Nestled atop the world-renowned Ashmolean Museum, the Rooftop Café offers a serene respite from the busy streets of Oxford. Despite the chilly winds keeping us indoors, the panoramic view of the city’s spires through the café’s windows provided a charming backdrop to an afternoon well spent. While we couldn’t enjoy the terrace this time, we fondly reminisced about leisurely summer lunches there, making this winter visit all the more nostalgic.
An Afternoon of Art, History, and Indulgence
After a day of wandering through the museum’s fascinating exhibits, we rewarded ourselves with a glass of prosecco before tea service began. It felt fitting to celebrate the Ashmolean’s gift to the public—free entry to world-class art and history—with a small indulgence.
The café itself embodies understated elegance. Its clean, Scandi-inspired design lends a casual yet refined ambiance, perfect for art enthusiasts and museum-goers alike. It’s the kind of place where conversations feel enriched by the shared appreciation of culture and beauty.
While the Ashmolean Museum is undoubtedly a treasure trove of art and history, you don’t need to visit the exhibits to enjoy the delights of the Rooftop Café. Open to everyone, the café is a standalone destination offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. Whether you’re meeting friends for a light lunch, treating yourself to a decadent afternoon tea, or simply enjoying a quiet coffee with a view, the café welcomes all. Its casual yet sophisticated ambiance makes it a perfect destination in its own right.
A Seasonal Spread: What We Tried
The Ashmolean Rooftop Café’s afternoon tea is a delightful homage to the season, featuring both savoury and sweet treats that evoke festive warmth. Here’s what was on our plate:
Savoury Selection
Cucumber, dill cream, white bread: A classic tea sandwich, elevated with a delicate dill cream that perfectly balanced the fresh cucumber.
Brie and cranberry shallot shell: The creamy brie and sweet-tart cranberry were complemented by the depth of the shallot purée—a festive favorite.
Roast turkey, sage emulsion, cranberry sauce, rocket, malted bread: This quintessential holiday-inspired bite delivered comforting flavors in every mouthful.
Smoked salmon, dill and horseradish crème fraîche, brioche roll: The combination of smoky salmon and zesty crème fraîche was as indulgent as it was refreshing.
Nut roast, spinach, fig relish, malted bread: A vegetarian option that didn’t disappoint, offering a satisfying blend of earthiness and sweetness.
Maple roasted beetroot, sage emulsion, rocket, brioche bun: The maple glaze on the beetroot added a subtle sweetness, perfectly balanced by the peppery rocket.
Sweet Treats
Cranberry and mixed spice scones: Warm, lightly spiced, and paired with clotted cream and jam, these scones were a highlight of the experience.
Mini Bailey’s mousse with Tia Maria syrup: Luxuriously smooth and rich, this mousse was an absolute treat for coffee and liqueur lovers.
Chocolate and orange mousse: Decadent yet light, with the bright citrus note cutting through the richness of the chocolate.
Gingerbread biscuit: A nostalgic nod to the holidays, perfectly spiced and delightfully crisp.
Mini vanilla cheesecake with candied clementine: Creamy and delicate, with the candied clementine adding a zingy finish.
Mince pie & Mincemeat Bakewell slice: Two festive classics done beautifully, with just the right balance of sweet and spiced.
Drinks
No afternoon tea is complete without the perfect cup, and we opted for a pot of Earl Grey with oat milk, as well as a rich, comforting latte to round off the experience.
Why We’ll Be Back
The Ashmolean Rooftop Café offers more than just exceptional food and drink—it’s a space where art, history, and a love for good company converge.
Atmosphere: Casual yet civilised, it’s the perfect setting for a reflective afternoon after exploring the museum.
Service: Friendly and efficient, with staff who clearly take pride in creating a welcoming experience.
Location: Perched above the Ashmolean, the café offers not just a meal but a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries while taking in the charm of Oxford from above.
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