The Old Black Horse Inn
102 St Clement's St, Oxford OX4 1AR
Rating: 3.9 ★ (202 ratings)
Details
The Old Black Horse Inn, a venerable 17th-century coaching inn, exudes a distinctive traditional charm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a notable establishment in Oxford. Located just a short five-minute journey from the city centre, at the High Street's end, it offers guests a straightforward, historic setting. The building’s age contributes significantly to its character, with certain areas featuring exceptionally low ceilings that evoke a sense of its long history. It stands close to Magdalen College and its boathouse, ideal for punting, and is also opposite Oxford's Botanical Gardens.
Dining at the inn presents a delightful culinary experience, with its in-house Indian restaurant serving a variety of dishes. A particular highlight is the tandoori mixed grill, which has been noted as Oxford's only offering of its kind, featuring beautifully cooked lamb kebabs, chicken tikka, and lamb chops presented over grilled peppers and onion. Beyond the Indian specialities, the menu includes traditional fare such as beef fillet stroganoff, sirloin steak, and a Black Horse Burger, alongside Sunday roasts with various meat and vegetarian options. The bar also provides a vibrant setting, offering a wide selection of beverages from local ales to crafted cocktails.
This charming inn is well-suited for both leisure and business travellers seeking a blend of traditional hospitality and modern conveniences. It serves as a practical base for exploring Oxford's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture on foot, with the city centre and riverside within easy reach. Its welcoming social atmosphere in the bar makes it an excellent spot to unwind and socialise after a day of sightseeing or to meet fellow travellers. For those arriving by car, the presence of secure parking is a genuine advantage in the city.
Location
Contact
+44 1865 244691 | http://www.oldblackhorse.com/
Comments
The room I had (room 5) was on the second floor and very higgledy-piggledy. The floor was very up and down. The room itself was ok. It was clean and everything worked with a TV, kettle, Mini fridge, hair dryer and iron. The downside was that it was overlooking a very busy road with buses and lorries passing frequently shaking the whole room and being beer noisy. The hotel / Inn also did not serve food, evening or morning so you have to go elsewhere, though they are plenty of places nearby.
Overall good location but wouldn't stay here again I'm afraid.
The location is fantastic — plenty of restaurants and pubs within walking distance, plus Oxford University and the Botanical Gardens are just a short stroll away. We also found it to be an ideal base for exploring: Puzzlewood, the Cotswolds, and Bourton-on-the-Water were all within about an hour’s drive.
Highly recommend The Old Black Horse Inn. If we make our way back to Oxford, England again, we will only stay here. Incredible, incredible hospitality that made our trip in England so memorable.
As always, a very warm welcome from Pete and his staff. The Tandoori Mixed Grill, Dhal and Garlic Naan that was waiting for us was superb. A lovely selection of lagers and ales to choose from to wash it all down.
The room (room 10) was newly refurbished, spotlessly clean, a lovely en-suite with a very functional kitchen area - which was an unexpected bonus. We made good use of the kitchen on our last night to use up the leftovers from our picnic/bbq on the previous day.
Lovely beds, not to firm and not too soft.
When I first stayed here - approx 30 years ago under the previous owners - the rooms were dated and old fashioned Pete has, over the years, worked very hard to constantly upgrade and upkeep the rooms. I had stayed in this room previously but since then it has been extended, made larger and much better suited for a short break.
The OBH is well located, it is at the end of Cowley Road with its wealth of cafes, cinema, restaurants and shops. Just a five minute walk over the Magdalen Bridge, you will find yourself in the city centre.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend staying in the Old Black Horse to anyone.
Thank you very much! Diolch yn fawr!