Local news: Oxford
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Ultramarine: Paul Drayton’s debut novel brings medieval music and alchemy to life
Paul Drayton, acclaimed pianist and composer, turns novelist with Ultramarine, a tale of ambition, alchemy and music in medieval England. To be released 28 October 2025, the book follows Oswin, a chorister whose gift leads him into a world of wonder, danger and startling revelations.
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Prime Suspect actor’s widow to run Oxford Half Marathon for Sobell House Hospice
Widow of Prime Suspect actor John Turner is running the Oxford Half Marathon in his memory, raising funds for Sobell House Hospice, which cared for him during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Works by Hester Finch and Deborah K Lerner on show at DEPOT Oxford 2025
Hannah Payne Art showcased paintings by Hester Finch and Deborah K Lerner at DEPOT Oxford 2025. The exhibition highlighted two distinct yet complementary practices exploring form, identity, and the expressive possibilities of paint.
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The Ivy Oxford Brasserie launches sweet twist on its iconic Shepherd’s Pie
This October, The Ivy Oxford Brasserie has unveiled a playful twist on its most iconic dish with the launch of the Shepherd’s Pie Dessert — a sweet reimagining of the restaurant’s beloved classic, complete with chocolate, carrot cake and candied rosemary.
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Marco Pierre White unveils new autumn menu at Oxford Steakhouse
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill in Oxford has launched a new autumn menu featuring classic British favourites with French-inspired flair. Dishes include Box Tree Chicken Liver Parfait, Mr White’s Mixed Grill, and a two-course 1961 set menu
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Catering Services International becomes 100% employee-owned
Catering Services International has become 100% employee-owned through an Employee Ownership Trust, securing its independence and empowering staff to share in its success. The landmark transition celebrates over 35 years of innovation, loyalty, and growth in hospitality recruitment.
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History of Science Museum secures approval for major transformation project
Oxford University’s History of Science Museum has received Listed Building Consent and Planning Permission for a major refurbishment that will transform the 17th-century landmark into a fully accessible, modern public museum.
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Curiosity Cube brings hands-on science to Oxford to inspire the next generation of scientists
Greyfriars Oxford Catholic School welcomed Merck’s Curiosity Cube — a travelling mobile lab — for a day of hands-on science, introducing students to real-world experiments in artificial intelligence and inspiring curiosity in the next generation of scientists.
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Community campaigner takes fight against Oxford congestion charge to Downing Street
Community campaigner Amir Steve Ali has delivered a petition to Number 10 calling on the Prime Minister to halt Oxford’s £5 congestion charge, due to begin in October Critics say the scheme ignores public opposition and risks harming residents.
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National Album Day research names Oxford the UK’s top city for launching rock artists
Oxford has been crowned the UK’s top rock city per capita in new research for National Album Day 2025, with Radiohead, Supergrass and Foals leading the charge. The city outperformed Manchester, Liverpool and London, reaffirming its place at the heart of Britain’s vibrant rock scene.
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Lord Hague of Richmond opens Oxford North global innovation district
Lord Hague of Richmond has officially opened Oxford North, a £1.2 billion innovation district designed to position Oxford as a global leader in science, technology and AI. The development will provide one million sq ft of lab and office space, housing, amenities and cultural facilities, supporting the full spectrum of companies from start-ups to global…
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Oxford City Council leader urges Government to decide on Oxford United stadium plans
Oxford City Council leader Susan Brown has urged the Government to fast-track a decision on Oxford United’s proposed new stadium, warning the club must leave the Kassam by 2028. Supporters and opponents remain divided as the final decision is delayed.