival lineup includes: The Delicate Sound of Pink Floyd / Dr Feelgood / The Blue Water Giants
The Archers: Live at 75 tours the UK with cast performances, music and nostalgic moments celebrating the iconic BBC show. Experience Ambridge as you’ve never seen – or heard – it before!
Michael Spicer, the online sensation who brought you the award-winning viral hit The Room Next Door, brings another hilarious and brilliantly entertaining satirical stage show – Hope All’s Well.
Jon Ronson brings his latest book to life on stage, exploring mystery, crime and human behaviour in a gripping live show. You’ll also get a first look at what’s coming in the next season of Things Fell Apart, and the chance to put your questions directly to Jon.
The Rare Plant Fair at Adwell House near Thame brings together specialist nurseries and plant enthusiasts in a historic Chilterns garden setting. Visitors can explore rare and unusual plants, enjoy food stalls, and experience the estate’s celebrated walled garden and water features.
St Giles’ Fair is one of the most prestigious and long-standing fairs in the country, dating back to 1625 as a parish festival celebrating the feast of St Giles – it is held on the Monday and Tuesday following the first Sunday after St Giles’ Day (01 September).
Over the centuries, it has evolved from a toy and children’s fair to a large-scale funfair, with rides and attractions expanding during the Victorian era. Today, the fair is run by Oxford City Council, drawing huge crowds for two days of traditional rides, games, and festivities each September.
Discover more: All the fun of the fairs
Holy Holy recreate the authentic sound of David Bowie with drummer Woody Woodmansey and producer Tony Visconti leading an all-star band through Bowie classics from the 1970s to Blackstar. Featuring Heaven 17’s Glenn Gregory on vocals, the acclaimed live show celebrates one of music’s most influential catalogues with stunning performances and musicianship.
Lucy Worsley shares stories from Britain’s royal past in an engaging live event exploring palaces, monarchs and history. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and thoroughly charmed.
The Sustainable Fashion Show returns to Blenheim Palace as part of Sustainable Fashion Week 2026. Showcasing innovative local and emerging designers, the runway features more than 70 sustainable looks created from rescued, upcycled and pre-loved materials in the stunning Orangery setting.
Cornbury House Horse Trials is a new original eventing experience that promises to be a stylish, fun, and innovative experience for competitors and spectators from all around the world. Enjoy locally sourced and sustainable food and drink, retail with luxurious local brands, plus access to the otherwise private Deer Park and the wider historic parkland.
Experience an extraordinary piano recital from Grammy Award-winning Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson as he explores the timeless musical connections between Bach, Beethoven and Schubert. Featuring expressive performances and the introduction of the Schwarzman Centre’s new Steinway D grand piano, this captivating programme celebrates beauty, lyricism and emotional depth.
Paul Merton and Suki Webster’s Improv Show is an evening of sensational improvised comedy featuring fast, fabulously funny improvised games, scenes, stories and laugh out loud surrealism.
Join A Night of Laughs for a fantastic evening of comedy in aid of the Oxfordshire charity, Lawrence Nurses. Don’t miss Miles Jupp, Adam Kay, Lucy Porter, Arthur Smith, and Ria Lina for a night of sharp wit and big laughs – all for an incredible cause.
The team behind OxPHWOARd brings Toxic MasculiniTEASE, boylesque at its best – a racy romp of bodacious boys and satirical striptease, starring performers of all shapes, sizes, and genders, pushing boundaries and showing there’s more than one way to be sexy and masc!
Jon Anderson performs YES classics live with The Band Geeks in a tour celebrating iconic progressive rock hits.
The Theatre Chipping Norton
Lucy Porter returns to Chippy with a brand new show about the power of letting yourself go – in every sense and using your midlife crisis to pursue new goals and reinvent yourself.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Tom Bailey opens his 2026 UK tour with a Friars Aylesbury performance celebrating the biggest Thompson Twins hits, joined by special guests Blancmange for an evening of iconic Eighties synth-pop classics.
The UK’s No.1 outdoor cinema shows come to the beautiful Stonor Park & Gardens near Henley-on-Thames. Get ready for an experience like no other in this incredible setting.
