Pub Guide
Branch area pubs selling real ale
- Appleton
- Plough Inn
Eaton Rd
Appleton
OX13 5JR
moc.liamg@notelppa.nnihguolp(01865) 863535
The two cosy bars and dining room are warmed with real fires giving a welcoming feel to this friendly village local. Outside, the scrupulously clean Gents is reached across the entrance passage. The beer garden includes an Aunt Sally pitch.
- Plough Inn
Eaton Rd
Appleton
OX13 5JR
moc.liamg@notelppa.nnihguolp(01865) 863535
- Ardington
- Boar's Head
Church Street
Ardington
OX12 8QA
ku.oc.notgnidrahbt@ofni(01235) 835466
The Boar's Head is owned by Lockinge Estates like most of Ardington and Lockinge and is an attractive timbered building located in a side road between Ardington House and the church. The pub has been converted into one bar, subdivided for diners. In winter there are log fires inside and in summer, there is a garden terrace for customers to eat and drink al fresco. It is a place to try home-cooked, seasonal food or sample the excellent beer range.
- Boar's Head
Church Street
Ardington
OX12 8QA
ku.oc.notgnidrahbt@ofni(01235) 835466
- Ashbury
- Rose & Crown
3 High Street
Ashbury
SN6 8NA
(01793) 378354
This 16th-century coaching inn nestles at the foot of the White Horse Downs, within a mile of The Ridgeway, in the centre of the scenic village of Ashbury on the borders of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Wiltshire. It is a comfortable village pub with seven sympathetically refurbished en-suite rooms. It offers a range of beers sourced locally from Arkell's Brewery with 3Bs being especially popular. Food is sourced from local suppliers, both traditional pub fare and a la carte menus are available. A truly welcoming pub, not to be missed.
- Rose & Crown
3 High Street
Ashbury
SN6 8NA
(01793) 378354
- Besselsleigh
- Greyhound
Besselsleigh
OX13 5PX
ku.oc.ecirpdnagninnurb@dnuohyerg(01865) 862110
The pub is about 400 years old and was formerly a coaching inn that stood on one of the major turnpike roads from Oxford to the West Country and as such, at one time had a blacksmith's forge attached to the pub to facilitate re-shoeing of horses. Six real ales on handpump with three guests changing regularly and with an extensive menu, this popular pub-restaurant is run by the well-respected Brunning & Price pub company.
- Greyhound
Besselsleigh
OX13 5PX
ku.oc.ecirpdnagninnurb@dnuohyerg(01865) 862110
- Buckland
- Lamb
Buckland
SN7 8QN
moc.liamelgoog@dnalkcubtabmaleht(01367) 870484
Tucked away off the village street, the Lamb was originally a plain village pub owned by Hall's. When it closed in 1987, it remained empty for five years before being totally refurbished. The original eighteenth century building has been extended to encompass a kitchen, a restaurant and guests' accommodation. The large main bar with an open fire at one end caters mainly for diners but does not discourage those who simply wish to drink the well-kept beer.
- Lamb
Buckland
SN7 8QN
moc.liamelgoog@dnalkcubtabmaleht(01367) 870484
- Buckland Marsh, Tadpole Bridge
- Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge
Buckland Marsh
Buckland Marsh, Tadpole Bridge
SN7 8RF
ku.oc.nni-tuort@ofni(01367) 870382
This attractive 17th century pub is in an idyllic setting by the upper reaches of the River Thames. Formerly a toll house for the single-lane ancient bridge alongside, it became a pub in the late 19th century. The light and airy interior features stuffed fish in glass cases, reflecting the popularity of this stretch of river with anglers. There is an emphasis on food including breakfast starting at 8am. Booking is required especially at weekends, however, a pub atmosphere is retained and three ales are provided on hand pump, from the Butcombe portfolio. An extensive grassed area backs onto the Thames, with many benches for eating and drinking al fresco.
- Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge
Buckland Marsh
Buckland Marsh, Tadpole Bridge
SN7 8RF
ku.oc.nni-tuort@ofni(01367) 870382
- Charney Bassett
- Chequers
Charney Bassett
OX12 0EX
ku.oc.yenrahcsreuqehc@ofni(01235) 868642
Formerly a Morland's house of which the brewery divested itself a few years ago, the Chequers now advertises itself as a Brakspear's pub. Although the bar area has been opened out to make room for diners, it still retains its village pub atmosphere with its separate public and lounge areas. Despite its remoteness, the Chequers is a lively pub. The white house to the left of the Chequers was also a pub called the Horn, which closed some time before the war. A photograph of both pubs dating from about the turn of the century hangs on the wall of the Chequers. Tables at the front overlook the village green.
- Chequers
Charney Bassett
OX12 0EX
ku.oc.yenrahcsreuqehc@ofni(01235) 868642
- Childrey
- Hatchet
Main St
Childrey
OX12 9UF
(01235) 751213
A very friendly, split-level, single-bar, family-run village local, re-opened after a long period of closure. The landlord is well-known for his commitment to cask ale. It hosts a variety of village teams. The large garden has kiddies' climbing frames. Highly commended in the 2000 Branch Pub of the Year contest, 2003 Branch Pub of the Year, and runner up in the Southern Region contest.
- Hatchet
Main St
Childrey
OX12 9UF
(01235) 751213
- Coleshill
- Radnor Arms
32 Coleshill
Coleshill
SN6 7PR
moc.llihselocsmrarondareht@ofni(01793) 766667
Old stone building, owned by the National Trust, in attractive setting bordering Coleshill Park. Former village smithy now a friendly and popular split level pub with three rooms around a central bar. After a period of closure, it re-opened under new tenants in summer 2023. The pub sells real ale and food will be available from 1st August. Contact pub for food service times.
- Radnor Arms
32 Coleshill
Coleshill
SN6 7PR
moc.llihselocsmrarondareht@ofni(01793) 766667
- Denchworth
- Fox
Hyde Road
Denchworth
OX12 0DX
ku.oc.ilacsit@nnixofeht(01235) 868258
Built late in the 17th century of local Corallian limestone, the Fox is now whitewashed and nestles near the village green, big house and church. The restaurant was originally the village smithy, and carries the Great War Roll of Honour on the wall. In addition to the restaurant, there is a plush bar, thoughtfully isolated from odours of food. Well-kept ales, unfortunately served under light blanket pressure. Crib and quiz leagues in the winter. The garden is a delight.
- Fox
Hyde Road
Denchworth
OX12 0DX
ku.oc.ilacsit@nnixofeht(01235) 868258
- Dry Sandford
- Merry Miller
Cothill Rd
Dry Sandford
OX13 6JW
ku.oc.rellimyrrem@bor(01865) 390390
Almost burned to the ground some years ago, this pub has been carefully restored. Inside the emphasis is obviously on food, the dining area being formed from three interlocking rooms. Lots of wooden beams, wooden floors, and chunky furniture plus a log fire give a rustic feel.
- Merry Miller
Cothill Rd
Dry Sandford
OX13 6JW
ku.oc.rellimyrrem@bor(01865) 390390
- East Hendred
- Eyston Arms
High St
East Hendred
OX12 8JY
ku.oc.smranotsye@seiriuqne(01235) 833320
The Eyston Arms, owned by the Eyston estate, was leased for many years to Morland, but has now become a locally-renowned gastro-pub. Customers are greeted with a huge log fire, a rustic Cotswold flagstone floor, a series of cartoons of regular customers, simple polished tables and comfortable leather upholstered chairs.
- Wheatsheaf
Chapel Sq
East Hendred
OX12 8JN
(01235) 833229
A picturesque, low-beamed one-bar pub once owned by Morland, specialises in locally sourced, home cooked food. Its relatively small size manages to preserve an intimate atmosphere. Hidden behind the pub is a large and well stocked garden.
