A pair of golf enthusiasts from Botley are preparing to open Oxford’s first indoor golf entertainment venue, a novel concept designed to appeal to a broad customer base.
Ollie Yates, aged 34, and Karim Sutton, aged 36, first met on the fairways at Frilford Heath Golf Club, where their shared passion for golf and entrepreneurial ambitions brought them together.
After five years of development, the duo is just weeks away from revealing Slice, a new venue combining golf simulation technology with a pizza restaurant, situated at Botley’s West Way development.
The simulator technology enables players to strike balls towards a screen and watch their trajectory unfold as they would in real life, using projection systems. Visitors can play complete rounds, take part in mini games, and access performance analytics to help more dedicated players improve their skills.
Mr. Yates said the idea caters to all ability levels. Whether someone has never swung a club or possesses considerable experience, the technology offers something for everyone.
The establishment includes a large bar space, an electronic darts board, a kitchen serving small bites and New York-style pizza by the slice, alongside drink partnerships with Tap Social Movement, Newground Coffee, and The Oxford Wine Company, introducing fresh entertainment choices to Botley.
Mr. Yates added that conversations with local residents consistently highlight a desire for more venues of this kind in Oxford. There’s a clear shift in how people, particularly younger demographics, approach socialising—they’re less inclined to visit a traditional pub for drinks alone and instead seek out activity-focused environments. Golf has seen notable expansion recently, drawing a somewhat younger crowd.
Slice intends to meet these expectations through the growing market for virtual entertainment venues, offering a space where anyone can hone their game or try golf for the first time without worrying about conventional golf course etiquette.
Mr. Yates expressed that their goal is for everyone, whatever their background, to enter and discover something enjoyable.
Establishing the venue in Botley fits perfectly with their vision, given their personal investment in and commitment to the success of the West Way development.
Mr. Sutton said they are eager to open and contribute something positive to the community. Both live nearby and wanted to see this type of business in the area. Golf is their passion, and they are launching an enterprise to share that with Botley. If building his dream business, it would include golf, darts, and pizza all in one location.
Mr. Yates noted that they are committed to seeing the development thrive and attract more visitors. This is their local neighbourhood, and they wanted to establish themselves here to add more vitality to the area and introduce some fun activities.
Slice will open at 7 West Way Square, Botley, in mid-May, with a specific launch date yet to be confirmed.