Located down a narrow winding alleyway, the Turf Tavern is initially tricky to find but well worth the effort. The pub has a long list of famous patrons, from fictional ones, such as Colin Dexter’s Inspector Morse and Brideshead Revisited’s Charles Ryder, to real ones, including Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Bill Clinton, all of whom have enjoyed the Tavern’s maze of interconnected rooms, wide range of guest ales and large beer gardens. The pub has a year-round, lively atmosphere, with locals, tourists and students alike crowding around tables to socialise and sample the traditional English pub fare.

Tucked behind the medieval city wall, and accessible only down a narrow passageway, 'the Turf' is one of Oxford’s worst-kept secrets. The 18th-century pub is low-beamed, stone-flagged and piled high with empty barrels. There used to be real coal braziers outside in winter, now health and safety dictates that patio heaters do the same job.

Off Holywell Street, the Turf Tavern has a higgledy-piggledy collection of little rooms and outdoor spaces where you can enjoy a quiet drink and inexpensive pub food.

This relaxed 17th-century tavern remains one of Oxford’s nicest pubs for a sturdy pint or glass of wine. Thomas Hardy wrote (and set) parts of Jude the…

John Karban adds: "Occupying a plot in the Oxford Castle retail development backing onto Castle St, this is the newest addition to the Wetherspoon chain in the city centre, replacing a short-lived nondescript bar/eatery which obviously wasn't as funny as its former name suggested. Spacious and airy with comfy seating stretching around three sides of the central bar, this is nonetheless a Wetherspoon. Apart form the layout, everything said about the Four Candles and Wetherspoon establishments generally applies here too. On the positive side, it's the only place in the revamped Oxford Castle complex where you can get real ale of any description, let alone as well kept and cheap as Wetherspoon manage to do it. It's possibly the best pub for beer in the SW corner of the city centre, given that competition comes from the likes of the Castle Tavern and Jolly Farmers. Actually, it's not bad for food, either, especially if you consider the price/quality ratio; you get a mains here for the price of starters in most of the other restaurants in the Oxford Castle complex. Thanks. June 2010.

During my first trip to Oxford, we sought out The Turf Tavernwhich is down a little alley called St Helen’s Passage (originally Hell’s passage), between Holywell Street and New College Lane, next to Oxford’s Bridge of Sighs. The Turf Tavern is one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, and has a lovely outdoor beer garden as well as plentiful indoor seating and a wide selection of beers as well as food. It is something of a pilgrimage site with university students, famous visitors, and us average tourists all venturing into this back alley haunt. One of the more famous visitors was Bill Clinton who was a Rhodes scholar at Oxford.

There are a number of excellent pubs in Oxford for when you need a break from sightseeing, but if it’s an iconic drinking hole you’re after, look no further than the Turf Tavern. Located near the Bodleian Library and Bridge of Sighs, the Turf Tavern has been around since the 13th century and has always been popular with Oxford students, including some very notable names. Famous frequenters of this pub include Richard Burton, Tony Blair, C. S. Lewis, Margaret Thatcher, Stephen Hawking and Bill Clinton, while the former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke supposedly set a Guinness World Record here in 1954.

Nestled within the cozy corners of Oxford lies the venerable Turf Tavern, a place that has witnessed more secrets whispered over pints than the plot twists in a crime novel. With its delightful maze-like layout and low ceilings that defy the notion of "stand tall," this historic pub invites you to feel like a gnome amidst its enchanting rustic decor. While navigating the narrow passageways is akin to a game of human Tetris, fear not—once you've found your little nook, you can revel in the delicious food, witty conversations, and an atmosphere that makes you wonder if every don is secretly a wizard.

The spa at the macdonald randolph hotel is all lantern-lit walkways and subtle music, and it's a total haven away from it all in the centre of oxford. part of an impressive five-star hotel that was built in 1864, not only is the spa amazing but the food has won aa rosettes too. it/"s really close to the Ashmolean Museum and the universities, and an ideal place to stay on a tourist break. There are four treatment rooms and a whole list of Decleor and other professional spa treatments available in-spa , plus a fabulous thermal suite including a sensation shower and ice fountain.

For somewhere so well hidden, the Turf draws a lot of drinkers. It’s concealed down a couple of narrow, pedestrian-only alleys, although its not-so-subtle marketing line – “An Education In Intoxication” – hints at the fact that it’s long been championed as one of Oxford’s top alehouses. Its historical location just outside the old city walls (and therefore outside of jurisdiction) made it a magnet for cock-fighting and other vices in earlier times – more recently, it’s widely been accepted as the place Bill Clinton famously smoked pot but “didn’t inhale”.