- Eyston Arms
High St
East Hendred
OX12 8JY
ku.oc.smranotsye@seiriuqne(01235) 833320
- Eaton
- Eight Bells
Eaton
OX13 5PR
(01865) 862261
The Eight Bells is located in the centre of the hamlet, a cream painted brick-built edifice, which seems originally to have been a simple cottage but extensions and projections have been added to it over the years which have lent a certain charm. Inside on the right is a basic, no-frills public bar with wooden benches and tables which looks as if has not changed for years. To the left is a larger, simply furnished lounge bar which leads onto the restaurant which is now serving Thai food.
- Eight Bells
Eaton
OX13 5PR
(01865) 862261
- Faringdon
- Folly
54 London St
Faringdon
SN7 7AA
(01367) 243018
Charming, friendly basic boozer at the top of the hill. A small public bar area and a cosy lounge. This pub now benefits from fully refurbished toilets and a pleasant new beer garden has been created providing additional seating with umbrellas.
- Old Crown Coaching Inn
25 Market Place
Faringdon
SN7 7HU
mocc.nnignihcaocnworcdloeht@ofni(01367) 242744
16th century coaching inn built on much older foundations and was used to billet Royalist officers during the Civil War. Housed a court room and the infamous Judge Jeffreys is reputed to have held one of his 'Bloody Assizes' here. The Rawdon Bar at the front of the hotel has a number of 'snugs' one with an entrance to a tunnel leading to the nearby church. The Courtyard Bar as its name suggests opens onto the cobbled courtyard and leads on to Judge Jeffreys Restaurant and Carvery. Hotel reception is at the rear of the building with access from the car park.
Currently undergoing refurbishment, restaurant and kitchen closed but bars still open. Fourteen rooms are now available.
- Swan
1 Park Road
Faringdon
SN7 7BP
(01367) 241480
An attractive pub with large, friendly, multi-level single bar with cosy nooks and a log fire. There is also a small roadside patio for sunny afternoons. The focus is on beer, with two regular beers and two changing guest beers on handpump. Third-pint glasses are available for the unsure. Under new management (tenant) since 9th May 2022.
- Wheatsheaf
5 London St
Faringdon
SN7 7AE
moc.kooltuo@ffoegdnaoj07815 071958
One for the younger crowd.
- Folly
54 London St
Faringdon
SN7 7AA
(01367) 243018
- Fernham
- Woodman
Fernham
SN7 7NX
ku.oc.mahnrefnamdooweht@olleh(01367) 820643
Known as The Woodman since 1840, it is a large, rambling single bar pub full of low beams, nooks, crannies and interesting artefacts. Huge, open log fire in the bar, an adjacent dining area and a converted barn used as a Function Room. The emphasis is on good food and real ales. Casks were originally kept on stillage behind the bar but now three hand pumps have been installed.
- Woodman
Fernham
SN7 7NX
ku.oc.mahnrefnamdooweht@olleh(01367) 820643
- Frilford
- Dog House
Faringdon Rd
Frilford
OX13 6QJ
(01865) 390830
Part of the Greene King Olde English Inn Chain with an emphasis on food and functions. There is one bar with some comfortable seating and a separate restaurant. An imposing building that gets it's name from the days when Oxford University students would keep their foxhounds kennelled there.
- Dog House
Faringdon Rd
Frilford
OX13 6QJ
(01865) 390830
- Fyfield
- White Hart
Main Rd
Fyfield
OX13 5LW
moc.dleifyf-trahetihw@ofni(01865) 390585
The White Hart is an historic 15th century former Chantry House, with flagstone floors, vaulted ceilings and minstrel's gallery. The bar retains the feel of a village local but the emphasis is on food. The pub holds two AA rosettes for catering excellence, once even having hosted former US President Jimmy Carter. Food comes from their own garden and local suppliers whenever possible. There are large gardens and car parking areas.
- White Hart
Main Rd
Fyfield
OX13 5LW
moc.dleifyf-trahetihw@ofni(01865) 390585
- Gozzard's Ford
- Black Horse
Faringdon Road
Gozzard's Ford
OX13 6JH
(01865) 390736
Comfortable, 350-year old beamed pub serving good food in quiet rural location. Large child-friendly garden. Repened, under new management.
