Oxford has lots of well-known pubs to choose from but don't forget to seek out the bars in the backstreets.

Tourists arriving in the city might end up drinking at the Head of the River near Folly Bridge, the Kings Arms in Holywell Street, or the Lamb & Flag in St Giles.

But there are also plenty of 'hidden' pubs in the city centre where they can enjoy a pint.

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This is by no means an exhaustive list of backstreet pubs in Oxford and only looks at the city centre.

Perhaps the most well-known 'hidden' pub in the city is Greene King pub The Turf Tavern.

Oxford Mail: The Turf Tavern in OxfordIt is right in the heart of academic Oxford, between New College and Hertford College, surrounded by distinguished landmarks including The Bodleian Library, Sheldonian Theatre and the iconic domed Radcliffe Camera library.

This Grade II listed tavern is an intriguing warren of small rooms connected by narrow passages and small staircases, surrounded on three sides by patio courtyard beer gardens. 

The foundations of the pub date back to 1381 and it has enjoyed many famous visitors over the years.

In 1954, former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke got into the record books by downing a yard of ale in 11 seconds.

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If you want to try the city's more unusual pubs then you should try The Bear Inn, which can be found in Alfred Street, off the High Street.

The Bear is one of Oxford’s smallest pubs but managers ensured they still had plenty of customers during the pandemic by putting up a large marquee outside.

Manager James Vermede provided the outdoor seating for 95.

Oxford Mail: The marquee outside The Bear Inn Picture: Dave RichardsonHe said at the time: “You couldn’t fit 95 people inside - it’s too small.

“We have 10 tables inside our marquee and another eight tables outside it.”

The pub is renowned for its large collection of old ties, which are displayed on the walls.

The collection was started by landlord Alan Course in the 1950s.

After leaving The Bear, head to the High Street and turn left towards Carfax, where you will soon see a sign for The Chequers.

Turn down the alleyway to find the historic hostelry run by Nicholson’s pubs.

In 2022, the company spent £400,000 giving the interior a fresh look, and new TV screens for sports fans have been installed.

Your next backstreet pub is not too far away.

Turn right into Cornmarket and The Crown can be found just off the busy shopping street.

Oxford Mail: The Crown in OxfordAlso run by Nicholson’s, The Crown also claims to have an interesting history.

Its website says: “The Crown has had a succession of famous landlords.

“In the year of the Gunpowder Plot it was kept by John Davenant and it was during this time Shakespeare paid his frequent visits to Oxford.

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“The poet used to stop in the university town on his journeys between Stratford and London, and The Crown was his headquarters.”

After leaving The Crown, walk to the other end of Cornmarket and turn left into St Michael’s Street to find The Three Goats Heads.

Oxford Mail: Former Oxford Mail reporter Fran Way outside the Three Goats HeadsThis is a pub where managers like to maintain some old traditions and asks drinkers not to use laptops or mobile phones.

Finally don't forget The White Rabbit tucked away in Friar's Entry - it's well known for its pizzas.

The pub's website says: "Our pizzas are all made from scratch, fresh everyday. We make Roman style pizzas - thin and crispy bases and a balanced selection of toppings crafted for the perfect flavour combinations. ​

Oxford Mail: The White Rabbit in Oxford"Our draught beers represent something for everyone whether its refreshing pilsner, European lager, or an IPA. Our cask beers are all from within 25 miles of the pub and represent a revolving selection of the best beers in and around Oxford.​

"Indoors we are a traditional old pub with cosy seating and a wide mix of music. Outside we have an all-year garden, completely weather-proofed with heated benches and chair cushions to keep you warm whatever the weather."

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

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