Staking its claim as the city’s oldest pub, dating back to the 13th century, the Turf is squirrelled away at the end of a cobbled passage, past a set of Dutch cottages. Inside the warren of low-beamed rooms – eventually leading out onto a furnished garden – there are plenty of corners to tuck yourself away with a pint of ale and a hearty pie. You’ll be in good company, too – regulars are made up of students and dons, while former pub-goers include Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, CS Lewis, Stephen Hawking and Margaret Thatcher.

Hidden away, behind part of the old city wall and down a long winding passageway, sits The Turf. With foundations dating back to the 13th Century, this historic old pub has seen it’s fair share of interesting punters, including Bill Clinton and former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, along with a barrage of Oxford University students. A large, mostly paved, garden with plenty of seating means this is a hot spot for catching a few rays whilst enjoying a good selection of real ales.

An Oxford institution, the Turf is tucked down a narrow alley in the midst of some of Oxford’s most beautiful buildings. Dating from the thirteenth century, the higgledy-piggledy rooms are always filled with a mixture of students, residents, and tourists enjoying the wide variety of drinks on offer, including many real ales. The Turf always likes to offer something a bit unusual, whether it is marshmallows to roast on the fire in winter or beer festivals and BBQs in summer.

Dating back to the 13th century, The Turf Tavern pub boasts rustic decor, low wooden beams, and inviting fireplaces, setting the stage for intimate conversations and cherished moments. The adventure begins with finding the pub itself, hidden away in Oxford’s narrow alleys, adding an element of discovery and excitement to your date. Start your evening with a hearty meal from the menu, which features traditional British dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

There’s almost no way that you would stumble across The Turf Tavern by accident. Hidden away and only accessed by two small alleys, The Turf is a pub that’s worth a little effort. Another of Oxford’s historic pubs, it’s difficult to date when the Turf first came into existence but it was doing roaring trade by the 16th century – it’s even said that the Roundheads used to meet in the pub to discuss the future of the King during the English Civil War.

Starting in the city centre, you are a mere few minutes walk from some of the Britain's oldest and prettiest pubs, now suffering from various degrees of tourist saturation. The Bear Inn on Alfred Street, dating to 1241, claims to be the city's oldest. Accordingly, it was built with exceedingly tiny people in mind, and anyone over the height of six feet or having drunk in excess four pints should be wary of crashing their head on a low-slung beam.

The lively Turf Tavern is a traditional British pub inside a Grade II listed building in the heart of Oxford’s university quarter. This is one of the best pubs in Oxford city center and is just a stone’s throw from famous landmarks such as the Bodleian Library and New College. Come here for hearty pub grub from beer-battered Atlantic cod to burgers, steaks, sandwiches, ciabatta, and more (there are plenty of veggie options too).

Dating back to 1381, Turf Tavern is something of a tourist hotspot in Oxford, and even served as a hangout for the "Harry Potter" cast when they were in town filming. Featuring low beams and small pubs, this historic pub is tucked down a winding alleyway close to the heart of the university. Lined by one of the last remaining segments of the medieval city wall, the beer garden of Turf Tavern is worth taking a seat in.

This historic pub is hidden away down a long winding passageway, with a secret entrance under the Bridge of Sighs. The favourite of fictional Inspector Morse and frequented by locals and students alike, its rather small inside, but opens up to its paved garden, perfect for enjoying the sun. There are up to 12 different draft beers at a time and the beers frequently change, with favorites making reappearances.

The Turf Tavern is definitely one of the historic pubs in Oxford, and its well-hidden location makes it even more iconic. Oxford and Brookes Uni students spend lots of time in the three outdoor courtyards (with braziers in winter) enjoying their great choice of drinks. It has been frequented by many famous personalities, such as Bill Clinton who infamously did not inhale marijuana during an event there.

Situated in between the Bodleian Library and New College Chapel, the Turf Tavern has been serving the great and good of central Oxford since 1831. It is particularly notable for the number and variety of celebrities who have been there, not least the then-Prime Minister of Australia Bob Hawke, who on a visit in 1954 established a Guinness World Record for downing a yard of ale in 11 seconds!

This 18th century historic pub located in central Oxford is one of the most loved Oxford pubs among university students and tourists alike!. The draft beer selection is excellent, as is the friendly and quick service here. When it comes to food, there’s many dishes worth trying – the fish & chips, gooey mac & cheese, meaty steak and ale pie and even the vegan burgers are all great options.

