Things to do at night in Oxford: Experience the city like a local!
Oxford is a small, historic city with its roots going back to the 8th century. It's close to London and has beautiful architecture, which makes it a popular spot for tourists and weekend getaways. The Cathedral, Clarendon Building, Radcliffe Camera, and Bridge of Sights are just a few examples of the city's stunning buildings.
Oxford nightlife is packed with good food, incredible sights, and fun activities. If you're visiting Oxford and looking for a good wine bar, live piano music, comedy clubs, or just a gift shop and city lights, you're in luck! Oxford bars and restaurants are usually open after midnight. So, if you want a drink or a late-night snack, you’ll find something around every corner!
A Saturday night is never wasted in Oxford! The streets are pretty safe, so no need to worry about walking at nighttime. Buses and subways run through the night, which gives you plenty of options to get around. Just remember to pack a coat and an umbrella for that classic British weather.
What to do in Oxford at night: Unconventional adventures and easy-going vibes
Getting ready for that amazing Oxford night you’ve been looking forward to? Check out some of our recommendations to help you make the most of it. Here’s what you can expect if you are craving:
1. An unconventional night out
Sometimes it seems like wherever you go, you're always doing the same things—going to restaurants, bar hopping, or clubbing. It can start to feel a bit boring, right? If it's nighttime and you're up for something a bit different, Oxford has some offbeat and wacky things to offer. Just put on your quirky socks and check out the fun stuff below.
- The Oxford Ghost Tour
This is just right if you're looking for something to shiver your timbers. Picture this—you're going through the most haunted cities in England while you listen to first-hand ghost stories and spine-chilling tales from Oxford's past. You'll visit the spookiest Oxford's back alleys, and meet the ghost of a teenager and an archbishop.
Strolling past a demon, ghost, and ghoul-infested graveyard is especially creepy in the fog and mist of Oxford's twilight. The tickets start at around £19 for the 75-minute tour, and the starting point is at Trinity College Gate, right in downtown Oxford. The Ghost Tours are pretty popular, so make sure to book in advance!
Pro tip: Bring a jacket and an umbrella because of Oxford's cold and rainy nights. Also, the tour isn't too scary so it's family-friendly.
- The Harry Potter Filming Locations Summer Course
If you’re a Potterhead and an academic, this is what you're looking for. Tour iconic filming locations from the Harry Potter movies while taking one of the 40 Summer Courses like Art History, Biotechnology and Genetics, and Sociology and Anthropology.
Visit sites like Christ Church College (the Dining Hall), the Bodleian Library (Duke Humfrey's library), and New College (the Cloisters and Courtyard). The tour includes accommodation, meals, and fun activities like prize-giving ceremonies and all-day trips! The tickets sell out quickly, so don't wait for the summer to snag yours!
Pro tip: You don't have to book a Summer Course to visit HP filming locations, though. You can also take a self-guided tour at night to explore everything at your own pace or join one with a guide!
- Junkyard Golf Club
Imagine golfing with epic cocktails and a load of junk! This minigolf club has 3 crazy 9-hole golf courses and some of the best cocktails in town. You can choose from the Pablo, Gary, and Bozo (the fave) golf courses while getting your drink on in the bars.
The courses and cocktails have themed junkyard vibes you're going to enjoy! The Creepy Clown cocktail is an absolute must-try! Even though you'll need to book the place, the prices are pretty cheap for what you're getting. Students go in for just £6, and the cocktails start at £5.50 a pop.
The joint is just a quick stroll outside the city centre, so just head down Queen Street and you'll be there! Make sure to also check out Oxford Castle which is just 5 minutes away from the golf club!
Pro tip: Bring some extra cash for cocktails! You're not going there just for golf, right? Most of the cocktails are worth trying and make the experience way better!
2. An easy-going night out
If you're in the mood for a more relaxing evening, Oxford has some pretty chill places. Whether you're up for a bit of theatre, a nice movie, or a good book, Oxford's the place to be. Visiting new places doesn't always have to be an adrenaline rush. Sometimes, it’s nice to kick back and enjoy the moment at places like those below.
- The Oxford Playhouse
If you're in the mood for live music, drama, dance, or comedy, this is a must-visit destination. Go to their website, check what's on, and find something that fits your vibe. There's something for all ages and groups!
Whether you're with family and want something more fun, or out with friends ready for a good laugh, the Playhouse always has something for you, even activities that everyone can enjoy! Young or just young at heart, the Playhouse will inspire you to bring out your creative side! Plus, it's in the city centre so you can easily walk there or take a cab to catch a nighttime show!
Pro tip: Get there 15 minutes before the show starts to get the best seats. The theatre supports creativity, so don’t be afraid to get a little wild with your outfit!
- The Ultimate Picture Palace
This intimate single-screen cinema has a variety of movies playing all the time. It has something for every mood—classics, historical documentaries, independent, or foreign language films. The UPP is one of the oldest UK cinemas and regularly plays specials, from director spotlights to independent projects.
Screenings regularly start after 9 PM so it's a perfect place for a nightly visit. Whether you’re going solo or bringing your friends, there's always something interesting playing. You can get there from downtown Oxford by catching the 280 and then 400 buses. If you have time, swing by the Oxford Botanic Garden on your way there!
Pro tip: It's a popular cinema so you should buy the tickets in advance. Lots of people watch a movie at night, so think ahead if you want a romantic date night with your partner.
- The Bodleian Libraries
True Harry Potter fans will recognize The Bodleian Libraries (Oxford University) as Duke Humfrey's library, picked out because of its stunning design. With over 13 million books across 26 libraries, every bookworm will find themselves in paradise.
The beautiful libraries are perfect for getting into the reading mood in their quiet and enchanting spaces. You’ll find just about every book here, and their knowledgeable staff is always there to help with your research. While you're touring the libraries, make sure to stop by the Pitt Rivers Museum for another architectural gem!
Pro tip: Don’t forget your camera! The amazing architecture of the central Oxford University library is perfect for snapping some Instagram-worthy photos that will make other HP fans jealous! But, make sure to turn off your flash, and ask for permission before taking photos of the books’ contents!
Enter any place you want without baggage
Places of culture often won't let you enter with a bag or any kind of luggage. So if you're in a tight spot and need somewhere quick to stash your stuff, leave it to one of our Bounce partners! Do so, and explore the cultural centers of Oxford baggage-free!
Conclusion
If you're in for a wacky ride or something a bit more laid-back, the nightlife of Oxford is the way to go! Explore haunted streets, familiar Harry Potter locations, or cultural attractions, and enjoy your night in Oxford! No matter if it's just you or a group of friends and family, there's always something fun to find here.