Openings & Closings
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UPDATED: Arbequina to open new restaurant in Oxford’s Covered Market
The much-loved Arbequina on Cowley Road is opening a second restaurant in Oxford’s Covered Market, taking over the former Blue Blood sports shop site in the heart of the historic market.
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The Three Tuns: Former Fat Duck Director and Local Butcher reopen Henley pub
The characterful 14th-century pub has been the forever neighbour of the riverside town’s revered butchers’ shop, and its reopening marks a new chapter for one of Henley’s oldest pubs.
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Decision due on new late-night Underground Bar in Oxford city centre
Yola Kucel has submitted an application to launch the Underground Bar beneath 29-31 George Street, in the basement space formerly occupied by the Cirkus nightclub and directly below Gourmet Burger Kitchen.
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Award-winning KNEAD Bakery expands to Oxford High Street
KNEAD Bakery, known for its award-winning handmade pastries, is opening its fourth location this June in Oxford, taking over the former Hobbs store on the high street.
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The Store opens rooftop terrace for summer with Ribs n’ Rum’ on the Roof
The Store, has opened its rooftop terrace just in time for summer, launching “Ribs n’ Rum on the Roof” every weekend. Guests can enjoy skyline views alongside smokehouse favourites like baby back ribs, pulled pork baps, and vegetarian options such as burrata and aubergine parmigiana.
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Clinton Pugh has sold his last Oxford restaurant Kazbar after four decades
After 40 years of shaping Oxford’s café and restaurant scene, renowned business owner Clinton Pugh has sold his final establishment in the city, marking the end of a significant chapter in local hospitality.
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Oli’s Thai to reopen in East Oxford this September
Oli’s Thai will reopen this September at its original home on Magdalen Road in East Oxford after a three-year hiatus that saw the space transformed into Elle’s Deli.
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The Loggia reopens at RH England, bringing al fresco dining to the heart of the Cotswolds
A relaxed open-air restaurant and wine bar, The Loggia offers idyllic al fresco dining against the backdrop of Capability Brown’s naturalistic gardens and sweeping views of the Cotswolds countryside, set within RH England’s new dining destination at the 73-acre Aynho Park estate near Banbury.
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Popular country pub The Lamb Inn sold to industry veterans
Specialist property adviser Christie & Co has announced the sale of The Lamb Inn, a historic 18th-century pub in Crawley, Oxfordshire, to The Cotswold Hospitality Group. Previously owned by award-winning operators Sebastian and Lana Snow, the pub is renowned for its charm and reputation.
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The Hornton Sports Bar opens at Whately Hall Hotel with 2-for-1 launch offer
The Hornton Sports Bar at Whately Hall Hotel has officially opened, offering a stylish new venue for sports fans in Banbury. Featuring large-screen TVs with Sky Sports and TNT Sports, a diverse drinks menu, and a lively atmosphere, the bar provides a prime spot for socialising.
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ comes to life at Cliveden
Cliveden will host The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Trail from 10 May to 29 June 2025, to offer families an interactive journey through Eric Carle’s beloved story. The trail will feature illustrated signs, QR codes, augmented reality, games, and brass rubbing stations, bringing the caterpillar’s transformation to life.
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Leys Pools unveils exciting new Active Zone for families
Leys Pools and Leisure Centre is launching its new Active Zone on 05 April, offering an exciting space for children and families. The zone includes a Soft Play area for kids under 12, featuring slides, sensory elements, and an Oxford-themed design.
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Botley’s new skatepark nears completion, a game-changer for local skaters
Botley’s new skatepark is nearing completion and is set to open by mid-March. Replacing the iconic Botley Bowl, it features the UK’s first blended bowl, a street section, and a mini ramp, designed for all skill levels.
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KIBOU Oxford launches stunning Japanese afternoon tea
KIBOU Oxford introduces a stunning Japanese-inspired afternoon tea, featuring a beautifully presented three-tiered stand with sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese sweets.
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Carrdus School to close in 2025 due to financial pressures
The impending closure has been attributed to increasing financial pressures, including the mid-academic year introduction of VAT on independent school fees, the loss of charitable business rates relief, and rising employers’ national insurance contributions.
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Oxfordshire restaurant The Sparsholt set to close before Christmas
The Sparsholt, a pub and restaurant nestled in the tiny Oxfordshire hamlet of Sparsholt near Wantage, is set to close its doors permanently just days before Christmas.