Relax
at
The Randolph Hotel
After an inspiring journey through Oxford’s Black heritage, step into the historic elegance of The Randolph Hotel, a fitting space to continue the conversation, relax and reflect on the tour, and indulge in a moment of luxury.
The Randolph Hotel
Since its grand opening on February 15, 1866, The Randolph Hotel, located on Beaumont Street, has been an integral part of Oxford’s rich history. Designed by architect William Wilkinson, its striking Gothic façade was crafted to complement the city’s iconic landmarks.
Throughout its history, The Randolph Hotel has welcomed countless scholars, dignitaries, and distinguished guests—making it the perfect place to continue exploring Oxford’s intellectual and cultural legacy.
Alain LeRoy Locke (1885–1954)—the first Black Rhodes Scholar, celebrated philosopher, and intellectual architect of the Harlem Renaissance.
Now, in his spirit, we invite you to do the same and...
Enjoy the Experience Beyond the Tour
Locke, originally matriculated at Hertford College,1907. He later resided on Beaumont Street, just steps away from The Randolph. Known for his impeccable style and love of refined spaces, he would have undoubtedly frequented The Randolph during his time in Oxford.
Your journey through Oxford’s Black history doesn’t end when the bus stops—it continues in the echoes of the past, the voices of today, and the spaces where untold stories find new life.
Join us in a reserved area exclusively for Black Oxford Untold Stories guests—where history meets hospitality. Share your thoughts with fellow passengers, delve deeper into the stories uncovered on the tour, or simply soak in the grandeur of this timeless setting.
An Elegant Finale
The Randolph Hotel is delighted to offer the passengers of the Black Oxford Guided Bus Tour an exclusive 10% discount on their food and drinks menu. (Simply present your tour ticket to redeem the offer.)
Treat yourself to a perfectly brewed cup of tea or a signature cocktail, surrounded by the very walls where scholars, writers, and visionaries once gathered.
What finer way to conclude a day of discovery than by relaxing in timeless surroundings, enjoying exceptional hospitality, and raising a glass to the stories that inspire us all.
The ideal space to
Relax, Recharge, and Connect
We are also proud to present
Afternoon Tea & Talk
A unique Afternoon Tea and Talk Series that blends history, culture, and indulgence in the iconic setting of the Randolph Hotel. This exclusive event offer guests the opportunity to engage with untold stories of Black scholars while enjoying a quintessentially British afternoon tea.
An Afternoon of Elegance and Inspiration
The afternoon begins with a delectable afternoon tea, featuring:
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An array of freshly prepared sandwiches
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Warm, buttery scones
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Delicate, handcrafted pastries
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Your choice of fine teas.
Relax to the soft strains of background music as you converse and savour the elegant atmosphere.
Spend a luxurious Sunday afternoon
with friends and family, immersed in timeless glamour.
Conclude the afternoon by mingling, finishing those last delightful pastries, or simply enjoying the ambiance.
Details
Dates: Sunday, June 15th
Sunday, September 21st
Sunday October 5th, 2025
Price: £45.00 per person
Enhance your experience: Add a glass of champagne for £55.00.
Treat yourself to an unforgettable blend of indulgence,
culture, and connection at The Randolph Hotel.
Afternoon Tea Themes
Alain LeRoy Locke:
Culture, Legacy and Jazz
Sunday, June 15th,2025
Celebrating 100 Years of Alain LeRoy Locke’s The New Negro
Father of the Harlem Renaissance and First Black Rhodes Scholar
Step into the grandeur of The Randolph Hotel for a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea, celebrating the centenary of Alain LeRoy Locke’s seminal publication, The New Negro—the work that ignited the cultural revolution known as the Harlem Renaissance.
Pay tribute to Locke’s ground-breaking legacy as the first Black Rhodes Scholar and cultural trailblazer. Delight in the timeless sounds of a live jazz band playing iconic music from the Harlem Renaissance, featuring the works of legends like Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, and other greats.
Alain LeRoy Locke (1885–1954), as the first Black Rhodes Scholar and editor of The New Negro, occupies a central position in the intellectual and cultural history of the 20th century. His work heralded the Harlem Renaissance, a movement that redefined African American culture through literature, music, and visual arts.
Join us to celebrate a milestone in cultural history, and enjoy an afternoon filled with elegance, inspiration, and the rich sounds of jazz.
Celebrate Empowering Women Sunday, September 21st, 2025
Join us for an inspiring afternoon as we honour the incredible women who shape our lives—mothers, daughters, sisters, and trailblazers.
This special event celebrates empowerment and resilience, featuring the remarkable legacy of Iris de Freitas Brazao, the University of Oxford’s first Black Caribbean scholar.
Delight in a sumptuous afternoon tea within the elegant surroundings of The Randolph Hotel, where history and luxury intertwine. Be inspired by captivating stories of courage, achievement, and the power of community, as we recognize the contributions of extraordinary women past and present.
An afternoon of celebration, connection, and empowerment awaits.
