Free community events in Oxfordshire
Here you can find details of upcoming community events, services and opportunities. All the events listed on this page are free to attend.
To submit an event for inclusion on this website, please fill in our short form here.
(If you have any questions, please get in touch via comms@asylum-welcome.org – thanks!)
Every Thursday (12 - 2pm)
St Clements Family Centre, Cross Street, Oxford OX4 1DA (off Princes Street, near Cowley Road)
Open Door is a free drop-in service for refugees and asylum seekers every Thursday lunchtime.
All welcome! Enjoy a free hot Halal lunch (served from 1pm), and access help with forms, phone calls and referrals to other services.
Every Friday, 11.15 am to 1.15 pm
Barracks Lane Community Garden, Oxford OX4 2AP
A friendly gardening group run by Barracks Lane Community Garden. Come along to enjoy time outdoors, share skills, make friends, and help care for the garden.
A free light lunch and hot drinks are provided.
Over 18s only. Wheelchair accessible.
Outdoors, so please dress for the weather!
Please email Tracy at info@barrackslanegarden.org.uk to book your free place.
Every Thursday, 4 to 5 pm at Oxford Brookes (Indoor Hall).
Oxford Brookes University Sports Centre (Indoor Hall), Cheney Lane, Headington, Oxford OX3 0GB
Come along to free women’s football sessions with Football Coordinator Youcef at Oxford Brookes.
All abilities and nationalities welcome, ages 16+
Free sessions every week.
Help is available with transport costs.
If you’d like to attend, please sign up here and let us know any access requirements so we can support you.
Further details: youcef.elbarhdadi@asylum-welcome.org and martha@asylum-welcome.org
Events throughout the week
Activities across the Oxford area
Engaging young people in free positive youth work activities, Youth Ambition offers sports sessions, youth employment aid, youth clubs and summer activities, to help them to broaden their knowledge, skills and capabilities.
See more details on the website here.
Events Monday to Friday
Cornhill Centre, Castle Street Town, Banbury, OX16 5NT
Offers events throughout the week for the elderly, to combat loneliness. See the weekly schedule here.
From dancing to crafts, book clubs to knitting, new social groups are starting all the time.
Activities throughout the week
60 Orchard Way, Banbury, OX16 0EN GB
Sunrise Multicultural Project support people from various ethnic groups in Banbury and the surrounding area, and more recently asylum seekers and refugees who have moved to the area.
We run a Boys Youth Club, a Girls Youth Group and a Ladies Drop-In.
Every Thursday, 10 to 11 am
Abingdon Kindergarten, 43, Loyd CL Abingdon Oxford, OX14 1XR
free baby group with fun activities like sensory play and arts for children aged 3 months to 2 years.
For more information contact manager@abingdonkindergarten.co.uk.
Various events
Abingdon Carousel Family Centre, Caldecott Chase, Abingdon, OX14 5GZ
Stay & Play sessions for children and parents, with toys, crafts and garden play. Voluntary donation of £2 for those who can afford it.
Every Monday at 2.45 pm
The White Horse Leisure Centre, Audlett Drive, Abingdon, OX14 3PJ
This session is free to attend, open to all abilities, delivered by our qualified instructor Ash, and all equipment is provided!
Every Monday at 11.15 am
Windrush Leisure Centre, Witan Way, Witney OX28 4YA
This is a free, weekly “Strength & Stretch” session for mental health at the Windrush Leisure Centre delivered by coach Sara.
This session is open to all abilities, and all equipment is provided!
To book a session, call the Oxfordshire Mind Information Line on 01865 247 788, which is open Monday to Thursday between 9.30am and 4.30pm and Fridays between 9:30am and 4:00pm.
Abingdon Wellbeing Centre, 1st Floor The Charter Complex, Broad Street, Abingdon OX14 3LZ
Wellbeing Hubs provide peer support groups, a programme of short courses and workshops designed to promote wellbeing and many creative activities and groups.
To use one of our Wellbeing Hubs, you’ll need to have an Options session first. This is a phone call or face-to-face chat with one of Mind’s Wellbeing Workers. It’s a chance to talk about what support is available, for someone to listen to you, and to help decide what to do next.
To book an Options session, call the Mind Information Line on 01865 247788 (Monday to Thursday 9.30am–4.30pm, and Friday 9.30am–4pm).
After this, a Wellbeing Worker can tell you about the Peer Support Groups and courses currently running at the Abingdon Hub.
To book a session, call the Oxfordshire Mind Information Line on 01865 247 788, which is open Monday to Thursday between 9.30am and 4.30pm and Fridays between 9:30am and 4:00pm.
Banbury Wellbeing Hub, Britannia Road, Banbury, OX16 5DN
Wellbeing Hubs provide peer support groups, a programme of short courses and workshops designed to promote wellbeing and many creative activities and groups.
If you’d like to come to one of our Wellbeing Hubs, you’ll need to book an Options session first. This is a phone call or face-to-face chat with one of Mind’s Wellbeing Workers. They’ll listen to you, tell you about the support available, and help you decide what to do next.
