Sober October in Oxford: 10 Tips for an Autumn Adventure

Hey there, Oxford adventurers! As we bid farewell to summer and embrace the cosy vibes of autumn, there’s no better time to dive into Sober October. Whether you’re giving your liver a break, supporting a good cause, or just feeling like a change of pace, Oxford has plenty to offer for a fulfilling and alcohol-free October. Yasmin from Align Events shares ten tips for making the most of your sober journey this autumn.>>

1. Oxford Campus Quest

Channel your inner student and explore the hallowed halls of Oxford University. Stroll through picturesque courtyards, visit iconic libraries, and feel the academic buzz in the air.

2. Autumnal Amble

Grab your jumper and take a mindful walk through Shotover, down by Iffley Lock or Hinksey Meadows. The rustling leaves and green spaces make getting away from the hub of the city super easy in as little as 10 minutes.

3. Board Game Bonanza

Swing by Thirsty Meeples board game cafe for some good clean fun. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a variety of board games, and make unforgettable memories with friends and fellow gamers.

 4. Pumpkin Patch Adventure

‘Tis the season for pumpkin picking! Head to one of Oxfordshire’s pumpkin patches and choose the perfect gourd for carving or cooking up some delicious autumn recipes.

5. Covered Market Indies

Support your local indies by stopping by the Covered Market for a browse amongst the shops, and indulge in gorgeous food from around the world. When you’re done grab a book and get cosy in Gulp Fiction.

6. Get Scribbling 

Journaling gets your thoughts out of your head and onto the page. Looking for some inspo to start your journaling journey? Why not visit the quirky charm of Scriptum Fine Stationery on 600-year-old Turl Street and pick up some pens and jotters to lovingly log your musings.

7. Coffee crawl

Gather your friends, or enjoy some quality solo time, as you explore the city’s best brews and most Instagrammable cafes. Go for Chai Tea Boba at Formosan Tea Bar, high-grade beans at Brew or super indulgent organic hot chocolate at Columbia Coffee Roasters – because there’s more than one way to do a drinks crawl.

8. Find your zen

Sobriety is all about balance, and what better way to find it than through yoga? Oxford offers an array of tranquil spaces where you can roll out your mat, breathe in the fresh autumn air, and find your inner peace. Or if you need some help with your practice head to Every Body Studio or Yoga Venue.

9. Scary Movie Marathon

Who said sober nights can’t be thrilling? Gather your spook-loving family and friends and host a movie night filled with classic horror flicks. Dim the lights, pop the popcorn, and let the screams and laughter fill the room. You’ll be too busy having fun to even miss those spirits in your glass!

10. Solo cycle

Sometimes, the best company is your own. Take a solo cycle adventure through Oxford’s picturesque landscapes. Feel the wind in your hair as you explore hidden gems and soak in the autumn scenery. It’s an excellent way to clear your mind and embrace the beauty of sobriety.

So there you have it, my fellow adventurers! Oxfordshire is bursting with opportunities to make the most of your sober October. Whether you’re uncovering the secrets of Oxford’s historic streets, sipping on that perfect brew or pedalling your way to serenity, Oxford has something special for every sober soul this Sober October. Let’s embrace the fun, the laughter, and the joy of being present in every moment. Here’s to an incredible, alcohol-free month ahead!

Yasmin Spark is the Founder of Align Events, a non-alcoholic mobile cocktail bar providing vegan and sustainably based mocktails across Oxfordshire and the southeast.