Turf Tavern Otherwise known as “the Turf”, this popular pub is hard to find: it’s hidden up a narrow winding alley under the Bridge Of Sighs and is a go-to for post-matriculation/graduation celebrations. Look out for their famous Old Rosie cider. Named after the host who apparently haunts the pub, it’s strong and sweet – drink too much and it will certainly haunt you the next morning.

Recommended Restaurants: Bangkok House (Thai) Hythe Bridge Street, Quod Bar and Grill (British) High Street, Chiang - Mai (Thai) High Street, Brasserie Blanc (French) Walton Street, Branca (Italian) Walton Street, Browns Bar & Brasserie (British) Woodstock Road, The Trout (British) Wolvercote; Cherwell Boathouse (British) Bardwell Road; Gee's (British) Banbury Road and many more.

The Turf Tavern popped up around 1381 just beyond Oxford’s original city walls and became infamous for boozing and gambling. Nowadays it’s much more upmarket, blending modern style with spots of historic character that the local students all seem drawn to. Being a Greene King venue it has one of the widest pub menus available in the city with dishes to suit all tastes and diets.

With foundations dating from the 13th century, the famous Turf Tavern is a quaint old pub accessed by a narrow alleyway next to the Bridge of Sighs. Its outdoor seating area is as popular in the winter as it is in the summer, as it has a number of outdoor fires on which punters can toast marshmallows. If you only visit one pub during your time in Oxford, make it this one.

For a more traditional pub trip, go to the Turf Tavern, found down a tiny winding side alley off Holywell Street. The Turf is backed by part of the old city wall and its foundations date from the 13th century; it has been immortalised in literature (Brideshead Revisited) and film (Inspector Morse). They serve traditional English food and a changing line-up of guest beers.

There’s no better place to tuck into fish ’n’ chips or a steak and ale pie than the Turf Tavern. Dine like a star (celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and members of the Harry Potter cast have eaten here!), and make sure to sink a few pints while you’re at it!. I’ve written a whole article on this place, so click here to read that, and be sure to enjoy a meal there soon.

You’ll have a hard time finding the Turf Tavern, and that’s all part of its charm. At the end of an easy-to-miss narrow alleyway near the Bridge of Sighs, the higgledy-piggledy pub has been welcoming punters since 1381 — among them, the fictional detective Inspector Morse and real-life president Bill Clinton. Today, it’s popular with students, locals and tourists alike.

Labelled as a treasure of a pub in Oxford, the Turf Taven is a haven for Oxford students. The Turf Taven is a historical pub that's located just outside of Oxford's city walls. in the summer they hold a pub quiz that they welcome everyone to join in to win the chance of £100 or 2 bottles then in the winter have a beer festival where you can try all the beer you fancy.

The Turf Tavern is hidden away at the end of a winding alley, between Holywell Street and New College Lane, near the Bridge of Sighs. The old pub (it dates back to 1381) is popular with students. The tavern is famous for being the place where former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke set a Guinness World Record by drinking a yard glass of ale in 11 seconds in 1963.

With a building dating back to 1381, the this historic pub has been used as a meeting place for Oxford students for centuries and has even been visited by celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Tony Blair, CS Lewis and Margaret Thatcher. If that wasn't enough, it was also a favourite hangout spot for the Harry Potter film crew when they were on location in Oxford.

Although the Turf Tavern is hugely popular many people struggle to find it, so make sure you have GPS set before you set off. You won’t be disappointed, we’ll give you a helping hand. Stand under the Bridge of Sighs, turn around 360 degrees and you should see a sign, or you can access it via Holywell Street down Bath Place opposite the Holywell Music Rooms.

The Turf Tavern, tucked away down a narrow alley off Holywell Street, is another gem in Oxford’s pub scene. Known for its rich history dating back to the 13th century, it’s a favourite among both locals and tourists. This pub offers a wide range of local and craft beers, and customers can enjoy these in the cosy interior or the charming beer garden.

Well-hidden among ancient buildings is the Turf Tavern, an historic, 400-year-old pub that still fills with locals and students every night of the week. Thanks to its long history, the pub has welcomed British celebrities from C.S. Lewis to Tony Blair, and it’s the location where Bill Clinton famously “did not inhale” when he was studying here.

Tucked away in Oxford's ancient city walls, the Turf Tavern dates back to 1381. Today, the Turf Tavern is a hotspot for students, offering a wide range of ales, spirits and cocktails. The Grade II property is a small labyrinth of cosy rooms and narrow staircases, but also features a patio courtyard beer garden, right in the centre of the city.