To book an Options session, call the Oxfordshire Mind Information Line on 01865 247 788. The line is open Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 4.30pm, and Fridays, 9.30am to 4.00pm.
After your Options session, a Wellbeing Worker can give you details about Peer Support Groups and courses currently running at the Banbury Hub.
Multiple dates and times
Multiple venues – see website for more!
YouMove is a new programme for Oxfordshire, offering low-cost or free activities for children and families who receive benefit-related free school meals.
Activities include:
• 🏊 Swimming
• 🏸 Badminton
• 🎒 Activity packs
• 🏖️ Holiday clubs
…and much more – including weekend and school holiday options!YouMove is all about making it easier for families to get active, have fun, and enjoy time together – without the high cost.
Weekends and school holidays
Various locations across Oxford
Join the Multaka Culture Club – a fun and creative programme for young people aged 16 to 24. Take part in regular photography and art projects, explore museums, and visit new places.
Whether you’re into art, culture, or just want to try something new and meet others, you’re very welcome.
📧 Email: multaka.oxford@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp or call Hannah: 07561 530703
Every Friday, 7pm–9pm
Oxford United Youth & Community Department, Horspath Road, Oxford, OX4 2RR
⚽ FREE football training sessions for young refugee men aged 16–25.
Come along, get active, and be part of the team!
The Peeple Centre, Northfield Close, Littlemore, OX4
Do you live in Littlemore, Rose Hill, The Leys, or Berinsfield—and have a child with SEND?
Join a Peep group!
👶 Free monthly books delivered to your door for children under 5
👩👧 Free parent & child groups focused on early learning and development
🌈 Make friends, share activities, and support your child’s learning in a fun, welcoming space.Every Friday, 10am – 1pm
Oxford City Farm, Cornwallis Rd, Oxford, OX4 3NH
On Fridays from 10am to 1pm, volunteers are invited to participate in the Community Farming Sessions, and visitors are welcome to explore the Farm. Sign up below to volunter – no need to book if just visiting!
Every Thursday 2 - 3pm, restarting 9th January 2025
Big Hall upstairs in South Oxford Community Centre, Lake St, Oxford, OX1 4RP
Every Friday, 11am to 12pm
Outside on the astroturf, Iffley Rd, University Sports Ground, OX4 1SR
Fun, casual drop-in football session. All abilities welcome! It takes place outdoors and is delivered by James.
Free and open to all. Sign up here to take part.
Every Wednesday (11am to 12pm)
Courtside Bury Knowle, Chestnut Ave, Oxford OX3 9JJ
Fun, casual drop-in Tennis session. All abilities are welcome and rackets will be provided! Coach Ash will help you learn the skills if you haven’t played before.
Free and open to all. Sign up here to take part.
Every Thursday 12 to 1pm, restarting 9th January 2025
Littlemore Community Centre, Giles Road, Oxford OX4 4NL
Every other Friday, 6 pm to 8 pm
Welcome to our LGBTQ+ group! This is an inclusive space, meeting on a fortnightly basis and open to Asylum Welcome clients (18+ years) across Oxfordshire. Help with transport costs provided.
To find out more, send a text or WhatsApp message to +44 7378 302 491
Every Friday, 9.30 am to 10.30 am
Oxford Keystone Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub, 141-145 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1HU
Fun, casual drop-in Tai Chi session. No experience or special equipment needed. Just wear comfortable clothing and trainers (if you have them). Sessions are delivered by Adam. Everyone welcome!
Free and open to all. Sign up here to take part.
Every Friday, 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm
At Cogges Church Centre, Witney OX28 3LA
A friendly and social time where you are welcome to complete your own sewing projects or learn new skills through pre-set topics. You can use our sewing equipment knowing there is technical advice at hand, or you can bring your own.
The sessions are led by Maria who has over 30 years’ experience teaching and working in the clothing and textiles industry.
Every Thursday, 5 pm to 6.30 pm
At the Methodist Church, 40 High Street, Witney
A FREE warm, healthy and hearty community meal provided by volunteers. Everyone is very welcome! For more information, please email adamnoble@me.com or call 01993 709874.
Every Thursday and Friday
152b Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BY
Do you want to learn to fix your own bike, build a bike to take home, or help refurbish donated bikes?
Free 11-Hour Basic Bike Mechanics Course
Funded by Abingdon and Witney College. Courses run on Thursdays and Fridays. (Some eligibility rules apply)Contact us to find out more:
📞 07554 363635
📧 admin@windrushbikeproject.ukWorkshop Opening Hours:
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Monday: 10am – 2pm
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Thursday: 4pm – 8pm
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Friday: 9am – 5pm
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Saturday: 9am – 5pm
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Every Monday at 7.30 pm
To find out the venue and get more details, reach out to us at <meditate.oxford@pm.me>.
Free hot tea, friendly conversation, and quiet meditation time – join us for a relaxed evening where you can unwind and recharge.
