The Bear Inn, Oxford
The Bear Inn is a tiny, low-beamed pub on the corner of Alfred Street and Blue Boar Street, just north of Christ Church. A tavern since 1774 in a 17th-century building, it claims a history running back to 1242 and is famous for walls covered in thousands of cut-off ties.
Photos
The Bear Inn, Oxford
The tie collection
In 1952 landlord Alan Course started offering half a pint in exchange for the end of a customer's tie. The habit stuck, and more than 4,500 tie ends from clubs, regiments, schools and colleges now line the walls and ceilings in glass cases, each with a label. Spotting a familiar crest is part of the fun. Tie owners still turn up looking for their old school or club.
How old is it?
The building was probably put up in the early 17th century as a house for an ostler and became a tavern, originally the Jolly Trooper, in 1774. It later took on the name and story of the older Bear Inn on the High Street, which is why the pub is often listed among Oxford's oldest. It is Grade II listed. The site itself was recorded in a bequest by Lady Christina Pady in 1241, and the building stands on the former churchyard of St Edward's church.
Visiting
The rooms are small, so it fills quickly in the evenings and during term; mid-afternoon is the easiest time to get a seat. Christ Church, the Covered Market and the High Street are a few minutes away, and the Chequers, another old pub, is just round the corner.
Highlights
- Tavern since 1774 on a site linked to 1242
- More than 4,500 tie ends on display
- 17th-century Grade II listed building
- Steps from Christ Church
Good to know
- Very small rooms; go early or mid-afternoon for a seat.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: en.wikipedia.org