Oxford Off the Beaten Path

Six Great Pubs Outside the City Centre

Jul 10, 2008

Whether you're looking for charm or just cheap drinks, try these peripheral pubs for a good time.

Oxford is swimming in pubs—big, small, new, old, really old; literary, historical, charming, revolting. But sometimes, the true gems lie outside the cramped and beautiful city centre. As summer blazes on, head away from the crowds and have a pint somewhere nearby, but different:

The Bookbinder’s Arms

Tucked securely away, this pub is dark, cozy, and authentic. The perfect place to warm up after an evening stroll around Jericho’s back streets, or after foray into nearby Port Meadow, it can sometimes be hard to believe, whilst sitting here, that you’re so near to a major, modern city.

The Bullingdon

If it’s a change of scenery and pace you’re after, head down the Cowley Road to the Bullingdon, whose frontispiece is in plain blue lettering and whose inside is as charmless and anonymous as Oxford gets—which can be refreshing sometimes. In the back, the Bullingdon boasts another bar and a stage, as well as plenty of dancing space—stop by during one of their Monday night blues performances for something invigoratingly different.

The City Arms

As part of the Scream pub chain, The City Arms on the Cowley Road is heavily populated by students seeking a cheap drink, but anyone can enjoy the fact that the pub serves uniquely affordable liquor. Also a good place to watch sport, as they have televisions both inside and outside.

The Rose & Crown

Located just off the Banbury Road in North Oxford, The Rose & Crown is a comfortable pub that serves pints of pistachio nuts to compliment your choice of drink. The twinkling North Parade avenue has plenty to offer as well, so if you find you need something more than nuts and crisps, try one of the nearby restaurants.

The Royal Oak

Just across from the Radcliffe Infirmary, The Royal Oak is a quiet, woody respite from the city: a true escape, with a variety of ales and ciders, as well as wines, spirits, and snacks. Enjoy the funky decor in the back rooms, the low ceilings, and the garden outside—but don’t expect to leave promptly.

The Victoria

Recently renovated, the Victoria on Walton Street is beautiful inside and includes copious space outside as well, perfect for enjoying summer evenings (or just a cigarette). Especially worth noting is their selection of eminently affordable, delicious, and filling pies, including an especially tasty vegetarian choice.

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