The Wheatsheaf, Oxford

A return visit since my first and last in the autumn of 1993, so recollections are poor. This isn't a large venue, being relatively long and narrow with a rough boarded floor with rough planking to much of the walls along with some bare brick and a little dark red paint. The overall appearance isn't exactly what I'd describe as a traditional boozer, rather it's more of an American-influenced dive bar. Music from the jukebox is a little loud for comfort but suits the ambience. Furniture is mixed and the clientele was in high spirits. The pub also has a policy of refusing entry to groups on crawls or hen/stag parties. The friendly barman was dishing up three ales: one I didn't clock, Wychwood's Hobgoblin and Brakspeare's Oxford Gold at £1.90 a half though very insipid and quite cold. This is an alternative venue for those who like this sort of thing; at least it's different, but it doesn't offer a traditional pub experience and the ale choice was a bit disappointing; it's not really my cup of tea but I wish it well.