- Black Horse
Faringdon Road
Gozzard's Ford
OX13 6JH
(01865) 390736
- Grove
- Bay Tree
The Green
Grove
OX12 0AN
(01235) 770054
Lively pub, well frequented by locals. Extensive bar and main meals available throughout the day. Friendly welcome to families and ale well kept by knowledgeable manager. Regular live music, especially at weekends.
- Bell
Main St
Grove
OX12 7JT
(01235) 763860
Spacious and popular two-bar pub in central Grove concentrating on beer with no food at all. A former Courage house, now owned by the Grand Pub Company. Jolly, bustling, down-to-earth local run by enthusiastic licensees.
- Volunteer
Station Rd
Grove
OX12 0DH
(01235) 770503
The Volunteer was originally built to serve the former Wantage Road Station and the terminus of the Wantage Tramway. The tramway ran alongside the A338 until 1946, transporting goods and passengers into Wantage. The pub itself is a friendly, cheerful and well-run establishment that caters for all walks of life. The one big bar comfortably accommodates both drinkers and diners, however, under new ownership, The Volly now serves Real Ale again.
- Bay Tree
The Green
Grove
OX12 0AN
(01235) 770054
- Kingston Lisle
- Blowing Stone Inn
Kingston Lisle
OX12 9QL
moc.enotsgniwolbeht@seiriuqne(01235) 612707
Large, friendly, relaxed free house in the shadow of Uffington White Horse. It has modern decor bars with modern comfortable furnishings. There is a separate conservatory, a large beer garden and a restaurant. Good mixture of locals and diners frequent the pub. Regular ales are supplemented by one or two changing guest ales, usually from local breweries.
- Blowing Stone Inn
Kingston Lisle
OX12 9QL
moc.enotsgniwolbeht@seiriuqne(01235) 612707
- Letcombe Regis
- Greyhound Inn
Main Street
Letcombe Regis
OX12 9JL
ku.oc.ebmocteldnuohyergeht@ofni(01235) 771969
Large, welcoming pub in the centre of the village. Inside is a single bar, with dining areas and an original inglenook fireplace. Parking is available at the side of the pub; the provision for tethering horses has been replaced by secure bicycle storage. The garden hosts outdoor dining during the summer months. Eight boutique en-suite bedrooms are available. Locally sourced home-cooked food and four constantly changing handpumped beers are available. Within a couple of miles of the Ridgeway, it provides a place of refreshment and rest for wayfarers. Local CAMRA Pub of the Year 2022.
- Greyhound Inn
Main Street
Letcombe Regis
OX12 9JL
ku.oc.ebmocteldnuohyergeht@ofni(01235) 771969
- Little Coxwell
- Eagle Tavern
Little Coxwell
SN7 7LW
(01367) 241879
High ceilinged, open-plan village pub with food.
- Eagle Tavern
Little Coxwell
SN7 7LW
(01367) 241879
- Longcot
- King & Queen
Shrivenham Road
Longcot
SN7 7TL
ku.oc.neeuqdnagniktocgnol@seiriuqne(01793) 784348
It is thought that the King & Queen was constructed about 200 years ago to cater for the navvies working on the Wilts & Berks Canal which passes nearby. From the pub, one may enjoy one of the best views of White Horse Hill and the famous 3000-year-old white horse. The layout inside comprises an extensive, open-plan drinking area and to one side, a restaurant serving substantial meals, while outside is a tranquil beer garden. The pub offers a good selection of beers from local breweries, three of which are constantly changing. Winner of Branch Country Pub of the Year 2022.
- King & Queen
Shrivenham Road
Longcot
SN7 7TL
ku.oc.neeuqdnagniktocgnol@seiriuqne(01793) 784348
- Longworth
- Blue Boar
Tucks Lane
Longworth
OX13 5ET
moc.oohay@htrowgnolraobeulb(01865) 820494
Pretty, thatched village pub with original tiled floor and wooden beams hosting an unusual collection of historic skis on the ceiling. There are three real fires, large wooden tables and church pews, cricket, boxing and rugby memorabilia. Excellent choice of home-cooked food is available and an extensive wine list. Vibrant and busy on some occasions, the pub can also be a place for a quiet pint and a good meal. Three beers are usually available on handpump.
