The Turf Tavern is one of Oxford's most atmospheric pubs, tucked down a narrow alley — Bath Place, off Holywell Street — and entirely invisible from any main street. The building dates from the 13th century, though the current pub has operated since at least 1381. The multiple small courtyards and beer gardens, with their low overhanging walls and stone floors, are among the nicest outdoor drinking spaces in the city.
Finding the Turf is itself part of the experience — it can be approached from New College Lane through the arch under the Bridge of Sighs, or from Holywell Street down a passage beside the Hertford College wall. The pub serves real ales from a good rotating selection, and the food is standard pub fare. It gets genuinely busy, especially in summer when the courtyard fills up, but the labyrinthine layout means there's usually a corner to find.