The historic city of Oxford is renowned for its prestigious university and beautiful location on the edge of the Cotswolds. It’s a fantastic spot for a day trip from London, packed with things to see and do. Plus, Oxford is home to some great pubs where you can grab a pint and a bite to eat. Let’s dive into the best pubs in Oxford.
Oxford offers a variety of pubs, from historic inns dating back centuries to lively spots in the city center, and even some charming country pubs nearby. Whether you’re craving a pint of real ale, a hearty pub lunch, or a serene beer garden, you’ll find it all here.
I’ve enjoyed many good pubs in Oxford over the years, making it one of my favorite places in England for a pint. With so many options, you’re sure to stay well-fed and hydrated in this gorgeous, historic city.
Best Pubs in Oxford
After exploring and sampling Oxford’s pub scene, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite spots based on atmosphere, food and drink quality, service, location, and customer reviews.
Turf Tavern
Located in the heart of Oxford’s university area, the Turf Tavern is a traditional British pub housed in a Grade II listed building. It’s close to landmarks like the Bodleian Library and New College. The pub offers hearty pub grub including beer-battered Atlantic cod, burgers, steaks, and more, with plenty of vegetarian options. As a Greene King pub, it provides a variety of real ales, wines, cocktails, and ciders. The centrally located courtyard beer garden is perfect for summer days. It’s a family and dog-friendly spot full of character with cozy rooms.
Bear Inn
Serving beer since 1242, the Bear Inn is one of the top pubs in Oxford city center, popular with both locals and tourists. It offers a wide range of ales, including Fuller’s London Pride, ESB Bitter, and rotating guest ales, plus wines, spirits, and imported beers. The menu features classic pub meals like beer-battered haddock and chips and caramelized shallot and button mushroom pie.
Old Tom
The Old Tom offers an Asian-inspired menu alongside its traditional British pub vibe. Located in the city center, it has been welcoming patrons for centuries. The bar stocks interesting craft beers from around the world, as well as wines and creative cocktails. Signature dishes include Thai curry and crab meat fried rice.
Crown
Once frequented by William Shakespeare, the historic Crown in central Oxford offers cask ales, craft beers, and great food. Choose from Nicholson’s pale ale, St Austell’s Tribute, Sharp’s Doom Bar, and a variety of cocktails. The food menu includes typical pub grub and homemade pies, with the wild boar and chorizo pie being a standout.
Four Candles
For an inexpensive pint, head to The Four Candles, a local Wetherspoon pub known for its incredibly cheap prices. It’s conveniently located between Oxford’s main railway station and the university/city center. Despite the low prices, the quality remains high with a wide range of guest ales, bottled beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails.
Trout Inn
The 17th-century Trout Inn is one of the best gastropubs near Oxford, situated by the River Thames. Perfect for summer afternoons, it features fresh, local produce and contemporary British and European cuisine. Don’t miss the excellent Sunday roast.
King’s Arms
Established in 1607, the King’s Arms is another of Oxford’s oldest and most beloved pubs. It offers a good selection of cask ales, craft beers, and hearty food, using British, seasonal produce. Menu highlights include homemade scotch eggs and juicy burgers.
Lamb and Flag
Owned by St John’s College, the 500-year-old Lamb and Flag is located near the Ashmolean Museum. It’s known for its rotating selection of guest ales and local real ciders. The pub recently reopened after a pandemic closure.
Jericho Tavern
A favorite in Oxford’s bohemian Jericho neighborhood, Jericho Tavern boasts a large beer garden and live music on weekends. This quirky pub offers real ales, craft beers, and a lending library. The menu includes both pub classics and contemporary British dishes with vegan and vegetarian options.
Angel and Greyhound
Just a 10-minute walk from the city center, the Angel and Greyhound has a courtyard garden and offers delicious food all day, including a great Sunday roast. It’s dog-friendly and hosts regular quiz nights and other entertainment.
Old Bookbinders
Located in Jericho, the Old Bookbinders is a cool and quirky spot known for its hand-pumped beers and French-themed menu, featuring dishes like coq au vin. It also hosts events like open mic nights, quizzes, and live music.
Rose and Crown
This cozy pub is popular with students and offers a great selection of craft beers, wines, and classic pub meals. Regular jazz nights add to the entertainment.
Fir Tree
The Fir Tree, dating back to 1866, is ideal for watching sports with large TVs throughout the venue. It serves pizza and hosts events like quiz nights and wine Wednesdays, and is rated as one of Oxford’s top pubs on TripAdvisor.
Seven Stars
A notable country pub near Oxford located in Marsh Baldon, the Seven Stars offers real ales, local ciders, and excellent food in a rural setting. It’s perfect for enjoying a pint in the countryside and is close to Harcourt Arboretum.
If you’re planning to experience Oxford’s pub scene, make sure to visit these standout establishments for great food, drinks, and ambiance. Whether you’re exploring local history, enjoying live music, or simply relaxing with a pint, Oxford’s pubs have something for everyone.
