Round & About Magazine

Tag: Oxfordshire

  • Flight Club’s full-bloom summer vibes 

    Flight Club’s full-bloom summer vibes 

    Liz Nicholls

    What’s on in the Westgate Oxford this summer? We popped into Flight Club to check out Oxford’s mini botanical haven

    Spring has sprung and the longer evenings are a blessing! Flight Club Oxford’s terraces are blossoming with gorgeous flowers including foxgloves and peonies, creating the perfect backdrop for sun-drenched socials. And there’s more flower power on offer, too!  

    Garden in Flight Club Oxfordshire Westgate

    A trip to Flight Club Oxford is sure to impress, offering a wide variety of food and drink options along with a fun game of darts. This venue is perfect for gathering and enjoying an afternoon or evening together. The staff are highly attentive and dedicated to serving groups. The ambiance is fantastic, complemented by an outdoor heated seating area with breathtaking views across the dreaming spires, making it an ideal location for capturing memorable photos with friends and family. 

    Flight Club Oxfordshire Westgate

    And when cocktails continue into drawn-out evenings, festoon lighting sets off the ultimate cosy vibe. Cocktails on the limited-edition Flight Club in Bloom summer menu include: Mango No. 5, Amalfi Nights, Just Peachy and the green dream Love Wins: a vibrant and refreshing blend of Stonewall Dry Gin, juicy orange, exotic passion fruit, brightened with a touch of lemon and a hint of sweet gomme plus a delicate swirl of grenadine. 

    For every purchase of the Love Wins cocktail, Flight Club will donate £1 to MindOut, a charity run by LGBTQ folks providing mental health support and advice to LGBTQ+ communities.

    The summer tipples are available from 1st June until September. Tickets for a two-hour bottomless brunch session cost from £38pp and include 60 minutes of gameplay at the oche, a bottle of prosecco per person and unlimited sourdough pizza. Party vibes are guaranteed as the resident DJ blasts the tunes throughout! 

    Book a terrace space at Flight Club Oxford here: https://flightclubdarts.com/location-oxford   

    Read more articles on Flight Club here

  • The call of the curlew

    The call of the curlew

    Karen Neville

    Mike Pollard of Wild Oxfordshire Curlew Recovery Project asks for your help with is conservation

    The Curlew’s wonderful ‘bubbling’ call is one of the most evocative sounds of springtime in meadows and pastures across Oxfordshire.  

    Something we cherish, but which is sadly under threat. The Curlew is arguably the most pressing bird conservation priority in the UK, where nearly half the breeding population has been lost over the last 25 years and where range contraction has seen Curlews disappear from many traditional sites. 

    Watch our ‘Curlew River’ film which explores the work of farmers and volunteers to help our wonderful Curlews as well as highlighting the fabulous ancient meadows and wet grassland habitats that they inhabit in our area. https://www.wildoxfordshire.org.uk/projects/curlew 

    Thank you so much for all you have done for nature’s recovery in the last year. Together we have brought people together, created more space for nature, and inspired more people to act for nature. Many people contribute to Wild Oxfordshire, and this support enables us to create a more natural, resilient, and biodiverse Oxfordshire for the benefit of all.  

    If you would like to join in and are able to, we would greatly appreciate a contribution towards our work, either through a one-off contribution, or a monthly contribution. Check out our website to find out more about the many ways you can support us and our recent achievements. 

    Mike Pollard, Wild Oxfordshire Curlew Recovery Project 

    Wild Oxfordshire Website

  • Echoes of the Landscape in Woodstock 

    Echoes of the Landscape in Woodstock 

    Liz Nicholls

    Enjoy 40+ artworks by sculptor Jon Earney & watercolourist Rod Craig in Woodstock, 14th to 21st April  

    Art lovers visiting Woodstock this spring are set to be captivated by an inspirational joint exhibition featuring over 40 artworks by renowned watercolourist Rod Craig and sculptor Jon Earney. The exhibition will be hosted at No 14 Gallery. 

