Turf Tavern

A jewel of a pub, and consequently one of Oxford's most popular. It's not easy to find either as it is approached through hidden alleyways, which, if anything, adds to its allure. Previously called the Spotted Cow, it became the Turf in 1842 probably in deference to its gambling clientele; it has also had brushes with literature, film and politics. It's certainly one of Oxford's oldest, with some 13th-century foundations and a 17th-century low-beamed front bar. Three beer gardens help ease overcrowding, but the eleven real ales and reasonably priced pub grub keep the students, locals and visitors flowing in.