in oxford magazine april 2011

80

Upload: living-in-oxford-magazine

Post on 18-Mar-2016

231 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

The events and what's On Guide for Oxford and Oxfordshire

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 2: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 3: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 4: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

F O R E V E R B E T T E R

If you’re looking to buy a domestic appliance or planning a new kitchen, visit the Miele Experience Centre in Abingdon. Try out our entire range and experience the quality and style that epitomises Miele. And as well as great product advice we also run cookery demonstrations and courses to help you get the most out of your Miele or learn new culinary skills.

For more information or to book anappointment please call 0845 365 6610or visit www.miele.co.uk/showrooms

Experience Centre Abingdon, Fairacres,Marcham Road, Abingdon OX14 1TW.

German quality, style and expertise.Oxfordshire address.

AWARDS 2010

which.co.uk

BEST

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE BRAND

Page 5: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Arts & Antiques 16

Contents

April In Oxford

In Oxford Restaurant Review 69

Services 74

Theatre

Cinema

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife

Attractions

10

15

Shopping 18

56

28

Oxford City Map 44

Accommodation 54

Around Oxfordshire 47

Events 22

Music 12

Kids 43

Advertising: If you’d like to advertise with In Oxford Magazine or any of its sister publications please call Richard on 01865742211 or email [email protected]

Subscriptions: If you have difficulty obtaining your copy of In Oxford we can mail you a copy each month £25.00 perannum. Please call us on 01865 742211 or Email us: [email protected]

Oxspots and Stocking In Oxford Magazine: To find out about receiving copies of In Oxford Magazine orbecoming one of our OxSpots, please call Richard on 01865 742211 or Email: [email protected]

Distribution Services: To find out about our distribution service, please call Richard on 01865 742211 orEmail: [email protected]

Contact: In Oxford Magazine, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford OX3 0BTTel: 01865 742211 Fax: 01865 741391 Email: [email protected]

Photography: Blink Marketing, Design and Print. Contact 01865 742211 for your photographic requirements.

Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content of this publication is accurate and correct in every way, the publishers cannot be held responsibleor liable for any inaccuracies or errors within the publication. Information reproduced from this publication is permitted with the express permission of thepublisher and the advertiser, where relevant. All information is correct at time of going to press.

Health, Sport & Leisure 50

Education 31

Welcome to April in Oxford

What an action-packed issue we’ve got for you this month.

Why not hop on one of City Sightseeing’s great red buses, the focus of our colourful front cover.You don’t have to be a visitor to Oxford to find out more about our fantastic city so jump onand see Oxford in a whole new light!

There are also some great reviews in this issue, ranging from exam success at St Clare’s, Oxfordto dining at Le Parisien and My Sichuan, a great new authentic Chinese restaurant in the heartof Oxford.

Looking ahead, you must read the Picnicfilm review about a great new concept coming toBlenheim Palace in May, with three wonderful classics to enjoy in fabulous surroundings, with asumptuous hamper to boot!

Our Big Draw continues with some wonderful new prizes, a great story about the winner of ourMalmaison kitchen experience prize and loads of new SOX vouchers to buy in our new Big Drawand SOX section. There’s also a one off chance to buy a wonderful tour at The Ashmolean withafternoon tea – a great treat for you or someone special.

There’s the usual listings, great adverts and much more!

Have a great April.

Richard RosserEditor, In Oxford Magazine

Page 6: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com6

Lead Article

The things that you don’t know about the City that you live in, well, you will find

them out on this bus tour with a little added humour to boot!

Will it rain or will it not? Slightly hesitant in our balmy climate, we walked to the

station to embark on our open-top bus tour by City Sightseeing. We collected our

tickets and were directed to the relevant stop. There are two types of buses, one that

has a taped commentary and one with a live guide. We went for the live guide. First on,

we went to the back in true childish fashion and plugged in before take off!

This really is the only way to see Oxford; the views are amazing, being able to peek into

the colleges with their immaculate lawns and centuries-old charm. Let’s face it, we all

love to gossip, so finding out who went to which college was completely fascinating to

me: from royalty and actors to world leaders, they have all studied at Oxford. It made

me very proud to live here hearing all the life-changing events that have been initiated

right here in little old Oxford. I drive around the City all day long and take for granted

the architecture. If this is the only reason you do this tour then I can think of no

better. We live in a beautiful City that is even more beautiful from 30 feet up.

I’d always wondered why there is an Alice in Wonderland shop located quite a long

way from the High Street; now that I know that the original sweet shop found there

was Lewis Carroll’s inspiration for the old sheepshop in Alice Through the

Looking-Glass, and so it would be a travesty for it to move. I loved hearing the history

of the grand houses in Central North Oxford, too. Apparently the Oxford University

college dons were originally not allowed to marry, and as when this changed the only

way to snap up an eligible lady was to have a house, it’s not surprisingly the houses all

went up fairly quickly!

You can pop on and off the bus all day, so it’s easy to “do” Oxford in a day. With your

ticket there are lots of discounts in shops and restaurants to make the day even

cheaper. This is a great day out for all the family. It was great to do the tourist thing

and see people from around the world enjoying this beautiful City.

Thank you to City Sightseeing.

Reviewed by Claire Maloney

City Sightseeing

Tel: 01865 790522

Web: www.citysightseeingoxford.com

Page 7: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

7Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Page 8: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

01865 268 400or email: [email protected] Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY

To book call in or call

For the best rates GUARANTEED visitmalmaison.com H

Page 9: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Hotel | Bar | Brasserie

OXFORD

NEWMENU. SAME STYLE, SERVICE,QUALITY AND ATTITUDE.

Mal life. You’re always daring to be different. Now we’re

double daring you with two courses each, a bottle of wine

between two and coffee for only £30 for two people at

the Mal. Lets make it a double date, you won’t forget it.

We double dare you. That’s Mal life.

See website for full terms and conditions.Valid lunch Monday to Saturday.

Dinner Monday to Friday.

Page 10: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com10

Oxford Playhouse 11 - 12 Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2LW Box Office: 01865 305305. Web: www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Oxford Playhouse

Tue 19th - Sat 23rd Apr: When Shere Khan the tiger swears to kill young Mowgli,Baloo and Bagheera agree to take the boy to the man village for his safety. But thejungle holds dangers and surprises for them all - and Mowgli's extraordinary adventurehas just begun! Rudyard Kipling's classic story about Mowgli, a boy raised in the jungleby a family of wolves, is brought vividly to life at the Playhouse. Tickets: £16 / £14/ £11 (Family Ticket call 01865 305305)

The Jungle Book

Wed 27th - Sat 30th Apr: In this new adaptation of Charles Dickens' iconic novel andtimeless classic, Great Expectations, leading playwright Tanika Gupta relocates Pip'sextraordinary journey to nineteenth century India. Amongst some of Dickens' mostcolourful and memorable characters and set in the period the novel was written, wemeet Pip. Following a terrifying encounter with an escaped convict, he is given anunexpected chance to better himself by visiting the reclusive and mysterious Englishlady, Miss Havisham. Tickets: £24.50 / £22.50 / £21.50 / £19.50 / £17.50 / £15.50

Great Expectations

Fri 13th May: Everything is going well for Little Howard; he has his own TV show,best-selling book, has appeared on The Royal Variety Performance and sometimes BigHoward even lets him drive. However all is not as well as it seems...Little Howard hasfound out that the magic pencil that created him could either give his life a thirddimension or destroy him completely! Bursting out of the TV set and onto the stage,this unique family show features sing-a-long songs, innovative 3D animation andhilarious interactive stand-up to keep all ages entertained. Tickets: Adult £8,Children £6

Big Howard Little Howard

Tue 5th - Sat 9th Apr: Felix Humble, bumbling Cambridge astrophysicist and cricketenthusiast, returns to the family home following the sudden death of his father. Flora,his difficult and demanding mother is determined to make a fresh start with George,a brash family friend. Secrets come tumbling out as Felix tries to come to terms withthe past and what is yet to come. Threads such as Hamlet, horticulture, black holesand beekeeping are woven into this warm and touching comedy which was firstperformed at the National Theatre in 2001 - winning the Critics' Circle Theatre Award for Best New Play andthe People's Choice Best New Play Award. Tickets: £16 / £13 / £10

Humble Boy

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com10

New Theatre, OxfordNew Theatre Oxford George St, Oxford OX1 2AG. Tel: 08448 471585. Web: www.newtheatreoxford.org.uk.

Visit the Official In Oxford Facebook page! www.facebook.com/inoxford10

Theatre In Oxford

FORTHCOMING EVENT

Mon 25th - Sat 30th Apr: Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brotherstells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up onopposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences. Fewmusicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers,and Bill Kenwright’s production, having recently celebrated its 21st phenomental yearin London, continues to enjoy standing ovations at every devastating performance.No wonder Blood Brothers is now ‘The musical for all time’. Tickets: £18 / 34.25

Blood Brothers

Tue 12th - Sat 16th Apr: Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace have dazzled televisionaudiences for six series of the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing with their stunning Tangoroutines. Now they have created their own live show - Midnight Tango - a breath-taking evening bringing all the drama, sensuality and elegance of this most excitingof dance forms to life. Set in a late night bar in downtown Buenos Aires and featur-ing some of the finest Tango dancers in the world, Midnight Tango takes you on ajourney into a heart of this intoxicating city. As danger and excitement, joy and jealousy, pain and passionall combine - this is a spectacular and explosive evening not to be missed! Tickets: £21.25 / 34.25

Midnight Tango

Page 11: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

11Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 11Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

FORTHCOMING EVENT

Pegasus Theatre Sponsored ByMagdalen Road, Oxford OX4 1RE. Tel: 01865 812150Booking: 01865 812150 Web: www.pegasustheatre.org.uk

More Theatre in Oxfordonline at www.inoxford.com

Creation Theatre 3rd Floor, Cherwell House,1-5 London Place, Oxford, OX4 1BDTel: 01865 761393 Web: www.creationtheatre.co.uk

Fri 13th May – Sat 11th Jun: Condensed, Colourful, Quirky.Join us as we say Happy 400th Birthday to the best selling book ever – the KingJames Bible – in true Creation storytelling style. Tickets: From £7.50 Venue: NewRoad Baptist Church, Bonn Square, Oxford

Tales from King James

A Dish of Tea with Dr JohnsonThu 7th Apr: Presented in association with Oxford Brookes University performed byOut of Joint. Irritable, generous, depressive yet hilarious: meet Samuel Johnson – poet,essayist, compiler of the first English dictionary. This evening of anecdotes and wittyconversation brings to life one of the most colourful figures of the eighteenth century. Tickets: £10, £8 concessions, £6 U18, £5 project members Times: 8:00pm

Page 12: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com12

Music In OxfordClassical

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, Egrove Park, Oxford OX1 5NY.Tel: 0208 450 1060, 01865 305 305 Web: www.oxfordphil.com. E-mail: [email protected].

Oxford Philomusica

‘Truly, this was the Son of God’Sat 16th Apr: BACH St Matthew Passion, BWV 244Oxford Bach Choir (chorus master Timothy Byram-Wigfield)Marios Papadopoulos conductor

St Matthew Passion is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Bach’s output. An indicationof the special regard he held for this work is that Bach went to considerable troublein his old age to repair the large manuscript score of the St Matthew Passion. This copy is still in existenceand is unique among Bach manuscripts: he designed it beautifully, carefully highlighting the biblical wordsin red ink. Venue: Sheldonian Theatre Times: 7:00pm Tickets: £37 £26 £17.50 £10

The High Sheriff's Community Choirs ConcertSun 10th Apr: John Lubbock Conductor

Oxfordshire’s High Sheriff, Marie-Jane Barnett, marks the end of her year in office with a Community Choirsconcert bringing together a diverse group of local choirs all steeped in the choral tradition for which Oxfordis so famous. Oxford Philomusica is delighted to be associated with this concert providing the instrumentalaccompaniment for the programme which includes Handel’s Zadok the Priest and Hallelujah Chorus, togetherwith individual items from each choir. Venue: Oxford Town Hall Times: 3pm Tickets: £10 All proceedsfrom tickets sales will be donated to the Oxford Community Foundation (Charity No. 1046432)Tickets for this concert are also available from the Oxford Town Hall on 01865 252351

Oxford Coffee Concerts Holywell Music Room Sundays 11.15amwww.coffeeconcerts.com - www.musicinadderbury.co.uk

Oxford Coffee Concerts3 April At the Magdalen AuditoriumDavid Lepage (violin)David Gordon (harpsichord)programme to include Bach Sonatas for violin and continuo

10 April Fournier Piano TrioSulki Yu (violin) Pei-Jee Ng (cello) Chiao-Ying Chang (piano) Mozart Piano Trio K548 in CBrahms Trio no.3 in C Minor op.101

17 April Emperor String QuartetMartin Burgess (violin) Clare Hayes (violin) Fiona Bonds (viola) William Schofield (cello)Britten Simple Symphony Britten Quartettino Mozart String Quartet in B Flat (The Hunt)

Concert Tickets£11.00 Adults£10.00 Full-time students, senior citizens and children under 16.

