The Oxford Retreat
The Oxford Retreat is a pub on Hythe Bridge Street, between the station and the city centre, with a part-covered terrace right on the river. Inside is an L-shaped bar with a cocktail-bar feel; outside, the decked terrace is one of the few places in central Oxford to drink by the water.
Photos
The Oxford Retreat
The terrace
The draw is the secluded decked terrace beside the water, partly covered so it stays usable in changeable weather. At weekends pizzas are served out there through the day, which makes it a relaxed spot for an afternoon with friends. On a warm evening it fills quickly, so arrive early if you want a table by the water.
Inside and at the bar
The L-shaped bar was refurbished in 2019 and has a cocktail-bar look, with tables round the edges. There are cask ales, typically Black Sheep and Purity, plus cocktails, sports on TV, Wi-Fi and an upstairs function room. Food is served at lunch and in the evening, and payment is by card only. Families and dogs are welcome.
Late openings and location
It is about 270 metres from Oxford station, so it works for a first drink on arrival or a last one before a train. It stays open late at weekends. Oxford Castle & Prison and St George's Tower are a few minutes' walk away, as is the Castle Quarter's cluster of restaurants. The pub was formerly called Antiquity Hall, closed in 2022 and reopened the following year, and it is listed as an Asset of Community Value.
Highlights
- Part-covered riverside terrace
- Weekend pizzas on the terrace
- Cask ales and cocktails
- 270m from Oxford station
- Family and dog friendly
Good to know
- Card payments only
- Family and dog friendly
- Upstairs function room available
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: camra.org.uk · closedpubs.co.uk