The Jericho Tavern
The pub where Radiohead played their first gig — Oxford's main small live music venue.
Before they were Radiohead, they were On a Friday, and they played their first proper gig in the upstairs room of the Jericho Tavern in 1986. That fact alone would earn the pub a place in Oxford history, but the Tavern has been central to the city's music scene for decades, hosting Supergrass, Ride, Swervedriver, and countless other bands who came up through the Oxford scene.
The downstairs bar is a perfectly good pub in its own right — well-kept ales, a decent atmosphere, and the kind of lived-in character that you can't manufacture. The upstairs venue hosts gigs most weekends, ranging from local bands to touring acts who appreciate an intimate room.
What to order
Good range of real ales and a growing craft beer selection. Nothing fancy — this is a music pub, not a cocktail bar. Prices are fair for Jericho.
The vibe
There's a creative energy here that sets it apart from the other Walton Street pubs. On gig nights, the upstairs room packs out with a mix of students and music obsessives. On quieter evenings, the ground floor is a relaxed spot for a pint. If you care about Oxford's cultural history, this is essential.
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
