Turf Tavern, Oxford's Historic Hidden Pub
Discover Oxford’s hidden gem: a 600-year-old historic pub famed for its cozy charm, legendary patrons, and timeless atmosphere.
Nestled in a labyrinth of narrow alleys near Oxford’s iconic Bridge of Sighs, the Turf Tavern is a centuries-old pub dating back to at least 1381. Known for its cozy, low-beamed interiors and lively beer gardens, it has been a favorite haunt for university students, literary figures, and politicians alike. This atmospheric pub offers traditional ales, hearty British fare, and a rich tapestry of stories that make it a quintessential Oxford experience.
A brief summary to Turf Tavern
- 4 Bath Pl, Oxford, OX1 3SU, GB
- +441865243235
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Arrive early or on weekday afternoons to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and easier seating.
- Explore the narrow alleys leading to the pub slowly to soak in the historic ambiance before entering.
- Try traditional British pub dishes like fish and chips or a hearty pie alongside local ales.
- Visit the beer garden to see part of Oxford’s ancient city wall while enjoying your drink.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Turf Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Turf Tavern
A Storied Past Carved in Oxford's History
The Turf Tavern's origins trace back to the late 14th century, with documented evidence from 1381 during King Richard II’s reign. Originally a malt house and later a tavern known as the Spotted Cow, it evolved through centuries of change, shedding its early reputation for illegal gambling and cockfighting. The name Turf Tavern, adopted in 1842, likely references the 'turfmen' or bookmakers who once frequented the establishment. Its location just outside the old city wall allowed it to operate beyond the jurisdiction of local colleges, fostering a unique culture of freedom and revelry.Hidden Location and Architectural Charm
Tucked away at 4 Bath Place, the pub is accessible only via narrow, winding alleys such as St. Helen’s Passage—once ominously called Hell’s Passage. This labyrinthine approach adds to the pub’s allure, making arrival a small adventure. The building itself is a patchwork of historic structures, with a 17th-century low-beamed front bar and a ramshackle, half-timbered facade. Alongside the pub runs one of Oxford’s remaining sections of the ancient city wall, a silent witness to centuries of history. Inside, visitors find cozy rooms, uneven floors, and a maze of passages leading to multiple courtyards and beer gardens.Famous Patrons and Cultural Significance
The Turf Tavern has attracted a remarkable array of visitors, from Oxford University students and dons to global political figures and celebrities. Literary giants such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien frequented the pub, as did politicians including Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair. The pub also claims ties to American president Bill Clinton, who studied at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, and Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, who famously set a Guinness World Record for downing a yard glass of ale in 1963 (though the exact location is debated). Its appearances in the British TV series Inspector Morse and Endeavour have further cemented its cultural footprint.Atmosphere and Experience Today
Despite its modest size, the Turf Tavern remains a vibrant hub of social life in Oxford. Its intimate interior spaces, combined with lively outdoor courtyards, create a welcoming atmosphere for locals, students, and tourists alike. The pub offers a well-curated selection of traditional ales, ciders, and classic British pub fare such as fish and chips and hearty pies. The surrounding beer gardens, bordered by historic walls, provide a charming setting for relaxed gatherings. The pub’s reputed ghost, Old Rosie, adds a touch of folklore, said to manifest by breaking glasses occasionally.Unique Setting Amid Oxford’s Historic Fabric
The Turf Tavern’s location amidst Oxford’s medieval streets and close to landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs enriches the visitor experience. The journey through narrow cobbled passages heightens anticipation and connects patrons to the city’s layered past. The pub’s enduring charm lies in its blend of historical significance, architectural quirks, and lively conviviality, making it an essential stop for those seeking an authentic slice of Oxford’s cultural heritage.Legacy and Enduring Appeal
Over six centuries old, the Turf Tavern has witnessed Oxford’s evolution from medieval times to the present day. It remains a testament to the city’s rich social and academic life, continuing to attract a diverse clientele. Whether you are drawn by its famous patrons, its historic ambiance, or its warm hospitality, the Turf Tavern offers a timeless experience steeped in tradition and stories that echo through its narrow alleys and cozy rooms.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.1 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Clarendon Building
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Brasenose College
0.2 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
Visit Oxford Tours
0.3 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
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.
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.
2.1
0.4 km
Discover Oriel Square, Oxford’s historic academic hub where royal heritage meets timeless scholarly tradition in a serene city setting.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
0.4 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.4 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
The painted room
0.4 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Great Jewry Marker
0.5 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
0.5 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
Tom Tower
0.6 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.
Magdalen Bridge
0.7 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
0.7 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
New College Ln
0.0 km
Discover the serene charm and historic legacy of New College Lane, Oxford’s picturesque medieval passage lined by ancient walls and iconic landmarks.
Hertford College
0.1 km
Discover Hertford College’s iconic Bridge of Sighs and vibrant academic community in the heart of historic Oxford.
Bodleian Library
0.1 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning Gothic architecture at Oxford’s iconic Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of rare manuscripts and scholarly heritage.
