Christmas parties, particularly the works bash, can be deadly affairs where everyone pays a fortune to have a truely dreadful time trapped with the office bore. We've found some lovely places that can host a fantastic Christmas event with flair and a touch of originality that avoids the cheesey cliches and predictable Christmas menus that so blight most restaurants.
The Bear and Ragged Staff, Cumnor
The Bear and Ragged Staff in Cumnor is a delightful country Inn set in tranquil countryside just outside Oxford. They are renowned for their excellent seasonal and locally-sourced cuisine and are also a Visit Britain 4 Star Inn offering modern guest accommodation complete with en-suite and Wi-Fi facilities.
Dining at The Bear and Ragged staff is all about eating locally sourced, beautifully prepared food in a friendly, relaxing and tasteful environment.
Experienced Chef, Dan Kerr, and his team strive to exceed your expectations with "exceptional food, exceptional service in an exceptional place .. at the right price".
The Bear and Ragged Staff will be offering a Special Seasonal menu available throughout the day except Sundays, commencing on Monday December 1st, until and including Christmas Eve. Two and three course meals are priced at £23.50 and £27.50 and they can cater to banqueting parties from 10 to 80 persons.
For those wishing to have a more informal party intermingled with lots of chat, bonhomie, food and drink, their Old Bar provides the most amazing 480 year old location steeped in history for a family or corporate event whether at Christmas or otherwise!
Cockadoo Chinese Restaurant and Wine Bar
Cockadoo Chinese Restaurant and Wine Bar offers the very best in modern Chinese and Asian Fusion dining in the Oxford area. The Cockadoo is one of Oxford's hidden secrets and serves truly authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients.
Throughout the Christmas period, Cockadoo will be hosting some very special music and dining evenings which combine a superb special Chrismas menu (with a distinct oriental twist) with a fantastic top-quality tribute act.
Each evening is priced at £43 per person to include a 3 course set menu and entertainment till late.
17 Dec: Christmas Party Night with Back to the 80's
Back To The 80's are the ultimate tribute to the decade of big hair, shoulder pads and Live Aid. The show is vibrant and colourful, with multiple costume changes and a huge element of audience participation.
18 Dec: Christmas Party Night with Adele Tribute
Adele Tribute Hometown Glory is the ultimate tribute to the world famous and much loved soul singer Adele. The show is fast becoming recognized as the UK's leading choice when it comes to booking an Adele tribute act.
18 Dec: Christmas Party Night with The Best of Buble
Albie J is a talented singer/songwriter from Berkshire and possibly the best Michael Buble act in the UK today, with a celebrity following who often turn up at his shows.
31 Dec: New Years Eve with Abba Duo
Live entertainment with singing and dancing until 1 am, a luxurious 3 course oriental banquet, countdown clock and a Champagne toast at midnight!
These events are popular so do book early.
The Macdonald Randolph Hotel
In the heart of the city of Oxford Macdonald Randolph is a very special venue in which to enjoy the spirit of Christmas.
The Randolph can get your Christmas party off to a fantastic start whether it’s one of their famous party nights or a private dinner. Drinks offers, exclusive dining and room hire packages are available.
Party nights at the Randolph include a three course choice meal with coffee and mince pies, festive table novelties and resident DJ entertainment until midnight.
They can look after small gatherings for groups under ten, right up to larger private dining in a ballroom for over 200 guests. All prices include a three course lunch or dinner.
Christmas Parties at Oxford Castle
Looking for a unique and quirky venue for your Christmas party? Then why not send your guests to prison for an evening to remember. Oxford Castle Unlocked has been waiting 1000 years for you to come and explore.
The Oxford Castle can provide a wide range of entertainment options for you and your guests. Build your Christmas party night around their starter rate and then add in extra catering, entertainment or castle tours as you need.
Christmas Party starter rate - includes venue hire, a glass of sparkling wine and 5 Christmas canapes -£22 per person.
Get all the information you need on Christmas parties at Oxford Castle in their downloadable PDF or call 01865 260666.
Christmas with Oxford River Cruises
Oxford River Cruises invites you to celebrate Christmas on the magical River Thames in the heart of Oxford. They can offer a range of Christmas party options.
Their Christmas cruise vessel Serafina II will be moored at The Folly throughout the festive period. Beside the ancient arches of Folly Bridge, this is a magical venue to celebrate Christmas.
Serafina II can host private parties for up to 40 people. She is a centrally heated, all weather vessel from which you can enjoy the beauty of the river in comfort and warmth.
Their Christmas party menu is served aboard the vessel whilst she remains moored at Folly Bridge. However, for just £10 extra per person you can add a one hour cruise down the University Regatta Course before your meal.
Full details here or call 08452 269396
