November 26, 2010
I love this pub. They have real ales and interesting ciders on tap, they have regular darts tournaments, they have the 'Maison d'etre' open mic (run by curly-haired Headington musician Rami in the pub's garden room and often populated by semi-professional musicians practicing new material) - and the clientele stare at you when you come in the door. This is a good thing!! It's the sign of a REAL pub - an old-fashioned local serving proper beer (as evidenced by their CAMRA awards) in a context where many people know each other due to the pub's role as a community focus. It has not fallen victim to the current virulent fashion for Ikea-style refurbs; entering the Mason's is like stepping into a warm and welcoming timewarp. They have an annual beer festival, and Headington Quarry morris men dance there on a regular basis. It's just a fab local!