* London’s leading cocktail bar chain Be At One has just secured a new venue at 15 St Clement’s Street in Oxford, formerly Clem’s nightclub, and intends to fully refurbish it and open in January.

Steve Locke, director at Be At One, said: “We are really excited about this new venue, in the heart of Oxford.

“The venue’s proximity to the universities, students and local workers, we see Be At One quickly becoming an institution for all the people that appreciate great cocktails in Oxford.”

* Two pubs have finally opened their doors after much procrastination; The Chester Arms off Iffley Road has had its soft opening but is still only open at weekends with the odd hog roast thrown in for good measure until the kitchens are fully functioning.

Watch this space.

The Crown in Woodstock is also finally open, a soft opening party being thrown last week.

We will review both in full when they’ve both settled down. In the meantime, if you fancy a pint go and check them out.

* The Harrow in Enstone has also reopened with a new team and a great menu in place. It has had a fairly tumultuous time of it recently, and its been hard to keep track of its endless stream of new owners and landlords.

But Paul Hughes is determined he’s there to stay and has introduced a fabulous family-friendly menu courtesy of head chef Brian Bourne.

There’s a three-course lunch menu at only £14, alongside an evening menu, daily chef specials, young guests’ menu, and a fantastic Sunday menu, along with a great range of cask and craft ales and wines.

Call 01608 678852.

* The Thatch in Thame is holding a gentleman’s evening on Thursday, October 16, from 7.30pm for an evening of the finest calibre and attire.

There will be talks and fittings with one of the finest gentleman’s outfitters in town, Gallant Menswear, plus cheese and whisky tastings and sausage making.

Call 01844 214340.

* Fallowfields in Southmoor has launched a fabulous sounding Downton Abbey Tour to mark the start of the fifth series of the very popular TV show, pictured, com-prising a self-drive tour that includes many of the Downton Abbey film locations – some only a 20-minute drive from its front door.

The Self-Drive Downton Abbey Tour Package includes one night’s accommodation for two people with dinner from its Tasting Menu and a special souvenir bottle of red or white Downton Abbey Wine. The package is available throughout October.

Call 01865 820416 or email stay@fallowfields.com

* The Red Lion in Britwell Salome, Watlington, has made it to the final five Best British Roast Dinner finalists, beating off stiff competition from more than 300 hopefuls as part of British Roast Dinner Week.

Mystery diners from British Roast Dinner Week are currently visiting the five shortlisted pubs to cast their votes. The title of Best British Roast Dinner, will be announced at the end of the week.

See britishroastdinnerweek.co.uk

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