Oxford: dreaming spires, punting and amazing cocktails? Absolutely! 🍸
Forget dusty books, this city has a killer cocktail scene. Hidden bars, mixology masterpieces – we’re diving in. Join us as we shake things up and discover some of the best cocktail bars in Oxford. Cheers!
The Alchemist
Nestled in the heart of Oxford’s Westgate Centre, The Alchemist is not your average cocktail bar. With its bubbling concoctions and theatrical bartenders, The Alchemist is less a bar and more a performance art piece dedicated to delicious drinks. Think smokey, shimmering cocktails that look like they’ve been conjured up in a wizard’s lab.
Whether you’re after something sweet and fruity or a bolder, more mysterious brew, The Alchemist has got the potion for you. It’s the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and maybe even discover your own personal ‘legend’ – one expertly mixed cocktail at a time.
Stay nearby
The Varsity Club Rooftop
View this post on Instagram
There are many places to grab a rooftop experience in the city of Oxford, but the wonderfully secluded and ideally located TVC is surely the greatest. Access to this unique bar can be found upon entering The Covered Market from the high street. The inside reveals a trendy bar and restaurant spread over four levels with the rooftop bar topping it all off.
The 360° views it provides are unmatched across Oxford (yes even the Westgate doesn’t compare) and roof access is available all year round with heated seats and igloos being one of the few measures in place to keep you warm during the colder months.
Stay nearby
Sandy’s Piano & Wine Bar
For a night that’s as smooth as jazz and lively as a sing-along, head to Sandy’s Piano Bar in Oxford! This spot is the perfect blend of classy and fun, with top-notch cocktails, delicious wines and live music every night. Plus, entry is free and you can grab a cocktail from £11 (that’s pretty good for the City of Dreaming Spires). So grab your dancing shoes, warm up your vocal cords and get ready for a night to remember at Sandy’s!
Stay nearby
The Jericho Tavern
The Jericho Cafe, or “The Jeri” as it’s affectionately known, isn’t just a pub, it’s the pub. Okay, maybe we’re biased, but seriously, this place oozes cool. Beyond the sticky carpets and legendary live music (Radiohead played their first gig here under the name On A Friday), they whip up some surprisingly decent cocktails. It’s not exactly a white-glove experience – you’ll probably be shouting your order over the bar and clutching your drink for dear life – but that’s part of the charm. Think classic cocktails with a slightly grungy twist, perfect for pre-gig fuel or just soaking up the effortlessly cool Jericho vibe.
If you’re after a fancy-pants martini, maybe head elsewhere, but if you want a proper Oxford institution with a buzzing atmosphere and a decent drink in hand, The Jeri’s your spot.
Stay nearby
Freud Oxford
View this post on Instagram
Opened in 1988 as the sister location to Freud London, St Paul’s Chruch hosts the coolest cocktail bar in the city. The truly exclusive setting features glorious high ceilings and stained glass windows, with perfectly curated drinks to match its grandeur. There is a bustling atmosphere guaranteed on practically any night of the week with university students often flocking here. Whereas during the daytime you can always find a welcoming retreat to relax within.
Situated in the suburb of Jericho just outside the city centre, this is a must-see for visitors to gain a well-rounded insight into Oxford.
Stay nearby
The Lighthouse
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a spot in Oxford that’s a bit of a hidden gem? Then you have to check out The Lighthouse. Tucked away, it’s got that effortlessly cool vibe – think intimate lighting, comfy corners and a drinks menu that’ll make your eyes widen. These guys know their cocktails, mixing up classics with some seriously inventive concoctions.
Whether you’re after something fruity and refreshing or a dark and stormy number, they’ve got you covered. Plus, the staff are super friendly and always happy to chat about the drinks. So, next time you’re thirsty in Oxford, navigate your way to The Lighthouse – you won’t regret it!
Stay nearby
Turf Tavern
Nestled down a tiny alleyway, the Turf Tavern is a proper Oxford institution, and while it might be more famous for its real ales and history (we’re talking centuries!), don’t think they can’t shake up a good cocktail too. This place oozes character, with its low ceilings, nooks and crannies, a buzzing beer garden, it’s the place to be on a sunny day! While their cocktail menu might not be the most extensive, what they do offer is done well – think classics with a little twist, perfect for sipping while soaking up the pub’s unique atmosphere.
So, if you’re after a cocktail with a side of history and a whole lot of Oxford charm, the Turf Tavern is definitely worth a visit.
Stay nearby
Dirty Bones
View this post on Instagram
Dirty Bones is all about good vibes, tasty American comfort food (think loaded fries and epic burgers) and seriously playful drinks. Whether you’re after a classic with a twist or something totally out-there (like a boozy milkshake!), Dirty Bones has got you covered. It’s the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends, a cheeky date, or just when you need a little bit of New York-inspired chaos in your life.
Stay nearby
The House
View this post on Instagram
The House is less of a ‘shout-your-order-over-the-music’ kind of place and more of a ‘sink-into-a-velvet-booth-and-whisper-your-secrets’ kind of vibe. It’s got that effortlessly cool, speakeasy feel, with dim lighting and a menu packed with seriously inventive cocktails. These guys aren’t just mixing drinks, they’re crafting experiences – expect unique flavour combinations and some seriously theatrical presentation.
Whether you’re after a classic Negroni or something a little more adventurous (like their signature Smoked Pineapple Express, which is insane), The House is the perfect spot for a sophisticated night out when you want to impress a date or just treat yourself to something special.
Stay nearby
Raoul’s Bar
View this post on Instagram
Raoul’s is the kind of place that just oozes cool. Tucked away, it feels like a secret you’re in on, a proper grown-up hangout. The bartenders here are true mixologists, whipping up classic cocktails with a twist and always ready to recommend something new and exciting. The vibe is sophisticated but not stuffy, perfect for a date night or catching up with friends. Plus, they’ve got a killer selection of nibbles to keep you going as you work your way through the cocktail menu.
Honestly, if you’re looking for a top-notch cocktail experience in Oxford, Raoul’s should be at the top of your list.
Stay nearby
Cosy Club
View this post on Instagram
Right, let’s talk Cosy Club – because who doesn’t love a bit of vintage glamour with their cocktails? This place is like stepping into a Wes Anderson film, all quirky décor and mismatched furniture that somehow just works. Perfect for a catch-up with friends or a slightly more fancy night out. Their cocktail menu is a proper treat, full of classics and some seriously inventive concoctions – and don’t even get me started on the teapots! Plus, the atmosphere is always buzzing, whether you’re perched at the bar watching the mixologists work their magic or snuggled into a booth with a plate of their delicious nibbles.
Cosy Club is a must-visit if you’re after a cocktail experience that’s big on personality and seriously Instagrammable.
Stay nearby
