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King's Arms, Oxford: Historic Pub with Literary and Academic Legacy

Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.

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The King's Arms in Oxford is a historic pub established in 1607, renowned for its rich literary associations, academic heritage, and claims of being Oxford’s oldest and brainiest pub. Located on Holywell Street, this Grade II listed building has served as a coaching inn, hotel, and a favored haunt for dons and students alike. Its unique atmosphere combines centuries of history with spirited tales of spies, scholars, and ghosts.

A brief summary to King's Arms, Oxford

  • 40 Holywell St, Oxford, OX1 3SP, GB
  • +441865242369
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-11 pm
  • Friday 11 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Book a table in advance, as the pub is often busy, especially during evenings and weekends.
  • Explore the Don’s Bar to see photographs and memorabilia of Oxford’s literary and academic figures.
  • Try traditional British ales and seasonal dishes for an authentic local experience.
  • Listen carefully for the rumored ghostly voices speaking Ancient Greek—part of the pub’s unique folklore.
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King's Arms, Oxford location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about King's Arms, Oxford

A Storied Foundation in Oxford’s Heart

The King's Arms stands proudly on Holywell Street, occupying a site once home to Augustinian friars before the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. Licensed in 1607 to Thomas Franklyn, the inn was named after King James I and quickly became a central fixture in Oxford life. The current building dates mainly from the early 18th century and remains owned by Wadham College. Over the centuries, it evolved from a coaching inn and hotel to a vibrant pub, retaining its original location and much of its historic charm.

Academic and Literary Connections

This pub is famous for its close ties to Oxford’s academic community. Until the 1970s, some university dons held tutorials within its walls, particularly in the back room known as the Don’s Bar, which was the last male-only bar in Oxford until 1973. The walls of the Don’s Bar are adorned with photographs and memorabilia celebrating literary figures linked to the pub, including members of the 1950s literary Movement such as Philip Larkin and Kingsley Amis. The King's Arms also has associations with the Cambridge spies and notable writers like Graham Greene, who frequented the pub during the 1940s.

Atmosphere and Unique Features

The King's Arms is reputed to have the highest IQ per square foot of any pub worldwide, a playful nod to its scholarly clientele. The pub’s interior reveals a mix of historic and cozy spaces, including interesting nooks and crannies that invite exploration. It is a lively spot popular with locals, students, and visitors, offering traditional British ales and hearty seasonal menus. The pub’s ambiance is enriched by stories of espionage, literary debates, and academic camaraderie.

Ghostly Legends and Local Lore

Adding to its mystique, the King's Arms is said to be haunted by the voices of two elderly gentlemen speaking Ancient Greek, believed to be scholarly ghosts debating the quality of port wine. These spectral conversations echo the pub’s intellectual past. In 1923, two complete human skeletons were discovered beneath an adjoining garage, fueling further ghost stories. Such tales deepen the pub’s character, blending history with folklore.

Preservation and Modern Appeal

As a Grade II listed building, the King's Arms is protected for its architectural and historic significance. Despite its age, it remains a thriving pub open daily from 11 am to 11 pm, serving a wide range of drinks and traditional British fare made from seasonal local ingredients. Its enduring popularity reflects a successful blend of heritage and contemporary hospitality.

Experience the King’s Arms Today

Visitors to the King's Arms can soak in centuries of Oxford’s academic and cultural history while enjoying a pint in a setting that has witnessed literary debates, secret meetings, and lively social gatherings. Whether seated in the historic Don’s Bar or exploring its many corners, guests experience a unique atmosphere where past and present intertwine.

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