The Bear Inn, Oxford: A Historic Pub with a Unique Tie Collection
Historic Oxford pub famed for its cozy atmosphere and extraordinary collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets from around the world.
The Bear Inn in Oxford is a historic pub dating back to 1774 in its current form, with roots tracing to the 15th century and beyond. Famous for its cozy atmosphere and an extraordinary collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets from clubs and organizations worldwide, it offers traditional ales and hearty pub fare in a charming setting near Oxford’s city centre.
A brief summary to The Bear Inn, Oxford
- 6 Alfred St, Oxford, OX1 4EH, GB
- +441865728164
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the Horndean Special Bitter, a fruity ale perfect for cooler days.
- Explore the vast tie collection in the back room, featuring snippets from global clubs and organizations.
- Enjoy traditional British pub dishes like bangers and mash alongside your pint.
- Visit during off-peak hours to soak in the historic ambiance without crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Oxford Bus Company routes 1 or 2 from Oxford city centre to St Aldate's, then walk about 8 minutes to The Bear Inn. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
-
Train
From Oxford Railway Station, take a taxi or local bus to the city centre; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £6 to £10.
-
Walking
From Oxford city centre near the Radcliffe Camera, The Bear Inn is a 10-minute walk along historic streets with mostly flat terrain, suitable for most visitors.
The Bear Inn, Oxford location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Bear Inn, Oxford
A Storied Past Rooted in Oxford's History
The Bear Inn’s origins are intertwined with Oxford’s rich history, with the original Bear Inn operating since at least the 15th century, initially known as Le Tabard. Although the current building dates from 1774 and was originally called The Jolly Trooper, it adopted the Bear name in 1801 after the original Bear Inn was demolished. This continuity of name and spirit, despite relocation and rebuilding, makes The Bear a symbol of Oxford’s enduring pub culture.The Unique Tradition of the Tie Collection
What truly sets The Bear apart is its remarkable collection of over 4,500 necktie snippets, amassed since the 1950s. Started by landlord Alan Course, patrons would exchange a tie snippet from a club, military, or school affiliation for half a pint of beer. These snippets, carefully labeled with their origins, decorate the walls and ceilings, showcasing ties from Oxford University clubs to international organizations like the Hong Kong Police Force. Though the tie-for-beer tradition has ended, the collection remains a captivating feature.Atmosphere and Offerings
Stepping inside The Bear reveals a quintessential Oxford pub ambiance with low ceilings, wooden floors, and beamed rooms that invite relaxation. The pub serves a range of real ales, including the popular Horndean Special Bitter, alongside traditional British pub dishes such as bangers and mash. Its welcoming vibe attracts students, locals, and visitors seeking authentic pub experiences in a historic setting.Location and Surroundings
Situated at the corner of Alfred Street and Blue Boar Street, just off Oxford’s bustling High Street, The Bear offers a quieter retreat within the city centre. The site itself has a layered history, once housing the original inn’s stables and even resting atop a former churchyard, adding a subtle depth to its character. Its central location makes it an accessible and atmospheric stop for exploring Oxford’s cultural heritage.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Bear Inn embodies Oxford’s blend of tradition and community spirit. Its name and identity connect to local legends, including a 16th-century landlord’s pet bear and heraldic symbols linked to the Earls of Warwick. The pub’s preservation of history through its architecture and tie collection offers a tangible link to Oxford’s past, making it more than just a place to drink but a living cultural landmark.Visitor Experience and Charm
Visitors to The Bear can immerse themselves in a unique blend of history, tradition, and quirky charm. The walls tell stories through their tie displays, while the cozy interiors provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying a pint. Whether you’re drawn by its historic claims, its unusual decor, or its warm hospitality, The Bear Inn offers a memorable slice of Oxford life that resonates with locals and travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Jewry Marker
0.1 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.1 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
2.1
0.1 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
The painted room
0.2 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Tom Tower
0.2 km
Historic Gothic bell tower by Christopher Wren at Christ Church, home to the iconic Great Tom bell and a symbol of Oxford’s academic heritage.
Brasenose College
0.2 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Oxford Tours UK
0.3 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.3 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
0.3 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.3 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Clarendon Building
0.3 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Preservation Trust
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Oxford through the dedicated efforts of the Oxford Preservation Trust.
Bridge of Sighs
0.3 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.4 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.5 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oxford University Press Bookshop
0.1 km
Discover the literary charm of Oxford at the Oxford University Press Bookshop, where every book tells a story and history comes alive.
Sandy's Piano Bar
0.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant live piano music scene with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting at Sandy's Piano Bar.
