Receptions

Tom Quad is the largest quadrangle in Oxford, dominated by Tom Tower to the West, with an attractive ornamental pond and fountain in the centre. The short walk up to Hall makes it a popular setting for guests before a Banquet.

The Masters’ Garden, with its views of Magdalen Tower and Merton College, is a delightful location for large Drinks Receptions. The Governing Body may occasionally give consent for a marquee to be erected in the Masters’ Garden. In such cases, outside caterers will need to be arranged. If you are considering such an event please contact the Treasurer’s Administrator, Sally Gillard (01865 276178).

The Cathedral Garden is a smaller, walled garden situated between the Deanery and the Cathedral. It can hold up to 100 guests and is available during the Summer Term and Vacation: Monday to Friday 7.00pm – 9.00pm and Saturday 2.00pm – 4.00pm & 7.00pm – 9.00pm.

The Buttery Bar functions as a bar and wine cellar and is frequently used by guests dining in the McKenna Room, to enjoy a drink beforehand. During Term, receptions in the Buttery start at 7.30pm to fit with our student dining. Groups can have a cash (card only)/credit bar, or pre-order drinks.

During vacation, Conferences and Summer Schools can request the Buttery be open to enjoy a drink before or after dinner in the Great Hall. 

The Ante-Hall is a spacious area at the top of a magnificent stone staircase and it is used for large drinks receptions before dining in the Great Hall.

The Undercroft is a renovated cellar bar which can cater for up to 120 people (vacations only). It can be used as a communal space for Conferences and Summer Schools to have a drink before or after dinner, but can also be booked by groups for a private reception. With its Juke Box and two TV screens, it is an attractive space for Quiz Nights and socialising.

The Upper Library may occasionally be booked for Receptions for up to 90 people. Only light coloured drinks may be consumed and no food is permitted. (Extra staffing and hire fees apply.)

Christ Church Picture Gallery may occasionally be booked for Receptions for up to 90 people (after 5.00pm). The Gallery is a modern space housing a world-renowned collection of Old Masters paintings and drawings. You could combine it with an introductory talk by the Curator about some of the paintings and a chance to browse round the Gallery.

Only light coloured drinks may be consumed and no food is permitted. (Extra staffing and hire fees apply.)