Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn, Banbury

Yesterday's visit to this old town centre pub was a return visit. I was last in here in 2016, when a fight had ensued involving a guy dealing with counterfeit banknotes. On a Wednesday afternoon, things appear to be quieter than Tuesday evenings! There were a few locals enjoying the Hook Norton beers, whilst other groups had not long finished their lunches. I don't recall exploring the pub much on my last visit. The traditional bar at the front has plenty of Hook Norton memorabilia with lots of wood panelling. From here, a corridor leads to the toilets, an outdoor yard and also to the rather grand-looking Globe Room at the rear. Bar staff all appeared to be Eastern European. When I asked if they stocked any still ciders, the one barman seemed a little confused. Apparently they don't anymore. Instead, the real ale choice is Hooky, Old Hooky, Off the Hook & Hooky Mild. I was hoping that this might be the one local Hook Norton pub where I might find something a little more interesting from the brewery. Alas, I was disappointed. Nice pub inside and with no fighting, I was able to enjoy the atmosphere a little more on this visit. But there are better pubs in the town.

A good looking 16th century pub, traditional and olde worlde inside. Six beers on all from Hook Norton. I liked the look of the pub but the beer tried was a little tired.

Four pubs visited in Banbury. This was easily the best for atmosphere, history and beer. Yet, its not in the 2017 GBG and wetherspoons is. History dripping off the walls, live music on a Saturday, efficient service and top quality Hook Norton Ales. Visit blogged at http://bit.ly/2ixN3dV

My first visit here was around 40 years ago and I'm not sure that it has changed very much although it did seem larger inside. It's genuinely old and is almost certainly Hook Norton's flagship pub. It's been more than well described below and on my visit had six Hook Norton beers on. I went for the Old Hooky (£3.80) which was in good nick albeit slightly hazy. I have to admit I preferred the more pubby White Horse nearby to this place which is something of an Olde Worlde cliche.

Official site of Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn - www.hooky.co.uk

Official site of Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn - www.ye-olde-reinedeer-inn-banbury.co.uk