The Rickety Press, Oxford

Although I'm not a fan of pubs changing their historic names to something more trendy, this revamping formula by Dodo Pubs / Arkells (how much are they linked?) seems to be successful. A selection of beers on tap and tasters offered – not all from Arkells but the 3Bs was very good. Although we didn't eat here, there's a straightforward burger and pizza menu. Quite why a quirky industrial interior design makes a pub attractive is a mystery to me, but it's a popular place with good beer.

7 May 2019 13:02

The Somerset Cocktail Lounge, Marston

As noted, The Somerset has been renamed the “Up in Arms” reflecting the local campaign to avoid the closure of the last pub in this part of Oxford. Now run by the Dodo Pub Company – a twist on resurrecting pubs near to extinction. It's been refitted in 'shabby chic' which is slightly ironic as it was derelict for a while and would have barely required the attentions of interior designers to supply 'distressed' furniture and décor. Offering a range of beers, mostly local, plus some bizarre shots together with a straightforward burger / pizza menu it was well-patronised and popular. It only re-opened recently, but let's hope this early success is enduring.

7 May 2019 12:23

The Three Pigeons, Witney

This pub hasn't been reviewed for a few years but it appears that little has changed. The locals still stare at you in a slightly disconcerting way as you walk in and if it was a “bit tatty” ten years ago it is rather more so now. A bit of a time machine, but not necessarily in a good way – just add some cigarette smoke and it could be 40 years ago. Food failed to live up to the expectations suggested by the menu description – edible but far from special. 3 hand pumps: London Pride / Tribute / Courage. Beer was clear but slightly past its best – which rather sums up the whole place.

7 May 2019 12:08