By TelephoneTickets Oxford 01865 305305or 07518 479062. Tickets reserved on this number will be held at the door until 11.00am

In PersonTickets Oxford at the Oxford Playhouse or on the day at the door from 9.45am.Online www.ticketsoxford.com

To be in with a chance of winning some amazing prizes, visit

The Jacqueline Du Pre Music Building (St Hilda’s College)Tickets: 01865 305305

Piano recital by Geoffrey Hopkins

Saturday, 21st May: Beethoven - Sonata in C major op.53 (‘The Waldstein’)Schubert - Sonata in A minor DV 784 Liszt - 2 Petrarch Sonnets, Dante Sonata.

Tickets: £12 (£10) from Tickets Oxford (01865 305305) Times: 7:30pm Venue:The Jacqueline Du Pre Music Building (St Hilda’s College)

Page 13: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

13Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.comVisit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.c13 13= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Oxford Philomusica

Tickets 020 8450 1060, www.oxfordphil.com

Saturday 16 April Sheldonian Theatre, 7pm

BACH

St Matthew Passion, BWV 244 Oxford Bach Choir Marios Papadopoulos conductor

www.inoxfordmag.co.uk/competition.html

Jazz, World & Popular

190 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UETel: 01865 813 500 Web: www.o2academyoxford.co.uk

O2 Academy

Fri 29th Apr: Manchester based alt-indie group Spokes released their debut albumEveryone I Ever Met earlier this year on Ninja Tune to almost universal critical acclaim,effortlessly blending elements of shoegaze, folk and post-rock. Tickets: £6 Times:6:30pm, See website for further details and booking info.

Spokes

Tue 10th May: Grime MC Devlin first came to the public's attention in 2006 with hisTales from the Crypt mixtape. One of the longlist on last year's BBC Sound of 2010poll, Devlin tells tales of conspiracy theories, politics and Pavarotti over some of thefreshest grime beats. Tickets: £11 Times: 7:00pm See website for further detailsand booking info.

Devlin

Sun 3rd Apr: The Pigeon Detectives are pleased to announce details of a a newalbum, 'Up, Guards And At 'Em!', and their first UK headline shows since selling outLondon's Alexandra Palace at the end of 2008. Tickets: £14 Times: 7:00pm, Seewebsite for further details and booking info.

The Pigeon Detectives

FORTHCOMING EVENT

FORTHCOMING EVENT

Tue 10th May: The Secret Sisters present material from their debut album, a guileless,rapturous mixture of roots-ified pop. Tickets: £7.50 Times: 7:00pm, See websitefor further details and booking info.

Secret Sisters

More musical events at www.inoxford.com

Page 14: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 15: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

15Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.comVisit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.comVisit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.comfor more reviews, see www.inoxford.com15Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 15151515Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 15Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Cinema In OxfordApril Film ReleasesSelect highlights. Visit www.inoxford.com for more details.

Synopsis: Officially, Apollo 17, launched December 17th, 1972 was the last mannedmission to the moon. But a year later, in December of 1973, two American astronautswere sent on a secret mission to the moon funded by the US Department ofDefence. What you are about to see is the actual footage which the astronautscaptured on that mission. While NASA denies its authenticity, others say it's the realreason we've never gone back to the moon.

Apollo 18

Synopsis: Close your eyes. Open your mind. You will be unprepared. "Sucker Punch"is an epic action fantasy that takes us into the vivid imagination of a young girlwhose dream world provides the ultimate escape from her darker reality.Unrestrained by the boundaries of time and place, she is free to go where her mindtakes her, and her incredible adventures blur the lines between what's real and whatis imaginary.

Sucker Punch

Scream 4Synopsis: Sidney Prescott, now the author of a self-help book, returns home toWoodsboro on the last stop of her book tour. There she reconnects with SheriffDewey and Gale, who are now married, as well as her cousin Jill and her Aunt Kate.Unfortunately, Sidney's appearance also brings about the return of Ghostface,putting Sidney, Gale, and Dewey, along with Jill, her friends, and the whole town ofWoodsboro in danger.

ThorSynopsis: Thor, which spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to therealm of Asgard. At the centre of the story is the mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogantwarrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth byhis father Odin and is forced to live among humans. A beautiful, young scientist,Jane, has a profound effect on Thor, as she ultimately becomes his first love. It's whilehere on Earth that Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the mostdangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.

Picnic FilmFri 6th/Sat 7th/Sun 8th May: Come to Blenheim palace to see 2001: A SpaceOdyssey (Fri 6th May), Pulp Fiction (Sat 7th May) Casablanca (Sun 8th May) Pleasevisit www.picnicfilm.co.uk or contact us on 0844 248 5109

Page 16: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

University of Oxford Shop

Watercolour, Acrylic, Photography and Prints of views around the City.Artists displayed include Valerie Petts, Ken Messer, David Langford, John Bastin andmany more. On sale year round, commissions accepted.

106 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 247414.Web: www.oushop.com.

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com16

Art & Antiques In Oxford

Richard Spare PrintsNow available at Sarah Wiseman Gallerywww.wisegal.com40/41 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JL. 01865 515123.

Christ Church Picture Gallery

This exhibition will introduce the least known group of OldMaster drawings from Christ Church. The twenty-ninedrawings on display will offer a glimpse into the wide rangeof Neapolitan draughtsmanship, including works by Jusepede Ribera, Salvator Rosa and Luca Giordano.

Neapolitan and Spanish Drawings from the Baroque

Christ Church, Oxford, OX1 1DP (entrance via Oriel Square) Tel: 01865 276172 Web: www.chch.ox.ac.uk/gallery

1 October – 30 AprilMonday to Saturday: 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2pm to 4.30pmSunday: 2pm to 4.30pm

Admission: Adults £3, Concessions £2, U12s Free.Jusepe de Ribera (1590-1652) 'Saint Irene'

Rachel Ducker Wire Sculpture

Rachel specialises in sculptured wire figures concentrating on the expressive &emotional dynamics of human nature. Handcrafted from annealed steel wire,galvanised & black. Coloured enamelled copper wire hair. From 30cm to lifesize. Pricedetermined by size and complexity of the piece. Please call to find out more aboutviewing Rachel’s work.

Tel: 01865 311418. M: 07855 751756. Web: www.rachelducker.co.uk.

Page 17: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

OXFORD’S ANTIQUES & CRAFT CENTREChoose from a wide range of Antiques, Jewellery, Collectables &Books plus original works by local Craftspeople and Artists.Antiques on High, 85 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BG.Tel:01865-251075. Open: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm,Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am - 5pm.

www.antiquesonhigh.co.uk

More Arts & Antiques in Oxfordonline at www.inoxford.com

17Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Folly Bridge, Oxford. Tel: 07967 075367. Web: www.artcoursesoxford.com. E-mail: [email protected].

Kieran Stiles Art Studios

A range of beginner and advanced courses in painting, printmaking and life drawingwith a professional artist and experienced, qualified teacher. Mid-week and weekendtuition in a friendly atmosphere. Group sessions, all day workshops and individualtutorials. Exhibition space available. All in the inspiring setting of Folly Bridge, Oxford.

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com 17

Liscious Interiors

All vintage lovers must check out Liscious interiors on Walton Street. A great chanceto find an eclectic choice of quirky interior pieces. Antique crystal chandeliers, gildedmirrors, deep buttoned sofas and not forgetting a lovely selection of clothes, hatsand shoes from the 1920s to the 1950s.

125 Walton Street, Oxford OX2 6AH. Tel: 01865 552232.Web: www.liscious.co.uk.

Sanders of OxfordRare Prints & MapsSanders of Oxford, situated in the 17th century SalutationInn, has long been a landmark on the High Street. Ourselection of prints and maps, dating from the late 1500's,is extensive and encompasses a wide range of subjects,engravers and prices.

We currently have an extensive collection of Oxford printson display, including general views and material on all ofthe colleges. We also have an updated selection of antiqueJapanese woodblocks, and a comprehensive range ofEnglish county maps.

104 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 242590. E-mail: [email protected]. Web: www.sandersofoxford.com. Open: Mon to Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm.Admission: FREE.

Page 18: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com18 Join the Official InOxford Facebook Page @ www.facebook.com/inoxford18

Shopping In OxfordJust a five minute walk from the City Centre, Jericho is one ofOxford’s most fashionable districts. Encompassing Walton Street,Little Clarendon Street and, at a push, St Giles, Jericho is aconcentration of some of Oxford’s finest independent retailers andrestaurants.

Ladies Fashion Gis Jewellery Accessories

74a Walton St. Oxford OX2 6EA01865 510191 www.casaroseoxford.com

University of Oxford Shop

The University of Oxford Shop is wholly owned by the University and offers afantastic range of clothing, gifts and stationery for visitors and local residents alike.All of the profits are given back to the University, making a valuable contribution tothe work and teaching of this world-famous establishment.

106 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BW. Tel: 01865 247414.Web: www.oushop.com.

Rowell of Oxford Ltd.

Since 1797. The county’s leading pearl specialist. We also have an extensivecollection of antique and modern silverware and beautiful diamond and mixed gemset jewellery.

12 Turl Street, Oxford OX1 3DQ. Tel: 01865 242187. E-mail: [email protected].

The High Street, in the centre of Oxford, is one ofOxford's greatest streets. (“The stream like windings ofthat glorious street” – William Wordsworth c1820)

OxfordHigh Street

Page 19: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Oxford

River ThamesRiver Thames

Narrow Boat on CanalNarrow Boat on Canal

Didcot Railway

Page 20: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 21: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

21Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.comVisit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com21 21Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

The Hat BoxAvenue 3, The Covered Market, Oxford OX1 3DY. Tel: 01865 200844. Open: Mon to Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-5.30pm.

Oxford’s only specialist hat shop, catering to men and women with a range of hatsin colours to match outfits. Carries a wide range of hats and cocktail fascinators bythe best of British designers. A fast tailor-made service is available.

The Covered Market is a wonderful, unique experience in the towncentre of Oxford. A thriving, bustling, quirky and colourfulepicentre for some of Oxford’s finest independent traders.

Emma Walker Flowers

Emma Walker works alongside a team of highly creative individuals. Emma'sdistinctive arrangements are refined and luxurious, whether just to say “thank you”or for a lavish soiree. Her design style blends romanticism with modern styles and fabulous colours.Emma Walker Flowers is located in trendy Summertown, North Oxford. The shop is an aromatic andbeautiful haven from the busy city. Order online or browse the in-store arrangements and gifts. Contact usto talk about your wedding or corporate event. We guarantee to make it incredibly special and memorable.

35 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JN. Tel: 01865 558578. Web: www.emmawalkerflowers.co.uk. E-mail: [email protected]

Outlets at:Clarendon Centre, Summertown and

Waterstones Book Shop

Summertown, located just one mile from Oxford City Centre,boasts a mixture of great independents and strong nationalchains. Boosted by the arrival of the likes of Marks And Spenser,Majestic Wine, Costa Coffee and Starbucks, combined with thewidening of public walk ways, Summertown has managed toretain its independant and community feel.

Summertown

48 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1HZ.Tel: 01865 248249. Open Mon to Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 9.30am-5.30pm.

Uhuru Wholefoods

Organic and natural foods, locally produced foods, vegan and veggie takeaways,eco-friendly biodegradable products.

