Nick West, General Manager of St Aldates Tavern talks about preparing for New Year's Eve in the city centre.

St Aldates Tavern has been trying to change its image over the last year.

With a new Manager, Kitchen and Front of House team we have been slowly altering the Tavern to make it more family and pet friendly whilst retaining its charm. By introducing board games, books and revamping the ales and craft beers the Tavern is fast becoming a favourite of students, faculty staff and town regulars. Altering the food to being homemade, with seasonally changing special menus, it is easy to understand why the Tavern is attracting a variety of clientele.

There is always something going on there. Keep an eye out for some great events throughout the year, including; Meet the Brewer, theatrical plays, comedy nights, Easter egg decorating, Pumpkin carving to name but a few. There is also regular live music; every second Tuesday as Osprey and friends play from 9pm to 11pm and the last Friday of the month as popular musician Adam Matthews plays until midnight.

This year however the focus has turned to the end of the year and more importantly New Year’s Eve!

New Year’s Eve has traditionally been a quieter affair, and with limited transport to and from the City and a lot of the pubs, bars and restaurants closing early it is easy to understand why. St Aldates Tavern is trying to change the norm this year by putting on a fun filled evening that is sure to draw in a crowd and they would love to see your support.

The idea behind this is to create a lively atmosphere and draw the local community together with Live Music from 8pm. Osprey and friends will light up the Tavern, alongside Beard of Destiny as one of three acts to play over the evening. Warming Mulled Wine and Cider will keep the cold at bay, and a range of homemade snacks are available in case you get peckish. There has been a nice response so far from the customers who frequent the Tavern and the St Aldates staff are looking to have a big blow out to 2016 and the best start to 2017.

Understandably the transport may be an issue, so to combat this St Aldates Tavern will be holding a raffle at 11.30pm. Simply pop in from 7-10pm and for every drink brought over the bar, you receive a raffle ticket. With a range of prizes from a bottle of Champagne to the coveted wooden spoon, we have everything. The best part? There are five top prizes up for grabs as St Aldates will pay for your taxi ride home (even if you want to go to the clubs after visiting us), so let us get your first Taxi of 2017.

Feel free to give us a call or email to book your table for the evening.

St Aldates Tavern

108 St Aldates

OX1 1BU

01865 241185