Arts at the Old Fire Station, Oxford
A vibrant arts centre and social hub in Oxford blending contemporary creativity with community support and inclusive performances.
The Old Fire Station in Oxford is a vibrant multi-arts centre housed in a historic red brick building at 40 George Street. It blends contemporary art exhibitions, live theatre, and community support, notably partnering with the charity Crisis to aid homeless people. Visitors can enjoy diverse performances, a welcoming café serving Middle Eastern cuisine, and a gallery showcasing local and international artists in a socially engaged setting.
A brief summary to Old Fire Station
- 40 George St, Oxford, OX1 2AQ, GB
- +441865263980
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the café for delicious Middle Eastern food made by a social enterprise supporting refugees.
- Check the event schedule online to catch world premieres and inclusive performances with sensory adaptations.
- Use the George Street entrance for step-free access and inform staff if you require wheelchair seating.
- Many gallery exhibitions are free, making it an affordable cultural stop in Oxford.
- Engage with the venue’s social mission by learning about the Crisis partnership and community projects.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple city buses serve stops near George Street, with frequent services running every 10-20 minutes from central Oxford locations. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 for a single journey. Buses provide easy access but check schedules for evening services.
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Taxi
Taxis from Oxford city centre to the Old Fire Station take around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £5-£10. Ideal for evening events when public transport is less frequent.
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Walking
From Oxford city centre, the Old Fire Station is a 10-15 minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and suitable for wheelchair users.
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Car
Several city centre car parks are within walking distance, including Gloucester Green and Westgate. Parking fees vary but typically range from £2-£4 per hour. Note that parking availability can be limited during peak times.
Old Fire Station location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Old Fire Station
A Hub of Creativity and Community
The Old Fire Station is a unique arts centre located in the heart of Oxford at 40 George Street. This historic red brick building serves as a dynamic space where contemporary art, theatre, and community initiatives intersect. It is home to a diverse range of live performances including theatre, comedy, music, and dance, often showcasing new and experimental works. Alongside its artistic mission, the venue shares its space with the charity Crisis, which supports homeless people in Oxford by providing training, volunteering opportunities, and creative projects.Artistic Offerings and Performances
The venue presents a rich programme of events throughout the year, including world premieres such as "Before the Millennium," a play that reflects local stories and cultural heritage. The theatre offers accessible performances with sensory adaptations and post-show discussions, fostering an inclusive environment. The gallery space regularly hosts exhibitions featuring local and international artists, encouraging community engagement with contemporary art. Many exhibitions are free to enter, making art accessible to all.A Social Enterprise Café and Bar
The Old Fire Station café is a welcoming spot open from Tuesday to Sunday, serving delicious coffee, pastries, and Middle Eastern dishes prepared by Damascus Rose Kitchen, a social enterprise supporting Syrian and Arabic-speaking refugee women. On show nights, the café transforms into a bar offering drinks and snacks before and during performances. The venue also emphasizes inclusivity with accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities.Community Impact and Social Inclusion
Beyond its artistic role, the Old Fire Station is deeply committed to social impact. Through its partnership with Crisis, it provides homeless individuals with opportunities to gain skills and confidence by working front-of-house, in the shop, and backstage. This integration of art and social support creates a welcoming environment where artists, community members, and vulnerable populations share space and experiences.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The building offers step-free access via the George Street entrance, with reserved wheelchair spaces for seated shows and assistance available for standing gigs. The venue encourages sustainable travel and provides information to help visitors plan eco-friendly journeys. The café and gallery opening hours accommodate weekday and weekend visits, making the Old Fire Station a flexible destination for cultural exploration.A Living Cultural Landmark
The Old Fire Station stands as a landmark of Oxford’s contemporary cultural scene and social conscience. It embodies a spirit of inclusivity, creativity, and community support, making it a must-visit for those interested in arts with a purpose. Whether attending a performance, viewing an exhibition, or enjoying a meal, visitors experience a vibrant space where art and humanity converge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
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Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
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Martyrs' Memorial
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Oxford Magic Walking tours
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The painted room
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Oxford Tours UK
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Visit Oxford Tours
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Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
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Great Jewry Marker
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Oxford Preservation Trust
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Brasenose College
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Clarendon Building
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Tom Tower
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Bridge of Sighs
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2.1
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Unmissable attractions to see
Nuffield College
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Oxford Outdoor Market
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Oxford Playhouse
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New Theatre Oxford
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Oxford Castle & Prison
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The Oxford Retreat
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The Oxford Union Society
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The world's most prestigious debating society, championing free speech and intellectual exchange since 1823.
Oxford Castle Quarter
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Explore centuries of history and vibrant culture at Oxford Castle Quarter, where medieval heritage meets modern dining and hospitality.
44-46 Oxford Castle
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Explore 1,000 years of history from Norman fortress to Victorian prison with panoramic views and immersive storytelling at Oxford Castle & Prison.
Saint George's Tower
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Explore Saint George's Tower, Oxford’s oldest building, offering panoramic city views and a journey through nearly 1,000 years of history.
Bill Spectre Ghost Trail
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Oxford's most theatrical ghost tour: history, mystery, and illusions in the city's darkest corners.
Ashmolean Museum
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House of Wonders
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St Michael at the North Gate
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Park End St
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Essential places to dine
Banana Tree Oxford
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Lively Pan-Asian dining with extensive vegan options and vibrant flavors in the heart of Oxford’s George Street.
Côte Oxford
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Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
GLUT
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Independent Oxford eatery serving generous, tasty burgers and vegan delights in a lively, casual atmosphere on George Street.
Gino's
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Authentic Italian flavors and warm family-run charm await you in the heart of Oxford at Gino's Spaghetti House.
Thaikhun
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Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Bbuona
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Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Red Lion Oxford
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Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
The White Rabbit
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A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Turtle Bay Oxford
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Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Bella Italia - Oxford
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Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
ASK Italian - Oxford
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Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Old Delhi
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Explore Old Delhi's rich heritage through stunning architecture, delicious street food, and vibrant markets that reflect India's cultural diversity.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Oxford
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Victorian prison cells transformed into an atmospheric brasserie serving modern British cuisine and craft cocktails in Oxford's historic centre.
The Alice
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Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
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Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
The Crafters Emporium
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Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
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Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
The Oxford Gift Shop
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Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Shop of Secrets
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Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Watsons of Oxford
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover eclectic fashion and unique home décor at Urban Outfitters Oxford Castle Street, where modern style meets historic charm.
Broad Canvas
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Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oliver Bonas
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Discover unique fashion and homeware with a joyful British spirit at Oliver Bonas in Oxford’s Westgate Shopping Centre.
Westgate Oxford
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A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Oxford’s city centre, blending modern retail with festive charm and cultural events.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
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Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Anthropologie
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Cool Britannia
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Soctopus
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Oxford Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
OXO BAR
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Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
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The Lighthouse
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The Grapes
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Thirst Bar
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The Three Goats Heads Pub
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Cow & Creek
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Hanks Bar
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The Royal Blenheim
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The Varsity Club
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St Aldates
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All Bar One Oxford
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White Horse
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The House
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LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
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ATIK Oxford
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
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The Bridge Nightclub
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Kiss Bar
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Plush Oxford
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Mirage Aylesbury
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The Venue, Bucks
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Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
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TWC
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Popworld - Reading
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Reading Lola Lo
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Q Club
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Gun Street Garden
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Diligence
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
