The gay bars and nightclubs in Oxford
Whether you fancy a quiet pint or your favourite non-alcoholic cocktails, or you’re after a drag brunch or just curious to learn about Oxford’s queer history or perhaps you’re looking for something slightly more hedonistic, here are the LGBTQ+ nightlife venues – bars, nightclubs and such – that Oxford has to offer. Be warned, though, Oxford’s gay nightlife is relatively small, which makes it incredibly popular with the local community.
The Jolly Farmers is Oxford’s (and one of the UK’s) oldest running LGBT+ pubs. It opened as a gay bar in the early 80s, and except for one or two months, it has been running as a gay bar and an important part of the local gay community for over 20 years.
The Jolly Farmers is located right in the heart of Oxford and hosts gay cabaret acts as well as quiz nights, one-off events and additional entertainment. There’s even a beer garden available for use in warmer months.
Located in an underground venue off Cornmarket street, in the heart of central Oxford, Plush is a nightclub with a safe, glittery environment that is welcoming to customers of all identities and orientations who simply want to party.
From Thursday to Saturday, this vibrant nightclub serves club anthems from resident and travelling DJs alongside beer, cocktails, and a large selection of gin, wine and champagne from two bars.
Glamorous Oxford is the city’s newest LGBTQ+ venue, offering a blend of a modern cocktail bar and nightclub. It follows in the footsteps of its sister venues in Coventry and Birmingham.
Located in St Clement’s, a 5-minute walk from the city centre (eastwards down the High Street and over the Magdalen Bridge), expect nightly special offers on a wide variety of drinks, as well as award-winning international drag artists, top UK drag artists, resident DJs, student nights and much more.