In East Oxford, the area is home to a multi cultural andeconomically diverse population. This part of the city isalso host to a large academic community.

CowleyRoad

More Shopping in Oxfordonline at www.inoxford.com

Page 22: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Science Oxford Live1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford OX4 1BD.Tel: 01865 810000. Web and Bookings: www.scienceoxfordlive.com.

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com2222

Events In Oxford

22 Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

The Age of the LaserThu 7th Apr: Half a century since they were invented, lasers are now used in millionsof appliances worldwide. But scientists also use them to solve the biggest problemsin modern science. Dr Kate Lancaster has already amazed viewers on BBC4 with theBeauty of Diagrams, and she will describe the incredible things that lasers can do.Times: 7.30pm Admission: £5/SO Live Friends Free

The events section is Sponsored by

Exploring the UniverseThu 14th Apr:To mark the 50th anniversary of the first manned spaceflight, ScienceOxford Live has invited Dr Marek Kukula from the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, toexplore what astronomers have learnt since then. Be prepared for exploding stars, amoon where liquid methane rains from orange clouds, and a monstrous black hole atthe centre of our Galaxy! Times: 7.30pm Admission: £5/SO, Live Friends Free

Untangling the WebThu 28th Apr: Modern scientific research relies on massive computers to unpick theenormous amounts of data that are generated. Dr Ian Collier from the RutherfordAppleton Laboratory will be at Science Oxford Live to tell us about the incredibletechnological achievements which have already taken place, and what we mightexpect in the future. Times: 7.30pm Admission: £5/SO Live Friends Free

Fri 13th May: Enjoy the atmosphere and Museum collections at this award-winningevent. Entertainment will include live bands, world music and a chance to explorethe Pitt Rivers by torchlight. This year we will also be hosting a 'Future Shorts'screening of innovative short films from up-and-coming directors. All this and morewill offer a great evening for all your friends and family. Free event entry on a first-come-first-served basis. Film showings for 75mins. at 6.30 & 8pm tickets £3(advance tickets coming soon). Free timed torchlight tickets are available onthe night. An adult must accompany children at all times. Times: 6:00pm - 10:00pm

Pitt Rivers MuseumAccess through the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, OxfordOX1 3PW. Tel: 01865 270927. Web: www.prm.ox.ac.uk. Admission: Free.

Pitt Rivers by torchlight

Page 23: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

23Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 23Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 23= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

University Church of St. Mary the VirginHigh Street, Oxford OX1 4BJ. Tel: 01865 279111. Web: www.university-church.ox.ac.uk. Open: 9am to 5pm (July and August 9am-6pm). Tower Admission: Adult £3, Children (under 16) £2.50.

St Mary's is situated at the historic heart of the City and University of Oxford.Thought to be the oldest university building in the world, the Tower was built in 1280, and the University’sreference library was added in 1320. It is worth the climb of 124 steps to make it to the top to enjoy fineuninterrupted views in all directions across Oxford and the surrounding countryside.

The events section is Sponsored by

FREE TRIAL CLASS!

Boars Hill

Cumnor

North Hinksey

Hinksey Park

Sunningwell

South Park

Sat 9th April - Mon 25th April: Eggsplore Millets Farm and complete our eggciting Easter egg hunts, beforefinding your way to our craft tent where children can enjoy a selection of eggsotic craft eggtivities. £4.75per child Times: 11am – 4pm

Millets Farm CentreKingston Road, Frilford, Nr Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5HB.Tel: 01865 392200. Web: www.milletsfarmcentre.com.Open: 7 days a week. Free entry and free car parking.

Easter Eggstravaganza

Page 24: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Events In Oxford

24 Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

The events section is Sponsored by

Central Library, Westgate, Oxford OX1 1DJ Tel: 01865 815525 Web: www.oxfordinspires.org

Fri 1st – Sat 30th Apr: Appearing to be artefacts from a hitherto unknown branchof science, Ethometric Instruments are curious, fascinating relics from a bygone age.Internationally acclaimed sound artist Ray Lee has assembled an extraordinarycollection of these obscure, yet compelling objects and is presenting the EthometricMuseum to the public for the first time at the world's oldest purpose built museum,the Museum of the History of Science in Oxford. Venue: Museum of the History of Science.Info: www.ocmevents.org

As well as working on a number of exciting projects – includingOxfordshire 2012, The Tree of Light and Oxford’s bid to become World BookCapital in 2014 – Oxford Inspires is continuing its work to promote the manywonderful events, shows, exhibitions and festivals that take place across thecounty. Info: www.oxfordinspires.org

Ethometric Museum at the Museum of the History of Science

Wed 27th Apr – Mon 2nd May: Oxford May Music returns for its fourth seasonunder Artistic Director Jack Liebeck, bringing together a traditional mix of lectures onscience and the arts from some of the world’s leading authorities, with concerts fromsome of the world’s most exciting performers. Highlights from this years programmeinclude a lecture by BBC presenter Professor Brian Cox and a performance by theTippett String Quartet. Venue: Holywell Music Room. Info: www.oxfordmaymusic.co.uk

Oxford May Music Festival

Thu 21st – Sun 24th Apr: Make a date in Oxford this Easter for a weekend of inspiredjazz in more than 30 venues across the city. Over four days, jazz villages will bespringing up over the city – Cowley Road, Jericho, Summertown, the West End and theCity Centre – each with its own unique character. This year the Oxford Jazz Festival’stheme is “Celebrating British Jazz” and each night sees a headline performance froma major British artist. Venue: Various Venues across Oxford. Info: www.oxfordjazzfestival.com

The Oxford Jazz Festival

Sat 2nd – Sun 10th Apr: The Sunday Times Oxford Literary Festival offers a wonderfulrange of talks, discussions, debates, readings, literary lunches and dinners in theexceptional and beautiful surroundings of Christ Church and Corpus Christi College.Now in its 15th year, the festival has gone from strength to strength to become oneof the most vibrant literary events on offer anywhere in the country. Venue: VariousVenues across Oxford. Info: www.oxfordliteraryfestival.com

The Sunday Times Oxford Literary Festival

Until Sun 17th Apr: Oxfords' cultural magazine show ‘The Hub’ returns to BBCOxford (95.2FM) on Sunday nights at 9.00pm for its spring series. The show isproduced by Oxford Inspires with the help of volunteers from Oxford BrookesUniversity, the University of Oxford and cultural organisations from around the city.Highlights of this series include coverage of Dancin Oxford, Artweeks and the SundayTimes Oxford Literary Festival. Info: www.oxfordinspires.org

The Hub

Wed 6th Apr: Banbury’s internationally renowned Anjali Dance Company return totheir home base at The Mill for their yearly fundraising gala event featuring danceperformances from every area of the Company’s activities. Proceeds will go to AnjaliDance Company to support the full range of Company projects. Venue: The Mill ArtsCentre. Info: www.themillartscentre.co.uk

Anjali Dance Company Gala Performance at the Mill Arts Centre

Page 25: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

25Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

experience it for yourself

E S C A P I S M

Free 7 day trial for 2 people at The Oxfordshire Health & Racquets Club

4 indoor Tennis Courts

3 Squash Courts and 4 Badminton Courts

Heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools and separate baby pool

Relaxing Sauna, steam room and spa

State-of-the-art tness arena with the latest equipment

designated exercise studios and over 60 classes per week

Tranquility Health & Beauty Spa (treatments and products available at additional cost)

Enjoy the following:

Call today to book your free 7 day trial

The Oxfordshire Health & Racquets Club 269c Woodstock Road,Oxford OX2 7NZ

Tel: 01865 318318 Web:

www.esporta.com by

health & racquets clubOXFORDSHIRE

Page 26: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Event Review

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com26

The must attend event in Oxfordshire this summer is surely the outdoor cinemaweekend at beautiful Blenheim Palace. The event, hosted by Picnicfilm Ltd. fromFriday 6th to Sunday 8th May, promises to offer a unique cinemagraphicexperience. Coupled with a desire to show iconic movies, source tasty foods fromlocal producers, send a strong environmental message and to promotecommunity; we thought we’d better take a closer look. Our editor, Richard Rosser,had a chance to speak to the Directors and find out a bit more about theirconcept and vision.

Q: Let’s start with an obvious one – what have you decided to show and why?

A: We open with Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, 2001: A Space Odyssey, the digitallyre-mastered version. It’s a stunning epic, probably the greatest film of its genre. OnSaturday, we are showing the extended version of Pulp-Fiction, with three additionalscenes …… this was our most requested movie. We conclude with Casablanca, a classicyou can never tire of. Our huge screen was built to order in Germany, we have anincredibly powerful high definition projector that delivers a crystal clear image and anarrayed quadraphonic sound system designed by professional sound engineers.

Q: So where do the picnics come in – do we bring our own or do you supply?

A:We provide fantastic gourmet hampers stocked with mostly locally sourced produce.Some of the rare hams, cheeses and artisan breads we have tasted are amazing. Thereare so many goodies in the hampers, including mixed salads, pate’s, crisps, antipasto,pasta, grilled vegetables, fruit selections, some lovely vinaigrette dressings anddelectable chocolates. The hampers also include bottled water, wine (Champagne in theVIP packages) and coffee for afters.

Q: What’s the plan if, heaven forbid, it rains?

A: We’re prepared – ponchos in each hamper, Monday is our reserve day, but let’s bepositive! Ultimately, you can get a refund, so we’ve got you covered.

Q: I know that the environment has been a key consideration for you in your planning.

A: Sourcing product locally minimise our carbon footprint and most of our tickets arefor four people so we hope there will be some car pooling! But, on a more serious note,even our tableware is compostable (not to be confused with bio-degradable) andreduces to dust in less than 6 weeks! If the knives or forks were to end up in a streamwithin a couple of hours, the fish can eat them as they are made of compressed potatostarch. Our ultra comfortable bean bags and cushions, which are available for hire, aremade from recycled wool, as are the picnic blankets.

Picnicfilm have certainly thought of everything, with a licensed bar, fresh popcorn, softdrinks, sweets, ice cream. Tickets are also incredible value; the ‘Friends Blankets’ are for4 people at £99 + vat. There are ‘Couples Blankets’ and VIP Champagne packages aswell.

An amazing local venue, terrific value, big cinema, great films, food and drink, butmost importantly, a fantastic experience shared with your family andfriends.....visit www.picnicfilm.co.uk.

Page 27: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

27Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Page 28: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Oxford's oldest new quarter, once home to the infamous Oxford Prison and nowhome to an exciting hub of 8 restaurants, including Malmaison, Café 1071, Prezzo, LaTasca, Pizza Express, Krispy Kreme, The Real China, The Living Room and The Swan andCastle, and the gorgeous Malmaison Boutique Hotel. The Castle also has an exciting visitor attraction'Oxford Castle Unlocked,' where the secrets of the castle have been unlocked, revealing episodes of Violence,Executions, Great Escapes, Betrayal and even Romance. For art lovers there is the O3 Gallery, with a dynamicprogramme of exhibitions all year round.

Guide Friday City Sightseeing Bus ToursOxford Railway Station, Park End Street, OX1 1HS. Tel: 01865 790522.Tours operate all day every day except Christmas/Boxing and Newyears day. Web: www.citysightseeingoxford.com.Our award winning one hour tour takes you on a fascinating journey around both thefamous University colleges and the historic buildings of the city itself. Hop on and offat any of our nineteen bus stops around the town. All buses have live guides or recorded commentary in upto thirteen languages.

Carfax TowerJunction of St Aldates and High Street, Oxford OX1 4AZ. Tel: 01865 792653. Open: 10.00 to 3pm. Admission: £2.20, Children £1.10.

In 1818 St Martin’s church was rebuilt complete with tower. However, the church,apart from its tower, was demolished in 1896. The tower is all that remains today.Two ‘quarter boys’ who hit the bells at every quarter hour adorn the east facade of the church clock.Climb up 99 steps to get a sweeping view of Oxford’s spires.

