Christmas in Oxfordshire is a time for indulgence, togetherness and festive cheer – and what better way to celebrate than with a sumptuous Christmas Day lunch in one of the county’s finest restaurants, pubs or hotels? Whether you’re seeking a grand feast in the city, a cosy country inn, or a luxurious dining experience in the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire offers something to suit every taste and tradition. Here’s our guide to some places to eat on Christmas Day 2025 across Oxford and surrounding towns and villages.
The Red Lion, Oxford
For a Christmas filled with flavour and festive sparkle, The Red Lion presents a beautifully curated Christmas Day Set Menu (£94.95 per person), complete with a children’s menu at £50.95. Highlights include a decadent Seafood Thermidor starter, Hand-Carved Turkey or Fillet Rossini for the main course and a rich Chocolate Bomb for dessert.
Upgrade your experience with the Extra Special Package (£15pp), featuring a welcome drink and your choice of classic cocktails to finish. Expect elegant dining, seasonal warmth and a touch of indulgence in the heart of Oxford.
Quod Restaurant & Bar, Oxford
Located in Oxford’s elegant High Street, Quod transforms its former banking hall into a festive haven each December. With its twinkling lights, Georgian windows and view of St Mary’s spire, this stylish restaurant delivers atmosphere and flavour in equal measure.
On Christmas Day, guests can enjoy traditional roast turkey with cranberries and all the trimmings, alongside indulgent puddings and festive drinks from the onyx bar. Quod’s lively yet refined setting makes it one of the most popular Christmas Day lunch venues in Oxford.
The Folly, Oxford
Perched beside the River Thames, The Folly offers an elegant five-course Christmas Day lunch (£139pp). Guests are welcomed for sittings between 12:00 and 15:00 to enjoy a menu that celebrates the best of seasonal British cuisine, all served in The Folly’s intimate, riverside setting. Perfect for those seeking a memorable fine dining experience in Oxford this Christmas.
The Manor Garsington
Just ten minutes from Oxford, The Manor Garsington provides a picture-perfect countryside retreat for festive dining. Its elegant dining room and roaring fire set the stage for a relaxed and joyful Christmas Day feast. Guests can enjoy two or three courses (£75/£85) featuring succulent turkey with all the trimmings, creative vegetarian options and decadent desserts.
Seatings are available at 12:00, 14:15, and 16:30 – ideal for a leisurely celebration surrounded by warmth, tradition and the beauty of the Chiltern Hills.
The Old Swan, Minster Lovell, Witney
Celebrate Christmas amid rustic charm at the Old Swan, part of the Minster Mill collection. Their five-course Christmas Day lunch is paired with Champagne and designed to evoke the spirit of traditional festive dining. Guests can also enjoy a Christmas Night Buffet, filled with seasonal flavours and shared moments.
The Old Crown Coaching Inn, Faringdon
With its 2AA Rosette credentials, The Old Crown Coaching Inn offers an exquisite Christmas Day Tasting Menu (£125pp). Expect beautifully crafted dishes such as Venison Wellington, Champagne-poached turbot and a spiced apple bauble dessert. Vegetarian diners can enjoy a dedicated tasting menu with equal finesse. Two relaxed sittings make it the perfect spot for an elegant and indulgent Christmas Day celebration.
The Bull, Burford
Under the guidance of Head Chef Nicola Scarpellini, The Bull in Burford serves a celebratory Christmas Day menu featuring canapés, three main options, a pre-dessert, puddings and a cheeseboard selection. Burford’s charming atmosphere and The Bull’s refined yet welcoming style make it an ideal setting for a Cotswolds Christmas lunch.
The Fleece, Witney
For the first time, The Fleece will open its doors on Christmas Day 2025. Guests can look forward to a five-course feast (£100pp) including canapés and a lemon sorbet refresher. With its warm, relaxed setting and attentive service, this is the perfect venue for those who want to celebrate Christmas surrounded by great company and great food – without lifting a finger.
The Bull on Bell Street, Henley-on-Thames
Nestled in the heart of Henley, The Bull on Bell Street captures the essence of a traditional English Christmas with a modern twist. Its four-course Christmas Day menu (£100pp) pairs festive classics with creative flair, served in stylish surroundings with plenty of sparkle. Expect a lively yet laid-back celebration complete with seasonal cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Old Post Office, Wallingford
Overlooking the market square in a beautifully restored Grade II listed building, The Old Post Office combines history and elegance for a perfect Christmas Day celebration. Guests can indulge in a three-course meal (£105pp) prepared by expert chefs, while enjoying the charm of one of Wallingford’s most characterful venues. A festive favourite for families and couples alike.
Weston Manor Hotel, Weston-on-the-Green, Bicester
Set in one of Oxfordshire’s most elegant country houses, Weston Manor Hotel offers a luxurious Christmas Day lunch (£99pp) in a setting steeped in history and charm. Guests are invited to relax by the fire and savour exquisite food in a truly magical atmosphere. A perfect choice for those looking to combine fine dining with timeless grandeur this Christmas.
Celebrate and Stay in Oxfordshire
Why not make your festive celebration a short break? Oxfordshire offers a wealth of places to stay, from boutique hotels in Oxford to charming bed and breakfasts, cosy guest houses and self-catering cottages across the Cotswolds. Whether you’re planning an intimate escape or a family gathering, you’ll find the perfect base to relax, unwind and enjoy the best of festive dining in Oxfordshire this Christmas.