- Blue Boar
Tucks Lane
Longworth
OX13 5ET
moc.oohay@htrowgnolraobeulb(01865) 820494
- Marcham
- Crown
1 Packhorse Lane
Marcham
OX13 6NT
(01865) 259333
Traditional, friendly, village local in the centre of the village with a lively public bar and cosy dining room also with a bar, The pub has reopened following a period of closure and is now owned by Oak Taverns. Additional handpumps have been fitted and now three regular beers and three changing guest beers are usually available, also two Craft Beers. There is no food service but street vendors are available. The pub was designated as a Grade II-listed building in 1987. Marcham is home to Denman College, headquarters of the WI. The pub is the winner of the White Horse Branch Most Improved Pub 2024.
- Crown
1 Packhorse Lane
Marcham
OX13 6NT
(01865) 259333
- Milton Hill
- Pack Horse
Milton Hill
OX13 6AG
bup.esrohkcapeht@liam(01235) 832323
The Pack Horse is an imposing building, refurbished to a high standard with a modern decor. In essence it is now a busy, well run, eating-pub, with an extensive menu, attracting many weekday lunchtime customers from nearby businesses and families in the evenings and at weekends. Now owned by Star Pubs & Bars (Heineken), the beer range includes offerings from local breweries.
- Pack Horse
Milton Hill
OX13 6AG
bup.esrohkcapeht@liam(01235) 832323
- Shippon
- Prince of Wales
60 Barrow Road
Shippon
OX13 6JQ
moc.loa@snikliwmcin(01235) 538546
A traditional period Inn at the heart of Shippon village with public, lounge bar and a dining room. A free house, it offers a range of real ales, both regular, guest, local and otherwise, alongside a selection of ciders. The public bar has darts and a juke box; the cosy beamed lounge, a large open fire and sofas. Home cooked meals may be taken outside, in the bar or dining room. The dining room is also available to hire for private functions. Outside is a patio and beer garden overlooking the village church. There is ample parking at the front, rear and in the overflow opposite.
- Prince of Wales
60 Barrow Road
Shippon
OX13 6JQ
moc.loa@snikliwmcin(01235) 538546
- Shrivenham
- Barrington Arms
25 High St
Shrivenham
SN6 8AN
ku.oc.smrAnotgnirraB@ofni(01793) 784692
This large two-bar pub with friendly bar staff, offers a changing range of beers and freshly prepared food from local producers cooked to order at realistic prices.
- Prince of Wales
14 High St
Shrivenham
SN6 8AF
(01793) 782268
Family-friendly Grade II listed, 17th-century, stone coaching inn with a cosy atmosphere offering good home-cooked food including Sunday roasts. The multi-level bar pub is dominated by large fire place and central pillar. There is a separate dining room. Regular trips are organised to breweries and beer festivals. The pub holds regular quiz nights. Board games (shuffle board), newspapers, wireless internet access and a small meeting room are available. 2002 Branch Pub of the Year.
- Barrington Arms
25 High St
Shrivenham
SN6 8AN
ku.oc.smrAnotgnirraB@ofni(01793) 784692
- Southmoor
- Waggon & Horses
Faringdon Rd
Southmoor
OX13 5BG
(01865) 823316
The Waggon and Horses is a pleasant wood-bedecked roadhouse catering for both local patrons and those from farther afield. Parts of the building date back 400 years and it has always been a pub within living memory. The pub boasts a separate restaurant and a bar area divided into three: a main bar, a side bar and quieter alcove on the opposite side in which the provision of newspapers for customers' benefit is a nice, civilised touch. It is popular with the locals, with successful Aunt Sally and cribbage teams. The restaurant is also very popular in the evenings.