Cornmarket St., Oxford. Tel: 01865 240940. Web: www.smng.org.uk.Open: 10.30am-5pm (10.30am-4pm in Winter). Admission: Adults:£2.00, Concessionaires: £1.50, Children (under 16): £1.00St Michael at the North Gate is the oldest building in Oxford and is definitely wortha visit! There’s also a treasury of silver and bronze dating back to the 1600s and youcan also see a copy of the church accounts dating back hundreds of years. The tower is the easiest climb inOxford, with good solid stairs including a handrail. From the top of the tower there is a marvellous view ofthe city of Oxford and its famous "dreaming spires".

St Michael at the North Gate

Attractions In Oxford

Cherwell Boathouse - PuntingBardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6ST (1 mile from the town centre).Tel: 01865 515978. Web: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk.

Enjoy the quintessential Oxford experience punting on the River Cherwell. With over70 hand built punts, boats and canoes. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in a beautifultranquil environment on the river.

More Attractionsonline at www.inoxford.com

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com28

Oxford Castle43 Oxford Castle, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1AY.Tel: 01865 20165. www.oxfordcastle.com.

Tourist information Centre15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS.Tel: 01865 252200. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com

The Tourist information Centre staff provide an extensive range of services to helpmake your stay enjoyable and memorable. We offer a wide range of guides, maps,souvenirs and local produce.

Official Guided Walking Tours15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS. Tel: 01865 252037. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.visitoxfordandoxfordshire.com

The best way to explore Oxford is on foot. We have a wonderful selection of toursfrom University and City Tours to Pottering in Harry Potters Footsteps.

Page 29: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 30: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

106 High Street, Oxford www.oushop.com

New 2011 clothing range now in stock at the University’s official shop!

Page 31: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

31Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 31

Oxford House School of English67 High Street, Wheatley, Oxford OX33 1XT. Tel: 01865 874786.E-mail: [email protected]. Web: www.oxfordhouseschool.co.uk.

Language Schools

International Schools

College of International EducationBocardo House, 24B St Michael’s Street, Oxford OX1 2EB. Tel: 01865 202238. Web: www.cie-oxford.com.

The College of International Education (CIE) is a small college, located in the centreof Oxford, opposite the famous Oxford Union. We offer English Language, Academic,Foundation Year and Pre-Boarding courses. Tuition is in small classes (max 8), given by dedicated andwell-qualified teachers.

High-quality intensive language courses in both general and specialist Englishthroughout the year. Established in 1983, their courses are ideal for those who wish to increase theeffectiveness of their English for work, travel or university entrance.

Eckersley Oxford14 Friars Entry, Oxford OX1 2BZ. Tel: 01865 721268.Web: www.eckersley.co.uk.

Our 4-week intensive Trinity College London CertTESOL is recognised by the BritishCouncil as an initial English language teaching qualification.

The next course starts on 28 March, fee £875. Email now for further information and application pack:[email protected]

Education In Oxford

EF International Language CentreOxford, Pullens Lane, Oxford, OX3 0DT Tel: +44 (0)1865 759660

The EF International Language Centre in Oxford offers students from around the worlda newly refurbished, purpose-built learning environ ment. With facilities including alibrary, a cafeteria, a student lounge, a fit ness suite and a quiet study room, this is theperfect place to study English. In addition, we offer expert exam preparation, includingTOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge ESOL as well as a range of other courses to suit all students’ needs.

CertTESOL - our course could be your passport to the world!

Education in Oxford online now atwww.inoxford.com

Page 32: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com32

Education Review

St. Clare’s is an international, residential college which specialises in teachingthe International Baccalaureate Diploma in Oxford.

The UK government recently released its league tables for all schools in England andSt. Clare’s was ranked 11th in the country and number one in Oxfordshire. The leaguetables look at how secondary schools performed in the IB and in A Levels and calculatethe average points scored per student. The information refers to the 2010 results.

St Clare’s Principal, Paula Holloway, was understandably overjoyed with the results. “Iam both delighted and extremely proud of our results. Our students have performedquite amazingly considering that, for many, English is their second language.

“A crucial combination of small class sizes, students who are serious about their work,the IB curriculum, excellent teachers and a supportive pastoral environment helpnurture our students and, I sincerely believe, give them an undoubted edge when itcomes to performing in the examinations.”

The St Clare’s campus is located in North Oxford. Students live in stylish houses closeto shops, cafés, restaurants, sports facilities, libraries and riverside parks. St. Clare’ssuccessfully combines a modern, forward-looking approach to education with thetraditions which have made Oxford one of the intellectual capitals of the world.

Particular emphasis is placed on fulfilling the College mission. "To advance InternationalEducation and Understanding." St. Clare's is home to students from forty four differentcountries and students are encouraged to pursue their education in a spirit of enquiry,open-mindedness and tolerance.

Tel: 01865 552031E-Mail: [email protected]: www.stclares.ac.uk

Institution Name Average point score per student for 2010

Local Authority Average 721.3

England Average (all schools and FE colleges) 744.8

England Average (excluding independent schools) 726.5

St Clare’s 1160.5

Magdalen College School 1116

Oxford High School 1088.4

Radley College 1047.9

St Helen and St Katharine 1018.1

Abingdon School 1010.5

Headington School 1002.9

Faringdon Community College 929.8

D’Overbroeck’s College 909.7

The Cherwell School 884.9

Page 33: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

33Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Page 34: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 35: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 36: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT WWW.INOXFORD.COM

A

4500 Miles From DelhiWe have 25 x £50 vouchers for only £25 each. Take this opportunity to eat at one of Oxford's nest Indian Restaurants.

Hurry – these will go fast!Terms & Conditions:

Please make sure you read: Must be used within 2 months of purchase, offer does not include drinks.

One voucher between two. Vouchers are not refundable.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

4500 Miles From Delhi can be contacted on 01865 244922.

This voucher entitles the bearer to

£50 worth of food at

4500 Miles From Delhi, Oxford

Bourton Mill Health and Leisure ClubDue to the extraordinary success of the Bourton Mill vouchers, we have now got just ve annual memberships (worth £540) a month to sell for just £150. Memberships give you full access to the gym’s facilities and classes at all times. Terms & Conditions:

Please make sure you read: Offer not available to existing or renewing members. Vouchers are not refundable.

Do not purchase this voucher if you have been a Bourton Mill member in the past 12 months as you will not be entitled

to the membership and you will not receive a refund.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Bourton Mill, Oxford can be contacted on 01865 251261.

This voucher entitles the bearer to

an annual memberships at Bourton

Mill Health & Leisure Club, Oxford

Malmaison BrasserieWe have 100 x £50 Malmaison Brasserie vouchers for only £25 each. Take this opportunity to eat at one of Oxford's trendiest restaurants.Terms & Conditions:

Please make sure you read: Must call to book table in advance upon receipt of your voucher. Must present voucher on arrival.

Cannot be used for times which have not been pre-booked. Applicable any day or time during restaurant hours.

Applicable to food and drink. Vouchers are not refundable and have no cash equivalent.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Malmasion Brasserie can be contacted on 01865 268400.

This voucher entitles the bearer to

£50 worth of food and drink at

Malmaison Brasserie, Oxford

Shanghai 30’sWe have 20 x £50 vouchers for only £25 each. Take this opportunity to eat at one of Oxford's nest Chinese Restaurants.

C

£25 voucher worth £50

£150 voucher worth £540

£25 voucher worth £50

B

£25 voucher worth £50

£

Electric HairWe have 10 x £62.50 vouchers for Electric Hair Salon in Oxford for just £25 each. Electric are one of the UKs most exciting and rapidly expanding Hairdressing brands, and we have teamed up with them to oer you a bespoke visit giving you the opportunity to receive a cut and nish.

Terms & Conditions:

Must call to book in advance upon receipt of your voucher. Must present voucher on arrival. Cannot be used for times which

have not been pre-booked. Applicable any day or time during salon hours. Vouchers are not refundable.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Electric Hair can be contacted on 01865 790440.

This voucher entitles the bearer

to a cut and finish worth £62.50

£25 voucher worth £62.50

£

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Shanghai 30’s can be contacted on 01865 242230.

Terms & Conditions:

Offer does not include drinks and is valid for two months from date of purchase.

Only one voucher to be used per bill. Vouchers are not refundable.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

This voucher entitles the bearer to

£50 worth of food at Shanghai 30’s

SHANGHAI 30’S

th £50oroucher w£25 v

th £540oroucher w£150 v

th £50oroucher w£25 v

th £62.50oroucher w£25 v

FOR MORE DET

VISIT AILS RE DET TAILS

th £50oroucher w£25 v

VISIT

Page 37: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

WWW.INOXFORD.COM

Andrea and AchilleWe have 20 x £50 Andrea and Achille vouchers for only £25 each. Experience a unique and relaxing hair cut and colour at Andrea and Achille – Oxfordshire’s leading hair colour specialists in KidlingtonTerms & Conditions:

Must call to book in advance upon receipt of your voucher. Cannot be used for times which have not been pre-booked.

Voucher will be deducted from price of treatment. See www.andreaandachille.com for further details.

Vouchers are not refundable.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Please see www.andreaandachille.com for contact information

This voucher entitles the bearer

to Experience a unique and

relaxing hair cut and colour

at Andrea and Achille

Ethos HotelWe have just 10 Sunday evening stays at the ultra chic Ethos Hotel to give away for just £75 – represents a saving of over £50!!!!

Terms & Conditions: Room only. Sunday Nights Only. Subject to availability.

Vouchers are not refundable

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Ethos Hotel can be contacted on 01865 245 800.

This voucher entitles the bearer

to a nights stay at the

Ethos Hotel, Oxford

Malmaison HotelWe have just 8 cell rooms to 'cell' every month for just £75 - normal rate £170. While you’re at it, why not buy one of our £50 brasserie vouchers for just £25, and get £220 worth of value for just £100!

Terms & Conditions: Room only. Not available for Saturday nights. Subject to availability.

TO BOOK ROOMS - IMPORTANT!:

1. Call In Oxford Magazine directly on 01865 742211 asking for Richard or

email [email protected] with your preferred dates of accommodation

Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Malmaison can be contacted on 0845 365 4247.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

This voucher entitles the bearer

to a nights stay at the

Malmaison Hotel, Oxford

Coee RepublicWe have teamed up with Coee Republic to oer you something special – a £5 voucher every day for 10 days, worth £50 but yours for just £25. Share it with friends or keep it close to your chest

BuildbasePlanning on buying a kitchen or bathroom? Or maybe looking to buy materials to do something special in the home? Why not buy one of our Buildbase vouchers? Worth £100, you pay just £50 for the vouchers to use against your intended purchase.

Terms & Conditions: Vouchers are not refundable.Contact details: SOX and B4 Rewards can be contacted on 01865 742211.

Johnsons Buildbase can be contacted on 01865 787701.

Name

Exp Date

Voucher Number

This voucher entitles the bearer

to £100 worth of goods at

Johnsons buildbase

£50 voucher worth £100

£

£75 voucher worth £125

E

£25 voucher worth £50

£25 voucher worth £50

£75 voucher worth £170

th £125oroucher w£75 v

th £125

th £100oroucher w£50 v

th £100

th £50oroucher w£25 v

th £50

th £50oroucher w£25 v

th £50

WWW

.CXFORD.INOWWW

th £170oroucher w£75 v

OM.C

th £170

Page 38: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 39: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Dear In Oxford Magazine

Thank you very much for a wonderful prize of a two hour (although ended upmore like three!) cooking lesson for two people with Russell Heeley, Head Chefat Malmaison, Oxford Castle.

Will (my other half) and I went on Sunday 20th February, and on arrival we were treatedto a delicious three course Sunday lunch, which was scrumptious. After lunch, Russellcame out to meet us and ran through the plans for the rest of the afternoon, along withwhat not to do and the risks (all Health & Safety stuff) involved in working in a kitchen,particularly a kitchen as big as this one.

Will and I were then handed our chef whites and went off to get changed, arriving backin the kitchen looking, almost, ‘the part’! We then met Spike, Russell’s sous chef andsorted our plan of action. I worked with Spike to make some short pastry for a chickenpie, whilst Will and Russell made the chicken filling. We then made a sweet pastry andthe filling for a glazed upside down chocolate tart, whilst Will and Russell made Salmonen croute. The last thing we made was a mixed berry soufflé, which rose beautifully andwas really rather delicious.

