Welcome to our take on the Best Places to Eat in Oxford. In this historic gothic-style city, there are so many options to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to start! So, we’ve put together this guide with some of our top recommendations in the city centre. Read on to find out what the best places to eat in Oxford are and how to find them!
Covered Market
Established in 1774, 2024 marked the 250th anniversary of the Covered Market in Oxford. Set in the heart of the city, within a few minutes walking distance from major sightseeing spots like the Bodleian Library, the Covered Market houses a huge variety of cafes and eateries. The cuisines range from traditional British fare like savoury pies, to cosy coffee shops, to Lebanese, sushi and ice cream. With its many entrances, joyful decorations and lively atmosphere, it is the ideal place to grab lunch then find your perfect souvenir in one of the many local independent shops.
The White Horse
Claiming to be Oxford’s tiniest pub, the White Horse is certainly one of the oldest! It dates from the 16th century and is a Grade II listed building full of history and cosy ambience. The main room is narrow, with panelled walls, and can’t hold many customers but always seems to be busy. Though small, this pub has had its moments of fame: in the TV series “Inspector Morse”, as well as having been the watering hole of choice for Winston Churchill and Bill Clinton. There are also many attractions nearby: the History of Science Museum, Blackwell’s Book Shop and the Sheldonian Theatre.
The Turf Tavern
Although harder to find than you might expect, visiting is well worth it. It is one of the most famous pubs in Oxford! Turning down St Helen’s Passage under the Bridge of Sighs, make your way down the alleyway until you see the green door of the Turf Tavern. Frequented by locals, tourists and students alike, the pub’s friendly atmosphere, along with good food and even better alcohol, makes it the perfect place to pop in during your next visit to Oxford. Fare on offer includes pub classics like fish and chips, burgers and pies, and premium beers and cocktails to wash it all down.
Ashmolean Museum
Aside from the stunning array of historical artefacts and art, the Ashmolean Museum has much to offer in terms of food and drink as well. Tucked away in the vaults beneath the city surface is a cosy, modern café where you can buy tasty soups, quiches and cakes. And even better, they also have a rooftop restaurant with floor-to-ceiling glass windows allowing for an amazing view out over the city skyline. The highlight here is definitely their afternoon tea, and in fair weather you can sit out on the airy terrace to enjoy your sandwiches and scones under the open sky.
The Alice
This brasserie is located in the Randolph Hotel in the very heart of Oxford, right by the iconic Martyrs’ Memorial. They serve up comforting British dishes made using seasonal ingredients, from the classic Sunday Roast Lunch to a-la-carte dining, and even a lovely afternoon tea. With links to the Alice in Wonderland books and the Inspector Morse TV series, this place is very popular with locals and tourists alike. After you eat, wander from the restaurant to the Morse Bar, where you can finish your meal with a selection of classic cocktails, craft beer, whiskey and wine.
The Bear Inn
Dating back to 1242, this is likely the oldest pub in Oxford and well worth a visit. If you’re looking for a pint of real ale and good, home-cooked, traditional pub food, this is the place for you. Inside, there is seating for just two dozen, though they also have an outdoor area. By far the most unique feature of the pub is their collection of over 4,500 snippets of neckties, started in 1952 by the landlord. Back then, tie ends were cut with a pair of scissors in exchange for half a pint of beer, and are now displayed in glass cases all over the walls and even the ceiling!
Old Fire Station Kitchen
This cosy café is known for its excellent food and drink (especially the coffee!), and warm, friendly staff. Acting as a centre for creativity in Oxford, the Old Fire Station welcomes all, Tuesday to Sunday 9:30am-4pm. Alongside an impressive spread of coffee, tea, pastries and cakes, from 10am-3pm they also serve delicious Middle Eastern food made by Damascus Rose Kitchen, which is a social enterprise for Syrian and Arabic-speaking refugee women. Dining here contributes to a good cause, so go visit somewhere you can have your cake and eat it too.
Explore more of England’s food!
Thank you for reading this short guide to Best Places to Eat in Oxford, and we hope to welcome you adventurous foodies to this gorgeous city soon. And if you would like to book your ticket to Oxford straightaway, or explore more of the food that England has to offer, check out our amazing Day Tours from London. We look forward to seeing you on tour!
