The Jolly Farmers, Oxford

A second visit here simply because I forgot to leave a review first time around a few years ago. An old looking building with some sloping walls, and indeed it dates from the 17 century. Inside there are several areas with the bar to the rear and raised up a level. A well known gay community pub with some reference to the fact with a couple of event posters and some rainbow colouring, but nothing in your face and welcome to all whatever path you tread. Two handpumps serving Shotover Trinity and Prospect, I tried the Trinity which was almost undrinkable and obviously gone, changed without quibble for the Prospect which was in good condition. Not a pub I'd visit on a regular basis but nice enough.

New entry in the 2024 Good Beer Guide, so this will doubtless broaden its appeal (although I understand that this well-known LGBTQ+ pub has always welcomed everyone). It's an interesting old building too, with three small seating areas along the frontage and a slightly raised bar at the back, all looking very traditional. Surprisingly perhaps, given its recent recognition, there are only a pair of handpumps on the counter, dispensing Oxford Brewery's Shotover Prospect and Oxford Blue from Chadlington (£5.90 with a packet of peanuts).

Popped in, as the nearest pub to our hotel (the castle) is closed on Sundays. Very higgledy-piggledy interior - with small rooms over multiple floors with exposed woodwork. The big of the rooms was around the log burner, with a collection of fine wing back chesterfields. An unexplored beer garden. Two real ales on and the Otter Bitter was in decent condition. Only seeing these reviews have I noticed it is a gay pub.

Official site of The Jolly Farmers - www.jollyfarmers-oxford.co.uk

Official site of The Jolly Farmers - www.jollyfarmers-oxford.co.uk