    Both artists draw much of their inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside; Rod’s paintings of the majestic ancient oaks of Blenheim are a fitting companion to Jon’s meticulously crafted wooden sculptures as shown in Balance (above), a work in walnut.  

    Rod’s light-filled watercolours (Little Green and Here Comes the Sun here) reflect a similar quality to Jon’s translucent polished alabaster sculptures (such as Pierced and Infinity). Jon says: “Working in alabaster is a calming, sensory experience. Smoothing the sculptures is a very long and extremely tactile process – I know it’s finished when it ‘feels’ right.” 

    Jon Earney and Rod Craig met through their association with Artists in Woodstock and have exhibited together previously in group shows. Rod says: “I’m thrilled to have a joint exhibition with Jon; a synergy has developed in our respective work and both have an endless fascination for the elements, how time weathers the trees and landscape and the beauty of light on nature.” Jon adds: “When I moved to Woodstock, I saw Rod’s work in a gallery and was immediately drawn. It seemed we were both striving to create a little beauty and permanence in a chaotic world.” 

    Woodstock has been Rod’s home for more than 30 years. He started his design business in the town and for the last 15 years has been painting full time – in his studio and out on location. When Rod isn’t painting, he can be heard playing the mandolin in various musical ensembles. He says: “Woodstock is an inspiring and unique place; striking architecture, lovely water meadows close by and of course Blenheim Park on our doorstep. Watercolour is my preferred medium; its vibrancy and fluidity allow me to create dramatic moods and atmospheric paintings of the countryside.”  

    Jon’s career path was set in stone early; some of his earliest memories are “walking the beaches in Norfolk with my mother, searching for carnelian and small pieces of agate to take home and tumble polish”.  He started learning lapidary techniques while living in New Zealand, inspired by the resurgence in the Maori art of carving jewellery out of Pounamu (nephrite jade). He taught himself to fashion pendants. “It was a natural progression to sculpting in stone,” says Jon. “I love being outdoors searching. The most organic-looking of my pieces are likely to be from stones I’ve picked up on beaches and mountainsides.  

    “More recently I’ve enjoyed the challenge of working in English woods; these are scavenged from hedgerows and recycled from dead trees. Barbara Hepworth has been a huge inspiration, particularly her use of negative space.” 

  • Murder on the menu

    Murder on the menu

    Karen Neville

    , , , , , , , , , ,

    Six by Nico, the creative dining concept renowned for its ever-evolving six-course tasting menus, is bringing its most immersive and innovative experience yet to Oxford, ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’

    The new dining experience and six course tasting menu is inspired by the world-renowned Oxfordshire murder mystery author Agatha Christie’s novel of the same name. This innovative concept will expertly blend mystery and storytelling with food and drink, setting a new standard for customer engagement.

    Diners are invited to step aboard the Midnight Express to travel back to the 1930s, join the dots and unravel the mystery. Inspired by classic French cuisine, six delicious courses immerse you in a blood curdling tale of foul play.

    Oxford is renowned as the UK home of some of the most iconic and much-loved murder mystery stories, from Agatha Christie’s novels to TV sows like Morse and Midsomer Murders, creating a perfect synergy with the new ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’ menu.

    Founder Nico Simeone said: “Murder on the Midnight Express’ is more than just a tasting menu; it’s a journey that introduces ‘immersion’ to our creative framework, adding to our existing sources of inspiration that cover destinations, memories, and ideas.

    “We’ve always believed in pushing creative boundaries, and this new creative pillar of immersion adds something missing from the dining scene. It’s not just about food; it’s about giving our guests an experience for them to step into. From the moment they sit down they are provided with clues and case files along with props and story-driven elements to solve the crime.”

    With this new direction, the Six by Nico creative team have pushed themselves into new territories and setting the stage for future themes that seek to captivate and surprise guests.

    As part of this change, the restaurant brand has introduced an extended dining slot of 2.5 hours, giving their guests an additional 30 minutes to enjoy a more relaxed and immersive experience.

    Nico added: “We have always been dedicated to delivering value through their experiences and we are constantly looking at new ways to innovate and how we try to invest in the dining experience. That’s why this year we’re investing even more into every moment you spend with us – offering extended time at the table to make each visit truly extraordinary.”

