The Bear
Oxford's oldest pub — famous for its tie collection and recently expanded into a larger space.
Go at opening time on a weekday — by noon it's standing room only. The back room is quieter, and look up: each tie has a story.
The Bear claims to be Oxford's oldest pub, with parts of the building dating to 1242. For decades it was also the smallest — two tiny rooms connected by a narrow passage. In mid-2025, the pub expanded into the adjacent former tanning salon, roughly doubling its indoor space. The Bear can now seat over 100 people, with an expanded kitchen and improved facilities, though the original rooms retain their character.
The famous feature is the tie collection. Since 1952, the landlord has been cutting the ends off customers' ties and pinning them to the ceiling and walls. There are now over 4,500 of them, from military regiments, schools, sports clubs, and companies from around the world.
What it's actually like
The original rooms remain atmospheric — low ceilings, dark wood, ties overhead. The expansion has added breathing room without losing the character. It's now possible to sit down without arriving at opening time, though the original front room still fills quickly.
What to drink
Well-curated selection of real ales. Fuller's beers are usually available. The expanded space has allowed a broader drinks offering.
Practical notes
The pub is down a narrow lane off the High Street, behind Christ Church. The courtyard provides overflow space in summer. The expansion means the old "you won't get in the door" problem is largely solved, though weekends are still busy.
"One of England's most characterful pubs"
— CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2024
"A genuinely medieval pub, tiny and atmospheric"
— Lonely Planet Oxford, 2023
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
