A hidden gem in Oxford's history…read more Truly, a hidden gem. I almost don't want to write this because I want it kept hidden for as long as possible! Service was great in a bustling dining room. This 19th-century tavern is nothing short of charming and cozy, serving some fantastic meals. You can't go wrong with their Steak & Ale Pie and Fish & Chips.

The Turf Tavern is Oxford's second oldest pub, as it was founded in 1381! It's a hidden spot down a…read moremeandering alleyway located against the mediaeval remains of Oxford's city walls. The interior is downright medieval with low ceilings (watch your head!), low lights, and plenty of seating. They also have an open and airy beer garden for better weather days. You can either order at the bar, or use their QR code at the tables to order online which was helpful. The pub food was great, the pints kept pouring, and we made some new friends in a very old pub. Come for the history and stay for a proper pub experience. It's definitely worth the trouble of seeking this one out.

Best bar in Oxford. Highly recommend the bartenders, they were awesome, never creepy, and gave us…read moreshots on the house (which was exceptionally kind). We're from the USA, and will be back every night until we leave!

From the owner: Oxford's favourite Gin and Cocktail Barread more

I expected to encounter difficulty in finding a table on a Tuesday afternoon (traditionally when…read more"The Inklings" would meet for their weekly congregations). Yet within minutes, my friend and I were escorted and seated at a table directly underneath several artifacts, photos and letters adorning the walls behind us, that once belonged to the literary giants (such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and others) that once frequented this charming tavern. Once again (as was a frequent occurrence during my tour of the UK), I partook of the Shepherd's Pie and a glass of tomato juice (confession: I'm not much of a beer or ale imbiber; apologies for my ignorance to those who are true connoisseurs of the hopped and malted brews, and for the offense of ordering such an abomination in a pub...haha!). In truth, coming here was more of a pilgrimage for a life-long Tolkien aficionado, than anything having to do with drinking or eating. And yet, in raising a glass in toast to my literary heroes, in the hallowed halls where they once gathered, I felt warm sense of kinship, and thankfulness, for such an amazing opportunity.

It's a historic Oxford pub known mainly for its previous patrons, JR Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and Lewis…read moreCarol. The pubs is well lined with photos of the authors and it's a nice place to pause and wonder what these illustrious minds would have been drinking in their time. There are better pubs with better bears like The Turf Tavern, but still, the atmosphere makes this a great spot to pause, gather your thoughts and drink some real ale.

Absolutely fabulous. We loved the dark wood and brown leather decor throughout but the winners were…read morethe cocktails. You can tell there's an incredible amount of love made the cocktails. They're fun and delicious. Our servers were patient and kind, and delightful music was playing throughout the night.

Raoul's just opened again after some time away. It was a really great place to spend time with…read morefriends and get a drink or two. Our table ordered quite a range and enjoyed all that we had. The gyoza/spring roll bites were also a good addition. Great place to have a drink without the pretension or blasting music of other places. Particularly impressed with the work of Tim and Talulah, our servers this evening. They were friendly and fantastic.

Est. in 1242, the oldest pub in Oxford did not disappoint. Enter into a cozy, low-ceilinged old…read morewood bar with plenty of character. There is indoor seating in the room next to the bar, along with outdoor seating resembling a beer garden that also has a covered outdoor section. I enjoyed my sirloin English roast while having a few beers with friends. Will definitely come back if I'm ever back in Oxford.

Great to check out while in Oxford. Opens at noon. Sat in the patio and had fish and chips. Service…read morewas friendly. Inside the pub is tiny and quaint with low ceiling: it makes sense given its 700+ years old.

The White Horse pub first opened as The Mermaid in 1591, changed its name a handful of times, but…read moresettled on White Horse ever since the 1830's. Thanks to its central location and tons of history, it seems like this pub has suffered at the hands of tourists like myself in recent years. The interior is smaller than other pubs I visited, but could be downright cozy if it weren't for the people coming in, looking around, and then leaving after taking a photo or two. (Maybe I just caught a tour bus day) They have 8-10 beers on tap, offer wine, and was told that the fish & chips are tip top, though we just had a few pints on our visit. Service at the bar was friendly and prompt, and we snagged one of the few tables available to sit and people watch. Overall White Horse is a fine small pub and well worth a visit if you love historic buildings/businesses. You can be the judge of the rest.

Bijou and very old pub tucked under Blackwells. Bedevilled by tourist hordes much of the time (…read morelast visit it was notably a gaggle of dyed hair American pseudo students discussing what to be offended by next, while talking too loud , not understanding anything they've seen, and getting in everyone's way). However, if you're willing to brave that sort of thing, or are there at a quieter time, get yourself a pint of Guinness and a hot pastrami sandwich. You can thank me later.

Delicious dinner with a gorgeous view overlooking Oxford! Our servers were very attentive. We…read moreenjoyed the chicken basket, katsu chicken, egg fried rice, and pulled beef. We can recommend them all!

Incredible all round. The ambiance is great, and the drinks are incredible. I can recommend the…read moreHipflask Slow-jam, the Old Fashioned, and the Pipe Dream, the Manhattan and the Espresso Martini. What sets The Alchemist apart is the service. The mixologists really know their stuff and don't only mix great cocktails but are fun to talk to. I recommend you find a seat at the bar, introduce yourself and enjoy! #dontmiss #oxford #thealchemist

This is the best karaoke pub I have ever been to! The staff and regulars here are amazing.read more

Cannot say enough great things about this place and the staff and ownership…read more I had a team of colleagues from the US in town for a sales meeting and we were determined to do karaoke to celebrate making our sales goals. Even though this business was closed due to the bank holiday, they opened just for us so we could celebrate. Space was excellent, drinks are great, and again, the staff could not have been nicer and more accommodating. Looking forward to going back to Oxford soon so I can hit the Mad Hatter again!

Once you summit the stairs to the rooftop pub and restaurant, you're rewarded with one of the best…read morepanoramic views in Oxford, including the Radcliffe Camera and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. The view was so impressive that I visited the Varsity Club twice in just a few days. The waiting staff were very friendly, and I enjoyed the salmon and potatoes along with a Camden Pale Ale. Overall, a great experience!

Terrific rooftop bar that is perfect for happy hour. Nice prices on delicious drinks during happy…read morehour. Nice views!

Great place to get a diverse selection of craft beers on tap. Especially interesting were the cask…read moreale selection. Free WiFi Comfortable old moldy feel to the place (he typed with great respect.)

One of my favorite pubs near Christ Church Cathedral at Oxford. Updated interior, free wi-fi, great…read morecraft beer options and a huge variety of gin and cocktails. Friendly staff makes you feel part of the neighborhood and the food was good and reasonably priced.