Cowley

Best Things to do in Cowley

 

Cowley is known for delicious independent restaurants and coffee shops and a vibrant nightlife. To hep you with your trip, we’ve put together a guide for the best things to do in Cowley. Enjoy!

 

 

 

Topping our list of the best things to do in Cowley is Catweazle Club. People in the know rave about Catweazle, a local institution that’s existed for over 20 years, but to a tourist it can be confusing. Catweazle isn’t a venue as such – it’s best to think of it as an open mic night disproportionately populated by East Oxford’s bohemian scene. Anything can be performed at Catweazle – from music to poetry to drama – the only rule is that it must be acoustic. Catweazle can be found every thursday evening in the East Oxford Community Centre. Arrive early if you want to perform, otherwise just turn up and enjoy the vibes.

 

Thursday Night

 

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Nothing has caused a stir in the Oxford restaurant scene quite like Oli’s Thai. It’s a bit of a trek out of the city centre, but to quote the Guardian newspaper, you should get down to Oli’s Thai “even if you have to crawl over broken glass”. The restaurant is often booked months in advance, so if you’re not super prepared then there are a few small tables that they let out around lunch service so it’s worth heading along in case you get lucky. The beef massaman is ridiculous.

 

Tue – Fri
12:00 – 14:00
17:00 – 21:00
Sat
12:00 – 14:30

 

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Next on our list of the best things to do in Cowley is a real treat. The Ultimate Picture Palace is a charming independent cinema tucked away in just off the Cowley road. It’s been around for ages despite competition from the town-based multiplexes, which should tell you something. Inside there is something of a front room vibe, with spacious seats and a convivial atmosphere.

 

Mon – Wed18:30 – 23:00
Thu16:00 – 23:00
Fri18:30 – 23:00
Sat – Sun16:00 – 23:00

 

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