    Murder on the Midnight Express is cooking from 27th January – 9th March and is priced at £50 for the six-course immersive tasting menu. Guests can enhance their experience with an optional £35 wine, or £45 cocktail pairing.

    You can now book here: Murder On The Midnight Express – Oxford – Six By Nico

    Latest posts

  • Be a foster carer in Oxfordshire

    Be a foster carer in Oxfordshire

    Karen Neville

    , , , , , , , , , ,

    Maria White tells us about fostering in Oxfordshire and how you could make a difference to a child’s life

    Here in Oxfordshire, we have an incredible network of local foster carers, but we need more so that we can keep Oxfordshire children local. It’s common sense that they’ll do better if they’re close to schools, friends and family, even if they’re no longer in the same town.

    Being a foster carer is rewarding but we will be honest it’s not always easy. Our children have often been through a lot and can need plenty of support. But every day we see the impact that support has, seeing them grow in confidence – nothing beats that.

    Fun trips to the shops, cuddles after a bad dream, helping with homework, being there during those tricky teen years – foster caring is about providing stability, positivity and reassurance when a child needs it most. And you won’t be alone, we will be supporting you all the way.

    What do our carers say? Lucy told us: “Fostering is a collaborative effort – you are not parenting on your own, but as part of a team. You spend a lot of time talking with social workers, school staff, GPs, mental health workers and a whole array of other professionals.

    “My one piece of advice would be don’t pretend you’re ok when you’re not. You’re not alone, and there’s always help available – you just have to ask for it.”

    We fit around you. You may be single, work full time or have kids, foster carers come in all shapes and sizes and that’s why we keep things personal. Even if it’s early days and you just want a chat to find out more, we work at your pace, so that when you’re ready, we’re ready, whenever that may be.

    To help you with the transition to foster are we pay a £1,500 welcome payment. We pay an enhanced fostering fee alongside an allowance for the child to help make fostering more affordable. You receive support from your social worker and other foster carers who are all part of a local fostering community. Our carers love seeing the difference they make to a child’s life… you could do that too!

    If fostering is not something you are able to do, no worries, but please help us by spreading the word and encouraging others to find out more about fostering with Oxfordshire County Council.

    Start your conversation today, one of our recruitment team will be happy to help you. Get in touch: email fostering@oxfordshire.gov.uk, call 0300 131 2797 and at Fostering | Oxfordshire County Council

    Latest posts

  • Uncover the Oxford Indie Book Fair

    Uncover the Oxford Indie Book Fair

    Karen Neville

    , , , , , , , , , , ,

    The fifth fair is all set to be the biggest & best yet

    The fifth Oxford Indie Book Fair takes place at Oxford University Examination Schools in the High Street on December 1st, opened by the charismatic Chancellor of Oxford Brookes University, the actor and author Paterson Joseph.

    Thanks to the sponsorship of the Lucy Group, the Fair is doubling up again this year and will fill both halls in the impressive venue – Oxford University Examination Halls. The declared aim of Oxib is to be free entry so no one in excluded. All the talks and activities are free too. Like many underprivileged young people, access to books, particularly through libraries, opened doors to opportunity for Paterson.

    What’s On December 2024 – Oxford Indie Book Fair

    Speakers include the historian Janina Ramirez, the naturalist Hugh Warwick – he of The Prickly Affair in discussion with Canon Rev. Dr. Charlotte Bannister Parker on the topic is there hope for creation? The discussion will be chaired by Ray Foulk who ran Planet Earth workshops in the nineties in most Oxfordshire state secondary schools.

    There is lots to attract children and families, including activities provided by Korky Paul, and the Pegasus Youth Theatre. The organisers are delighted to announce that the international children’s author, Paul Gustafson, known for his series of Eggbert’s Adventures, will be exhibiting. His books are illustrated by Ray Mutimer (illustrator of Postman Pat, Paddington, Noddy, Rupert and Friends magazine, Charlie Chalk and Star Hill Pony’s magazine for the BBC). Paul’s giant Eggbert will also providing fun activities for the youngest readers.