Once we had finished cooking (and eating our concoctions!) we then had a tour of thekitchens and the processes that happen there were explained, who does what, where,when. It was really interesting to see what happens in a restaurant at a busy timebehind closed doors. We then had to dash to save getting under their feet for the busySunday evening they had ahead!

Huge thanks to all those at the Malmaison, particularly those in the kitchens who putup with us for the afternoon!!

Rachael Hodnett (of Kemp and Kemp), Big Draw winner of the Head Chefexperience for two.

Photography by Peter Kuzmin

& Shelley Yates

Page 40: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 41: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 42: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies/Entertainment One UK Limited 2003.www.peppapig.com

© Astley Baker Davies/Entertainment One UK Limited 2008.

www.littlekingdom.co.uk

Peppa Pig and Georgeas well as Ben and Holly from

“Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom”at Blenheim Palace24th – 25th April*

for more informationvisit blenheimpalace.comor call 01993 811 091.

BUY ONE DAY GET 12 MONTHS FREE IN 2011

Britain’s Greatest PalaceBuy One Day Get 12 Months FreeTerms & conditions apply

Stars of the BAFTA Award winningTV programmes will be coming toBlenheim Palace to meet families atthe Pleasure Gardens this EasterSunday and Monday!

* Characters will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day

like us on facebookwww.facebook.com/blenheimpalace

Page 43: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

4343

Stagecoach Theatre Arts OxfordTel: Maya Sprigg 01869 278600.Web: www.stagecoach.co.uk/oxford. Email: [email protected].

Stagecoach is a part time Theatre Arts School providing singing, dance and dramaclasses for children aged 4-18 years with centres in Headington and North Oxford.Students gain experience and training in all aspects of theatre while having a lot offun! Term time classes on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Holiday Workshops announced!Join the Holiday workshops for 2011 during the Spring and Summer holidays - choose from junior showsThe Phantom of the Theatre or Arabian Nights, senior shows Broadway or Bust or Churchill’s Children, orthe advanced course ‘Sweeney Todd’. No experience necessary, but enthusiasm essential! Book soon asplaces are limited!

Science Oxford Live1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford OX4 1BD.Tel: 01865 810000. Web: www.scienceoxfordlive.com.

Kids In Oxford

‘Sponsors of the kids Section’Visit www.inoxford.com for a comprehensive list of Children's activities

The Science of MagicTue 12th & Thu 19th April: An entertaining and interactive show where all the magictricks use science. Can you work out how they are done? We encourage you to doprecisely that. Suitable for 6+ Times: 11am, 2pm, 3.30pm Admission: £5 for showand admission/SO Live Friends Free

What’s My Line?Wed 13th Apr: For this fun and fast-paced science game show, come as a team withfriends or family, meet scientists and engineers, quiz them about the clues they havebrought with them and see if you can work out what they do for a living. Prizes willbe awarded so bring your competitive spirit with you! Suitable for 9-13 Times:6.30pm Admission: Free

K'Nex CastlesThu 14th Apr: Try your hand at building a castle with the construction toy, K’nex. Willit have strong enough walls and towers to keep intruders at bay or a drawbridge andportcullis for added security? Suitable for 8+ Times:10am, 2pm Admission: £5 forworkshop and admission/SO Live Friends Free

Rickety RocketsWed 20th Apr: When rockets are launched from the earth they withstand greatamounts of force and vibration. How stable can you make a rocket made fromspaghetti and marshmallows? Suitable for 5+ Times: 11am or 2pm Admission: £5for workshop and admission/SO Live Friends Free

With lots to see and do, including Farm Shop selling farm produced food, GardenCentre, Restaurants, Farm Zoo, Children’s Play Area, Woodland Walk and lots ofseasonal events. A great day out for ALL the family.

Millets Farm CentreKingston Road, Frilford, Nr Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5HB.Tel: 01865 392200. Web: www.milletsfarmcentre.com.Open: 7 days a week. Free entry and free car parking.

Page 44: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com44 Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com44

Oxford CityMap

22

25

26

7

56

3

4

21

24

1

23

Page 45: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

summertown

45Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 45Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

7 Apartments In Oxford

Ethos Hotel

Royal Oxford Hotel

YHA

River Hotel

ACCOMMODATION

20

5

4

21

Mission Mexican Grill (1)

Mission Mexican Grill (2)

Shanghai 30’s

Quod

RESTAURANTS

3

13

18

10

The Perch23

8 Bourton Mill Gym

TAO

LEISURE AND HEALTH

17

15 Christ Church Picture Gallery

Oxford Castle

Christ Church College

The Ashmolean Museum

ATTRACTIONS

22

16

24

19 Cafe Loco

The Rose

CAFE’S

9

14 Oxford University Press Bookshop

University Of Oxford Shop

Sanders of Oxford

Lacy’s Boutique

SHOPS

12

11

1

Randolph Hotel

Malmaison Hotel

25

26

19

18

17

20

1413 12 11 10

8

9

16

15

Page 46: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com46 Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com46

Oxford CountyMap

3

7

4

26

5

1

Witneyshopping

1 Didcot Railway Centre

Buscot Park & The Faringdon Collection

Blenheim Palace

Cotswold Wildlife Park

AROUND OXFORDSHIRE

2

3

4

Millets Farm Centre

Kingston Bagpuize House

5

6

Page 47: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

47Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 47Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 4747

Around Oxfordshire

Woodstock

3

Faringdon

Buscot Park & The Faringdon CollectionFaringdon, Oxfordshire.SN7 8BU. Tel: 01367 240932 Information Line)Web: www.buscotpark.com. Open: 1 April - 30 September.House, Gardens& Tearoom Wed,Thu, Fri and the following weekends in April: 9/10,22/252.00pm-6.00pm (last admission to House 5.00pm).Gardens only: Mon,Tue,2.00pm-6.00pm.

Home of the Great Western Society and its unique collection of Great WesternRailway steam engines, coaches, wagons, buildings and small relics and a recreation of Brunel's broad gaugerailway. Steamdays 2/3/13/22/23/24/25/30 Apr, 1/2/28/29/30 May, 1/4/5/11/12/18/19/25/26 June

Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NJ. Tel: 01235 817200.Web: www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk. Admission: £5-£10.Open: Every weekend, daily 28th May - 11th September.

Didcot Railway Centre 1

2

Didcot

Blenheim PalaceWoodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PX. Tel: 0800 849 6500Web: www.blenheimpalace.com. Open: Palace & Gardens Open Daily 10.30am-5.30pm (last admission 4.45pm). Park open daily 9am-4.45pm.

There is so much in store for Easter and the Bank Holiday at Blenheim Palace includingthe Great Blenheim Palace Easter Egg Challenge on 22nd and 23rd April, Peppa Pig andGeorge as well as Ben and Holly from “Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom” on 24th and25th April, and A Royal Joust to celebrate the Royal wedding on 29th April when youcan join us to watch the wedding on a large screen on the South Lawn! Fair groundrides and a bouncy castle will be in place for the Easter weekend, and a beautifulEaster display will adorn the Grand Saloon table inside the Palace.The stunning FormalGardens at Blenheim Palace are awash with daffodils at this time of year makingwalks in the Park a delight.

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

One of Oxfordshire’s best kept secrets!Family home of Lord Faringdon, who looks after the property on behalf of the National Trust, together withthe family collection of pictures, furniture, ceramics and objets d'art, known as the Faringdon Collection.Includes Burne-Jones's famous series, The legend of the Briar Rose.The enchanting gardens contain thespectacular Water Garden designed by Harold Peto in 1904 for the first Lord Faringdon.

The Great Blenheim Palace Easter Egg Challenge22nd - 23rd Apr:There is a whole host of family fun to be had in the Pleasure Gardenswith our cracking Easter Egg Challenge and traditional Fun Fair rides.

Peppa Pig and George as well as Ben and Holly from “Ben & Holly’s Little KingdomSun 24th - Mon 25th Apr:The stars of the BAFTA Award winning TV programmes Peppa Pig and George fromseries “Peppa Pig”, as well as Ben and Holly from “Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom” are coming to BlenheimPalace to meet families at the Pleasure Gardens on Easter Sunday and Monday!

PA Royal Joust at Blenheim PalaceFri 29th Apr: Celebrating the Royal Wedding of HRH Prince William and Kate Middleton join us for a Royalparade from 1pm through Woodstock to the South Lawn. A big screen will show the Royal wedding whilstyou enjoy a picnic and the Royal Joust.

Free Annual Pass Offer - BUY ONE DAY GET 12 MONTHS FREE IN 2011!

Page 48: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

48Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.comVisit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com48 48

Around Oxfordshire

Abingdon

5

Beyond Oxfordshire

With lots to see and do, including Farm Shop selling farm produced food, GardenCentre, Restaurants, Farm Zoo, Children’s Play Area, Woodland Walk and lots ofseasonal events. A great day out for ALL the family.

Millets Farm CentreKingston Road, Frilford, Nr Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5HB.Tel: 01865 392200. Web: www.milletsfarmcentre.com.Open: 7 days a week. Free entry and free car parking.

The Hawk Conservancy Trust is an award winning visitor centre and conservation charity that has for manyyears worked in the fields of conservation, education, rehabilitation and research of birds of prey. Set in 22acres of woodland and wildflower meadow, there are over 150 birds of prey on view, from owls to eagles!Visitors are offered three spectacular flying demonstrations, there are tractor rides, duck racing, ferretracing, a Raptor Passport Trail and each visitor can hold a bird of prey! Ample free parking. Coffee Shop andGift Shop on site. Allow at least four hours for your visit – there is so much to see and do!

The Hawk Conservancy TrustVisitor Centre, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 8DY.Tel: 01264 773850. Web: www.hawk-conservancy.org.Open: Open: Seven days a week 10am-5.30pm (from 13.02.10).

Cotswold Wildlife Park is set in 160 acres of parkland around a Listed Victorian ManorHouse. This is the ideal time of year to see the exotic planting in the Walled Gardenand the beautiful landscaping of the parkland. Visit the walk-through Madagascar exhibit with free-roaming lemurs. A short talk takes place here daily at mid-day on the plight of these animals in theirrapidly declining natural habitat. Please note that this area is only open from 11am-3.30pm.

Burford

Burford, Oxford OX18 4JP. Tel: 01993 823006.Web: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk. Open: Every Day from 10am.

Cotswold Wildlife Park 4

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com48

If you are motivated, willing to learn and want to succeed? If the answer is yes then I want to talk to you.

Successful Driven People required

Call Emma Bellenie on 07788 698405 or email: [email protected]

Can you work within a team, working part time exible hours around current commitments and would like to

work for a company that oers international travel, car plan and prot share?

Contact me for more details

Page 49: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Macdonald Randolph Hotel

Hotel Group of the Year Winner 2007-8

The Randolph Hotel, Beaumont Street,Oxford OX1 2LN.

www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Randolph

Contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on 0844 879 9132 for moreinformation or email [email protected]

For more information on Perfect Days Inspirational Design & Coordination email [email protected]

The Randolph Hotel will share with you the secrets of an unforgettable wedding.

Catwalk Fashion Show by Perfect Days

Incentives available for weddings confirmed on the day

FREE ADMISSION

wedding fayreSunday 10th April 2011

10.00am - 4.00pm

Page 50: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

50Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com50

In OxfordHealth, Sport & Leisure

Golf and Sport Fixtures online at: www.inoxford.com

Sport

Court Place Farm, Marston, Oxford Tel: 01865 744493www.oxfordcityfc.co.uk.

Oxford City Football Club

Sat 2nd Apr (H)Oxford City FC v Salisbury City 3:00pm

The Kassam Stadium, Grenoble Road, Oxford OX4 4XP.Tel: 01865 337533. Web: www.oufc.co.uk.

Oxford United Football Club

Sat 2nd Apr (A)Oxford United v Bury 3:00pm

Get Behind The U’s!Save money by booking your tickets before the day of the game.

Sat 9th Apr (H)Oxford United v Wycombe 3:00pm

Sat 16th Apr (A)Oxford United v Accrington 3:00pm

Sat 23rd Apr (H)Oxford United v Chesterfield 3:00pm

Sat 9th Apr (A)Oxford City FC v Halesowen Town 3:00pm

Sat 16th Apr (H)Oxford City FC v Banbury United 3:00pm

Sat 23rd Apr (H)Oxford City FC v Leamington 3:00pm

Mon 25th Apr (A)Oxford City FC v Didcot Town 3:00pm

Our new 4* hotel, now taking bookings.

