Bear Inn

oxfordian1

Historical, a bit touristy, but still a favourite! 25th December 2008

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If I need to meet somone for a drink in Oxford City centre The Bear is often the first name that I come up with. It is a small pub with ye olde oake beams and low ceilings, dripping with history and tradition, which it does rather wear on its sleeve. For many years it sported a large collection of ties hung from the bar ceiling, although these have thankfully now been relegated to display cases. I dare say that after 50 years of being there someone suddenly decided they were an imminent fire hazard.

Sadly The Bear is not far enough off the beaten track to avoid tourists - indeed it may well be on the IVY League postgraduate syllabus. For all that it is friendly with a lively feel, and the beer seems well kept. For such a small pub you are seldom left waiting long at the bar either. I've never eaten there (and i am not even sure if they do food) so can't rate that.