Eat & Drink Nightlife

Turf Tavern

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££

Pub

Hightlight

Dog Friendly
Reservations
Wifi

The Turf Tavern sits at 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.

This charming Grade II listed tavern is an intriguing warren of small rooms connected by narrow passages and small staircases, surrounded on three sides by delightful patio courtyard beer gardens. You’d be wise to duck when entering The Turf, as the ancient front door of this tavern is designed for smaller guests!

Located against the medieval remains of Oxford’s city walls across the site of the former moat that surrounded the town, and reached only by exploring the back alleys and cobbled passageways of Oxford’s Holywell district, The Turf Tavern is truly a hidden gem. Book today.

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Opening Hours

Monday: 11:00 - 23:00

Tuesday: 11:00 - 23:00

Wednesday: 11:00 - 23:00

Thursday: 11:00 - 23:00

Friday: 11:00 - 23:00

Open now

Saturday: 11:00 - 23:00

Sunday: 11:00 - 23:00

Google Reviews

Turf Tavern

4.56338 reviews

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Sylvia

a week ago

Accidentally stumbled upon this famous spot as I was just looking for a decent fish and chips. Was well worth it. The atmosphere was fantastic, three outdoor seating spaces with character from its surroundings. You can order at the bar or use the QR code on the table, which I always prefer as you can customize your own order on your own time. The fish and chips was great. Light batter, big piece, and both the fish and chips were salted well. Tartar sauce was also nice and pickly/acidic. Also appreciated the lemon being grilled! Loved the atmosphere and food here, great place to grab a pint or meal.

JennySkyIsTheLimit

2 months ago

A wonderful venue just a stone’s throw from St John’s College, University of Oxford, perfect for a delicious pub lunch in such a historic setting. The food was absolutely delicious and the service equally excellent. Gemma and her team were incredibly helpful in arranging our group’s pre-orders and kindly reserved a lovely spot for us in the garden, where we enjoyed the perfect day. Thank you for a truly lovely experience!

Cordelia Mackintosh

3 months ago

Amazing pub. Best pie n chips that I've tasted in a long time, with perfectly done pastry and triple-cooked chips. Can also recommend the fish n chips, which are triple-whammy generous, delicious and filling. 100/10 with atmosphere to boot, having to find it through a classic, winding English alley. Felt like a proper experience.

Dan A

a month ago

The Turf Tavern is all about the atmosphere and history—and it delivers on both. Tucked away down a fun, narrow walkway, it feels like a hidden gem even though it’s well-known. There’s plenty of seating both inside and out, which is great for groups or a relaxed pint. The food is solid but nothing to write home about—pretty typical pub fare—but that’s not really why you come here. The charm of the place, its centuries-old history, and the quirky setting make it well worth a visit. A great stop if you’re in Oxford and want something close to all the main sights.

Tomoto Red

6 months ago

Liked the atmosphere here. Good to use toilet too. Recommend to find the table by your own. I didn’t have no idea so just stood i. The queue then ordered in my turn, but I was able to order only drinks because we didn’t have a table reserved. Later, we occupied the table then scan to order for food separately. During my visit, fish and chips was out of stock. Personally, recommend stake and ale.