White Horse, Oxford

Quinno _ left this review about White Horse

After doing the two bars in the market I was desperate for a traditional pub so made my way over, as it’s another one I’ve managed to overlook for a number of years during my many visits to Oxford. Arrived at a good time as it was busy but also a nice atmosphere – and no sign of diners (have they stopped doing food now?). Five cask, my Loose Cannon Christmas Cracker was in good nick (NBSS 3.5) and there were also sausage rolls for £3.50 which were very nice. Back up a point.

January 2014
First revisit for a good while. Decent ale selection; Shotover Prospect and Porter, St Austell Tribute, a house ale of unknown provenance and Doom Bar (which was off). My Prospect was fairly good, though the barman said something that irked my drinking companion. Standing room only and the only place we could find at the end of the bar was always in the way of someone. Seems to have lost some its lustre for me – as mentioned previously the cramped interior is full of diners, whose table-hogging is really off-putting if you just want a casual pint. Time has moved on and I think it has been overtaken in the ‘must-do’ stakes; I’d only pop in now if it was quiet. Rated 7

July 2011
A nice little (in the very real sense) bolt-hole and handy for Trinity College, situated between the entrances to Blackwells. A decent selection of ale (up to five) given the size of the place, though only were three were on last visit (Tim Taylor Landlord, Oxfordshire Oxfords Pride and Shotover Prospect). The Prospect was in great shape but beware some prices – the TTL was £3.60! Addlestones cider also available though it isn’t classed as ‘real’ by the cider-types. Enter down some steps to encounter the enjoyably cosy atmosphere; it’s easy to get a bit of conversation going with a stranger. The interior is narrow with a low-beamed ceiling and wood-panelled walls, though I’m not sure about the over-use of Morse prints. There’s a neat raised seating area to rear. Would recommend this one for a crawl and good for session if you can grab a table but it is best avoided at peak times, especially as food is offered which unnecessarily packs out an already limited space. Rated 8

On 13^th April 2025 - rating: 8
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