Choose from Our Top Six the Branch Pub of the Year Competition Is Underway Again and When This Edition Comes out the Voting Will Almost Be Over

Home , Beer Bad, Enslow, Fringford, Hook Norton, Ruscote, Shenington

Issue 64 – Spring 2016 FREE – Please take one

Magazine of North Oxfordshire Branch of CAMRA

Choose From Our Top Six The Branch Pub of the Year competition is underway again and when this edition comes out the voting will almost be over. CAMRA members score pubs as they visit them and from these scores the Good Beer Guide entries and Branch Pub of the Year contenders are chosen (con- trary to some who believe the n Bitter & Twisted, Chipping n Black Prince, Woodstock. A committee sits round a table to Norton. It has an airy, modern 16th century pub with a river- pick its favourites!). In alphabeti- interior with two changing ales side garden which is the perfect cal order the top six this year are: from the likes of Purity, Stratford place to drink when visiting and St Austell amongst others. Woodstock or Blenheim Place, It has a raised patio area behind slightly away from the town cen- the pub from which you can tre (heading north on the A44). look out over the market square. It serves two regular beers, St Inside, large tables with seating Austell Trelawney and Tribute, at one end of the bar is popular with up to two guests, often with drinkers; with the emphasis from local breweries like North on dining at the other end of Cotswold, Vale or Hook Norton. the bar area. There are plenty of Famous for the Mock Mayor stools for drinkers at the bar or election and home to six Aunt n Bell Inn, Lower Heyford. A pub at the heart of its commu- by the windows to look out over Sally teams. A true local pub. nity, quite literally, sitting off the High Street. Continued on page 3 village square and a short walk from Oxford Canal it is popular BRANCH CIDER PUB OF THE YEAR with boaters, tourists and locals The North Oxon Branch alike. Two real ales, including the is pleased to announce regular Salopian Shropshire Gold that the 2016 Branch and an ever-changing guest, are Cider Pub of the Year is always available and there are the White Lion, Fewcott. always two changing traditional A presentation on 4th ciders/perrys. The multi-room February saw a packed Branch Cider layout gives plenty of nooks and pub enjoying a cider Officer Martin crannies to hide away in and the themed evening where, Batts (left) with Chris at the White garden is worth seeking out in along with the four ciders Lion, Fewcott good weather. always on offer, Tracy, (mum of landlord Chris) a cider cake with apple topping IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT had prepared gammon cooked made with Tutts Clump Rum Please note that the Banbury Beer & Cider in cider, banging apple, onion Cask cider. Sitting behind the Festival 2016 will now take place on and cider soup, both prepared bar were three real ciders; Lyme 18–19 November. See story on page 17 with Winkleigh Sam’s cider, plus Continued on page 3 Visit the CAMRA North Oxfordshire Branch website – http://northoxon.camra.org.uk/ 2 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Top Six Announced for POTY 2016 Continued from page 1 on handpump and three boxed behind the bar (they hold a cider festival in August). They have just won the Branch’s Cider Pub of the Year and are looking to do the double. Good luck to all the contenders and we hope you enjoy visiting the top six pubs in the from the cask. It may be off the branch as scored by our membership. The presentation of the n beaten track, but it’s worth the Horse and Groom, Caulcott. effort to find as it’s like stepping certificate to the winner will be A regular in the top six, sited back in time. The large garden announced on the branch web- on the main road from Lower is a haven in good weather. site in early March. Heyford to Middleton Stoney. The garden area is well used in Branch Diary the summer and the main bar All meetings start 8pm, other events is small and cosy with a fire in start