Hi everyone – just your not so local blogger checking in after a long day of studying! With just over a month to go until my return to university, and with Year Abroad Essay deadlines fast approaching, it’s safe to say that Oxford is, right now, at the forefront of my mind. In some ways, I’m dreading going back: indeed, I’ll have, once again, to contend with the assignments, the living expenses, and the general feelings of stress from which I’ve been exempted for the past twelve months. However, by and large, I’m excited: not only will I be reunited with many of my close friends, but also I will, once more, be within walking distance of some of my favourite wining and dining spots!
Today, I thought I would talk about one place in particular, where I have enjoyed countless meals and drinks. Located just a two-minute walk from my college (New College), the Turf Tavern – or ‘the Turf’, as it is often nicknamed – is one of the most popular pubs in Oxford, not to mention one of the longest established. It’s a little tricky to find, nestled away as it is down the inconspicuous St Helen’s Passage, but my goodness me is it a place worth sniffing out! Keep reading to find out more.
The food
One of the best things about this inn is the fantastic menu. A lot of the pub’s staple dishes include meat – as, I believe, is only to be expected from such an organisation – but vegetarians and vegans, there are plenty of options for you, too. Stuck on what to order? Some of my top picks here include scampi and chips, nachos, and fish and chips.
The drinks
No trip to the pub would be complete without drinks! The Turf Tavern luckily offers a huge selection of these, ranging from malty beers, to fruity ciders, to sapid cocktails. Teetotal or going sober for the day? There are also plenty of soft options to choose from. Once you’ve made your decision, simply head to the bar, and place your order. Remember, if you’re purchasing alcoholic drinks and look under 25, to bring your ID with you: they’re very strict about that here!
Budget-friendly?
Turf Tavern is neither super expensive nor super cheap. With dishes averaging at about £10 (€12), and pints at around £5 (€6), it’s the sort of place that – bearing in mind your measly student budget – you’ll probably want to visit once or twice a month for a special treat. Can’t stay away? Fear not: this pub has loads of great offers, from £1 (€1.20) drinks with burgers on weekdays, to discounted chicken wings on Wednesdays. What is more, if you’re eating with other people and want to save your pennies, there are plenty of cheaper snack foods to choose from (check out the Bar Menu), as well as sharer plates.
Celebrity approved?
If you’re the sort of person who likes going to celebrity-approved eateries, this is definitely a place for you to check out! With past customers including Emma Watson, Bill Clinton, and Elizabeth Taylor, you truly will be wining and dining like a star!
The vibe
Sometimes, while I’m sitting working in my college library, I hear muffled talking and laughter coming from nearby. At first, I’ll always assume it’s coming from inside the building – the reading rooms are supposed to be silent study areas, but sometimes we do need to pause our work for a good old gossip session! – but then I’ll eventually realise that it’s coming from the Turf Tavern. Seven days a week, fifty-four weeks a year, this small pub is buzzing with action.
On dark winter evenings, clients come to shelter from the cold in the cosy indoor seating area, with its low ceilings and exposed beams. Almost everyone can be caught at this time clasping a glass of excellent mulled wine. In the summer, all the outdoor benches – which surround three of the building’s four walls – are heaving with students and locals alike. This is my favourite time of the year to visit, although I always know that I’ll have to write off any study plans I have for that day: sinking pints in the blazing sun really does take it out of you!
All in all, the Turf Tavern has a very chilled, friendly vibe, and is the perfect place to head to, whether you’re bar hopping with friends, or dining with relatives.
Check it out for yourself!
Tempted? Next time you’re in Oxford, be sure to go and check the Turf Tavern out for yourself. You’ll be bowled over not only by the quality of the refreshments here, but also by the bubbly atmosphere of the place. Have a wonderful meal – or after-work gathering – and please bring back some scampi for me!
