Restaurants

The Bear and Ragged Staff

28 Appleton Road, Cumnor, Oxford, OX2 9QH, GB

Rating: 4.5 ★ (1014 ratings)

Details

Within the charming village of Cumnor, just a short distance from the bustling roads leading to Oxford, you'll find The Bear and Ragged Staff, a gastropub where history and modern comfort meet. Its oldest sections date back to the 16th century, and the building showcases ancient fireplaces, original flagstone floors, and characterful mullioned windows with carved lintels. These historic features create a unique and inviting atmosphere in the bar, considered one of the finest in the area. The pub’s name itself is steeped in history, derived from the crest of the Earls of Warwick. Winding stairs lead up to cosy, beamed bedrooms, many with old oak doorways, offering a peaceful retreat. Some rooms are located in converted old cottages, adding to the unique charm, and family and dog-friendly options are available.

Beyond the historic bar, a comfortable eatery, a bright conservatory, and a south-facing terrace provide a variety of spaces to relax and dine. The Bear and Ragged Staff is renowned for its AA Rosette-awarded food, focusing on modern British cuisine and utilising local and seasonal produce. Diners can expect gastropub favourites, fresh day-boat fish, and tempting options from the grill, as well as a traditional Sunday roast. The well-stocked bar offers real ales, a curated wine list, artisan gins, and classic cocktails. Its location in Cumnor provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside, with attractions like Blenheim Palace, the Cotswold Wildlife Park, and the Thames Path all within easy reach, not to mention the historic city of Oxford itself just a few miles away.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Contact

+44 1865 862329

Comments

Aundrey Patterson
25 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
Attended for my birthday lunch. The staff didn't know it was my birthday but must have heard my partner saying happy birthday to me. At the end of our excellent meal the wonderful staff brought out the most fantastic brownies on a plate saying happy birthday. I was so touched. How thoughtful. I'm vegetarian and I was delighted with the multiple choices available. Opted for the vegan cottage pie. Honestly one of the most delicious meals I have ever eaten. Highly recommend.
Louise Wheeler
16 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
Excellent Christmas dinner here yesterday. The food was delicious and the service was efficient and friendly. We are lucky to live close to this pub and come here regularly. The atmosphere is relaxed and the building is beautiful. The current team does a great job and they keep their cask ale in very good shape which is much appreciated. Special thanks to Ollie and John for looking after us so well yesterday .. and the chefs of course!
Jonny Alden
26 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Everyone in the area knows how special a spot this is. Brilliant food, great drinks, wonderful old historic building in a beautiful village. 10/10, one of the best pubs in Oxfordshire.
Ken Matthews
13 Jan 2026
3.0 ★
Self described gastropub. Very pleasant, comfortable layout with a good selection of drinks on offer and pleasant attentive staff. Sadly, apart from some decent quality beef based dishes the menu was underwhelming in variety and of mediocre quality. Happily, we were with great people so that didn't matter too much but we would have been disappointed if we were looking for a decent feed.
Kristine West
12 Jan 2026
4.0 ★
After a couple of hiccups at the start, we had an amazing time, we booked for a large party with small kids for a birthday celebration. The food was absolutely delicious, the staff was great with the adults and extremely patient with the small ones running around. The space was very cozy and it was lovely to have a wood burner close by on such a cold day. We were really looked after and taken care of. Would absolutely recommend, maybe just give a call to iron out details at the start!

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