Whats On in Oxford
Special Events by Uncomfortable Oxford
Throughout the year, we offer unique events that aim to uncover the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden stories. Explore our calendar below for upcoming free tours, festival talks, educational workshops, and collaborative events with local Oxford community organisations.
Spilling the Tea – IF Festival 2026
IF FESTIVAL TALK & TEA TASTING
What stories are hidden in your cup of tea? Taste a selection of teas from around the world while unravelling histories of empire, trade, labour and resistance. Learn how tea cultivation and consumption shaped lives, environments and global connections, discuss its lasting legacies, and discover the uncomfortable histories behind your daily brew…
Join speakers from Uncomfortable Oxford at Fantastea for an informal and interactive talk about the cultural and social history of tea. We will match each story with a specific brew that you will be able to sample during the event.
This event is a collaboration with IF Oxford: it is part of the Festival’s annual programme to spark curiosity and engagement with science and ideas. The Festival, now in its 35th year, runs 16–31 October 2026; for all events, see: https://if-oxford.com
No booking is required for the talk, just drop in. However, to help with planning, it would be useful if you could register your intention to attend.
Festivals are powerful and cost-effective ways to bring people together. They inspire curious minds of all ages and backgrounds to access and help shape new ideas. IF Oxford runs annually through the small charity Oxfordshire Science Festival. Consider making a donation to support the future of the Festival. IF Oxford uses Pay What You Decide (PWYD) ticketing so you can choose to pay whatever you want, or can afford. You can make your donation during booking
About Uncomfortable Oxford: Uncomfortable Oxford is a social enterprise that aims to spark critical conversations about the past and its legacies in the present.
About Fantastea: Fantastea is a global tea café in the heart of Oxford that offers bubble teas, rare brews, and community experiences.
Cover Image © Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
Looking for more?
Book an upcoming public tour
We offer regular weekly walking tours through Oxford's historic city center. Browse our upcoming public schedule, choose your date, and reserve your tickets directly online.
Want to collaborate on an event or idea?
We regularly work with academic institutions, community groups, and local organizations. Get in touch to discuss custom tours, joint talks, or partnerships.
