Tucked snugly away down an unadvertised, unassuming, narrow alley in central Oxford, is the Turf Tavern, one of Oxford’s oldest and most famous Taverns. Steeped in history and tradition dating back to the 13th century, the tavern’s low ceiling, exposed brickwork with timber joists provide our visitors with a warm, friendly atmosphere in which to enjoy real ale and draught cider. Outside there are also comfortably secluded courtyards. Tourists and students flock to the Turf in pursuit of “an education in intoxication” (the tavern’s motto). In the 17th century it served as a malt house and in the late 18th century it was transformed into an inn, under the name “The Spotted Cow.” It took its present incarnation in 1805, when it assumed its current name. Since then we have had many famous visitors including C.S. Lewis, T.S. Eliot and, of course, Bill Clinton during his days as a Rhodes scholar. It is argued that The Turf is the pub in which Jude Fawley’s drunken Latin rant takes place in Thomas Hardy’s book Jude the Obscure. The Turf Tavern’s crowd, atmosphere, and history make it a ‘must visit’ watering hole for anyone in the area. We are notoriously hard to find but worth the effort.
Other Information
Free Wi-Fi Access.
Outside Seating Area – 3 large areas, one of which is non smoking, Patio Areas with heating & lighting.
Children Welcome until 8pm, Dogs Welcome outside on a lead & inside, Coach Parties Welcome by appointment, Debit and Credit Cards accepted except Amex.
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