A historical pub hidden away down short alleyways, The Turf Tavern is a local favourite. There is some debate about the exact date of when the pub was formed, but people have been drinking on the site since the 14th century. Now taken over by Greene King, you can expect quality service, a beer garden and a great atmosphere.

The Turf Tavern – A Student favourite from the 13th Century, tucked away up a back-alley. Another real-ale pub, with plenty of choice and great on a sunny day as the pub itself isn’t huge, but the beer garden and outdoor drinking areas are lovely. It can be quite a challenge to find the pub but it’s worth it!.

The Turf Tavern is a 13th century Ale House where real mix of people stay and enjoy their time. This place is quite hard to find but most people say that is well worth the effort once you find it. They serve well priced good beer and tasty food such as burgers and small plates of snacks or starters.

If you pass the Bridge of Sighs and continue walking down New College Lane, soon to your left, you will notice a sign: ‘TURF TAVERN – An Education In Intoxication’. If you follow the invitation, you will soon discover a true hidden gem of Oxford – the Turf Tavern. Click here to see precise location

PS, the entrance to the Turf Tavern one of Oxfords oldest and prettiest pubs is tucked down the alley to the left of the bridge if youre walking away from the Bodleian Library. Over the years, this connection with the Royal family continued. I'd like to propose a toast to the bride and groom.

Down a cobbled alley located near the Bodleian library you'll find this absolute gem. The dimly lit vibe and low ceilings create quite the atmosphere. The tranquility and secrecy of this one make it all the more special and your date is bound to fall in love with it in seconds, if not you.

A popular 13th century pub with a random mix of indoor and outdoor seating. It is quite hard to find accessed either a narrow alley off Holywell Street or a narrow passageway off New College Lane (just past the Bridge of Sighs). Apparently this is Inspector Morse's favourite watering hole.

The Turf Tavern is a popular spot for backpackers, with a lively atmosphere and a great selection of beers. The Bridge House is another good option, located right on the River Thames. For a more relaxed vibe, try The Grand Café, a popular spot for students and travellers alike.

The Turf Tavern is ideal for an outdoor pint in the city centre. It’s one of Oxford’s best-loved and oldest pubs, visited by Bill Clinton and the Harry Potter cast. If you’re interested in Harry & co, check out my guide to the top Harry Potter locations in Oxford.

They opened their doors in 1381 and are second on my list of the best pubs in Oxford. The Turf Tavern is a nice cosy pub owned by Greene King. They offer some proper British pub food like their Sirloin Steak (My favourite), Steak & Ale Pie, and their Fish & Chips.

It is built on a foundation from an ancient malt house and drinking place in around 1381 originally called the Spotted Cow. The name changed in 1842 probably to rid itself of its reputation as a gambling club. It is accessed from a narrow alley of Holywell street.

If histories your thing, no trip to Oxford is complete without a visit to the Turf Tavern. This pub has been subtly hidden around the back of Hertford College since 1381!. A favourite for students and tourists alike, this pub has seen everything.

It is right in the heart of academic Oxford, between New College and Hertford College, surrounded by distinguished landmarks including The Bodleian Library, Sheldonian Theatre and the iconic domed Radcliffe Camera library.

A 13th century Ale House with a sought after clientele of students, 'dons', and International Tourists. The service point & bars are very small and very busy at peak times. Large external drinking courtyards.

The famous Turf Tavern in the heart of Oxford dates back to 1381 and welcomes dogs. It has a dog station with water and treats, its own walled beer garden, and even an ale named after the pub dog!

In summer 2007, I ate at Far From the Madding Crowd pub and the Turf Tavern for dinner in Oxford. Both were enjoyable with good food and atmosphere. I hope you have a wonderful time in Oxford!

If it weren’t for Sally’s guided tour, we would have missed the Turf Tavern. That would have been a great Oxford travesty. We walked past the alleyway several times and ignored it.

This is one of Oxford's oldest pubs and has a really traditional, cosy feel. If you want to mingle with the locals or just feel like you belong in Oxford, this is the place to be!

First-timers may struggle to find the Turf Tavern, hidden away in a maze of back alleys, but you can count on plenty of tourists, dons and students mak ..." Read our full review

Turf Tavern serves a huge range of beers, ales, gins, wines and spirits and although they may only have one cocktail on the menu, it’s a pornstar martini, so it’s okay.

This tavern eatery is located inside the small lane under the bridge in the photo. Walk inside the lane and you will reach the Tavern. It has indoor...