as shown. Socials contact: Lynn winter months. The bar has four Baldwin (07790) 118341. handpumps with White Horse MARCH Bitter as a regular and three Weds 2: Mar Committee Meeting. changing guest ales. A restau- Tite Inn, Chadlington rant area feeds off the main bar Sat 5: Pub of the Year count. The area to form a dog-legged room. Exchange, Banbury. Counting n votes submitted by Branch mem- The French landlord holds a White Lion, Fewcott. bers to decide which pub will be Bastille Day beer festival in July. Another regular in the top six Pub of the Year 2016. Followed by n Peyton Arms, Stoke Lyne. having won twice before, but a trip to Warwick by train to visit some pubs. Another regular in this competi- now under new ownership. It APRIL has flourished since reopen- tion with its landlord, Mick the Fri 1–Sun 3: National Members Hat, running a tight ship. The ing and after a refurbishment, Weekend and AGM, Liverpool. pub, which has been unaltered including some major work See: http://camraagm.org.uk for decades, is part of the Hooky in their large garden, which is Mon 18th: Banbury Winter Beer popular in the summer. There and Cider Festival planning meet- estate and serves Hooky and ing. 8.15pm. Venue tba. Old Hooky straight are three changing ales always See Diary page online for latest info available with one a locale, usu- at www.northoxon.camra.org.uk/ Branch Cider Pub ally XT, and four ciders – one Of The Year CAMRA North Oxon Branch Contact List Continued from page 1 Email addresses are followed by northoxon.camra.org.uk/ Bay Jack Ratt (6% med sweet), CHAIRMAN Geraint Jones TREASURER Aspall Cyderkyn (3.8% med) and chairman@ geraint@ Simon Whitehead treasurer@ the very popular Flying Monk VICE-CHAIRMAN simon@ Skorpion Black (4% med sweet). Lynne Baldwin vicec@ lynne@ MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY BRANCH SECRETARY This one made even more drink- Paul Forrest membership@ Dave Lee secretary@ dave@ paul@ able having been lowered from BEER ON TAP EDITOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER its previous 6%. On handpump Steve Lympany bot@ Lynne Baldwin pubs@ lynne@ was also Winkleigh Sam’s Cider Tel: 07811 667507 PUBS PROTECTION OFFICER (6% sweet). CO-SOCIAL SECRETARY Brian Wray pubs@ On receiving the award Helen Jones socials@ helen@ BEER FESTIVAL CO-ORDINATOR Chris said: “We’re shocked and CO-SOCIAL SECRETARY Tim Wilkins bbf@ amazed to have won such a Russell Broom russell@ LOCALE COORDINATOR prestigious award. It’s been a BEER ON TAP ADVERTISING John Bellinger locale@ john@ EDITOR fabulous year for us, especially Oliver Sladen WEBMASTERS Martin Batts and our Cider & Pirate Festival over botads@ Geraint Jones webmaster@ BRANCH CONTACT August Bank Holiday. So here’s Trading Standards: Oxfordshire County to another year of supping the Martin Batts contact@ Council, Electric Ave, Ferry Hinksey Road, Tel: 07854 116408 golden nectar of our fair lands!” Oxford OX2 0BY Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 3 www.roseandcrown.charlbury.com Email: [email protected] Market Street Charlbury Oxon OX7 3PL Tel: 01608 810103 OPEN – Sun-Fri: Noon–1am Sat: 11am–1am BREW MONDAYS – All real ales FORTHCOMING LIVE MUSIC EVENTS £2.50, all day, every Monday See www.myspace.com/theroseandcrownpub • Up to seven quality real ales, two traditional as there are sometimes gigs at short notice ciders and a traditional perry Sat 19th March THE SEPIA SWING SHOW • Hoegaarden Belgian White Beer and TWINS Shipyard American Pale Ale craft beers on Sat 2nd April draught MONCKFEST featuring DAVID CELIA • Good selection of English fruit wines www.davidcelia.com • Pleasant courtyard drinking area Sat 16th April ROLAND CHADWICK • We serve on average 40 different guest www.rolandchadwick.com beers per month, produced mostly by Sat 30th April microbreweries from all four corners KRIS DOLLIMORE of the UK www.krisdollimore.com See website for other gigs North Oxon CAMRA Pub of the Regular VINYL NIGHTS – next one is Saturday, 26 September Year 2002, 2003, 2006 & 2009

