If Oxford cafés were a personality type, Jericho Coffee on the High Street would be the charmingly eccentric chatterbox—small and buzzing with a contagious energy. It’s a place that feels like it was designed for fleeting moments rather than long-haul work sessions, where the hum of conversation creates a lively, intimate atmosphere of friendly, familiar faces.
Size Matters (Or Does It?)
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice that Jericho Coffee is tiny. Not just “cozy,” not just “intimate”—but genuinely small. This only adds to its Oxford charm. After all, this a city where most pubs and social spaces have been squeezing people into nooks and crannies since the medieval era. The snug interior makes it feel exclusive (which is the general motif of a city like Oxford).
But don’t expect hushed tones and quiet contemplation—this place is noisy. The chatter of customers, the whir of the espresso machines, the clattering of cups—it all blends into a lively soundtrack that somehow makes the small space feel even more vibrant. If you love the energy of a bustling café, you’ll feel right at home.
If you’re lucky, you might snag a seat on the bench at the back, which fits about 6-7 people. Just a word of caution—bench seating isn’t exactly built for long-term lounging. It’s fine for a quick coffee break, but if you’re hoping to settle in for a deep work session or a three-hour novel-writing spree, your back may stage a protest.
That said, if you’re a student, it’s a great little spot to catch up with a friend between lectures—just close enough to the academic hustle but tucked away enough to feel like a retreat. And if you’re visiting Oxford, this café offers an easy glimpse into the city’s student life, where caffeine-fueled conversations and hurried essay discussions are just part of the daily rhythm.
The Coffee (A.K.A. The Reason You’re Here)
Let’s get to the important part: the coffee. It’s good—really good. Smooth, strong, and made with clear attention to quality. Whether you’re after a velvety flat white or a punchy espresso, Jericho Coffee delivers. This isn’t the kind of place that coasts on its aesthetic alone; the coffee stands firmly on its own two feet.
Wi-Fi Is Okay
If you’re hoping to camp out with your laptop and get some serious work done, you might want to reconsider. Jericho Coffee doesn’t have its own Wi-Fi, so you’ll have to rely on the generic cloud network. While it works for casual browsing, it’s not the most reliable option for anything more demanding. If a strong connection is a dealbreaker for you, you might be better off elsewhere.
Prime People-Watching (and a View to Match)
One of the best things about Jericho Coffee’s location is that it’s right in the heart of Oxford, just seconds from the Radcliffe Camera and directly across from University Church. If you manage to grab an outdoor seat, you’re in for a treat—there aren’t many places where you can sip a flat white while gazing at some of the most iconic architecture in the city. It’s also the perfect spot for people-watching, as students, professors, and tourists all weave through the High Street in the endless academic ballet.
More Than One Spot to Sip
If you find yourself craving more of Jericho Coffee Traders’ offerings, you’re in luck— they have multiple locations around Oxford. Beyond the High Street espresso bar, they operate a Roastery Café at Osney Mead, where you can enjoy their freshly roasted beans in a more spacious setting. During the summer months, they also run a pop-up café at the Oxford Botanic Garden, serving delicious coffees, teas, cakes, and ice cream.
Final Verdict
Jericho Coffee on the High Street is tiny but charming, with fantastic coffee and a stellar outdoor seating setup that offers one of the best views in Oxford. It’s not ideal if you need solid Wi-Fi or plan to linger for hours, but for a quick coffee break or a warm, lively catch-up, it’s a winner.