Pub Review: Victoria Arms, Oxfordshire

Pubs can be enjoyed for the food that they serve, the ales that they have on tap and the welcoming environment that they create. However one of our favourite aspects of a pub, and something that is often overlooked, is the setting. Obviously, this is not something that pubs in built-up cities can compete with. Quaint, out-of-town pubs always seem to have an individual character and charm about them. They create nostalgic memories with their homemade menus and specialised ales.

The Victoria Arms in Oxfordshire is one of these quaint and quintessentially British pubs. The Victoria Arms sits just outside of Oxford’s City Centre overlooking the Cherwell River. It has a large garden that extends down to the river, often enabling people to stop by for a pint after the thirsty work of punting.

The Victoria Arm’s picturesque setting is not the only reason that this pub is worth a visit; it offers a delicious female-friendly menu of crisp summer salads (as well as not-so-diet-friendly hot homemade pies). They also have a lovely selection of food boards: you can choose from a platter of cheese, meat or fish, each served with chutney and warm bread - a great light bite for enjoying with friends. I had the roasted red pepper to start, which is filled with feta cheese, olives and spinach. For my main I had the chargrilled chicken breast served on a bed of hot and spicy couscous, with a cool mint dressing. The first two courses were so nice that I could not resist trying the delicious hot chocolate fudge cake, which went perfectly with my pint of beer.

We would recommend going to the Victoria Arms to relax and enjoy good food and drink after an equally enjoyable day out visiting the stunning sites of Oxford.