T I M E TO R E L A X

The Oxfordshire, Rycote Lane, Milton Common, Thame, Oxon. OX9 2PU

For more information or to make a reservation:

01844 278300 [email protected] theoxfordshire.com

Golf

Mon 25th Apr (A)Oxford United v Barnet 3:00pm

(H)Oxford United v Lincoln City 3:00pmSat 30th Apr

Page 51: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

For more information [email protected]

The Straight Mile, Horton-cum-Studley, Oxon OX33 1BF.

Tel: 01865 351144 Fax: 01865 351166www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk

Studley Wood . . . for everything golf

Join Studley Woodthe premier golf club in Oxfordshire

A superb golf course reputed to havesome of the best greens in the countryEnjoy the challenge of our outstanding golf course 365 days a year,with indoor & outdoor covered practice facilities.Studley Wood, a modern golf club with traditional values

NORTH OXFORD GOLF CLUB

Banbury Rd., Oxford, OX2 8EZ Tel: 01865 554924 Web: www.nogc.co.uk

NOGC is a 100 year old, parkland, 18 hole golf course, 10 minutes from theCity Centre on the main bus route. Summer post 2pm special at £19 mid-weekand £22 at the weekends, £13 per round for Students and £7 Juniors. Differentmembership categories available. We are a modern friendly members golf clubwith a totally refurbished interior, and the best clubhouse views in Oxfordshire.We offer visitors and societies a very warm welcome to enjoy our challengingmembers' golf course.

Southfield Golf Club

Superb 18-hole golf cource in the heart of Oxford.Designed by the renowned Harry Colt, and overlooking the dreaming spires, the course is an excellent challenge for golfers of all standards.

The golf club welcomes golfers of all ages, genders and abilities and is currently offering Individual Membership with a first year discount for

new members and NO joining fee.

Special Corporate memberships deals are also available, with packages that can be tailored to suit your company and business needs.

www.southeldgolf.comT: 01865 242158

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com 51

Bicester Hotel, Golf and SpaOxfordshire, OX26 1TE Tel: 01869 241204 Web: www.bicestercountryclub.co.uk

Bicester Hotel, Golf and Spa sits in 134 acres of stunning countryside with tranquilgardens and an 18 hole golf course, it is the perfect Oxfordshire venue, ideal for leisurebreaks, business and golf. Inside you will discover chic accommodation, a luxury healthclub and spa, a comprehensive range of conference & banqueting facilities, excellent restaurants, a sportsbar showing all major sporting events and our own OFSTED registered crèche.

Page 52: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

34 St Ebbes Street Oxford OX1 1PU For more information visit www.electric-hair.com

or call: 01865 790440

BRIGHTON | OXFORD | READING | LONDON

Hair by Mark Woolley & the Electric Art Team

I

Page 53: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

53Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

It is our aim to provide the highest quality of Dental Care in a relaxed and friendlyenvironment, with the most up to date methods and equipment available. The safetyand comfort of our patients is always our primary concern.

Diamond House - Dental Practice199 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7AR. Tel: 01865 559521.Web: www.diamondhouse.co.uk.

1st floor, Above The Globe Newsmarket, 99 St Aldates OX1 1BT.Tel: 01865 249347. Open: Monday to Saturday. Web: www.taobeautyoxford.co.uk

Established in 1968, Tao offers a wide range of beauty treatments includingDermalogica, St Tropez Airport, Jessica Nail Care, Non Surgical face lifts and muchmore.

TAO Beauty Salon

8 Oxford Rd, Kidlington OX5 1AA. Tel: 01865 374772.Web: www.andreaandachille.com. E-mail: [email protected].

The brand new location of Andrea & Achille Salons, located in Kidlington. With thearea’s leading hair colour specialists.

Andrea & Achille

Holiday Inn Oxford, Peartree Roundabout, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 8JD.Tel: 01865 888444. Web: www.spirithealthclubs.co.uk.

Spirit Health Club

If you’re looking for a health club with a personal touch then you’ve come to the rightplace. Our Lifestyle Consultants provide the kind of one-to-one guidance that hasalready helped thousands of members achieve their goals – and are ready now tohelp you reach yours. From dietary advice that’s calculated to boost your energy and inner health, to aunique personal exercise plan that’s designed to help you look your best, we’re ready to make sure you geteven more out of life.

Based in Oxford & London, Monica Franke offers expertise in osteopathy and Pilates.She has wide experience in diagnosing and treating sports injuries, back and neck pain,knee, ankle, shoulder and other joint problems. Monica enjoys showing people howand why osteopathy & Pilates can help them with musculoskeletal aches and pains or poor sporting performance. Now also practicing from Grosvenor Gardens, Victoria, London.

Monica Franke Osteopathy & PilatesTel: 07970 119721. E-mail: [email protected]: www.monicafranke.com.

More Health and Beauty online at: www.inoxford.com

The OxfordshireRycote Lane, Milton Common, Thame, Oxon. OX9 2PU. Tel: 01844 278300 Web: theoxfordshire.com

The Oxfordshire’s new health and fitness spa provides members and hotel guestswith the latest treatments, equipment, facilities and personalised trainingprogrammes available. All the facilities are available free to hotel guests and members, which consist of a15m swimming pool, sauna, spa pool, steam room combined with a state-of-the-art Life Fitness suite andstudio. . After a successful day’s business or pleasure what better way to relax and un-wind than with a visitto The Oxfordshire’s new spa, Tempus.

Health & Beauty

Page 54: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Ethos Hotel59 Western Road, Grandpont, Oxford OX1 4LF. Tel: 01865 245800 Web: www.ethoshotels.co.uk.A new boutique-style hotel is open in the centre of Oxford with beautiful,individually-designed rooms with all the amenities one could ask for. During your stay,you will benefit from travertine marble bathrooms, superking feather-top beds,wetbars, complimentary Wi-Fi and free Sky Movies and Sports. The staff is not only friendly andprofessional, but multilingual as well.

InOxford.com: Your In-depth Source for Accommodation in Oxford54

Accommodation In Oxford

Macdonald Randolph HotelBeaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LN.Tel: 01865 256400. Web: www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk/randolph.

Oxford's leading hotel - The AA Five star Macdonald Randolph - is situated in theheart of the city opposite the world famous Ashmolean Museum. Built in 1864 andrecently refurbished, the hotel offers each guest the highest level of comfort andservice in a traditional and welcoming environment. The location makes the Macdonald Randolph Hotel anideal base for exploring the historic sights of Oxford or the thriving shopping centre just two minutes walk away.

Botley Road Oxford OX2 0AA. Tel: Office (01865) 243475 Guests: 249756

Fax: 724306 - www.riverhotel.co.uk E-mail: [email protected]

Excellent City location by the River originally an 1870 masterbuilders home, college owned, on the ‘Thames walk’ atOsney Bridge.

20 rooms all with own bathroom, direct dial telephone, teaand coffee tray, teletext colour TV, hairdryer and clock radio.Free WiFi.

Walking distance to City, Colleges and attractions.

Free residents’ car park on site with CCTV. Sat Nav MillStreet OX2 OAJ. 1 Mile to A34 Ringroad West, next to A420.

Visit Britain** Metro Hotel Grading.

y

y

y

y

y

“Large enough to be comfortable, smal l enough to be fr iendly”

Plea

se m

entio

n this

adve

rt whe

n

book

ing

Malmaison OxfordNew Road, Oxford, OX1 1LD. Tel: 01865 268400.Web: www.malmaison.com. Malmaison Oxford is the latest addition to the Malmaison portfolio. Located in theheart of the city centre, the hotel forms the centre of the Oxford Castle site.Previously Her Majesty's Prison, Malmaison offers a unique opportunity toexperience at first hand a valuable piece of British history. The contemporary bar, brasserie and bedroomsare stylish with plenty of character and original features. This time we are taking no prisoners!!.

21

To be in with a chance of winning some amazing prizes, visit

Page 55: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

55Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 55

Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5BGwww.westwoodhotel.co.uk Tel:01865 735408

AAHHH

A Beautiful Edwardian Coutry House Hotel perfect for Weddings, Conferences and Fine Dining.

“We really care about our Guests”

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

YHA2a Botley Rd, Oxford OX2 0AB. Tel: 01865 727275.Web: www.yha.org.uk.The best value budget accommodation in town. Centrally located with en-suiterooms, breakfast buffet, bar and Great British menu, YHA Oxford redefines what youcan expect from a hostel. We offer 24 hr access, internet access, luggage store andprivate rooms all 5 minutes walk from the city centre.

Hostels

The OxfordshireRycote Lane, Milton Common, Thame, Oxon. OX9 2PU. Tel: 01844 278300 Web: theoxfordshire.com

The Oxfordshire's hotel & Spa offers 50 en-suite contemporary guest rooms, 6flexible conference rooms, accommodating from 4 to 190 guests, the new Sakurarestaurant, luxury Tempus health & fitness spa and an 18-hole championship golfcourse. Located just outside the vibrant historic, university town of Oxford, the hotel is perfectly locatedfor a city break, golf weekend, business or private event and being just off junction 7 of the M40, it iseasily accessible from all major airports and local rail links.

Ethos & Shanghai 30’s Special OerWe have just 10 Sunday evening stays at the ultra chic Ethos Hotel to give away for just £75 – represents a saving of over £50!!!! And as an extra bonus, we are giving you £50 to spend at Shanghai 30’s, Oxford’s leading Chinese restaurant, just 5 minutes away.

www.inoxford.com

www.inoxfordmag.co.uk/competition.html

For more great hotels visitwww.inoxford.com

Page 56: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Asian

Oxford Thai Restaurant179 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1UT. Tel: 01865 203763.Web: www.oxfordthairestaurant.com.

Now under new ownership, this gem of Cowley will continue to serve delicious,authentic Thai food. Open for lunch and dinner, with a home delivery service.This relaxing, cheerful restaurant is not to be missed.

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com56 The Oxford Restaurant Guide 2009 - Available now at InOxford.com56

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife In Oxford

OXY OrientalOzone Leisure Park, Grenoble Rd, Oxford OX4 4XP.Tel: 01865 749888. Take away menu available.

Eat as much as you like for a fixed price with a difference. Fully licensed with a wideselection. Non smoking throughout, free parking and can accommodate up to 200diners. Specialties include Tepanyaki, Brazilian Roast, Sushi and Oriental Buffet.

Shanghai 30’s 82 St. Aldates, Oxford OX1 1RA.Tel: 01865 242230. Web: www.shanghai30s.com.

Situated in this 15th century building, Shanghai 30's cuisine is based on the bothclassic and contemporary dishes of Shanghai and the surrounding areas - Shaoxingand Yangchow, but also includes some of the most popular dishes from Sichuan,Peking and Canton. Our Menu will be changed seasonally to ensure ingredients are always fresh andsuitable for the season and we do not use the MSG to enhance the flavour. Shanghai 30’s is the perfect placefor a romantic meal or a private function.

CockadooNuneham Courtenay Oxfordshire, OX44 9NX. Telephone: 01865 341 030. Web: www.cockadoo.co.uk.

Cockadoo Bar & Restaurant invites you to experience sophisticated fine dining in a luxurious yet relaxing environment. The staff will ensure the highest levels of standardthroughout your experience at Cockadoo. Far Eastern cuisine at its finest, why notvisit soon?

Wagamama8 Market Street, Oxford, OX1 3EFTel: 01865 249 183 Web: www.wagamama.comwagamama is a noodle restaurant inspired by the hustle and bustle of canteen stylejapanese noodle bars, but its menu is an unmistakeable blend of pan-asian flavoursand the freshest seasonal ingredients from closer to home

Page 57: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

57

Majliss110 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1JE. Tel: 01865 726728.

A new Indian restaurant on Cowley Road, Majliss is run by veteran restauranteurs fromthe Sylhet region of Bangladesh. The decor is stunning and contemporary, and thefood delicious. Lively and great for groups, but perfect for romantic nights out as well.Take advantage of their takeaway service, too.