    Check out who’s going to be there in the exhibitor directory.

    The fabulous assemblage of children and young adult writers include:

    Angela Kecojevic: Being Brace, Frank’s Secret Yeti, Sleuth School: Jeremy Swift Investigates, and The Laughing Shepherd.

    Vie Portland: inclusive children’s picture books.

    Griselda Heppel: Ante’s Inferno, The Tragickall History of Henry Fowst, The Fall of a Sparrow.

    Milo McGivern: Five books, detailling the adventures of Aubrey, Clifford and Walli on the mysterious Island of Animaux.

    JM Carr: Wonder Girls

    Veneficia Publications: With books for children of all ages.

    Oxford Children’s Book Group: Featuring a variety of children’s books including the story of St Frideswide who founded Oxford told for young children in The Princess who Hid in a Tree.

    There’s non-ficton too, Crosswords for Boffins and Rebecca Mileham, author of popular science books. Her most recent book is ‘Cracking the Elements’ (2018) which takes a comprehensive look at the development of the periodic table – and reveals untold stories, unsung pioneers and intriguing science along the way.

    For budding authors there’ll be lots of publishers and publishing professionals and the future of English Poetry is in the safe hands of Ignition Press, a publishing arm of Oxford Brookes. Niall Munroe has organised the poetry slam. You can even learn How Tennis Invented Everything…

    More info

    Latest posts

  • Indians in Didcot’s dazzling Diwali highlight

    Indians in Didcot’s dazzling Diwali highlight

    Liz Nicholls

    , , , , , , , , , ,

    The community group, Indians in Didcot (fondly known as IID), celebrated their 10th anniversary with a Diwali Dinner and Dance event

    The event, which took place with great pomp and splendour at Didcot Civic Hall at the weekend, was also graced by the presence of the Deputy Lieutenant for Oxfordshire, Elizabeth Paris.

    Mrs Paris who represented the Monarchy, His Majesty the King said: “I offer my sincere thanks to founders of the community – Dr Sneha Anand and Mr Nitish Anand – and to all of IID, for the warmth and kindness for their welcome at the Diwali Celebration. It was such a joyous occasion, so full of light and inspiration, and I was touched to see so many families, across three generations, coming together in celebration.

    “Creating such a strong community and sustainability it for ten years, despite Covid, is a huge achievement and I could tell from the decorations, to the performance, to the superb logistics, just how much effort is given by volunteers. The highlight for me was the performances by the children – such energy and courage!”.

    With about 180 attendees, the event was a testament to the strong bonds and vibrant spirit that define the IID community. As IID continues to flourish as not for profit, it remains dedicated to promoting cultural awareness, community engagement, and the celebration of Indian heritage in Didcot and Oxfordshire. The atmosphere was further elevated by the rendition of the national anthems of both the UK and India.

    The event was masterfully hosted by Sneha and Nitish along with the organising committee – Amit Sultaniya, Bhavana Ananda, Cinil Mukundan, Elizabeth Abraham, Gayatri Panchbhai, Nipa Gandhi, Vaibhav Solanki, Venky Rao, Vikram Bhagwani, and Vinayak Upadhyay.

    Latest posts

  • Enjoy Victors at Oxford’s Westgate

    Enjoy Victors at Oxford’s Westgate

    Round & About

    , ,

    Enjoy everyday luxury and escape to Victors with the best view in Oxford. Experience our modern Asian inspired menu and show stopping cocktails served under our iconic wisteria trees.

    Beautiful, vibrant, upscale yet informal, Victors Oxford is the perfect restaurant for everything from celebrations to intimate dining, corporate events and group bookings. Located on the rooftop of Oxford Westgate, with views of Christ Church Cathedral, join us for cocktails, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner seven days a week and breakfast from 10am Saturday and Sunday.

