May Morning is one of Oxford’s oldest and best-loved traditions, with the famous 6am choir singing from Magdalen Tower, folk customs, music and other celebrations across the city. Oxford Covered Market has seen more than 250 of them, so it feels like a fittingly historic place to head after the bridge.
Welcome to who’s open, preparing for the bridge , the post-bridge refuel, and tips on special May Morning deals in the market – as well as how to look the part!
Be prepared
WHAT TO WEAR: May Morning is magical, but it is also early and often surprisingly chilly. If you’re heading out before sunrise, Woollen Cosy Life have fantastic fingerless sheepskin gloves, Next to Nothing add a touch of colour with spring scarf prints, and Soctopus is the place for bright, cheerful socks to keep your toes toasty. How about embracing the full May Morning spirit, with a May Crown? Jemini Flowers has ready-made silk flower crowns. Fancy making your own? Jemini and The Garden of Oxford both have fresh or dried flowers. Why not embrace the pagan in you by weaving in small crystals from Crystal Spirit Emporium for that finishing touch. If you’re dressing up for a May Ball, or just leaning into the occasion, Leonard Jay, Goodies for the boys won’t disappoint. Again Garments are perfect for festival style May Morning chic with vintage jumpers, sweaters and dresses and Next to Nothing and full of spring themed prints.
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU: Before the day here’s a few suggestions. You’ll be glad of a light smallish bag for the morning ahead. Pingui, Fedele and Nothing all have great options just right for a waterbottle, keys and emergency suncream. Add in some bridge supplies and become the most popular person there with a flask of Cardews of Oxford’s fine tea or coffee, a batch of Ben’s Cookies so easy to share while you wait for the singing to begin…or grab a savoury pasty or pie from David John Butchers.
The post-bridge refuel!
THAT WELCOME COFFEE: The market is full of good breakfast options. Colombia Coffee Roasters will be giving out free batch-brewed coffee at the entrance, Gulp Fiction and Il Corno will both be open from 6am too, offering normal and boozy coffees such as Espresso Martinis from Gulp Fiction and a new caffè corretto — espresso with a splash of Sambuca from Il Corno.
BREAKFAST: For something more substantial, Brown’s Café will be serving its special May Day breakfast, while Brother’s Café and Sofi de France are also strong choices for a full English. Brother’s is a great shout for a souvlaki too!
SOMETHING A LITTLE STRONGER: It wouldn’t be May Morning without Oxford’s famously early pub openings. The Market Tap, Il Corno and Gulp Fiction will all be serving something a little stronger from 6am.
If you are still out later feel the indoor picnic vibes with cheese and bread from The Oxford Cheese Company, then settle in at Teardrop Bar or The Market Cellar Door for a drink pairing or a taste of their new homemade vermouth.
May Day on the Go
If you want to keep moving to catch more Morris dancing, wander the city or follow the sound of something exciting like John Ottway at the Bear, there are plenty of easy options to take with you.
PICNIC BOXES AND MEAL DEALS: Oxford Dogs opens from 6am with picnic boxes including raclette-covered giant pretzels and a special spring inspired hot dog exclusively for May Morning! The Market Tap by Tap Social will be serving pastries and sausage rolls. Taylor’s are offering a May Morning hot breakfast meal deal, Sofi de France, Brother’s, Colombia Coffee and Il Corno will all have sandwiches, wraps and other grab-and-go options. Brown’s will even be doing a take-away full English!
LATER IN THE MORNING: 8am David John Butchers open with mouthwatering grab and go pies and pasties. Later Covered Spuds, Sushi Bowl, and Rozana open up adding more choice for strong refuelling quick stops as the city keeps celebrating. How about a delicious chai latte made from scratch by new kids on the block Ginger and Spice …and don’t forget the promise of great summer times with chocolate covered strawberries from Wicked Chocolate.
ACTIVITIES IN THE MARKET: You may even catch an impromptu performance in the market, which has long been a stop-off for May Morning musicians and dancers. Colombia Coffee is also adding something new this year, with a bowl of spring wishes and positive vibes, plus a May Morning photo competition on Instagram and TikTok.
However you do May Morning, Oxford Covered Market has plenty to help you make a proper occasion of it. Scroll on if you’ld like a quick ref summary of who’s open on the say and what offers are about…
May Morning can be hectic so here’s our quick ref run for who’s open and what deals are on – all cafes also offer their standard full menus…
(In alphabetical order)