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Italian & Mediterranean

www.qumins.co.uk 86 St Clements Street, Oxford, OX4 1AR. Tel: 01865 247093

The Independent – 7th in the 50 Best UK Curry Houses, 2010 / 1st in the South East Region

The Real China

The Real China has opened its doors in Oxford at Oxford Castle and provides a tastybuffet style experience in the heart of Oxford. For stunning food at affordable pricesin relaxed and luxurious surroundings, make sure you pay The Real China a visit thenext time you are in town.

41 Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY.Tel: 01865 721 888. Web: www.therealchina.co.uk.

See Restaurant Reviews onlineat www.inoxford.com

Page 58: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com58 The Oxford Restaurant Guide 2009 - Available now at InOxford.com58

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife In OxfordRigolettoBicester Road, Middleton Stoney OX25 4TD. Tel: 01869 343216.Web: www.rigolettorestaurant.co.uk.Situated on the Bicester Road close to Middleton Stoney, the restaurant is set inidyllic surroundings with ample car parking. Serving a varied menu of Italian dishesand an excellent selection of wines, Rigoletto is recognised as one of the areas fine restaurants.

Branca111 Walton Street, Oxford OX2 6AJ. Tel: 01865 556111.Web: www.branca-restaurants.com.

Branca opened in late 2000 offering Oxford a contemporary Italian bar andrestaurant. Our 110 seat restaurant will provide you with an honest andstraightforward Italian menu. Our aim is to source quality ingredients and keep itsimple. We tend to be a lively venue, casual in feel but with generous, warm service.

Spanish

Al-Andalus10 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 516688.Web: www.tapasoxford.co.uk.Open: Mon to Thur 12am-3pm & 5pm till late, Fri-Sun 12pm till late.Situated on vibrant, centrally located Little Clarendon Street, Al-Andalus is a stylishand bustling Spanish tapas bar. Independently - owned, it serves delicious, freshly-prepared and authentic Spanish tapas dishes. In addition to the high quality of its cuisine and friendlyservice, Al-Andalus offers a lively and informal atmosphere, further enhanced on Friday and Saturdayevenings by live and exhilarating Sevillanas dance shows. The buzzy ambience of Al-Andalus makes it highlysuitable for party bookings, and its heated outside terrace is the ideal place to spend warm and relaxingspring and summer days and evenings.

See Restaurant Reviews onlineat www.inoxford.com

Fire & StoneThreeways House 28-38 George Street Oxford OX1 2BJ. Tel: 0844 371 2550. Web: www.fireandstone.com.Fire & Stone Deliciously Different Pizza restaurant brings you a range of freshly madepizzas, pastas and salads with toppings inspired by the continents of the World.Situated on George Street, the stunning restaurant is split over 2 floors with space forlarge parties or smaller more intimate occasions. The restaurant is a favourite with families and a perfectdestination for lunch, dinner or drinks.

Page 59: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

ST THOMAS’ MEWS, 58 ST THOMAS’ STREET, OXFORD OX1 1JPT: +44 ( 0 ) 1865 254000 F : +44 ( 0 ) 1865 254001

E : ba s ed@ox s t a y. c o . u k W: www.o x s t a y. c o . u k

Apartments in Oxford encapsulates theamenities and personal service of an intimate hotel offering

more space and home-from-home comfort thatonly a fully serviced apartment can provide.

Specialising in both short and long stays, AiO stands

for comfortable living space, traditional andcontemporary design and helpful, caring staff.

Please enquire about our conference & Events Venue at Park End Place Oxford

Oxford’s Leading Conference CentreIn Associat ion with Apartments in Oxford Ltd

Cantay House, Park End Place, Oxford OX1 1JDt: +44 (0)1865 797979 f : +44 (0)1865 797980e: [email protected] w: www.conferencecentreoxford.co.uk

Page 60: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Treat somebody this Christmas and we will treat you!At The Spa, all our gift vouchers are produced with a personal message

from you. We can issue vouchers for a specic treatment or package or you can leave the choice to that special someone with

a monetary voucher.

After the hard work is done, relax with one of the following gifts for you:

Gift Twilight Spa to Bar for 2Champagne Afternoon Tea for 2Dinner for 2 with house wine*One nights stay at The Randolph Hotel**

Call the Spa on 01865 256485 or contact us at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel, Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LN to buy a

truly relaxing experience!* 1 Bottle of wine per couple

** One nights accommodation for 2 people sharing a classic double/twin room on a bed and breakfast basis. All Gifts are valid Monday to Thursday throughout January and February 2011

and are subject to availability.

Voucher Value£100 - £199.99£200 - £399.99£400 - £749.99£750.00 +

Page 61: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

61

Al Salam6 Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1HH. Tel: 01865 245710.Open: Daily 12noon-11pm.

Authentic Lebanese food, including organic and Halal. Great for vegans and vegetarians,with many authentic meat and animal-product free dishes. Delicious food, greatatmosphere, one of the favourites in Oxford. Plus, find a belly dancer there most Saturdayevenings.

Lebanese

Game

The Bear & Ragged Staff28 Appleton Road, Cumnor OX2 9QH. Tel: 01865 862329.

The Inn boasts a beautiful restaurant and 16th century bar restored to its stunningoriginal glory. The dining menu features traditional English country cooking with asmattering of international dishes. The quintessential British love of game seems tobe under-represented in Oxford, so The Bear is putting that right. If you are a lover of pigeon, duck, venison,pheasant or rabbit, look no further, they will be represented on our menus. Year round.

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Seafood

Loch Fyne Bar & Grill55 Walton Street, Oxford OX2 6AE. Tel: 01865 292510. Web: www.lochfyne.com. Open: Mon to Fri 12noon-10pm, Sat 9am-10.30pm, Sun 10am-10pm.

There’s a new look and a new menu at Loch Fyne Bar & Grill. The fabulous new menuincludes stunning seafood dishes and an exciting grill selection. The grill menuincludes rib-eye steak, homemade burgers, spatchcock poussin and côte de bœuf. And with a stylishinterior, sociable bar area, party tables and ‘the snug’ for private dining, the new Loch Fyne will suit everyneed and taste.

French

The PerchBinsey Lane, Binsey, Oxford, OX2 0NG. Tel: 01865 728891.Web: www.the-perch.co.uk

"Follow the footsteps of Alice in Wonderland to The Perch Inn at Binsey...Come and enjoy creative yet simple cuisine in the most gorgeous location along theriver Thames. Treat someone special on Mothers Day or come and have fun at ourgiant Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday. When the sun is out, The Perch Inn is theperfect place for celebrations. Book early!"

Pierre Victoire

Enjoy our authentically cooked, traditional dishes in an informal environment at reasonable prices, theway the French do… Choose from a variety of fixed price menus, which we change with the seasons,focusing on local, fresh produce! We offer a 3 course lunch or early Pre Theatre supper for £9.90 and anevening 3 course Prix Fixe for £19.90! We love parties whether its Christenings,Birthdays,Graduations oreven Retirements,offer an incredible £18.50 menu, and can cater for groups up to 60 ...! Rustic andfriendly, with lots of candles, providing great food, value and service!

9 Little Clarendon St, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 316616.Web: www.pierrevictoire.co.uk. Lunch: Mon to Sat 12pm-2:30pm.Dinner: Mon to Sat 6pm-11pm.We're now open all day on Sundays so why not pop in for a late lunch, or supperwhich we serve til 10pm !!

Page 62: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com6262

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife In Oxford

The Oxford Restaurant Guide 2009 - Available now at InOxford.com

Contemporary

Macdonald Randolph HotelBeaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LN.Tel: 01865 256410. Web: www.macdonald-hotels.co.uk/randolph.

The restaurant at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel has recently just won its second AArosette for its cuisine and features contemporary menus in an unrivalled setting withfabulous views of the city. If a more relaxed atmosphere is desired for a quiet drinkthen the Morse Bar provides a peaceful environment in which you can relax and unwind in after a busy day- it was a firm favourite with the cast and crew of Inspector Lewis (the follow on programme fromInspector Morse) which filmed at the hotel in 2005.

Malmaison3 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY. Tel: 01865 268400. Web: www.malmaison.comIt has to be the Mal. Here you can sample divinely tasty, beautifully presentedcuisine prepared with incredible local ingredients and served up with genuine passion.Whether you’re looking for the best place to savour business lunches, a quick lighthealthy bite, or dinner. Our brasserie not only offers the most delicious of food, but seductively lit bycandles, it is the perfect atmosphere to wine and dine for both pleasure and business.

Quod Brasserie & Bar92-94 High Street, Oxford OX1 4BN. Tel: 01865 202505. Web: www.quod.co.uk.

On Oxford’s famous High, Quod Brasserie with its terrace and bar forms the hub of The OldBank Hotel. Formerly a banking hall, it was transformed by Jeremy Mogford to becomeOxford’s largest and most successful restaurant. There is a huge outdoor terrace, andparking is not a problem. Open all day for breakfast, the famously good value two course set lunch, afternoon teaand dinner, this stylish, busy, bustling brasserie serves simply designed, unpretentious, robust food.

Modern European lunches. Organic cooked breakfasts. Classicafternoon teas. Evenings by arrangement, all presented in a relaxed and contemporary style. Open Tuesday to Saturday

9am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 6pm.51 High Street, Oxford OX1 4AS. Tel: 01865 244429.

www.the-rose.biz

Traditional English & Public Houses in Oxfordshire

The TroutThe Trout Godstow Road, Wolvercote, Oxford, OX2 8PN.Tel: 01865 510 930. Web: www.thetroutoxford.co.uk

The Trout in Lower Wolvercote is genuinely part of the rich tapestry that is Oxford life.With a large terrace looking out onto the river Thames, it is easy to see why The Troutis the pub of dreams; from Lewis Carroll to CS Lewis you can understand why somany people love to sit outside on a summers day with a lovely glass of wine or a chilled beer and watchthe fast moving waters.

Cherwell BoathouseBardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6STTel: 01865 552746 Web: www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk

Beautifully located by the river Cherwell. Fine food and renowned wine list (2010Fine Wine list of the Year) Open lunch and dinner 7 days a week Marquee and terraceavailable for private hire. Week day lunch menu available 2 courses from £13.50. Alfresco dining available.

Page 63: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit Shanghai 30’s and receive a free Sichuan Dish when you mention In Oxford Magazine –

ONLY ON TUESDAY EVENINGS Why not also buy a Shanghai 30’s voucher

and get £50 worth of food just £25

01865 24223www.shanghai30s.com

Page 64: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Cocktail Bar Games RoomTerrace

www.housebar.co.uk

11 Wheatsheaf Yard, Blue Boar Street, Oxford OX1 4EE

Tel: 01865 724433 [email protected]

Page 65: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

65= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Gee’s Restaurant & Bar61 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 6PE. Tel: 01865 553540.Web: www.gees-restaurant.co.uk.Gee's, the Oxford restaurant where locals and visitors meet for lunch, dinner, or drinks,brings together simplicity, generosity and hospitality. We serve traditional British food incomfortable, contemporary surroundings. Gee's is a modern bistro offering diners value formoney, satisfying seasonal food and a great choice of wines by the glass and carafe. Formerly a florist andgreengrocer, this North Oxford restaurant was restored and renovated by owner Jeremy Mogford fifteen years ago.Inspired by its natural light and features he enhanced the building to create a comfortable, contemporaryrestaurant and bar.

The Jersey Bar & Grill Middleton Stoney, Oxfordshire OX25 4AD. Tel: 01869 343234. Web: www.jerseyarms.co.uk.

Enjoys a fine reputation for smart casual dining. Renowned for the quality andvarity of its wines, superb food and service, the restaurant can be reserved for yourexclusive use.

The Bear & Ragged Staff28 Appleton Road, Cumnor OX2 9QH. Tel: 01865 862329.The Inn boasts a beautiful restaurant and 16th century bar restored to its stunningoriginal glory. The dining menu features traditional English country cooking with asmattering of international dishes. We emphasize steak, game, pub favourites androasts. Log fires, real ales, a relaxed atmosphere and a warm hug await you at The Bearand Ragged Staff.

