The Oxford Guide

This swish new building on Mansfield Road houses facilities for members composed of University staff, graduates, and alumni. It has a buffet style cafe, bar, formal restaurant, a small amount of hotel-style accommodation, and conference facilities.

It's a nice atmosphere in here; a bit like a college in some respects, but bright and modern. There are cosy little corners for reading the (provided) paper, brightly lit places for a light lunch, a pool table (though it was out of order when I visited in November). They also do evening bar meals.

Prices are high; I paid an an amazing £1.90 for a chocolate brownie (because she wanted it). They have a Costa Coffee franchise, but the espresso was very unpleasant.

Membership is free to University staff and graduate students. You can sign up online, and they promise to set up your swipe card access in 48 hours (mine worked 24 hours after registration).