Join Miriam in conversation for stories from the new book, naughty confessions, and a no-holds-barred Q&A where no question is off-limits. Expect memories & mammaries, Arsenal, politics, filth, and absolutely everything in between.
Oxford Open Doors is a weekend that celebrates Oxford’s heritage and culture by giving everyone the chance to explore the colleges, university buildings and green spaces together with a range of heritage sites across the city – many of which are not usually open to members of the public.
Read more: Oxford Open Doors: nine properties to see inside
Henley Farm & Country Show is a fun, family day visited by thousands every year and this year features the spectacular Bolddog Motorcycle Display Team, Shetland Pony Racing, Scurry Racing, Grand Parades of Animals, Heavy Horse Parade, Farm Machinery, Classic Cars and Vintage Tractors in the main ring.
Sam Campbell brings his surreal comedy show Kid Giblet live, blending absurd humour with sharp observational wit.
Witney Feast 2026 brings the community together for a lively celebration of local food, drink, entertainment and family-friendly fun in the heart of Witney.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Lord of the Dance presents their 30th Anniversary, a combination of precision dance, powerful music, pyrotechnics, and emotional storytelling featuring over 150,000 taps per performance, with the dancers’ energy and passion promising an electrifying experience.
Transform Trauma Oxford 2026 by Masters Events presents Science, Spirit and the Body: The Synthesis of Healing, exploring how modern science, embodied practice and spiritual understanding come together to create a more integrated vision of healing. Join thousands of people from around the world who are advancing the future of trauma and mental health care.
Lineup of speakers includes: Gabor Maté / Bessel van der Kolk / Licia Sky / Tara Swart and many more.
Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities
MAN WOMAN, a visually striking dance performance by New York choreographer Vangeline that reimagines the world of Butoh for contemporary audiences. Inspired by Eikoh Hosoe’s iconic photographs, the production blends expressive movement, visionary costumes and an immersive electro-acoustic score to explore identity, transformation and female agency through a bold feminist lens.
The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials is a must for any eventing enthusiast. It’s four days of eventing action, including Dressage, Cross Country and Showjumping, all taking place in the breathtaking grounds of one of Britain’s most beautiful and historic venues – Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough.
Get ready for three days of rides, thrills, treats and family fun as the annual Thame September Fair lands on the High Street. From dodgems and waltzers to hot dogs and candy floss, there’s something for everyone.
Learn to move with ease, fluidity and total control with internationally acclaimed choreographer, dancer and teacher Vangeline. Whether you’re a dancer, performer, or simply a complete beginner who is curious about movement and creativity, this workshop welcomes all.
Fin Taylor, the King of the Internet Jungle, is back with his Pre-emptive Comeback Special live, delivering sharp, fearless stand-up on his biggest tour yet.
The Knights of Royal England return to Stonor Park for an action-packed weekend of medieval jousting, thrilling full-contact tournaments and family entertainment. Enjoy archery, falconry, axe throwing, street food and adventures at Tumblestone Hollow in a spectacular historic setting.
Experience the electrifying reunion of Formula One’s most captivating driver partnership, as former team-mates, fierce rivals and companions David Coulthard and Mika Häkkinen are back on the road for a live evening of stories, insight and humour.
23 September to 11 October
Step aboard When the Blackbird Sings, an immersive promenade production that takes audiences on a remarkable journey through Oxford’s past and present. Following Paulette’s inspiring story from 1966, this powerful new production combines live performance, travel by bus and historic locations to explore identity, community, resilience and the people who have shaped the city’s history.
The Lemonheads head out on their 2026 tour, representing a significant new chapter for the band rooted in a commitment to their music and the community that surrounds it.
The award-winning Oxford Opera Company is back at The Playhouse with Puccini’s iconic Tosca. New Zealand-born Samoan soprano, Marlena Devoe returns following critically acclaimed performances as Mimi in La Bohème and Pamina in The Magic Flute. Be swept away by the majesty of Puccini’s music as Oxford Opera Orchestra brings this epic human story of love, lust, loyalty, corruption, jealousy, and revenge to life.