New City Centre boutique-style hotel.www.ethoshotels.co.uk.

59 Western Road, Grandpont, Oxford OX1 4LF T: 01865 245800

Page 66: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

The Oxford Restaurant Guide 2010 - Available now at InOxford.com66

Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife In Oxford

News Café1 Ship St, Oxford OX1 3DA. Tel: 01865 242317. Open: Until 10pm.

Open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. We serve breakfast from 9ameveryday. Lunches include freshly made soups and pastas. A large variety of Panini'sand bagels. Wonderful smoothies and good coffee.

Cafés

The Old Parsonage1 Banbury Road,Oxford, OX2 6NN. Tel: 01865 292305. Web: www.oldparsonage-hotel.co.uk.

Our philosophy at The Parsonage is simple: to serve the very best of British food using thevery best produce to create superb traditional dishes. Our classic British menu includes seasonal food that will appeal to everyone, from roast partridge with bread sauce to scampiand chips with sauce gribiche, smoked haddock with buttered jersey royals and poached eggs and treacle tart. Itis classic British fare prepared with skill and care using the finest ingredients: pure Aberdeen Angus beef, Pol Dorsetlamb and vegetables are all from the owner’s farm in Oxfordshire, and fish and shellfish are flown in from Jerseytwice a week. The Old Parsonage: simple, classic British seasonal food at its best.

The Red LionThe Red Lion 14 Gloucester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BNTel: 01865 726 255 Web: www.redlionoxford.co.uk

Our menu changes with the seasons and is modern British, comfortably interwoven withsome Mediterranean influences. It ranges from traditional favourites such as fish and chipsand steaks to freshly made pizzas and pastas with the chef’s daily specials showcasing thefinest market fresh ingredients. There’s something for everyone and for all occasions too. You don’t have to go forthe full works if you don’t want to, just have a snack and a lovely drink in the bar with your friends. Opening times: Monday to Saturday from 8am, Sunday from 9am. Last food order times: Sunday to Thursday until10pm, Friday and Saturday until 10.30pm.

35 New Inn Hall StreetFabulous Fresh Food

Speciality Coffee, Tea,Hot Choc, Shakes,Smoothies, WIFI,

Internet Cafe

Page 67: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

67

Duke of Cambridge5-6 Little Clarendon St, Oxford OX1 2HP. Tel: 01865 558173.Web: www.dukebar.com.

The Duke is Oxford’s oldest and most established cocktail bar and has been servingclassic and contemporary cocktails for over twenty five years. At 33ft, The Duke boaststhe longest bar in Oxford, and the mahogany focal point is certainly impressive.

The HouseBlue Boar Street, Oxford OX1 4EE. Tel: 01865 724433.Web: www.housebar.co.uk.The House cocktail bar is Oxford’s secret place for those in the know. Nestled downWheatsheaf Yard, just off High Street, it offers a sanctuary away from the hustle andbustle in what can only be described as an interior which boasts style, sophistication and class. The Games Room is available. Our Games Room is available for Christmas Parties for up to 70 people. [email protected]

Cafe LocoThe Old Palace, 85/87 St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1RA.Tel: 01865 200959. Web: www.goingloco.com.

Just two minutes walk from Carfax Tower is Cafe Loco, with such delights as stunningcoffee, sumptuous Eggs Benedict, Full English, homemade Specials, Scones, Teacakesand Full Afternoon Tea, it’s a wonder you haven’t been!!!!!!! Introducing NEWbusiness lunch delivery service. For details [email protected].

Nightlife

The America’s

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Step into Angels and journey through cocktail history. Choose between the firstvintage mixes or new trends perfected in the Angels laboratry, all carefully craftedby our expert bartenders.

AngelsLittle Clarendon Street, Oxford. OX1 2HS Tel: 01865 544244 Web: www.angelsbar.co.uk

Camera is a new and exciting addition to Oxford's bar and restaurant scene, situatedin the City's vibrant centre. Elegant in design, Camera's bar area is stylish,sophisticated and funky. Our professional bartenders serve classic andcontemporary cocktails using premium spirits and only the freshest ingredients. The fabulous Asian fusionfood can be enjoyed in the light, modern restaurant space or in the bar area where early evening ambientmusic changes to funky house, R&B and retro played by our resident DJs until 2am.

CameraSt Ebbes Street, Oxford, OX1 1PU. Tel: 01865 245551 Web: www.cameraoxford.co.uk

Page 68: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com68

RESTAURANTAWARDS

F O R E V E R B E T T E R

My SichuanChinese restaurant

WAAWREST

ARDSWAURANTTTAURANT

y SMMy Si anchuy Si anChinese rest urantae rest taurant

F O R E V E R B E T T E RF O R E V E R B E T T E

Page 69: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Inside:

My Sichuan

La Parisian

In Oxford

Page 70: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com70

Restaurant Review

"My Sichuan is a new opening, situated inside The Old School just by the coachstation at Gloucester Green--an interesting choice, you might think, for anOriental restaurant, but it works rather well: the main room of the restauranthas a busy, lively atmosphere, dominated by an impressive bar, whilst there arequieter, more intimate rooms off to the side. They say it is always a good signwhen a Chinese restaurant is full of Chinese people, so, as we entered the doorsof My Sichuan and saw just that, we had high expectations. We were certainlynot disappointed.

As the restaurant's name suggests, the food on the menu is primarily from Sichuan, aprovince in south-west China well known for its culinary heritage, and whose food cansupposedly be summed up in four words: spicy, hot, fresh and fragrant. What makes MySichuan stand out from the crowd is that the chefs have been sourced from top-classrestaurants and hotels in Chengdu, the province's capital. Given the excellent qualityof our meal, that was completely believable.

Upon entering the restaurant, my friend, C, and I were greeted with a smile and takento our table in one of the quieter areas, perfect for us after a busy day. A friendlywaitress brought us our drinks whilst we browsed the extensive menu. We ordered theplatter of mixed starters to begin with, in order to get as broad a taste as possible ofwhat the restaurant had to offer. The platter came attractively presented, and the foodwas marvelous: perfectly cooked pork ribs, the crispiest spring rolls we'd ever eaten,some delicious sesame prawn toast (a personal favourite), and quite possibly the bestsweet chili sauce.

For our main courses, C and I more or less went for opposite ends of the spectrum:whilst she chose lemon chicken, I opted for pickled frogs' legs. A restaurant shouldexecute its 'safe' and speciality dishes with equal aplomb, we thought. We ordered egg-fried rice and some noodles on the side. As with our starter, all the food was carefullypresented - a visual feast as much as one for the taste buds! C's wonderfully tenderchicken came smothered in a rich lemon sauce, whilst my frogs' legs came cooked withsweet red chili peppers and mixed vegetables, perfectly complemented by a surroundof green broccoli. Having never tried frogs' legs before, I wasn't quite sure what toexpect, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the taste and texture is, as manypeople say, akin to chicken.

Alas, the portions at My Sichuan were very generous indeed and, much as we wouldhave liked, we were too full to contemplate dessert.

This isn't 'just another Chinese restaurant' - it really is something special, offeringwonderful food at fantastic value for money. I would highly recommend paying MySichuan a visit - I'll definitely be going again!"

Photography by Mark Graham

My SichuanThe Old School,Gloucester Green, Oxford, OX1 2DATel: 01865 236448Web: www.mysichuan.co.uk

My SichuanChinese restaurant

Page 71: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

71Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Page 72: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

Visit the no.1 site for What’s On in Oxford: www.inoxford.com72

Restaurant Review

Already recommended by readers in the Good Food Guide 2011 anda key venue for the Henley Literary and Fringe Festivals, Le Parisien(www.leparisienrestaurant.co.uk) has re-launched under the legendary Frenchchef Philippe Brillant, former Executive Chef to the Saudi Royal Family.

Le Parisien offers modern French dining which champions wonderful food using thefreshest ingredients, fine wines and excellent service and is celebrating the opening oftheir new pavilion.

Brillant formerly worked at the then 3* Michelin Restaurant Lasserre, then under worldrenowned Parisien chef Joel Robuchon and continued to develop his skills atestablishments around the world, including as Executive Chef to the Saudi Royal Familyserving HRH Prince Khalid Abdullah, the well known racehorse owner. He has suppliedspecialist breads to Heston Blumenthal, Riverside Brasserie, The Hinds Head in Brayand many more. He also opened a retail Bakery / Salon de The on the fifth floor atHarvey Nichols in London selling bread, patisseries etc.

Philippe Brillant, Le Chef / Patron of Le Parisien says: “My vision was to create ultra-freshFrench cuisine which combines authentic French regional character with gourmetspecialities. I enjoy cooking food that surprises you with its depth of flavour, or itstexture combinations, whilst ensuring purity of ingredients so that every morsel issimply delicious!”

Le Parisien is an ideal business meetings and events venue and has launched a uniqueevents, corporate training and meetings concept by encouraging business teams tothrive at the office by getting them cooking! Le Parisien offers a choice of three typesof cookery courses, tailored to individual skill level and cooking ability.

In addition, Le Parisien offers event organisers a daily delegate rate which starts from£40 and includes the hire of the elegantly decorated Pavilion Room, which is light andairy with large French windows leading onto a private garden terrace; an ideal locationfor meetings, cocktail parties and private events. Coffee/tea and viennoiseries on arrival,mid-morning coffee/tea and biscuits, two-course lunch with coffee, mid-afternooncoffee/tea and biscuits and free Wi-Fi access are all included.

Brillant says: “We are an intimate meetings and events venue which can host 20 peopleboardroom style, 28 people for dining and 40 - 50 people in reception style.

“We look forward to welcoming you to our wonderful venue and restaurant!” www.leparisienrestaurant.co.uk

Le Parisien Restaurant50 Bell Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BGTel: 01491 571 115

Page 73: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

73Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

Page 74: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

74 Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com

A small residential care home for the older person, conveniently situated inSummertown. Close to shops, local medical centres and on the main bus route.

The Lady Nuffield Home165 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7AW.Tel: 01865 888500. Web: www.ladynuffieldhome.co.uk.

Residential Care

Entertainment

We provide: First aid cover at events, First aid training, Health and safety training,and Ambulance services.

St John Ambulance40 High Street, Kidlington, Oxfordshire OX5 2DN. Tel: 01865 378228.Email: [email protected]. Web: www.sja.org.uk.

Medical

Tel: 01865 742211 Web: www.samstrangemagic.co.uk

Close Up Magician

74

Services In Oxford

HILLTOP CHAUFFEURSP R I V A T E H I R E

Call 01865 595262

Service Reliability Standards

Modern and traditional styling for menGents wet cut £10 . Student wet cut from £9No appointment necessary

66 St Clements Oxford tel: 01865 249 740

Opening Hours

Mon-Wed 10am - 5.30pm, Thurs & Fri 10am - 7pm,

Sat 9am - 5pm

Page 75: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 76: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

The simple way to compare business insurance.Compare insurance for Liability, Professional Indemnity, Shops, Offices, Property or Work from home. We have a range of competitively priced products that can be purchased immediately online.

For a competitive quote visit

www.insuremybusiness.co.ukor call 0845 450 5360

Page 77: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

77Sign up for the In Oxford e-Newsletter @ www.inoxford.com 77

Dry Cleaning

Self Storage

Aviation

= In Oxford reviewed! Read more online at www.inoxford.com

Excel Dry Cleaners274 Banbury Road, Oxford.

Tel: 01865 511773.Oxford’s specialist Dry Cleaners, experts in

cleaning all delicate items including silks to wedding dresses. Full repair and alteration service.

Page 78: In Oxford Magazine April 2011

01865 2512616 High Street Oxford OX1 4ABE: [email protected]: www.bourtonmill.net

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 6.30am - 10.00pm. Saturday & Sunday 9.00am - 7.00pm. Bank Holidays 10.00am - 6.00pm

For more information, please contact Andrea Finnigan on 07714219793.

IT’S TIME TO GET FOCUSED!

Want to -

Lose Weight FAST?

Strip Body Fat?

Become Firm and Toned?*

Improve Overall Fitness?*

Achieve the BODY you’ve always wanted?*when used with a fitness programme

Page 79: In Oxford Magazine April 2011
Page 80: In Oxford Magazine April 2011