Tuesday 3 September 2013

An Insiders' guide to Oxford

The Guardian provides a very thorough insiders guide to Oxford from those who know it best, including the opinions of Philip Pullman, Colin Dexter and Richard Dawkins.  

The Guardian's guide selects 11 highlights from which OISE Oxford have chosen 5 which particularly receive our seal of approval.

1) OPEN-MIC NIGHTS AT THE CATWEAZLE CLUB...

take place along the kaleidoscopic Cowley Road, where there is an array of places to eat, drink and listen to music -  it has blues nights, jazz nights, reggae nights.  Brian Briggs, lead singer of indie band Stornoway recommends that "It's the ultimate open-mic night. Poets and mandolin players share the stage with beatboxers. You're not battling with people standing at the bar; people go there to listen. It's where we started as a band and we still try out new material there."

OISE Oxford recommends you arrive early to guarantee yourself a seat, otherwise you will have to sit on the floor sometimes with or without the benefit of a cushion - not ideal for those with bad backs or long legs.

2) CHORAL MUSIC IN CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL...

is a regular feature on OISE Oxford's cultural activities programme.  It is a chance to enjoy excellent choral music and to see inside the magnificent Christ Church Cathedral.  Colin Dexter points out that "Oxford is known everywhere for the excellence of its singing. Go to hear Christ Church choir. They are absolutely first class."

3) SAILING PAST PORT MEADOW...

has yet to feature on our cultural activities programme, but a leisurely walk around Port Meadow and taking in a drink at the excellent pub, The Perch, does.  Port Meadow, mentioned in the Domesday Book, is an expanse of common land that has great views of Oxford, and a place to relax and watch grazing cattle below vast spans of open sky.  It is a perfect picnic location.

4) PUNTING UPSTREAM FROM MAGDALEN BRIDGE...

is very popular during the summer with OISE Oxford's students.  It offers the chance to view Magdalen College Tower, the Botanic Gardens and the unspoilt Christ Church Meadows from inside a punt - often more relaxing for those sitting than those who are attempting to punt!

5) CYCLING AND COFFEE AT ZAPPI'S BIKE CAFE

Cycling is the preferred method of transportation for many in Oxford, it offers the chance to navigate Oxford with ease and speed.  Zappi's bike cafe is located in central Oxford, off Cornmarket Street.  It is great for bike and cafe enthusiasts.  Flavio Zappi, former Italian pro-cyclist, claims it serves the best coffee in town.  OISE Oxford claims it does a very good toastie.

Read the full Guardian article here.






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