The home county of Oxfordshire is where you’ll find many great independent pubs. In Oxford itself, the search for exceptional beer can take you into some unusual places. The twisting alleys and ancient streets hide hundreds of fantastic independent pubs. But if you’d rather get away from the students and one-way systems of Oxford, there are plenty of quality pubs in Oxfordshire too!
Eagle & Child
Oxford
But we start with a classic. You can’t talk about pubs in Oxford without talking about the Eagle & Child. You will find The Eagle & Child in Oxford within a short stroll of Cornmarket Street, Oxford University and St John’s College.
Step in to discover a traditional pub of unique character, revered for its eclectic range of real ales and its quality pub food.
The Eagle & Child lays claim to a number of interesting literary connections. J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and fellow writers met here and dubbed themselves ‘The Inklings’. They nicknamed the pub ‘The Bird and Baby’.
The Chequers
Headington
The Chequers Inn was the first pub in the Quarry area, just outside Oxford and is the oldest pub in East Headington. Documented evidence dates back to 1805, although it’s certain that The Chequers Inn was operating as a public house during the 1700s. Right through its history the village of Quarry was renowned for its alehouses.
Today the Chequers hosts a great range of ales and a cosy, convivial atmosphere.
Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn
Banbury
Ye Olde Reinedeer Inn, known most simply as, ‘The Reindeer’ is a traditional English pub in Parson’s Street, Banbury.
Offering visitors well kept Hook Norton real ales, superb food, wines by the glass, a range of bottled beers and one of the best pints of Guinness for miles, a warm welcome awaits you from our friendly staff.
The inn, which has parts of the building dating back as far as the medieval period has strong connections with the English Civil War as part of its rich history.
The Angel on the Bridge
Henley-on-Thames
Described as a warm, welcoming and cosy pub, the Angel on the Bridge is Henley’s only pub on the Thames. During the summer the riverside terrace offers outdoor eating, socialising and a relaxing area to escape and watch the river go by.
Shared with the local swans and wildlife, the Angel on the Bridge is a popular place for thirsty locals and visitors alike.
The Griffin
Witney
The Griffin offers a warm welcome, a wide selection of drinks, home-cooked food and proper Sunday Roasts. Recently refurbished, The Griffin pub in Witney is now bright and breezy and the refresh has brought a new lease of life back into the building. Enjoy a wide range of ales in a welcoming and homely pub.
Whether you’re in the heart of Oxford, Witney, Banbury or anywhere in between, Oxfordshire has so many interesting and high quality independent pubs to choose from. Do you have a favourite pub in the Oxfordshire area? Let us know on our Facebook page.
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