A long-standing favourite on Walton Street, Raoul’s Bar has been granted permission to extend its opening hours, following approval by Oxford City Council’s special licensing and gambling sub-committee earlier this month.
Known for its inventive cocktails and stylish ambience, Raoul’s has long been a staple of Jericho’s eclectic nightlife. Until now, its doors closed at midnight between Sunday and Tuesday, and at 1.00am from Wednesday to Saturday. Under the newly approved licence, Raoul’s will be able to remain open until 1am every night of the week.
The application, submitted by Spirit Bars Ltd, sought to align the bar’s operating hours for recorded music, dancing, and alcohol service. The move was approved subject to conditions recommended by Thames Valley Police – who, notably, raised no objection to the extension.
Public opinion on the proposal was mixed. Of the four comments submitted to the council, one supported the application, while three raised concerns.
Among the objectors was local resident Emmanuel Ocaya Ojera Odwar, who voiced fears over the potential for increased noise and disruption: “As a resident of Oxford, I have serious concerns about the potential impact this variation could have on the surrounding community, particularly in relation to public safety and the prevention of public nuisance.
“The area has historically experienced challenges with antisocial behaviour and late-night disturbances.”
By contrast, Walton Well Road resident Benedict Stanley spoke in favour of the extension, describing it as a modest but meaningful contribution to the recovery of Oxford’s nightlife.
“The night-time economy has been under a continual assault since the pandemic especially,” he wrote. “It is minor things like this, however, that add up. They can be the difference between a business being good and very good, or viable and not viabl”
Raoul’s, which has seen various incarnations over the years, continues to be a draw for locals and visitors alike. Its extended hours mark a small but symbolic shift in support of the city’s evolving evening scene.
Elsewhere in the city, other hospitality venues also received updates to their licences.
Wendy’s on Magdalen Street was granted permission to open until midnight from Sunday to Wednesday and until 2.00am from Thursday to Saturday.
Popeyes on Queen Street saw its application moderated by the council: while initially seeking a 1.00am licence, it will now be permitted to trade until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 11.00pm the rest of the week.
Although Thames Valley Police objected to the Wendy’s and Popeyes applications, they maintained no such opposition to Raoul’s – perhaps a sign of confidence in the bar’s longstanding presence and management.
As Oxford’s hospitality sector continues to adapt and evolve, the decisions reflect a cautious but growing recognition of the value a vibrant night-time economy brings to the city.
