Perfect pit stops
WOW! Summer has arrived!
There is no better feeling than stopping for a relaxing refuel in a child friendly pub garden on a glorious day, especially after a morning full of outdoor adventures. Here’s our pick of some of the best…
Isis Farmhouse, Iffley Lock
You will find this popular riverside pub heaving on sunny days yet it never feels full, probably down the three acres it is set in. Choose to sit overlooking the river and watch the world go by, or let the kids run free in the meadowside garden — simply idyllic. Isis Farmhouse can only be reached by foot, bike or boat, owing to its tranquil position, and is the pit stop of choice for river amblers and peddlers.
The Fishes, North Hinksey
A bit of a hidden gem, but those in the know will always recommend The Fishes if you ask where to dine al fresco with the family on a sunny weekend. Laid back summer vibes are a speciality in this huge pub garden, with deck chairs and picnic rugs aplenty. The menu is pretty outstanding too, including the cheeseboard of dreams! Although there is no kids menu, the chefs will make smaller portions or simplified versions of anything on the menu for them. Does this mean you can eat a whole meal without sharing? We can but hope!
Abingdon Arms, Beckley
Community pubs done well can attract people for miles and the Abingdon Arms is definitely one of them, it’s gone from strength to strength since being bought by the local community last year. Set in a beautiful village location only four miles from Oxford, their website boasts that they have ‘one of the best gardens in Oxfordshire…possibly the whole world!’ A big statement, but there is no doubt that this one is pretty special, overlooking the Otmoor Nature Reserve there are stunning uninterrupted views for miles. Sit outside on either the upper or lower decking area and let the kids charge around the big enclosed lawn searching for hidden fairy doors — who will find them all? Great food made using local produce, outstanding views and space for the kids to burn off energy…table for four please!
Victoria Arms, Old Marston
How you arrive at the beautiful riverside pub is totally up to you. Some may drive, others will walk, or, when in Oxford, arrive by punt! Surely there is nothing more quintessentially British (and exciting!) than punting along the river before mooring up for a bite to eat. The pub itself has impressive gardens rolling down to the riverbank and (wait for it!) a bouncy castle! The perfect location to while away a sunny afternoon with the family.
Jacobs Inn, Wolvercote
We realised that this was one of our favourite family friendly pubs when we managed to eat a whole meal, still hot and without a child on our laps, as the kids entertained themselves in the garden. A momentous occasion it was! Naughty goats, cute piggies and roaming hens are the star attractions on the spacious lawn and will keep children happily transfixed for hours. A stone’s throw from Port Meadow and the Burgess Field Nature Park, this is a great place to refuel after a morning of exploring.
Seven Stars, Marsh Bladon
Serious escape to the country feels from this superb pub just on the corner of the village green. The large beer garden backs onto fields and offers both great views and horseys to spot — a delight for little equine fans. Children are a regular fixture here and very much welcomed by the attentive staff, plus the food is excellent too. As it’s only a three minute drive from another family favourite, the Arboretum, it’s the perfect pit stop for when the sun is shining.
The Perch, Binsey
We’ve got a bit of a soft spot for The Perch and it turns out that most of Oxford has too, especially parents! Perhaps it’s because of the massive garden that stretches all the way down to the river, or maybe the grown-up gastronomy on offer on the children’s menu (choices include steamed mussels and celeriac, wild rice & potato cakes no less!) Whatever the reason, this popular pub draws the crowds, especially in this sunny weather. ‘Maybe we need to scope it out first before we bring the kids!’ I hear you cry. How selfless!
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