The City Arms
288 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UR, GB
Rating: 4.4 ★ (1322 ratings)
Details
A prized spot on the lively Cowley Road, The City Arms offers a classic pub experience with a modern twist, making it a popular haunt for locals, students, and visitors alike. Known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, this is the place to be for live sports, with numerous large-screen TVs ensuring you won't miss a moment of the action. Beyond the thrill of the game, you'll find a well-stocked bar featuring real ales, craft beers, wines, spirits, and expertly mixed cocktails. If hunger strikes, a diverse menu of pub classics awaits, from hearty burgers and hot dogs to stone-baked pizzas and even bottomless brunch options. Regular events like quiz nights and karaoke sessions add to its reputation as a buzzing community hub.
Step into the spacious interior, or on warmer days, retreat to the inviting beer garden, a perfect spot to unwind or socialise. The City Arms is proudly dog-friendly, so your four-legged companion is welcome to join you. For those seeking a bit of friendly competition, pool tables are available, and the pub even boasts a semi-private pool area that can be hired for gatherings. With its convenient location in one of Oxford's most eclectic and dynamic streets, The City Arms provides a quintessential pub experience, whether you're dropping in for a casual pint, a satisfying meal, or a lively night out with friends. It's a true taste of Oxford's renowned pub culture.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Contact
+44 1865 725299
Comments
More comments will appear here over time.
It was my boyfriend’s birthday, and we stopped by City Arms for a quick drink before heading home. My cousin wanted to surprise him with a cake, which she brought to the pub — in a closed box. We had absolutely no intention of opening the cake, singing happy birthday, or causing any disturbance. The plan was always to take the cake back home and celebrate there.
However, the security guard — who, by the way, is new and clearly lacks proper training — approached us in an extremely rude and aggressive manner. He demanded that we leave, claiming we needed permission to bring the cake in, even though we weren’t doing anything with it at the venue. His attitude was unacceptable: hostile, disrespectful, and unnecessarily confrontational.
We asked to speak with the manager, expecting someone with more experience and common sense. Unfortunately, the manager also failed to handle the situation professionally. Instead of listening to a customer who has supported this pub for nearly two decades, he sided with the aggressive security guard and asked us to finish our drinks and leave.
This is not how long-time, respectful patrons should be treated. I’ve never had a problem at City Arms before, but this incident has completely changed my view. The new security staff is rude to everyone, and the management clearly lacks customer service skills and sound judgment.
Very disappointed. I won’t be returning.