Museum of Oxford
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s rich social history through interactive exhibits and community stories in the heart of historic Oxford Town Hall.
Oxford Town Hall
0.1 km
Discover Oxford Town Hall, a historic venue combining stunning architecture with diverse cultural events in the heart of Oxford.
Oxford Blue
0.1 km
Innovative vegan pub in Oxford offering creative pizzas, hearty small plates, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all food lovers.
Christ Church Picture Gallery
0.1 km
Discover a world-class collection of Old Master drawings and paintings in a serene modernist gallery within historic Christ Church College, Oxford.
Oxford Souvenirs
0.1 km
Historic Oxford Covered Market: Over 50 independent shops and eateries under one iconic roof since 1774.
Sanders of Oxford
0.1 km
Discover centuries of authentic antique prints and maps in Oxford’s historic 16th-century Salutation House at Sanders of Oxford.
Oriel College
0.1 km
Explore Oriel College, one of Oxford’s oldest royal foundations, where centuries of history and stunning architecture meet vibrant academic life.
The Covered Market
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s historic Covered Market: a vibrant arcade of independent shops, fresh produce, and unique local crafts beneath an iconic 18th-century roof.
Corpus Christi College
0.2 km
Discover Corpus Christi College, Oxford’s intimate Renaissance college with iconic architecture, serene gardens, and a rich scholarly heritage.
Carfax Tower
0.2 km
Experience stunning views and rich history at the iconic Carfax Tower, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Oxford.
The Story Museum
0.2 km
Step into a world of imagination at The Story Museum, where stories come alive through immersive exhibits and enchanting experiences in Oxford.
Christ Church Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore Oxford’s historic Christ Church Cathedral, a medieval architectural gem and iconic Harry Potter filming location with rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Christ Church
0.2 km
Discover Christ Church, Oxford’s unique college and cathedral with historic grandeur, iconic Harry Potter sites, and peaceful riverside meadows.
Essential places to dine
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.1 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
OLD TOM PUB
0.1 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
Vaults & Garden
0.2 km
Historic vaulted crypt café in Oxford’s Radcliffe Square serving organic, wholesome meals with stunning views of the Radcliffe Camera.
No.1 Ship Street
0.3 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Thaikhun
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Red Lion Oxford
0.5 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
The Alice
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Oxford
0.5 km
Victorian prison cells transformed into an atmospheric brasserie serving modern British cuisine and craft cocktails in Oxford's historic centre.
Côte Oxford
0.5 km
Authentic French brasserie cuisine served in a warm, stylish setting at Oxford’s vibrant George Street.
The White Rabbit
0.5 km
A lively Oxford pub serving exceptional thin-crust pizzas and local ales in a vibrant, quirky setting loved by students and locals alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Varsity Shop
0.1 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Goodies Oxford
0.1 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
The Crafters Emporium
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Oxford Gifts
0.1 km
Explore Oxford Gifts for unique souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies that celebrate the charm of Oxford.
Anthropologie
0.1 km
A beautifully styled boutique on Oxford’s High Street, offering women’s fashion, accessories, and unique home décor in a relaxed, bohemian-chic atmosphere.
Soctopus
0.1 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.1 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Oxford Blue Trading Ltd
0.1 km
Explore Oxford Blue Trading Ltd for unique gifts and local crafts that embody the charm and spirit of Oxford, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Space Store Oxford
0.1 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Objects of Use
0.2 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
The Oxford Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
MINOX Boutique
0.3 km
Oxford's premier luxury fashion boutique, curating over 50 designer brands with exceptional service and next-day delivery.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.3 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Cool Britannia
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The House
0.0 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
All Bar One Oxford
0.1 km
Lively and stylish wine bar on Oxford’s High Street, perfect for drinks, sharing plates, and social gatherings in a vibrant city setting.
The Varsity Club
0.1 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
St Aldates
0.1 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
Hanks Bar
0.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Royal Blenheim
0.3 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.3 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
White Horse
0.3 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
Cow & Creek
0.3 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The Grapes
0.4 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
King's Arms, Oxford
0.4 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Oxford
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s theatrical cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and hearty American-inspired dishes in a lively, stylish setting.
OXO BAR
0.5 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
0.6 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plush Oxford
0.3 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
Fever Oxford
0.4 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
ATIK Oxford
0.7 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
0.7 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
0.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
0.7 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Mirage Aylesbury
31.3 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
The Venue, Bucks
37.3 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
37.3 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
TWC
37.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Popworld - Reading
38.1 km
A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.
Reading Lola Lo
38.1 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
Q Club
38.2 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
38.4 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Diligence
40.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