Bodleian Old Library
0.1 km
Explore centuries of knowledge and stunning architecture in one of Europe’s oldest and most revered libraries at the heart of Oxford University.
Weston Library
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s Weston Library, a historic and modern cultural landmark showcasing rare collections and vibrant exhibitions in a stunning setting.
The Sheldonian Theatre
0.1 km
Discover Oxford’s historic ceremonial theatre with breathtaking panoramic views and timeless academic traditions.
All Souls College
0.2 km
Discover All Souls College, Oxford’s exclusive graduate sanctuary famed for its Gothic splendor, rigorous fellowships, and rich academic heritage.
Radcliffe Camera
0.2 km
A breathtaking 18th-century circular library crowned by a majestic dome, embodying Oxford’s academic spirit and architectural elegance.
New College
0.2 km
Explore New College, Oxford: a historic gem with stunning cloisters, the iconic 'Malfoy Tree,' and majestic medieval halls in the university’s heart.
Wadham College
0.2 km
Discover Wadham College, Oxford’s historic Jacobean gem blending centuries of tradition with progressive spirit and beautiful gardens.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.2 km
Discover Oxford’s iconic Blackwell's Bookshop, a historic haven for book lovers with vast collections, events, and a cozy café on Broad Street.
History of Science Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of scientific innovation in the world’s oldest purpose-built museum, home to Einstein’s blackboard and extraordinary early instruments.
Trinity College
0.2 km
Discover Trinity College, Oxford: historic charm, stunning gardens, and timeless academic tradition in the city’s vibrant heart.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
0.2 km
Historic heart of Oxford University with soaring Gothic spire, rich academic legacy, and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
High St
0.2 km
Oxford’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and academic heritage in the city’s bustling heart.
Essential places to dine
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.
Quod Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Elegant European dining with a lively atmosphere and historic Oxford views on the High Street.
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie on Oxford’s High Street, blending art deco charm with impeccable service and a comforting, creative menu.
No.1 Ship Street
0.4 km
Elegant modern British brasserie in Oxford’s heart, famed for fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a cozy, intimate dining atmosphere.
Chiang Mai Kitchen
0.4 km
Authentic Thai cuisine in a historic 17th-century Oxford alleyway, serving fresh, flavorful dishes for over 30 years.
The Alice
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of Oxford, nestled within the historic Randolph Hotel opposite the Ashmolean Museum.
ASK Italian - Oxford
0.5 km
Vibrant Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and seasonal specials in Oxford’s lively George Street hub.
Bella Italia - Oxford
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with warm service and a rustic ambiance in Oxford’s lively George Street.
Turtle Bay Oxford
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean in the heart of historic Oxford with bold dishes and tropical cocktails.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
0.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
OLD TOM PUB
0.5 km
Historic English pub charm meets authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Oxford's vibrant city centre.
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.
Red Lion Oxford
0.5 km
Historic Oxford gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with contemporary dining in the city centre.
Thaikhun
0.6 km
Experience authentic Thai street food in a vibrant, colorful setting with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in Oxford’s city centre.
Bbuona
0.6 km
Experience authentic Roman-style pinsa and vibrant Italian flavours in the heart of Oxford at Bbuona Pinsa Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
0.1 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
0.2 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
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.
Broad Canvas
0.3 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Objects of Use
0.3 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Babylon Trading
0.3 km
Discover eclectic home and gift treasures in a charming Grade 2 listed boutique on Oxford’s historic High Street.
The Varsity Shop
0.3 km
Oxford’s premier destination for authentic university apparel and accessories, blending tradition and style on historic High Street.
Scriptum
0.3 km
Discover Oxford’s premier luxury stationery shop, blending tradition, artistry, and personalized service in the heart of the city.
Space Store Oxford
0.3 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Watsons of Oxford
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Goodies Oxford
0.4 km
Discover curated clothing and timeless style at Goodies, a vibrant boutique in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
0.4 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Soctopus
0.4 km
Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.
The Shop of Secrets
0.4 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
The Crafters Emporium
0.4 km
Discover Oxford’s vibrant handmade crafts hub, supporting local artisans with unique gifts and community spirit in the city’s historic heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
King's Arms, Oxford
0.1 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
White Horse
0.2 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
All Bar One Oxford
0.4 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
0.4 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.
The House
0.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Oxford’s Wheatsheaf Yard, blending expertly crafted drinks with a lively garden and stylish atmosphere.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
0.5 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
The Grapes
0.5 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
St Aldates
0.5 km
A vibrant Oxford city centre pub serving quality ales, homemade food, and hosting lively events in a welcoming, historic setting.
Hanks Bar
0.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Royal Blenheim
0.6 km
A historic Oxford pub renowned for exceptional real ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere blending tradition with modern charm.
Cow & Creek
0.6 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
OXO BAR
0.7 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
0.7 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 Duke Of Cambridge
0.7 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
0.8 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Historic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