What’s included:
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Hot tea and a bit of banter
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A 30-minute quiet meditation window – participate as much or as little as you want
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Support available if you need it
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Every Friday, 12 pm to 2 pm
Rose Hill Community Centre, Carole’s Way, Oxford OX4 4HF
A weekly community group for women to come together, discuss challenges, find social connection, and alleviate isolation.
Topics include:
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Cross-cultural parenting
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Accessing services for children
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Getting into volunteering as a route to employment
All women welcome!
Contact:
📧 nuhaabdo@syriansisters.com-
Every Tuesday, 1 pm to 2 pm
Church Mission Society, Watlington Road, OX4 6BZ
Looking for ways to practice your English?
Keen to meet some friendly faces?
Join us at CMS for informal English conversations in a relaxed setting. All are welcome!
Every Saturday, 11 am to 12 pm
Blackbird Leys Library, Blackbird Leys Road, Oxford, OX4 6HT
Every Friday at 5 pm – Join our 5km Fun Run!
Runs start at Asylum Welcome, Newtec Place, Magdalen Rd, Oxford, OX4 1RE
Everyone is welcome – refugees, asylum seekers, friends, and students. Let’s run together!
Free transport provided to and from the Kassam Hotel.
Every Friday, 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm
Asylum Welcome (Unit 3 Newtec Place, Magdalen Road, OX4 1RE)
Support for young people aged 15-21 with:
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Travel Document applications
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Provisional Driving Licence applications
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Referrals to college ESOL class waiting lists
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Bike and laptop referrals through Asylum Welcome
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Basic support with Universal Credit
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Bank Account applications
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Information about Asylum Welcome youth activities
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Every Wednesday, 12 pm to 1 pm
Grimsbury Community Centre, Burchester Place, Banbury, OX16 3WT
Fun, casual drop-in Tai Chi session. No experience or special equipment needed. Just wear comfortable clothing and trainers (if you have them). Sessions are delivered by Adam. Everyone welcome!
Free and open to all. Sign up here to take part.
Every Monday, 2 pm to 3 pm
The Witney Buttercross Scout Hut, 32B Marlborough Lane, Witney OX28 6DY
Fun, casual drop-in yoga session. All abilities are welcome! Mats will be provided and the session is led by Alison.
Free and open to all. Sign up here to take part.
Every Thursday, 9.30 am and 10.30 am
Meet at the main gates to Bury Knowle Park along the London Road, Headington.
There are two options:
Join from 9.30am for an approximately 5 km run.
Join from 10.30am for beginners and those who prefer to run less than 5 km. We will begin with some walking and jogging, building up gradually. All welcome!
Every Wednesday, 10 to 11 am
Manzil Way, Cowley, by the children’s play area.
The Garden Cafe runners welcome all abilities, and sessions are led by qualified volunteers. The group finishes at Restore Cafe for a chance to socialise afterwards.
All women welcome – even if you’ve never run before.
Every Friday, 10 to 11 am
The Sunshine Centre, Edmunds Road, Banbury, OX16 0PJ
Every Friday, 10.30 am to 11.30 am
Flo’s – The Place in the Park, Rymers Lane, OXFORD OX4 3JZ
First Saturday of every month, 10.30 am to 1 pm
One Planet Abingdon, County Hall, Market Place, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 3HG
Organised by Abingdon Carbon Cutters
Mend or alter that lovely piece of clothing you haven’t worn for ages! Don’t bin it! Simple mending jobs, patching, zips, darning, turning up hems, can be done by volunteers, who can show you how to do it yourself next time. You may be asked to unpick a zip and buy a new one.
Third Saturday of every month, 10.30 am to 1 pm
Under the arches of the County Museum, Market Place, Abingdon.
This event is run entirely by volunteers, who fix things in their spare time. Repairs are free, but small donations are welcomed to cover overheads to ensure running repair cafés can continue into the future.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10.30 am, and Tuesday at 2 pm
See below for walk locations and times.
Free walks to get you out and about around the Vale of White Horse. Walks are free and open to everyone. A great way to get active and make new friends.
For more information about these walks, contact the Active Communities Team at active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk or contact Asylum Welcome here.
Every Sunday, 9.30 am to 10.30 am
Abingdon Marina Park, Abingdon, OX14 5TW
(Look out for the Park Yoga flag)
Free outdoor yoga sessions on a Sunday morning. Open to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities! No need to book. Please bring a mat or a towel.
For more information about park yoga, you can click here.
Every Tuesday, 10.30 am to 2 pm
Every Tuesday morning at Asylum Welcome, Unit 3, Newtec Place, Magdalen Road Oxford OX4 1RE.
Open to existing Asylum Welcome clients. Come along for support in using modern technologies such as computers, laptops, and smartphones. We offer 1:1 assistance to fix laptop issues and help those who need guidance in using their laptops and getting online.
Every Monday (10am - 12pm)
Every Monday morning at Asylum Welcome, Unit 3, Newtec Place, Magdalen Road Oxford OX4 1RE.
We offer free advice to existing Asylum Welcome clients who are seeking employment, voluntary work, and/or educational opportunities.
