What is the u3a? The u3a is a local and national organisation which has a positive and creative approach to retirement with membership open to anyone not in full-time employment. Activities, which normally take place in the day-time, are organised by members in small interest groups which meet regularly. These range from from Walks to Talks, German to Genealogy, Qi Gong to Bridge, Art to Ukulele, Cycling to Table Tennis and many others – the choice is huge. All you need is interest and enthusiasm. The name u3a actually stands for University of the Third Age but that is nowadays something of a misnomer. No qualifications are required and none are given. The national u3a also runs online courses on many subjects which you can take part in at home or wherever there is access to the internet. For full information on the latter, see the Third Age Trust web site.

Bicester u3a was formed in 1986 and now has a membership of approximately 370 people, with new members joining us each month. We have some 50 different interest groups putting on regular meetings and activities - see the Groups Page. Members come from the surrounding villages as well as Bicester. There is no waiting list and new members are always very welcome. In 2026 we are celebrating our 40th Anniversary.

Where and when do we meet? Our interest groups meet in each others homes or various locations around Bicester. We have our monthly meetings with often fascinating talks by visiting speakers at the Clifton Centre, Ashdene Road, Bicester, OX26 2BH. The hall is situated at the rear of the KEA Club on the corner of Ashdene Road and Kingsclere Road. It has recently been refurbished and has good facilities. There is parking available and the local no. 21 bus from town stops outside. Meetings are held monthly on the 4th Thursday of each month (except December). The meeting starts at 2:00 for 2:15 pm, and our speaker starts his presentation shortly afterwards.

What do we do? At our monthly meetings the Chairman updates us with the latest news and introduces our speaker for the day. There is a raffle each month and tea/coffee is provided afterwards when there is the chance to meet friends and chat. Please see our Events page for news of forthcoming speakers. Outings and visits are arranged throughout the year, and there are over 50 different groups covering a wide range of interests meeting on a regular basis.

What does it cost? The annual subscription is £15. This covers administration costs, including an affiliation fee to the Third Age Trust. It entitles members to come to monthly meetings, take part in any of the interest groups and receive our quarterly newsletter. In addition the Third Age Trust send members a quarterly u3a matters magazine. Membership also gives access to the Thames Valley Network, a collection of 48 local u3as, which also offer various groups and courses. See the TVN web site for further information.

Any other expenses? Groups generally meet in members’ houses but groups which need to hire a hall or any other premises make a small charge to group members for doing so. Similarly, if there is any element of teaching or instruction involved in a group then a charge may be made which will depend upon the level of expertise being provided. There is no charge for our monthly meetings.

Can I come as a visitor? You can come twice to any of our meetings but must join after that. To join a group, you must be a member.

How do I join? Please use the Contact page to e-mail our Membership Secretary who will send you a Membership Application form, or just come along to one of our meetings as a visitor and join on the day. The application form includes a Gift Aid declaration, which is optional but does help us. When you come to our meeting, one of our Welcomers will meet you, answer any of your questions and introduce you to other people. From time to time we hold coffee mornings for new members to help you get to know others and find out more about us.