25 September to 11 October
Phase | Pattern | Pulse features three audio programmes of Steve Reich’s compositions: Music for 18 Musicians, Drumming and The Sextets, offering an exploded 360° insider’s view of some of Reich’s most admired compositions, revealing the inner structures of each piece in fresh and startling detail.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
Experience an enchanting candlelit evening with the English Chamber Orchestra and acclaimed violinist Harriet Mackenzie, featuring Vivaldi’s exhilarating Winter from The Four Seasons, Vaughan Williams’ soaring The Lark Ascending and John Eccles’ beautiful Aire from The Mad Lover’s Suite.
The North Wall Arts Centre
Fresh from starring in the latest series of Taskmaster, Ania Magliano brings Peach Fuzz, a brand-new show full of jokes, confessions, and occasionally unhinged observations.
Explosive indie-rock favourites return to the stage with their signature blend of huge riffs, anthemic choruses and raw, high-energy performance. Expect powerful guitar-driven tracks, soaring vocals and the kind of urgency that has made them a standout force in modern British rock.
The Jeff Beck Experience is a celebration of the extraordinary sound, style and legacy of one of the most influential guitarists of all time, Jeff Beck. This is your opportunity to hear some of the most iconic instrumental rock work performed live, with a focus on authenticity, atmosphere and respect for a truly unique musical legacy.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Al Murray brings his brand new stand up show – All You Need Is Guv, with hot-takes for the masses and offering a much-needed truth tonic. With a fresh and frothing pint to hand, a barrel of laughs to pour from, and a flower in his heart, Guv is all you need.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Bringing his successful sellout and highly praised show on a UK tour, Astronomer and author Adrian West (aka VirtualAstro) presents a glorious visual and thought-provoking experience for everyone who looks up and wonders. Using amazing visual effects, The Night Sky Show will take you on a fantastic and epic journey across the cosmos from our celestial backyard.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Get ready for a night of raw emotion, powerhouse vocals and thunderous guitars as Love Hurts – Rock Anthems and Power Ballads storms across the UK in 2026.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Tom Davis is back on the road with his fully loaded show Spudgun, firing out his freshly cooked observations on life’s hot topics.
David Essex returns to the stage with his ‘Thanks for the Memories’ tour in September 2026, celebrating decades of music, theatre and performance in a must-see live show for fans old and new.
Comedy star Urzila Carlson heads to the UK in 2026 with her new show Fatty on a Yacht, blending deadpan humour and sharp observations on identity, belonging and life’s awkward moments.
Every Saturday (Except 26 December)
Out of the Deep is a family-friendly specimen handling and exploration of the underwater world of marine reptiles.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Join Family-Friendly Sundays for free sessions including nature-themed activities, creative crafts, family-friendly trails and more, all provided by the museum’s volunteers.
Step back into the golden age of the Great Western Railway at this 21-acre living museum, where trains from Victorian times to the 1960s bring railway history to life. Explore historic engine sheds, restored locomotives, interactive signalling displays and wartime exhibits, with the rare chance to see steam-era engineering up close in a quieter, immersive setting.
Meet the four-legged and feathered summer guests this summer as the Walled Garden comes alive with the sights, sounds and snuffles of the Marlborough Mini Farm.
Camp Tumblestone arrives at Tumblestone Hollow with a brand-new outdoor adventure included in every summer holiday ticket. Families can enjoy giant garden games, an agility trail, imaginative play in the teepee camp area and even more exciting activities alongside the popular adventure playground.
Developed through research into the Bate Collection of Musical Instruments at the University of Oxford, the exhibition brings together sound, video and photography to consider what is revealed and concealed through the collection, preservation and display of musical instruments. At its centre is a new sound work created using recordings of historic instruments from the collection.
Blenheim Palace presents Life Through a Royal Lens, a major photography exhibition tracing the Royals’ enduring relationship with the camera, from the reign of Queen Victoria to the present day.
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.
Join Pip & Posy’s Treehouse Trail in Adventure Play on an adventure to solve the mystery of the missing toy Piggy!
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