Although the Bear Inn’s claim to be “Oxford’s oldest pub” is open to question, people who appreciate character and history with their real ale won’t be disappointed. This tiny, low-ceilinged pub has a small front room with real fire and slightly larger rear room with wood panelling and brass bell pushes from the days of waiter service, and has been held dear by generations of students (see the poem “Ode to the Followers of the Bear” framed in the front room), townspeople, and celebrities. It is a ‘tied’ house in more ways than one, notable for its framed collections of over 4,000 mainly college and sporting tie remnants started in 1954. There is a large pavement seating area off Blue Boar Street to boost capacity and the pub hs also expanded into an adjoining building. The easiest way of finding it is to take Blue Boar Street, alongside the Town Hall. Refurbished June 2025 (mostly outside).