- Waggon & Horses
Faringdon Rd
Southmoor
OX13 5BG
(01865) 823316
- Stanford In The Vale
- Horse & Jockey
25 Faringdon Rd
Stanford In The Vale
SN7 8NN
gro.yekcojdnaesroh@ofni(01367) 710302
Good food, accommodation and an attractive garden by the side of the A417. Now under new management.
- Horse & Jockey
25 Faringdon Rd
Stanford In The Vale
SN7 8NN
gro.yekcojdnaesroh@ofni(01367) 710302
- Stanford in the Vale
- Stanford Social Club
Sheards Lane
Stanford in the Vale
SN7 8LW
(01367) 710734
Formerly known as The Working Men’s Club it was built in 1928 on donated land using volunteer labour, being run latterly by it’s Steward Fred 'Buster' Smith until his death in 1977, after which it was run by a group of 12 people as the Stanford Social Club. CAMRA Members will be welcomed into the Club on production of a CAMRA membership card and making a contribution of 50p as a visitor. Two constantly changing beers are served on handpump. Local CAMRA Club of the Year 2017, 2018 and 2019.
- Stanford Social Club
Sheards Lane
Stanford in the Vale
SN7 8LW
(01367) 710734
- Steventon
- Cherry Tree
33 High Street
Steventon
OX13 6RZ
ku.oc.htrowdaw@eertyrrehc(01235) 831222
Quaint, old and timber-framed pub on the former main road. The interior is multi-roomed and rambling with beams, wooden boarded floor and oak settles. Meals available lunchtime and evenings with a good range of food and plenty of space. Separate area available for families. Large car park.
- Fox
29 High St
Steventon
OX13 6RZ
ku.oc.notnevetsxofeht@ofni(01235) 821228
Large, smart pub on the former A34 through the village. Recently refurbished to a high standard, there is an open-plan bar and separate restaurant. Beer range has changed from Greene King following purchase by Star Pubs & Bars (Heineken) Company Ltd. Open for breakfast 7am - 9am Mon - Thu; 8am - 10am Fri - Sun (should be ordered in advance unless staying as a guest).
- North Star
2 Stocks Lane
Steventon
OX13 6SG
Despite appearing in the news for being partially demolished on New Year's Day in 2003 and being closed for a year during restoration, the North Star remains one of Oxfordshire's finest pubs. Standing on The Causeway, it is one of a series of 17th century half-timbered houses and buildings, fully deserving its Grade II-listed status. It has been in the hands of the same family over a long period of time. The North Star has barely a bar as such, merely a servery from the beer store to the tiny low-ceilinged public and lounge bars, the former with impressive high-backed seating surrounding the fireplace. Another room not served by the bar is also available, as are benches in the connecting corridor. Not to be missed.
- Cherry Tree
33 High Street
Steventon
OX13 6RZ
ku.oc.htrowdaw@eertyrrehc(01235) 831222
- Sunningwell
- Flowing Well
Sunningwell
OX13 6RB
ku.oc.nodgniballewgniwolf@ofni(01865) 735846
This large, impressive-looking pub is named after the source of the stream which flows into the pond opposite the Church, and presumably was the original spring which gave Sunningwell its name. One side of the pub is 'the tap room' for drinkers and the other side the 'restaurant' for diners. The pub hosts both live music and quiz nights, and generally acts as a focus for village activities. No guest beers are sold.
- Flowing Well
Sunningwell
OX13 6RB
ku.oc.nodgniballewgniwolf@ofni(01865) 735846
- Uffington
- Fox & Hounds
High St
Uffington
SN7 7RP
(01367) 820680
Old fashioned, friendly and quaint two-bar pub with large open fire, collection of antique bottles and an ancient cash register. The Fox and Hounds became a free house in 2010, and is the perfect place for a summer's evening pint; the views across to the Uffington White Horse are stunning. An enjoyable August Bank-Holiday beer festival has become an annual feature, and the local Morris dancers perform here twice a year. Regular BBQs and quiz evenings are appreciated by the locals.
