James Street Tavern

James Street Tavern is a quirky, student‑friendly Oxford local tucked just off Cowley Road, with a welcoming main bar, a versatile side room ideal for private hire, and a standout garden offering close to one hundred covers—spaces that make it easy to create atmosphere year‑round.

The pub has benefited from investment in recent years, giving an incoming operator solid foundations to build on. Currently trading as a traditional, student‑leaning pub with a vibrant late‑night following, the offer is predominantly wet‑led with food provided by a third party. This creates a clear opportunity to amplify entertainment and social energy while shaping a more distinctive identity amid the lively Cowley Road scene frequented by both locals and students. We’re looking for an entrepreneurial operator who knows Oxford, understands how to trade confidently with students, and can run compelling live entertainment that keeps the pub front‑of‑mind throughout the week. A hands‑on approach to programming, promotions and partnerships—especially around music, sport, and community moments—will be essential. Success here will come from leaning into the pub’s character and flexible layout, making the side room a go‑to for functions, turning the garden into a signature draw, and bringing the food offer back in‑house with a creative, good‑value menu that complements the social vibe. With thoughtful events and warm hospitality, James Street Tavern can attract a balanced mix of students and locals and stand out confidently against the competition on Cowley Road. Key facts • Annual rent: £65,000 • Upfront cost: £32,500 • Forecasted operator turnover: £710,526 • Forecasted operator profit (inc machine): £64,401 • Type of tie: Full tie: Access to Discounted Wines, Spirits & Minerals Price List • Machine product agreement: Unrestricted (100% to licensee) Entry costs Entry cost is approximately £32500 which includes 25% of the fixtures & fittings value, deposit, stock and working capital. Any additional costs will be confirmed in your schedule 1 information. You will also need to obtain independent professional legal and financial advice. Please note, the fixtures and fittings value is estimated and will be confirmed on change day and an assisted purchase plan is available to purchase the remaining 75% of fixtures and fittings. Trading space The trade space at James Street Tavern is centred around a welcoming main bar that opens directly into the primary drinking area, creating an immediate sense of atmosphere as customers enter. Alongside the main bar is a generous side room that offers valuable versatility, functioning as an additional trading area or a dedicated space for private functions, student society events, intimate gigs or community activities. Beyond the indoor areas, the pub benefits from a particularly strong asset: a large garden with close to one hundred covers, giving it a distinctive edge for busy summer trading, outdoor events, and daytime socialising. The layout supports a variety of trading patterns, from lively evening entertainment to relaxed daytime use. With one bar, one function room, and substantial outdoor capacity, the space is set up to flex between student‑driven nightlife, community gatherings, and destination‑style events—giving the incoming operator plenty of scope to shape the offer. Private accommodation The accommodation comprises 4 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, bathroom and toilet.