Ditch the Gown: Alyssa’s Guide to Weird, Quirky, & Totally Aesthetic Oxford

Hey everyone, Alyssa back again!

We all know the classic Oxford. The dreaming spires, the ancient libraries, the academic stress palpable in the air during exam season... it’s iconic, yes. But sometimes? Sometimes you just need to ditch the dusty books and experience the city’s weird, wild, and completely unexpected side.

If you are looking for things to do that aren’t just wandering through 800-year-old colleges (though they are beautiful, don’t @ me), and you need to seriously upgrade your Instagram grid, this guide is for you. We’re talking sharks crashing through roofs, competitive neon golf, Alice in Wonderland cocktails, and sleeping in a Victorian prison.

Let’s get weird!

🦈 The Sight: The Shark in the Roof (No, Seriously)

This is perhaps the ultimate "Wait, what?" moment in Oxford. Forget traditional statues; we need to talk about the Headington Shark.

Yes, a massive 25-foot Great White shark is crashing headfirst through the roof of an ordinary suburban house. It’s bold, it’s bizarre, and it is mandatory for your photo collection. Take a quick trip out to Headington to snap a picture. This isn’t ancient history; it’s a modern art installation made by sculptor John Buckley in 1986 as a protest statement. But mostly, it’s just incredibly cool to look at and guaranteed to confuse your followers.

⛳ The Play: Neon Chaos vs. Social Darts

When you are ready to get competitive and silly with your crew, Oxford has some seriously fun alternative gaming spots. Forget traditional punting for a second and try one of these:

• Junkyard Golf Club Oxford: Imagine crazy golf courses constructed entirely from scrapyard junk and recycled materials, all bathed in pulsating neon lights and playing brilliant tunes. It is manic, it is extremely fun, and they serve excellent cocktails. Seriously, this place is an absolute vibe.
• Flight Club Oxford: If golf isn't your thing, how about competitive social darts? Flight Club takes traditional darts and gives it a massive makeover. Think beautiful, high-tech ‘oches’ (that's the lane!), automatic scoring, silly games, and killer pizza and cocktails on their Westgate rooftop terrace when you are done playing.

🍹 The Drinks: Down the Rabbit Hole

You can't do quirky Oxford without a nod to its weirdest literary export: Alice in Wonderland.

Head over to The Mad Hatter Oxford on Iffley Road. This place is an eclectic, whimsical speakeasy where Carroll-inspired madness meets jazzy nights. Expect quirky cocktails served in teapots, live music, karaoke, and delightful surprises around every corner. It's the perfect spot to start a slightly chaotic night out!

🍕 The Bites: Pizza & Pints at The White Rabbit

After all that exploring, competitive neon gaming, and teapot cocktails, you need some seriously good comfort food. For something quirky, casual, and incredibly satisfying, look no further than The White Rabbit Oxford.

This cozy, alternative pub located in Friars Entry feels like a hidden gem. It’s warm, slightly chaotic in the best way, and they are famous for their award-winning Roman-style pizzas. They have a buzzing atmosphere, excellent craft beers, and the food is reasonably priced. It is a fantastic alternative to fancy dining, giving you those cool, relaxed Oxford feels.

🧳 The Stay: Spend the Night in a Cell

To fully commit to the weird and alternative Oxford experience, you cannot stay in a standard hotel. You need to book a room at Malmaison Oxford.

Located right in the Oxford Castle quarter, this is a converted Victorian prison where the original cells have been transformed into incredibly cozy, luxurious boutique rooms. Don't worry, the beds are infinitely more comfortable than they were 150 years ago! You can grab dinner at their Chez Mal Brasserie and sip creative cocktails at the unique Malbar before serving your "sentence" for the night.

Oxford is so much more than just a university town. It’s got a rebellious, creative, and totally unexpected heart. Go find it!

Until next time,

Alyssa ✨