Restaurants

The Ampleforth Arms

53 Collinwood Road, Oxford, OX3 8HH, GB

Rating: 4.5 ★ (167 ratings)

Details

Nestled at 53 Collinwood Road in Oxford's Headington area, The Ampleforth Arms stands as a welcoming community hub, originally built in 1939. This pub offers a warm, intimate atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Oxford life away from the usual tourist trails. It's known for its friendly staff and has a history that includes being a local for C.S. Lewis. The Ampleforth Arms was saved by a valiant community effort after its closure in 2015, reopening at the end of 2017 and retaining its character with two distinct areas within the pub. It's a place where you can relax after a day's work or exploring, and it also hosts community events, including dementia-friendly singing sessions.

The Ampleforth Arms is well-regarded for its food and drink, with reviews frequently praising its tasty offerings and good service. While traditionally a pub offering real ales, like Black Sheep Best Bitter and Shotover Prospect, it has also become known for a varied menu that includes South Indian cuisine, with a popular Saturday buffet and dishes like Ghee Pongal, idli, and Vada. They also serve traditional pub fare, and their Sunday lunches come highly recommended. The pub often features events such as live music, including classic rock hits in the garden, and quiz nights. For those looking to host a gathering, the Ampleforth Arms offers buffet services that are considered good value.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Thursday: Closed; Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM

Contact

+44 1865 751876

Comments

unnati bhatt
4 Mar 2026
5.0 ★
Am in the area for a short break and came across this restaurant/pub. Highly recommend the South Indian buffet breakfast! Delicious dosas, idlis, wada and sambar. Great service, the owner even introduced themselves. Worth a visit!
Mark Barron
3 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
We were tipped off to this place by a friend. He said it's the best Indian food in Oxford and now we've had it I have to say he might be right. We went for the breakfast buffet and everything was seriously SO GOOD! There was a really diverse selection, and everything was incredibly flavorful. The staff were also super knowledgeable, and so welcoming and kind. The chef came out to say hello at the end of the meal. He seemed to really care about his work and that care really shows in the good food. We will definitely be back and you should go too. I don't think you'll regret it.
Malvika Thakker
23 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Tried the South Indian buffet on a Saturday morning, it took me back home. The food was very wholesome, delicious, served hot and fresh to us. The owner and chef is lovely to speak to, the staff is extremely kind and welcoming. It was a lovely experience with the good food, great service and cozy ambience. Would definitely recommend it and visit again☺️❤️
Kabilan Puliyadi
10 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
We went for the South Indian buffet recently. All items were absolutely delicious and served with warm hospitality. Staff are very courteous and kind to children. We look forward to visiting again (and again). Many thanks to Chef Selva.
Claire Sethu
6 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Absolutely tasty and authentic South Indian all you can eat buffet breakfast on Saturdays at Ampleforth Arms. I was very impressed with the quality and taste of food.

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