Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
Oxford's most elegant rooftop escape, where museum culture meets contemporary cuisine and city views.
Perched atop Oxford's prestigious Ashmolean Museum, this sophisticated rooftop restaurant combines contemporary European cuisine with panoramic views of the city's historic spires. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the bright, airy dining room with natural light, while an outdoor terrace and lawn with deckchairs offer alfresco dining at its finest. The menu showcases seasonal British ingredients with European influences, complemented by an impressive wine list and afternoon tea service.
A brief summary to Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
- Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont St, Oxford, OX1 2PH, GB
- +441865553823
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a sunny day to fully appreciate the rooftop terrace and outdoor lawn with deckchairs. The natural light transforms the experience, and views across Oxford's roofscape are at their best in clear weather.
- Book ahead, especially for lunch service and weekends. The restaurant fills quickly, and reservations ensure you secure a table at your preferred time.
- Try the afternoon tea service, which has become a signature offering. The homemade scones with clotted cream and jam are excellent, and the vegan afternoon tea option is equally impressive.
- Arrive early to browse the Ashmolean Museum's exhibitions before or after your meal. The restaurant's location makes it easy to combine cultural exploration with dining.
- Share plates if dining with others. The menu encourages sharing, and this approach allows you to sample a wider range of the kitchen's offerings without overcommitting to portion sizes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
A Rooftop Escape Above Oxford's Cultural Heart
Situated on the top floor of the Ashmolean Museum, this elegant restaurant offers visitors an unexpected sanctuary above the bustling streets of central Oxford. The location itself is a triumph of design—floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with natural light, creating an airy, sophisticated atmosphere that feels both refined and welcoming. The restaurant's bright, modern aesthetic contrasts beautifully with the historic architecture visible through its windows, allowing diners to contemplate Oxford's "dreaming spires" while enjoying contemporary cuisine. Access is straightforward: enter the museum as normal and follow signposted stairs (or take the lift) to the rooftop level. This journey through the museum itself adds a cultural dimension to the dining experience, making it more than simply a meal—it's a complete Oxford experience.Outdoor Terraces and Seasonal Dining
The restaurant's greatest asset is its outdoor space. A generous rooftop terrace and a charming lawn dotted with deckchairs provide alfresco dining options that transform the experience on sunny days. The terrace offers unobstructed views across Oxford's roofscape, making it an ideal spot for leisurely lunches or evening aperitifs. On grey days, the interior's abundant natural light ensures the dining room remains bright and inviting, though many visitors note that the space truly shines when the weather cooperates.Seasonal British Cuisine with European Flair
The kitchen emphasizes sustainability and quality, sourcing meat and dairy from UK producers. The menu rotates seasonally and features a thoughtful balance of options: French bistro staples, Italian classics, Spanish dishes, and contemporary British fare. Starters might include flash-fried squid with pomegranate and chilli, smoked mackerel pâté, or mezze platters with taramasalata and hummus. Mains range from slow-roast pork belly and chicken cassoulet to pan-fried seabass and handmade truffle and ricotta tortelloni. The kitchen demonstrates particular skill with vegetarian and vegan dishes, offering options like mushroom and chestnut gnocchi and vegan shepherd's pie alongside meat selections. Desserts are a highlight: the elderflower panna cotta with balsamic strawberries, dark chocolate torte, and fig and frangipane tart have all earned praise for their balance of flavour and presentation.Afternoon Tea and Special Occasions
The restaurant has become renowned for its afternoon tea service, a quintessentially British experience elevated by the rooftop setting. Homemade sultana scones arrive with English clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam, while savoury options include coronation chicken brioche, smoked salmon with herbed cream cheese, and pulled ham with piccalilli. A vegan afternoon tea option is also available, reflecting the kitchen's commitment to dietary inclusivity.Atmosphere and Service Standards
The dining room's design—with its stylish modern decor, intelligent lighting, and well-spaced tables—creates an atmosphere of understated elegance. Staff are typically described as knowledgeable, attentive, and professional, though experiences vary. The restaurant attracts a diverse clientele: museum visitors, academics, students, couples on special occasions, and families. The space feels neither crowded nor empty, even during busy periods, thanks to thoughtful layout and capacity management.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for lunch service and peak times such as weekends and sunny days. The restaurant operates daily from mid-morning through late afternoon, making it suitable for brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea rather than dinner service. Pricing sits in the moderate to mid-range bracket, with starters around £7–£9, mains £20–£24, and afternoon tea offerings competitively priced for central Oxford. The wine list is described as perky and well-curated, offering options to suit various budgets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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Oxford's most elegant rooftop escape, where museum culture meets contemporary cuisine and city views.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Viewpoints
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
