The Perch Inn, Binsey

That's really a shame, John. We had been hoping that when the Perch re-opened it would have reverted to some of its former, say 2005, character. We visit Oxford in April or May annually and have enjoyed our walks from Summertown to Port Meadow and Binsey for more than 25 years. Of course, the Perch was always our favorite watering hole.

I must say, though, in recent years after the unfortunate refurbishment of the Perch, we too have made our way to the Plough and found it a most enjoyable experience. So I expect our 2008 visit across the pond will be peppered with numerous Plough visits.

4 Oct 2008 16:12

The Dew Drop Inn, Oxford

By far the best pub in Oxford. We've just returned from our annual visit to Oxford, and after exploring multiple pubs, settled on the Dew Drop as our regular watering hole. Excellent food. Great landlord and staff. We'll be back next year.

17 May 2008 19:50

Victoria Arms, Old Marston

Pleasant atmosphere inside and great garden with lawn extending to the Cherwell.

Great Sunday dinners with coffee to die for.

9 May 2007 17:10

The Anchor Inn, Oxford

The Anchor has managed to hit a happy medium with a new, though reasonable priced menu with a good selection of equally good food. The new management seems to be catering to the influx of young families now living in the developments along the canal.

Although I miss the old atmosphere, overall The Anchor has been updated within moderate constraints and is a good alternative to the overly stuffy nearby "Gastro pubs," e.g., The Perch and The Trout.

9 May 2007 17:05

The Perch Inn, Binsey

Actually, I don't think it burned to the ground, although the roof is badly damaged on the car park side. Hopefully it will be saved.

That being said, I must agree with baggydave. We've been fans of the Perch since 1984 when we first started our biennial treks to Oxford from across the pond.

This April proved to be much different. The Perch is now a "Gastro Pub" with high-priced unappetizing meals with sit-down service and no eating in the beautiful garden. The old bar is gone, replaced with indoor, white linen table service.

Very disappointing to say the least.

9 May 2007 17:00