Valentine's Poetry Dinner 2026

Join us for a unique dining experience on 12 February to celebrate Valentine's Day

With poetry readings from Professor Sandie Byrne

'If music be the food of love, play on...'

Celebrate Valentine’s Day this year with an unforgettable dining experience that’s as inclusive as it is indulgent. You’ll dine 'college-style' at long tables, making this Valentine’s-themed meal perfect for everyone – whether you’re toasting to love with your partner, sharing laughs with friends, or embracing the joy of solo dining while meeting new people.

During the event you’ll enjoy a lovingly crafted menu paired with poetry readings from Professor Sandie Byrne. Think Carol Ann Duffy’s tender simplicity in Valentine, Edwin Morgan’s luscious Strawberries, the rich imagery of Garrison Keillor’s Supper, and more.

Don’t miss this enchanting evening filled with delicious food, warm company and a celebration of poetry. Spaces are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment!

What's included:

*Additional drinks can be purchased from the bar during the event.

Event details

When and where

Thursday 12 February 2026:

  • 6.15pm – doors open (drinks available to purchase from the bar)
  • 6.45pm – dinner served

Venue:

  • Dining Room, Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JA
  • How to find us (including parking and accessibility information).

Booking and payment

Payment required at the time of booking.

  • Price: £31.95 per person
  • Oxford University staff discounted price: £29.50 per person

To book, call or visit Reception at Rewley House: +44 (0)1865 270360

Terms and conditions:

  • Cancellations made before Friday 6 February 2026 will receive a 50% refund.
  • If, due to unforeseen circumstances, the event is cancelled all payments will be refunded in full.

Valentine's-themed menu

We believe that great food, as well as love, should be for everyone, so if you have any dietary requirements we’ve got you covered. Let us know when booking and we’ll tailor dishes the best we can or provide delicious alternatives to ensure your meal is perfect.

To start

Chargrilled Mediterranean vegetables layered with herbs and finished with a rich black olive dressing, served with a golden ciabatta crostino and whipped goat’s cheese.

(Contains celery, sulphites, dairy, wheat. Vegan and gluten free alternative available.)

Main

Chicken ‘Valentino’. Succulent chicken stuffed with fresh basil, parmesan cheese and roasted red pepper, served with grilled polenta, romesco sauce and tenderstem broccoli.

(Contains celery, sulphites, egg, dairy, nuts.)

or 

Vegan aubergine steak with a velvety red wine and wild mushroom sauce, with grilled polenta and tenderstem broccoli. 

(GF, DF; contains celery, sulphites.)

Dessert

Silky passion fruit tart served with blood orange sorbet and delicate crystallised rose petals.

(Contains wheat, egg, dairy. Vegan and gluten free alternative available.)

DF = dairy free
GF = gluten free

 

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