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Rose & Crown PH, Oxford: A Historic Victorian Pub with a Warm Local Spirit

A charming Victorian pub in Oxford offering traditional ales, hearty fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with live jazz.

4.5

The Rose & Crown PH is a cherished Victorian-era pub located on North Parade Avenue in Oxford. Established in 1863 and run by the same family since 1983, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on traditional English ales, hearty pub fare, and live jazz sessions. Known for its cozy interior, eclectic drink selection, and friendly service, this pub is a beloved spot for locals, students, and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Rose & Crown PH

  • 14 N Parade Ave, Oxford, OX2 6LX, GB
  • +441865510551
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Friday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 11:30 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 11:30 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Try the famous pint of sausages served in a beer tankard for a unique and hearty pub snack.
  • Visit on a Sunday afternoon to enjoy live jazz sessions in a cozy setting.
  • Sample the rotating guest ales from local breweries to experience Oxford’s vibrant craft beer scene.
  • Relax in the garden courtyard, which can be covered or open depending on the weather.
  • Consider ordering a Pieminster pie or a classic Sunday roast for a satisfying meal.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Frequent bus services run along Banbury Road, approximately 2.5 km from Oxford city centre, with journey times of 10 to 15 minutes. Buses are regular throughout the day, with fares typically around £2 to £3. The stop is a short walk from the pub.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Oxford city centre to the Rose & Crown takes about 7 to 12 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8 to £12. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via apps.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy a stroll, walking from Oxford city centre takes around 30 to 40 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for most and offers a pleasant urban walk.

Rose & Crown PH location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Rose & Crown PH

A Storied Victorian Landmark in Oxford

The Rose & Crown PH stands proudly on North Parade Avenue, Oxford, housed in a building dating back to 1863. This small Victorian pub has been a local institution for over a century, reflecting the architectural charm and community spirit of North Oxford. Since 1983, it has been lovingly managed by Andrew and Debbie, who have nurtured its traditional character while adapting to changing times. Their stewardship has ensured the pub remains a vibrant hub, blending historic ambiance with contemporary hospitality.

A Commitment to Quality Ales and Traditional Fare

The pub is renowned for its dedication to real ales, featuring a rotating selection from respected local breweries such as Adnams Southwold Bitter, Hook Norton Old Hooky, and Oxford Brewery’s Trinity. Its fourth pump often showcases guest ales from smaller regional brewers, offering patrons a taste of the broader craft beer scene. Alongside the drinks, the Rose & Crown serves no-nonsense pub food, including its famous pint of sausages served in a beer tankard, pickled eggs, Pieminster pies, and classic Sunday roasts, creating a hearty and authentic English pub experience.

Atmosphere and Social Life

Inside, the pub exudes a quirky and cosy charm with wood-paneled rooms, bookshelves, and vintage posters that invite lingering. The layout includes several small rooms and a corridor favored by regulars for its convivial vibe. Outside, a garden courtyard equipped with an awning offers a pleasant space for outdoor drinking and dining, adaptable to weather conditions. The Rose & Crown also hosts regular jazz sessions, adding a lively cultural dimension that enriches its welcoming atmosphere.

Resilience Through Changing Times

The pub’s history includes navigating significant challenges, such as the government’s Beer Orders legislation that dramatically increased rent costs in the 1980s. Despite these hurdles and changes in ownership, the family has maintained its independence since becoming a free house in the late 1990s. This autonomy has allowed the Rose & Crown to focus on quality and community connection, including pioneering home deliveries of cask ale and food, strengthening its bond with locals and wider patrons.

A Beloved Gathering Place for All

The Rose & Crown draws a diverse clientele, including students, locals, and tourists, who appreciate its warm welcome and quality offerings. Its reputation for excellent service, fine wines by the glass or bottle, and a broad selection of malt whiskies and Belgian beers complements the traditional English pub staples. The pub’s enduring appeal lies in its blend of historic charm, quality drinks, hearty food, and a sociable, relaxed environment.

Location and Legacy

Situated about half a mile north of Oxford city centre on a quiet street, the Rose & Crown is easily accessible yet retains a tucked-away feel that adds to its allure. The pub’s legacy is marked by its Victorian roots, the dedication of its owners, and its role as a cultural and social cornerstone in Oxford’s pub scene. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional English pubs in a modern world.

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