The Two Brewers, Windsor

This was my first visit on the recommendation of our B&B proprietor. We usually frequent The Criterion or the Crosses Corner. This pub is tucked away, just under Windsor Castle, by the entrance to the Park. When we arrived at 6, it was filled with locals (Castle employees by the look of them), but we managed to fit in and enjoy a couple of pints of excellent Guardsman from the Windsor and Eton brewery.

Thus encouraged, we sat down to order from the Tapas menu. This was another surprise, as the food was very good. As a regular visitor to Windsor, I will be returning for more.

14 Aug 2010 21:09

The Green Man, Hurst

I had heard that the tenants had left to pursue other interests and that Brakspear were looking for a new operator. I must admit I was concerned as this is one of my favorite pubs in Berkshire, but I needn't have worried. The new management is under the former head chef, and this establishment is continuing its great tradition of excellent food, beer, and service.

Both the Brakspear's Bitter and the Hobgoblin were in excellent form, and the food was exceptional as always. This pub manages to walk the tightrope of being a decent food pub, while maintaining a nice pub atmosphere. I shall return.

14 Aug 2010 21:00

The Old Tom, Oxford

My friends and I congregated here after a dinner in Christ Church and I must admit I was pleasantly surprised but the staff, atmosphere, and the beers. The Greene King's beers were consumed with relish and the staff were friendly (even while we were finishing our pints past closing on a Sunday).

I've overlooked this pub before, but I won't in the future.

14 Aug 2010 20:54

The Bear, Oxford

Small and basic, but very well run and the beers are kept in good condition. Our favorite place in the summer when visiting Oxford as the outdoor patio is a great place to quietly consume and watch the people walking past on Blue Boar street.

14 Aug 2010 20:47

The Turf Tavern, Oxford

Apart from the periodic scrum of tourists ( and I admit to being one of those) this is still one of the best pubs in Oxford. The beers are very well kept and if you are there in a crush, try the bar in back as it is frequently less busy that the obvious front bar. Worth the hunt (if you've not been here before, getting there can be a bit of a challenge). This one has been holding up well, in spite of its popularity.

14 Aug 2010 20:43

The Head of the River, Oxford

This pub has an excellent location and, depending on the weather, the outdoor seating can get quite busy. The beers are well kept and pricing is commensurate with the prime location. There are periodic weekend barbecues (did not participate, but the odor of the grilling was fantastic), and one one evening we were visited by some local Morris Dancers. Worth a visit.

14 Aug 2010 20:40