Featured image: The Old Bookbinders Ale House, Oxford
Oxford is known for its many churches and its world-famous University, but head deeper into its spire-lined street and you’ll find some of the UK’s most quintessentially British pubs—many of which are dog-friendly. We’ve rounded up Oxfordshire’s best dog-friendly haunts that you can enjoy with your furry friends in tow.
1. The Seven Stars
Address & Map: Marsh Baldon, OX44 9LP
The Seven Stars is where every dog dines with their owner while visiting the Oxfordshire village of Marsh Baldon. For over 400 years it’s housed more hounds than the dog-loving staff can name, and visiting dogs are treated like royal guests. The food is British pub-inspired grub with specials that will have you drooling over your menus. Water bowls are offered to thirsty dogs and for thirsty humans, try a well-kept local ale or for designated drivers, a thirst quenching soft drink fresh from the fridge. The surrounding green is a great place to wear out more excitable doggies—wellies or walking boots are never a problem as there’s plenty of space inside the pub to dry or drop them off. Treats for very good boys and girls come from Waggie Tails and, true to the name, they’re guaranteed to get tails wagging! For al fresco dining, check out the large pub garden with parasols. There’s also a restaurant for dogless parties to enjoy.
2. The Fox Inn
Address & Map: Burford, OX18 4TB
The Fox Inn has one of our favourite doggy details yet—a “Dine with your Dog” menu, so you and your dog can enjoy a three-course meal sitting side by side inside the pub or outside when the weather calls for it. Of course, there are plenty of other options too if you want a light bite or lunch after a day exploring the surrounding Cotswolds. No visit here is complete without meeting resident pub dog Chester, the talk of the town around Windrush Valley is known for his friendly ways. The picturesque grounds are perfect for taking your dog for a quick walk and toilet break meaning you can stay all day—you’ll certainly want to.
3. The Perch
Address & Map: Binsey Lane, OX2 0EX
Historically hounds love life down at The Perch in Oxford. As well as being one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, it’s close to many prime dog-walking spots. Head in after a long walk along the Isis or Port Meadow and you’ll be greeted with a water bowl (and of course a pint of ale). Don’t worry about muddy boots; there’s a shoe cleaner by the entrance. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can expect a warm welcome from pub staff and you’re free to eat inside with your dog by your side. After lunch, nab a spot under the shade of the garden’s willow trees, the perfect setting on a sunny day. From hungry walkers to exploring families, muddy dogs and adventurous visitors, The Perch welcomes them all.
4. The Maytime Inn
Address & Map: Burford, OX18 4HW
The Maytime Inn is full of classic British features, and everything from the cosy decor to the delicious pub grub, will make every dog in Oxfordshire instantly feel at home. It has plenty of dogs propping up its friendly bar, and humans will want to sample the specialist gin, and carefully-selected world beers and ciders. If you’re lucky enough to visit while the sun is shining, nab a spot in the large terrace and garden where there’s plenty of scents from the great outdoors for your dog to enjoy. Pub dog, Alfie, can regularly be found in the bar performing party tricks and ensuring all of his furry friends have been fed and watered. When you’re finished, head out into the historic Cotswold village of Asthall (but a frisbee-throw away) and wander down the River Windrush.
5. The Royal Oak
Address & Map: Woodstock Road, OX2 6HT
Behold The Royal Oak, a dog-friendly pub located in central Oxford that boasts not one but three beer gardens. With all of that sniffing-space you and your dog will be spoilt for choice. Choose between shady spots or sun-drenched spaces where you can sit with your dog and enjoy a tasty meal, or head inside where dogs are welcome too. The inside space hosts a number of interlinking rooms so there are plenty of areas for your dog to tuck herself away in and enjoy a quiet afternoon snooze. Dogs must be kept on a lead but they’ll be so busy delving into the free treats and getting fussed over by pub staff that they’ll barely notice. After a cosy afternoon in the pub what’s to stop you from heading over to Oxford University Parks or having a dip in the River Cherwell, both of which are just a few minutes’ walk away.
Dogs are a special part of Oxford life and it’s rare to cross a street without seeing one. The intermingling of city life with delightful country nooks, provides a dream scenario for dogs, so make the most of the dog-friendly digs and finish every walk off with a pub pitstop. If your dog doesn’t really enjoy hanging out in bars that’s fine too. You’ll be able to find loads of local sitters who provide dog boarding in Oxford on Rover.com—they’ll be happy to spend some quality time with your little buddy while you paint the town red.
