Oxford is well known for its academic excellence; reputable colleges; seat of learning; makers of famous global dignitaries.
Oxford is also home to The Head Of The River, a little boutique hotel with a big name in beers and ciders on tap … and a great menu to compliment.
Sitting at the edge of River Isis; at head of the river; The Head Of The River is part of the Fuller, Smith and Turner brewing group since 1845. But its brewing history is over 350 years old, dating back to Oliver Cromwell; where large household commonly brew their own beers.
Refreshing ales … either malty or full bodied … fruity or flowery and fresh … there is something to tantalise your taste buds.
In fact, The Head Of The River offers about 24 varieties of beers and ciders … about 14 of them on tap – yes, 14 on tap; I counted them at the bar.
Classy pub food; contemporary British dishes, fresh local and seasonal produce, sourced daily; the Turner’s Kitchen ‘… takes taste personally’; so that you can enjoy a delightful meal accompanied by their refreshing beers, any season of the year.
And if you do not feel like driving back to London after your meal, the adjacent boutique hotel offers comfortable beds; cosy country style rooms with modern amenities – all just an easy walk away from Oxford’s town centre and surrounding colleges.
Good beers should be accompanied by good food – try the grilled Pork Chops with braised veggies, lightly seasoned; or Pan-fried Bream with Jersey Royals (potatoes), chorizos and herbed tomato salsa. You can taste the freshness – as if they are just freshly delivered … because they are freshly delivered; on a daily basis!
You must also check out the Chalcroft Farm Beef Burger with MSA Gouda, Mrs Owton’s bacon, pickles and chips.
The burger just melts in your mouth …
Personal favourite is the London Pride Steak and Ale Pie – rich chunks of tender beef in red wine gravy with string greens and Jersey Royals, washed down with cleansing ale … absolutely heart-warming!
If you do stay overnight, don’t miss breakfast – Full English breakfast with pork sausages, Mrs. Owton’s bacon, Fuller’s black pudding, beans, mushrooms and eggs; or sample Eggs Royale – toasted muffin, London Porter smoked salmon, poached eggs and hollandaise – wholesome … and so decadent!
And you can walk it all off as you head into town for a bit of sightseeing!
The menu changes every season and there are options for vegans or vegetarians as well.
Ask for the daily Chef’s Specials too; you don’t want to miss out on knowing what’s on offer.
I always wanted to return to Oxford since my first visit many years ago; and am glad I did; because now that I have found The Head Of The River, I look forward to returning yet again; to enjoy more of the hospitality, ambience, beers, ciders and food of course.
Thank you for a memorable stay!
P.S. Did you know that ESB, a Fullers Beer, was the first to take the CAMRA Champion Beer of Britain title in 1978?
And London Pride won the same title in 1979.
P.P.S. You can also join the Fuller’s Fine Ale Club (for free) to know more about the beers and pubs; special and exclusive events.
Contact The Head Of The River on:
Tel: 01865 721600 Email: headoftheriver@fullers.co.uk
Bryan Walker, the Manager and his team will look after you.
