The Oxford Union Society

Great wines, wine experts and music

Goodman library is great to work in and the rest of the rooms each have their own interesting character. Bar is cosy.

Interesting self-tour to be had, if you can access the building. Close inspection of the photographs on the walls - some over a hundred years old - reveals many a familiar visage and famous name. Its a real, 'Where's Wally' of an exercise, scrutinising them in the corridors and various rooms. Einstein's was the 'big find' for me.The Oxford Union is best known for its debating chamber, which is apart from the main building, however there are study rooms in the main complex too where talks are held. I held one in the Stevenson room, outlining my work in Kenya. (See my Saint Paul's clinic review.)It's far better to be in the building with a member, since then you get to sit in the Members' Lounge, do some work (photo) and take refreshments. Here's me working on my China, long sleeves and swords, performance piece.

This historic debate hall has good acoustics. It was an excellent venue in which to witness a debate between writer Naomi Wolf and commentator Mehdi Hasan. There are also gardens and a bar on the premises. If you stay at the Vanbrugh House Hotel, across the street, you are just steps away from a famous place to relax & think.

Had me questioning my life decisions fr. Bartender looked like Prime Johnny Depp

Stay away. The library is very strangely-stocked, and the students you'll find here are of a rather unsavoury breed. If you have to go in, keep an eye on your heart and soul - the place is known to swallow them whole.

Totally not worth the membership fee. Incredibly entitled staff that doesn't provide good service and that look down on students. The speaker events are not that great and you can find better and more insightful talks on YouTube. It's not an instution of the University" in any way"

Wonderful experience here. Sharp minds sharpened further

I knew The Oxford Union for its famous debates, controversial debates sometimes I must say, but I was not aware of the beauty of the library. If you are lucky, you can sightsee the library during its open hours to visitors.Here is one tip from me, though. On a sunny day, you can hardly see the murals at all. The best time to come is a cloudy day or when it is getting dark outside.