Although Oxford isn’t home to many nightclubs, there are definitely some hidden gems out there that provide the best club atmosphere in a bar, for example. As an Oxford local, I’m here to provide an ultimate guide to the best nightclubs in Oxford for students so you aren’t finding yourself bored on Wednesday nights wondering where to go!
1. Thirst
I’ll always remember the first time I went to Thirst. Originally, I was shocked that I was being charged £6 to get in but as soon as I got in there I felt instantly at home! I remember ordering a double vodka cranberry and the bartender who served me went the full mile to make sure it was an experience I wouldn’t forget as he did tricks with the glass whilst making it. Once you’ve bought a drink, you can go and sit in the blue booth tables before heading to the dancefloor which surprisingly, wasn’t too crowded and played some absolute classics! A big plus is that it is also open on Sundays (9pm-2:30am) which is a very rare find so it is definitely worth checking out!
Address: 7-8 Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HH
2. Hanks
Coincidentally, Hanks Bar is owned by the same people who own Thirst so based on the description before, you already know Hanks is one of the best places to be! Not only is this upstairs bar in the heart of the city, but it serves amazing cocktails and food so you can pre hard before dancing the night away with your friends! From my experience, I’ve always had a really fun night there and I’m sure you will too!
Address: 36 37Queen Street, Oxford OX1 1PA
3. Plush
Plush is home to “Broke Thursday’s” which claim to be Oxford’s cheapest student night with deals including 2x VK’s for £5 and any 2 bombs for £5 which is an absolutely steal if you ask me! This club is underground so don’t expect the best service if you are trying to find a lost friend but luckily, it is easily laid out and has a very friendly atmosphere! The attraction that’s grabs everyone’s attention is the 4 strip poles positioned right at the front near the DJ which is always a laugh with your friends. The one thing I’d say be careful off is the very low ceilings… you may bump your head here and there!
Address: Frewin Ct, Oxford OX1 3HZ
4. O2 Academy Oxford
In the heart of Cowley, this music venue has some good bands playing from time to time and is home to Fishies which is the perfect Wednesday night for students. My friends who study at Oxford say it’s a cheesy night out and they could only wish that it was more central in the city. If you are living in the Cowley area though, this may become your new mid-week spot!
Address: 190 Cowley Rd, Oxford OX4 1UE
5. Kiss
Kiss Bar has a variety of events going on throughout the weeks including some niche ones such as Intrusion Goth Club, which is why it had to be on my list of Oxford’s best nightclubs. This event happens once a month where the dress code is goth, and my Oxford uni friends have been dying for me to try it. As they say, “if in doubt, wear all black” and you can’t go much wrong there! It is always £5 cash entry which is good to note and is the perfect location for a adventurous night out!
Address: 39 Park End St, Oxford OX1 1JD
6. Glamorous
Another bar/nightclub that I am yet to try is Glamorous. It is described as “stylish and unique” that offers a daily happy hour from opening until 11pm and then transforms into a club atmosphere filled with nighttime offers until 3am. Similar to Plush, this is an LGBTQ+ nightclub that is dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere and for all. They also have featured drag artists that help illuminate the atmosphere, so it is definitely a club on my bucket list!
Address: 15 St Clement’s St, Oxford OX4 1AB
7. The Bridge
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Last but not least, Bridge hosts a variety of events throughout the week to cater for all music tastes. It is probably one of the largest clubs in Oxford and is known for having frequent student nights and you know what a student night means? STUDENT DEALS! which we are all consistently looming for.
Address: 6-9 Hythe Bridge Street, Oxford, OX1 2EW
Now you are sorted with the best of Oxford nightlife, you may need to check this article out for the best bottomless brunches in Oxford that can cure your inevitable hangover!
I’m a linguistic student who is passionate about creative writing. I’m particularly intrigued by the power of poetry and how it communicates with people. When I’m not writing poetry, I am thrift shopping, going on coffee dates and visiting bookshops!