- Fox & Hounds
High St
Uffington
SN7 7RP
(01367) 820680
- Wantage
- Bear Hotel
Market Place
Wantage
OX12 8AB
ku.oc.egatnawraebeht@ofni(01235) 766366
Old traditional coaching inn on the Market Square, served by a single long downstairs bar, with a few tables outside in the covered cobbled passage once used by the horses. Acquired by Arkell's in 2006, the pub has undergone an extensive refurbishment. Food good value, arrives via a devoted small lift. Disabled access. No parking available. Groups, for example, walkers, should call before arrival.
- Bell
38 Market Pl
Wantage
OX12 8AH
(01235) 763718
Town centre pub overlooking the market square, providing a panoramic view of Wantage citizens going about their business. Formerly two bars, these were opened out a few years ago to create a long single bar, partitioned into separate areas. The emphasis is on live sport on TV and a pool table.
- Blue Boar
4 Newbury Street
Wantage
OX12 8BS
moc.liamg@bwgnihtemos03(01235) 760344
Extensively refurbished by the new owner, this spacious town-centre pub has two changing real ales and four changing craft ales. A friendly, pleasant pub with a convivial atmosphere. There is a well-furnished bar with a large selection of gins. Customers can also spend sunny days in the seated area outside. Winner of local CAMRA award Most Improved Pub 2023.
- Cellar Bar (Bentleys) Post Office Vaults
Market Pl
Wantage
OX12 8AT
(01235) 762942
Formerly the cellar of the Post Office Vaults pub, it is now a pizza restaurant, which continues to sell beer. Access to this brick-built cellar is down a steep flight of steps from street level. Ceiling height is seven feet or less in places, with painted beams. Recently refurbished.
- King Alfred's Head
31 Market Place
Wantage
OX12 8AH
moc.evil@daehsderflagnik(01235) 771595
This listed pub has an attractive frontage just off the Market Place. ideally placed for relaxing after shopping, while admiring the variety of ancient architecture which makes up Wantage town centre. Inside is spacious; unusually, the open-plan design has been reversed by adding some internal divisions; the rear, once a car park, is now a large courtyard garden. The pub serves excellent, freshly made food using local produce where possible and holds barbecues at weekends throughout the summer.
- King's Arms
39 Wallingford Street
Wantage
OX12 8AU
(01235) 765465
A friendly, open-plan pub with polished wooden floors and panelling, which has been carefully refurbished and transformed by the owners, Oak Taverns, giving it a new lease of life. Six handpumps adorn the bar, serving constantly changing beers, with six ciders also available. There is a large, pleasantly grassy, sloping garden at the rear, with tables and chairs for drinkers. Winner of local CAMRA Pub of the Year, also local CAMRA Cider Pub of the Year 2024.
- Lamb
59 Mill Street
Wantage
OX12 9AB
(01235) 766768
A 17th-century inn near to the mill, it is the second oldest building in Wantage after the Parish Church and is the only thatched building in the town. The pub has never been sold and has had only two landlords in the last fifty years. It serves an extensive range of pub food, freshly made, using local suppliers. A family pub which extends a very warm and friendly welcome to all.
- Lord Nelson
78 Charlton Rd
Wantage
OX12 8HL
ku.oc.gnikeneerg@3625(01235) 763415
Situated on a roundabout on the A417, about 2/3 of a mile to the east of the town centre, the Lord Nelson is a Greene King outlet consisting of a large, open plan split-level restaurant grafted on to the original building. It is primarily a cheap and cheerful eatery, with a comfortable bar area reached down a flight of stairs. However, the disabled are well catered for, being provided with a wheelchair lift to get from one level to another. The beer range remains the same, normally there are no guests but it does compete on price. Large parking area.
