Bodleian Library Cafe

3.9 ( 111 reviews )
Checking... 09:00 AM - 04:45 PM See Hours
£1–10
Weston Library, Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG, United Kingdom
+44 1865 277162

The Bodleian Library Cafe is quickly establishing itself as a cherished gem in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the iconic Weston Library. This spacious cafe boasts a unique charm, thanks to its immersive book-laden surroundings, perfect for those looking to unwind while enjoying a hot drink or a hearty meal. Customers rave about the comfortable ambiance, making it an ideal retreat for students, visitors, or anyone seeking a serene atmosphere.

Reviewers like Berenice Torres commend the cozy vibe, highlighting delightful offerings like the matcha with soy milk—a smooth and satisfying drink—and the rich, flavorful spiced pumpkin and lentil soup. The fresh, homemade plum pie has also captured hearts with its beautiful presentation and taste. Additionally, the self-serve cake bar and generous cappuccinos contribute to the cafe's unpretentious yet fulfilling menu.

While it can become busy, as noted by Filipe Salbany, the cafe retains a peaceful ambiance, allowing patrons to relax without feeling rushed. Staff members like Brian enhance the experience with attentive service. Overall, the Bodleian Library Cafe combines excellent food, friendly service, and a unique atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in Oxford.

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Highlights
    • Great tea selection
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Coffee
    • Prepared foods
    • Vegetarian options
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Breakfast
    • Brunch
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Seating
  • Amenities
    • Toilet
    • Wi-Fi
    • Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Groups
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids

Reviews For Bodleian Library Cafe

Filipe Salbany
Jul 2,2025
Wonderful place to sit, work, chat or just read. Huge space making it unique with all the books on a different level. It may become quite busy as time goes by but it was really special. Good snacks and extremely hot coffee, which was great. Too often coffee is not hot enough and a few minutes into a conversation it is lukewarm.
Berenice Torres
Jun 13,2025
This cafe has quickly become one of my favourite spots in Oxford. Whether you’re popping in for a quiet moment alone or meeting up with a friend, it has just the right vibe – peaceful, warm, and inviting. The matcha with soy milk is absolutely delicious – smooth, perfectly balanced, and comforting. I’ve also tried their spiced pumpkin and lentil soup, which was full of flavour and so satisfying. On top of that, the plum pie was a lovely surprise – sweet, soft, and beautifully made. Brian, a member of the team, served me during my last visit and was kind and attentive, which made the experience even better. Highly recommend if you’re after good coffee, honest food, and a relaxed place to spend some time.
Lyudmila Gugutkova
Jun 11,2025
The spirit of the library already makes the place.special. What I liked is the bar with cakes that you can self serve. The sandwiches and soup were delicious. The cappucinos served in big mugs. We felt somehow at ease. No pressure in the large open space.
Albert Chan
May 20,2025
excellent services, nice environment. with superb daily homemade food.
Daniel Kor
May 8,2025
A spacious area to take a breather after inhaling all those books. Or to escape the temperamental English weather (like today). Takes student discounts. So do ask, unless you’re not a student. Or if you want to pay more. Might be marginally noisy when school kids and tourists rendezvous at the open space beside the cafe.
Freddie Taylor
Apr 26,2025
I am a regular customer at the Headley Tea Room and have been coming for over a year. In that time, the cafe has become a wonderful place - I think because of the amazing work of the barista. It is very clean and tidy; the service is extremely quick and efficient; the barista is extremely friendly and welcoming, and she creates a positive vibe that makes you want to keep coming back. 5 stars!
Han Stw
Apr 16,2025
Nice cafe inside the Weston Library near the old Bodleian. Friendly and kind staff. Stopped by for lunch. They have numerous options for sandwiches, salads, bakeries and pastries. The soup of the day was Beef Goulash which was delightful. They also have different coffee options (latte, mocha, iced, hot, etc). The price was decent. Be aware that the cafe is a laptop free zone from 11:30 to 16:30 but there are other seatings inside the library building you can use.
Klaudi
Apr 11,2025
Tasty bagel with salmon, amazing spinach quiche, pretty good falafel wrap

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