The Oxford Retreat
1-2 Hythe Bridge Street, Oxford, OX1 2EW, GB
Rating: 4.2 ★ (1241 ratings)
Details
The Oxford Retreat is a charming historical establishment, an early-nineteenth-century building gracefully positioned on the river's edge, adorned by weeping willows and the flowing waters of Castle Mill Stream. This versatile venue boasts a warm, relaxed atmosphere with traditional features like elegant panelling and open fires, complemented by modern bar styling, creating a distinctive character in the heart of Oxford city centre, just moments from the train and bus stations. It truly stands out with its inviting heated garden area, complete with its own bar and television screens, perfect for year-round enjoyment.
The cuisine at The Oxford Retreat focuses on traditional pub fare, renowned for its delicious, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients, offering simple pub food executed with quality. The menu is available daily, year-round, and features seasonal specials alongside a variety of popular dishes, including some of Oxford's best burgers, classic British ale-battered fish and chips, and hearty bangers and mash. An impressive selection of drinks complements the food, with a comprehensive cocktail menu, premium spirits, wines, and an eclectic range of draught options, often highlighted by daily happy hour offers.
This welcoming spot is ideally suited for a diverse range of visitors and occasions. It serves as an excellent choice for a relaxed lunch, after-work drinks, or a casual dinner, and its comfortable setting with plug points also makes it suitable for working or informal business meetings. With its late-night weekend hours, DJ nights, live music, and major sports screenings, it appeals to those seeking a lively evening, while its private function rooms cater wonderfully to special events, parties, and conferences.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Contact
+44 333 772 7305
Comments
Unfortunately, the experience was disappointing from the start. They had no lamb or chicken available for the Sunday roast, which left very limited options. Some of us ordered the fish and chips, but the batter was so overcooked that it was extremely hard and not enjoyable to eat. Others had the bangers and mash, which was also underwhelming.
We also had a one-year-old with us, and we were surprised to find there wasn't a single high chair available. That made it difficult for him to eat comfortably, and it's something you'd normally expect any family-friendly pub to provide.
The staff were all polite and friendly, but they didn't seem particularly interested in making the experience enjoyable.
One member of staff was wearing jogging bottoms and a grey hoodie. She was very friendly, but it didn't feel especially professional for a pub in such a beautiful part of Oxford that attracts so many visitors.
The location itself is lovely and the pub has so much potential, but unfortunately the food, atmosphere and overall experience let it down. As a family, we all agreed we wouldn't return.
I'm not someone who expects luxury for the price of a pub meal, but I do expect decent food, basic facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. Sadly, this visit didn't meet those expectations.
Just had something to drink, so cannot comment on food but looks nice
Staff were lovely, the place was very clean and well presented, and inside having a fire and 2 rivers babbling away when outside created a wonderful atmosphere for a mild winter evening.
Look forward to returning on my next trip to Oxford.