The Oxford Retreat, Oxford

A reasonable pub between the station and the centre which seems to have been done up to make more of its historic features. The expanse of wooden floor feels a bit bare but overall it is quite civilised. Just the one ale on in the shape of Ubu Purity but it was in good condition. There is a function room signed upstairs and a patio garden to the rear.

A first in here the other night and I'm not sure if this is a purpose-built pub or a conversion, possibly Antiquity Hall. Otherwise, it's in attractive location overlooking the river on the way to the railway station. This is a rather stripped out sort of place with lots of bare wood and accurately described below. Although there were only around five people at the bar and no-one seated, the three bar staff busied themselves stacking bottles and glasses, early evening. The punter next to us was clearly exasperated at having waited so long to get served and as he was being ignored and we were next, we decided to walk out. Ales: just Sharp's Doom Bar which sums the place up rather neatly. Retreat is the best cause of action here, fat chance of a return visit. The Lighthouse over the road is far better.