Old Fire Station
40 George St, Oxford OX1 2AQ
Rating: 4.7 ★ (264 ratings)
Details
Old Fire Station presents a unique cultural experience in the heart of Oxford, housed within a beautifully converted Edwardian fire station, originally built between 1894 and 1896, which proudly bears the carved motto "Always ready / Always willing". This dynamic venue effortlessly blends historic architecture with a modern, welcoming atmosphere, standing out for its profound commitment to social inclusion and its partnership with Crisis, a homelessness charity. It fosters creativity and connects diverse communities, embodying the ethos that "Art is for everyone. Everyone has potential".
The café at the Old Fire Station, open Tuesday to Sunday, offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring Middle Eastern cuisine crafted by Damascus Rose Kitchen, a social enterprise that supports Syrian and Arabic-speaking refugee women. Diners can savour delicious mezze bowls, falafel, hummus, fattoush, and the distinctive zahra, which is fried cauliflower. The menu is entirely vegetarian and boasts numerous vegan options, alongside a range of coffee, tea, pastries, and cakes. On show nights, the café transforms into a bar, providing both alcoholic and soft drinks, along with snacks before performances and during intervals.
This welcoming hub is ideally suited for those who appreciate diverse cultural experiences and wish to support a socially conscious establishment. It appeals greatly to theatre-goers and art enthusiasts, as well as anyone seeking a relaxed spot for a coffee, a casual lunch, or a pre-show drink. The venue's adaptable spaces also make it an excellent choice for informal gatherings, meetings, and a variety of private events and parties.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 263980 | http://www.oldfirestation.org.uk
Comments
Stage is on one level with audience so an all round alternative viewing perspective and experience.
Toilets clean and fully stocked.
Easily accessible to all and a safe zone to any who need it.
Highly recommended! Can't wait for my next visit!