    A la carte – Enjoy everyday luxury and escape to Victors with our modern American-Asian inspired menu featuring a selection of sushi, small plates, steaks and larger plates designed to be shared, or eaten all to yourself. Our menu is bursting with flavour, freshness and flowers from our Crispy Tuna to the Yuzu Lemon Chicken.

    With plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans there’s something for everyone whether you want to enjoy some of our classics or you’re seeking something more adventurous.

    Contact 01865 689 064 | oxford@victors.co.uk

    Victors Oxford, Westgate. Everyday luxury under the wisteria.

    Latest posts

  • Enjoy art by Didcot’s Charlie Davies

    Enjoy art by Didcot’s Charlie Davies

    Liz Nicholls

    , , ,

    Charlie Davies’ paintings, inspired by following her husband’s epic UK bike ride, are on show at the Cornerstone until the end of October

    Didcot locals might well be familiar with Charlie’s paintings of the iconic Didcot Power Station Towers, Nearly Home and You’ll Miss Us (below).

    And now, in the Cornerstone Arts Centre foyer, you can admire more of Charlie’s work thanks to her latest exhibition, Artist in Transit – Land’s End to John O’Groats with Ride Across Britain,” Charlie explains. “I decided to join him on this epic adventure, challenging myself as an ‘artist in transit’ to paint across Britain. It took nine days and I produced nearly 30 paintings along the way. Since coming home I have produced a collection of etchings and some larger studio paintings as well as a book documenting our journey. All of these will be on show.”

    Charlie is a plein air painter and printmaker who is inspired by nature and all its beauties and loves to capture light and moments in time in her paintings. She is a member of the Society of Botanical Artists, Oxford Printmakers and Oxford Art Society. Last year one of her etchings was exhibited and sold out the whole edition at the Royal Academy Summer Show.

    “I paint using oils and adore the subtleties of colour and the effects of light, which can be achieved with this medium,” adds Charlie.

    “I have won two People’s Choice awards for my artwork. In 2010 I won The People’s Choice Award for my painting of the Didcot Towers. Following that success I began to paint local landscapes, focusing on Wittenham Clumps. I have more time now, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to indulge my passions and explore all these creative possibilities.”

    Please visit Charlie Davies Designs

    Latest posts

  • Oxfordshire Uncorked book toasts local tipples

    Oxfordshire Uncorked book toasts local tipples

    Liz Nicholls

    , , , ,

    Tour guide and expert in all things wine, Marcus Rees invites his fellow enthusiasts to embark on a delightful journey around the winemakers of Oxfordshire and the north Cotswolds

    This unique guide reveals the beauty of English wine, and Marcus would argue there are none better than those from Oxfordshire and its surrounding counties! From one of England’s oldest wine producers at Stanlake Park to newcomers like JoJo’s Vineyard, Oxfordshire Uncorked shines a light on the often unsung past and bright future of great British wine.

    Marcus fell in love with Oxfordshire after his studies at Oxford University and has travelled the length of the county and beyond to explore its many vineyards and wineries. Whether you are a travelling tourist, staycationer, or local Oxfordshire tippler, this guide is essential reading for anyone wanting a taste of luxurious wine right on their doorstep. Marcus explores each site, doing a deep dive into the wines they produce and how to best enjoy them. From the delectable notes of elderflower in Oaken Grove’s Bacchus Reserve, to the tantalising tingle of Wyfold Vineyard’s 2017 Sparkling Brut, this guide will help you discover your new favourite bottle. If a vineyard’s story is what sparks your curiosity, however, you may also find yourself tempted by the rich history of Kidmore Vineyard or the humble, intimate setting of Little Oak.

    Oxfordshire Uncorked’s detailed profiles provide an in-depth look into each vineyard and winery’s processes and ethos, as well as tasting notes for the wines they produce. The book includes essentials like the vineyard’s first vintage, its acreage, and visitor and tour information, with each site description offering further insight into the story of the land, the wine, and the people behind its production.

    Follow this guide to discover the amazing wines and events these vineyards have to offer. For anyone mad about wine, Oxfordshire Uncorked beckons you to travel the picturesque English countryside and explore the wonders of its bountiful vineyards.

    Latest posts