- Royal Oak
Newbury Street
Wantage
OX12 8DF
(01235) 763129
Thriving corner pub near the civic hall, with two bars and a landlord who loves beer (and whiskies; the stock will satisfy any connoisseur). Above the bar in the lounge are over two hundred real ale pumpclips representing a selection of beers served over the years, hiding an intricate wrought iron structure of intertwined oak leaves and acorns. Framed photographs of various ships bearing the Royal Oak name adorn the walls, as do many CAMRA and other awards, including White Horse and Central Southern Region CAMRA Pub of the Year for 1998, 2008 and 2009, Branch Pub of the Year again in both 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2015 and 2017 and National CAMRA Pub of the Year, Cider Pub Of The Year runners up in 2010 and Cider Pub of the Year in 2011 and 2012. The smaller public bar, more popular with the younger crowd, contains more Royal Oak memorabilia and other naval references, also table football. Both bars have dart boards. All beers are available via gravity. A variety of draught ciders and perries are available. The Royal Oak has appeared in almost all of the Good Beer Guides since the present landlord took over in the 1980s including 2025 edition.
- Shoulder of Mutton
38 Wallingford Street
Wantage
OX12 8AX
(01235) 767158
Friendly and popular Victorian corner pub, colloquially known as 'The Shoulder'. It is a short walk from the town centre, with five constantly changing beers on handpump to suit all tastes, whether expert or novice. The interior was redesigned in late 2022 to allow greater space for customers and has reopened following the extensive refurbishment, including an outdoor drinking area. A former local, county and regional CAMRA Pub of the Year, it has also had many entries in this Guide's past.
- Swan
28 Market Place
Wantage
OX12 8AE
(01235) 767584
Vibrant, young people's pub often featuring live music. The long front bar has pleasant views of the local church. Due to some major brewery changes, there are now beverages offered that no other pubs offer in Wantage, including a varied range of cask ales. A Happy Hour operates from 2pm to 8pm daily and all day Sunday on cask beers. At least three draught ciders are served.
- Bear Hotel
Market Place
Wantage
OX12 8AB
ku.oc.egatnawraebeht@ofni(01235) 766366
- Watchfield
- College Farm
Majors Rd
Watchfield
SN6 8TQ
ku.oc.snotsram@dleifhctaw.mrafegelloc(01793) 783170
Newest pub in the Vale, the focus is firmly on the family and food. Spacious, open-plan design. Beers are all from the extended Marston's range.
- College Farm
Majors Rd
Watchfield
SN6 8TQ
ku.oc.snotsram@dleifhctaw.mrafegelloc(01793) 783170
- West Hanney
- Plough
Church Street
West Hanney
OX12 0LN
ku.oc.yennahtahguolpeht@seiriuqne(01235) 868987
Picturesque, friendly, 16th-century thatched pub, located opposite the church. Sold in 2015 by Punch Taverns to a local community group, it has been refurbished and serves four changing beers. Cosy beamed and alcoved split level bar with open fire and separate dining room serving traditional British food. It is the hub of the community and most of the local clubs meet here from time to time. In summer Aunt Sally is played in the local league. The pub is the winner of White Horse Branch Country Pub of the Year 2024.
- Plough
Church Street
West Hanney
OX12 0LN
ku.oc.yennahtahguolpeht@seiriuqne(01235) 868987
- Woolstone
- White Horse
Marsh Way
Woolstone
SN7 7QL
(01367) 820726
The White Horse has the appearance of the quintessential 'olde worlde' village pub, with its black and white timbered structure, thatched roof, leaded window panes, and honeysuckle-framed porch. Inside however, its former three separate bars bisected by a corridor have long been converted to a single barn-like drinking and dining area, with an emphasis on the latter. Despite this, drinkers are welcome; after all, this is the pub nearest to the local beauty spot, White Horse Hill, and the area around the bar will accommodate a number of thirsty wayfarers, both seating and standing. The roaring log fire is especially appreciated during the winter, while for the benefit of summer visitors, there is a pleasant beer garden hidden away out the back, also a grassy area just big enough for a couple of tables out front overlooking the village street.
- White Horse
Marsh Way
Woolstone
SN7 7QL
(01367) 820726
- Wootton
- Bystander Besselsleigh Rd Wootton OX13 6DN ku.oc.gnikeneerg@4835(01865) 735234