The Bear Inn, probably the oldest pub in Oxford with an eclectic collection of ties.
Address: 6 Alfred Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 4EH.
The Bear Inn, considered to be the oldest pub in Oxford, is located just a few metres from the busy High Street. Established in 1242, it was originally a large coaching inn with its own courtyard and stables.The Bear Inn is now all that remains after a fire demolished the site and what you see today was salvaged and rebuilt around 1600.
With many twists and turns in its long and colourful history, the pub is probably most famous for its quirky collection of ties. Yes, ties — you read that right. Step inside and you’ll find about 4,500 snippets of ties displayed on the walls and even on the ceiling.
The tradition began in the 1950s, when the landlord, Alan Course, started cutting the ends off patrons’ ties in exchange for a pint. As the collection grew, the practice evolved: only the tail end of the tie was taken, allowing the owner to keep and continue wearing the rest. To be included in the collection, the tie had to be from a club, college, school, military unit, or sports team.
If you’re thinking of coming in and offering your own tie in exchange for a pint, we have some sad news — that’s no longer possible, mostly due to lack of space (or so we believe).
The oldest pub in Oxford is quite small, with just six tables inside (though, as the sign cheekily puts it, “If you think the pub is small, you should see the kitchen!”). On sunnier days, there’s an outdoor seating area that’s perfect for enjoying a pint in the open air. You won’t find gourmet fare here — the menu is simple, with a handful of hearty options and a decent selection of drinks. But let’s be honest: you don’t come here for fine dining. You come for the charm, the character, and the atmosphere — and in that regard, it delivers in spades.
On the menu: Cheeseburger with Emmental cheese, crispy onions, ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, gherkin, coleslaw, and triple-cooked chips (£17.50); Beer-battered haddock & chips served with peas, tartare sauce, and lemon (£18.50); Caprese salad with heritage tomatoes, basil, buffalo mozzarella, and balsamic-marinated beef tomatoes (£15.50)
Dogs at The Bear Inn
Well-behaved pups are welcome both inside and out, making it a charming little pit stop after a stroll around Christ Church Meadow or a wander through the cobbled backstreets of the city.
Opening times
12:00 – 23:00 every day.
Parking
On-street parking only. However, we highly recommend using the Park & Ride option and taking a bus into the city centre. It’ll save you time, money — and your sanity.
Website
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