With Spring here and Summer a few short months away, you may be wistfully looking out the window, daydreaming of an evening in one of Oxford (and the surrounding areas) pub gardens. Well, Daily Info is on hand to help you plan some outdoorsy fun with our guide to the best pub gardens in Oxford/Oxfordshire.
Oxford Pub Gardens
The White Rabbit
This charming white building right smack in the middle of the city boasts a cosy interior, all sloping alcoves, wooden beams, and rabbit-themed artwork. The garden, meanwhile, has been retrofitted since the pandemic for truly all weather enjoyment. Fenced in with heated seats for winter, generous umbrellas blocking the rain or glaring sun, and multicoloured fairy lights for nighttime ambience, their garden is a tranquil, reliable escape from the bustle. And have we mentioned the award-winning selection of pizzas yet?
The Isis Farmhouse
Situated along the Thames path to Iffley Lock and only accessible by bike or on foot, The Isis is well known for its epic folk and jazz nights. This large, stately pub also has ample picnic table seating outside near the water, and serves a range of great grub, from full meals to bar snacks to afternoon cream teas. A magical place to while away a mild Summer evening.
The Port Mahon
The refurbished Port Mahon, which re-opened last Autumn under new ownership, is an elegant gastro pub with fantastic food and a playful community spirit, from themed days (Tuesday’s £3.50 ‘Kill the Cask’ pints) to their weekly Wednesday pub quiz. Their garden is a sunny, wood-panelled hideaway that feels insulated from the rest of the world - but not the sunshine.
The Star
As a former resident of Rectory Road, I have to give a shout-out to my ex-local, The Star pub garden (or ‘Starden’). The beer selection and staff at the Star are already some of the best in the city, but it’s extra special when it opens up in the warmer months. With plenty of communal benches, it’s a great spot to take larger groups - I’ve spent many an after-Pride in the Sun with a Brewski in hand - and the outdoor space is as dog friendly as the indoors, so if you have a four-legged friend, bring them along! You might be drawn to the grassy canopy area or the cheery murals, but my personal favourite feature has to be the mannequin of The Terminator always lurking in the bushes - see if you can spot him!
The Gardener's Arms
The Gardener’s Arms on Plantation Road is already a favourite haunt for fans of excellent veggie and vegan pub grub (recently nominated ‘Best Veggie/Vegan’ for OxinABox’s Food Awards), as well as the devoted followers of Oxford’s most in-jokey quiz. Nestled in the middle of a quiet Jericho neighbourhood, their pub garden is a little less sprawling, but that gives it a little extra charm - red brick pathways, round tables perfect for conversation and parasols to keep the sun’s rays at bay (if you want to, that is!). Order one of the chef’s specials and dig in in the great outdoors.
The Jolly Farmers
Being slap bang in the city centre, the Jolly Farmers’ covered garden has less in the way of greenery than pubs further afield. But Oxford’s premier LGBTQ+ pub more than makes up for it with their sleek seating, fire heated tables and the presence of Sherlock, the venue’s beloved Bassett Hound. Plus, it’s also a hotspot and performance space for some of the city’s best queer events, with monthly socials like LOVE and Translate, and a performance space that’s boasted local drag, burlesque and cabaret talent (as well as a few Drag Race alumni). Depending on when you pay a visit, you might also be able to grab a slice of delicious homemade pizza from pop-up stall Jojo’s Dough on the Go - keep an eye on their socials for when they’re in residence. I’d recommend the garlic mushroom; creamy, luxurious and perfect for truffle fans.
Oxfordshire Pub Gardens
The Town Arms, Wallingford
Nestled on the outskirts of Wallingford and within walking distance of both Castle Meadow and the riverbank, is the charming, relaxed vibe of the Town Arms. A more intimate pub garden then some in this blog, it is nevertheless a warm and inviting space, perfect for groups to hang out and partake in the pub’s outstanding menu. Mixing burgers and hot dogs with chicken wings and loaded fries, the food is outstanding. You may even want to make it a monthly visit thanks to their rotating burger of the month, which is always exemplary. They also have a cracking breakfast menu at weekends.
The Greyhound (nr Abingdon)
On the doorstep of the Cotswold’s you’ll find The Greyhound, a perfect spot for food and country walks, all with a terrace area that’s a great sun trap. They also have a garden that’s perfect for younger members of your party to play in, particularly the tractor that can be found nestled at the back. Plus, they have a menu that mixes hearty pub favourites with something a little lighter to enjoy. And their puddings are outstanding!
The Plough Inn, Long Wittenham
One of the best (and probably longest) pub gardens can be found at the Plough Inn in Long Wittenham. A short walk from both Neptune Woods at the base of the Wittenham Clumps (perfect for a dog walk) and charming model railway Pendon Museum, The Plough Inn is a great way to extend your visit to this charming locale. With a menu of pub favourites and friendly staff, there’s an idyllic vibe to The Plough. But it’s the garden that sets it apart, thanks to extensive play equipment, plenty of seating, and a garden that stretches down to the riverbank, where you can recreate that Wind in the Willows life that Oxfordshire is famous for.
The Packhorse, Mapledurham
Sharing some more of the Wind in the Willows DNA, and farthest afield, is The Packhorse, a 1600s-era countryside farmhouse. Situated on the outskirts of the charming village Mapledurham, the pub mixes modern takes on pub grub with old-fashioned charms and a beautiful garden. It makes it perfect for families, and is easy to get to as it is just off the A4074. Plus, it runs a monthly pub walk for those interested in rambles around the nearby countryside.
Seven Stars, Marsh Baldon
If you’ve never made out to the 130 acres of rare and endangered trees that make up the Harcourt Arboretum, then 2025 should change this, particularly on one of the sunnier days. And whilst there, head to nearby Marsh Baldon and take in the Seven Stars pub. Indoors is a charming inn, with bare beams, a log fire and a dog-friendly vibe, whilst outdoors has a beautiful garden for you to enjoy. A local hub for the community, the Seven Stars serves delightful food and runs events throughout the year. Head on down to be charmed by village life.
The Fleur de Lys, Dorchester-on-Thames
Another beautiful locale in Oxfordshire is Dorchester-on-Thames, home to the resplendent Dorchester Abbey. It is also where you will find The Fleurs de Lys, an inn rich in history (it dates back to the 15th Century) with a wonderful sprawl of a pub garden, complete with a great play area for children. And for those looking for a cake vibe the pub runs The Snug at the charming Bishops Court Farm, which can be found at the other end of the village. You can also use this as a base as you head to and from the Clumps.
The Half Moon, Cuxham
Perhaps Oxfordshire’s best-kept secret, with the finest pizzas in the county, is the Half Moon in Cuxham (near Watlington). With a range of delicious pizzas and pastas, the pub works well as a restaurant, but also benefits from a gorgeous garden at the back that overlooks some beautiful farmyard. Plus the staff are always welcoming. If we had to pick one Oxfordshire pub to venture out to, we’d pick this one.
Have we missed off your favourite pub garden? A hidden spot the world needs to know about? Then email us at pubs@dailyinfo.co.uk and let us know about this must attend venue.