Celebrating 26 continuous years in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide

Terms and Conditions: All prices and offers are subject to change. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

4 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Branch News Head Chef Dom Hewitt annual beer and music festival. (left) with Bar Manager ‘We like to keep the charities Pete Bilton at the bar at local and at our first monthly The Bull Inn, Charlbury quiz of the year a vote was taken to donate our 2016 funds to the Only a few Katharine House Hospice’, said months ago the Carol. This will be the third time previous owners the hospice will be the charity applied to convert chosen by the customers. the pub to resi- dential use, claim- The Exchange, Banbury ing it was impos- Offering an average of six real sible to run it ales, with a focus on local profitably. We can regional ales (including Vale and now see just how Phipps Breweries) this is one of crucial it is not to the pubs at the forefront of the allow pubs to shut Bull Inn, Charlbury Banbury real ale scene. without giving new owners the They are in collaboration with Since new owners took over this chance to turn things around, as Hook Norton to develop their lovely, feature inn on the cross- this dynamic example proves. own brew, but no set details yet. roads in the centre of town, it The Bull also has eight, top There will be a beer festival in has quickly established a name quality en-suite letting rooms. March/April and we hope to do for itself as a smart, comfortable Although likely to change (so another meet the brewer night place for drinking and eating check by calling 01608 810689) after the success of the last one. where bookings are strongly rec- it’s open Mon–Sat 12–11, Sun ommended, especially weekends. 12–10.30; with food Mon–Sat Red Lion, Steeple Aston 12–3 & 6.30–9, Sun 12–4. It reopened in December after Congratulations to Mel & Sarah a major refurb and is run by Pack Hare & Hounds, on achieving the landmark Taverns, a new company plan- Lower Wardington of ten years at the pub. They ning to establish a small portfolio took over the Red on February of quality establishments, with You can’t help but be impressed 1st 2006 and so have recently owner Charlie Crossley taking a by the fundraising capacity of passed that anniversary. leading role in the early stages of this small community Hooky To celebrate they visited Hook his first new venture. house. In 2015 it raised a mag- Norton Brewery and with the Bar Manager Pete Bilton looks nificent £11,000 shared between expert help of Rob, who is in after the three well-presented its two chosen charities; £9,320 charge of the pilot brewery, they real ales, which at present are for Warwickshire & Northants produced an ale to commemo- a Bull Bitter (brewed by Wye Air Ambulance, and £1,680 to fit rate the big anniversary. The Valley), the seasonal beer from a defibrillator at the village hall. result is Ryecatcher, a dark, red Fuller’s and one other (often a ‘It’s the customers and the beer at 4.3%. The name is a play Hook Norton ale but can vary). individuals who organise the on the local folly, (or eye-catch- Interior changes are many, various events who need to be er), and the ale features rye as with the bar moving to a central thanked. They’ve been amaz- an ingredient. position to allow a horseshoe- ing in raising money in the eight Beers normally featured at the shaped bar/restaurant area. years we’ve been fund raising’, Red Lion include Hooky, a sea- Individual tables and chairs give said landlady Carol Wixey who sonal such as Double Stout or a quality, period feel to the over- runs the pub with Jamie Murray. Nice Try, and lately something all relaxing ambience, while But this belittles the won- from the pilot brewery. It also comfy chairs around the main derful work done in-house at showcased the excellent range of fireplace offer a homely centre- themed nights like Burn’s, St single hop variety ales. piece popular with drinkers. Patrick’s, St George’s and the To help your beer down you Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 5 The Pear Tree Inn The Hook Norton Brewery Tap Scotland End, Hook Norton OX15 5NU Tel: 01608 737482 Email: [email protected] • An unspoilt traditional village pub • Traditional pub games including darts, • A range of Six Cask Ales dominoes & Aunt Sally • Always a fun selection of “Cocked Ales” • Open log fire • Discount for CAMRA Members • Three en suite letting rooms • Ale-2-Go • Large beer garden • Traditional ‘Pub Food’ • Walkers & dog friendly • No fruit machines, pool tables or jukebox • Quiz night every Sunday • Steak night every Saturday Open Friday & Saturday 12.00–12.00 • Sunday–Thursday 12.00–11.00 Food served every lunchtime 12.00–3.00 Tuesday–Saturday evening 6.00–8.00 & Saturday evening 6.00–9.00 PAY US A VISIT – YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED

6 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 must try their delicious hand- Tony Bass back behind made pizzas! Word is out they the bar – this time at are the best around, great top- The Carpenters, Middle Barton pings on the thinnest crust, and big enough to share. for the garden Coach & Horses, which will start Adderbury when the weather allows. There are This lovely old Wadworth’s pub regular month- is still offering the lowest priced ly music nights, meals in our Branch area with and an unused mains from £3.50 and Sunday Aunt Sally throw, roast £4, and is gearing up for should anyone a big celebration of the Queen’s want to start a Birthday on 4th June. team (any other With the planned road closure, pub teams are a family street party is likely to welcome). A overspill on to the village green charity quiz night with fancy dress, classic car, kid- will be held on March 10th in and Adnams Broadside at the dies rides, gardens open and aid of the local school, and the Deddington Arms Hotel. morris dancing. legendary August Bank Holiday With such variety it sounds Carpenters Arms, beer festival will be back. like a summer Branch social in Middle Barton Fox Inn, Westcote Barton this attractive village would gen- erate some enthusiastic support! Great news – Tony Bass is Ellie & Guestie had a successful Ye Olde Reine Deer, back after taking over here festive season and now have four early in December and selling real ales on the bar with London Banbury four real ales (three in quieter Pride and Hooky always avail- After the recent refurbishment times), which are mainly from able with two changing guest of the pub, the management has the XT range, including a 3.8% ales, that have included beers undergone a change too with Carpenters Ale which sells for from Cotswold Lion, Wychwood Tanicha Boneham, the former the princely sum of £3. The pub and Woodforde’s. manager, taking over the Three is a free house and Tony is look- Guestie is planning to hold a Conies, Thorpe Mandeville. ing to expand the range in time. children’s film club at lunchtimes The running of the pub will Currently open 6–11 Mon– on Saturday and will eventual- revert to the co-owner Jem Thurs, 6–1 Fri, 12–12 Sat and ly have an adults’ version in the Morey who knows the pub 12–9 Sun. This is likely to evenings. They have a new menu well and will put his new Beer change so please check as they out, and there will be a special Sommelier skills to work to plan to open in the day soon. As Mother’s Day menu for March ensure the Hooky beers are in we go to print the Carpenters 6th, so you can treat mum! great condition. Smokehouse has opened for bar- A beer festival is planned for beque smokehouse food. For the St George’s Day – running from Bonitos Bar, Banbury uninitiated this is meat, cooked the 22nd–24th April – with This bar in White Lion Walk, long and slow for about 14 plenty of beer and food and a closed late January with little hours on a smoker and includes celebration of the Queen’s birth- warning. We have no idea what pulled pork, brisket, ribs and day on 11th June when they will will happen to the site, though it burgers. There are vegetar- be holding a mini beer festival will be reported in Beer on Tap ian options, sides and a range with live music. They are also when it does! of mains as well as starters and looking forward to the start of Quart Pot, desserts. This is food with the the Aunt Sally season. taste turned up to eleven! Food Milton-u-Wychwood is served Mon–Friday 6–9, Sat Deddington Village This pub, which closed some 12–2:30 & 6–9 and Sun 12–4. The four local pubs continue to years ago, has been sold to a Food is going really well and offer a great variety of different company called The Milton booking is recommended for real ales to their local drinkers Hare Ltd, which is associated busier periods. ranging from a wide selection with a couple who ran The Bell The pub has undergone a of Hooky beers at the Crown & at Stow. It is being renovated make-over with a whole new Tuns, the Charles Wells portfolio and is slated to reopen at the kitchen and is currently being at the Unicorn, St. Austell at the end of February as The Hare. re-thatched. Tony has big plans Red Lion and the Black Sheep They are on Facebook, Twitter, Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 7 Lower Heyford

21 Market Square, Lower Heyford, Oxon OX25 5NY 01869 347176

• Varied guest ales from all over the UK • Five minutes walk from canal • Large beer garden Open: • Families and dogs welcome Mon–Thurs 12–3pm & 5pm–11pm; • Lunch and full menu available Friday & Sat 12–11pm; Sun 12–10.30pm • Food served Mon–Sun 12–3pm & 6–10pm

8 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 and have a website at www. Landlord Andrew themiltonhare.co.uk. Smith and Chef Rahul However the land to the side Balehittal at the Cock of the pub is still owned by Inn, Combe developers who have put in yet another application to build two Cock Inn, houses on it. Combe Red Lion, Bloxham Seek out this The uncertainty of the past two great village years has become a little clearer pub in West as Fuller’s are selling this pub to Oxon where Mark & Sandra Page, the own- Andrew Smith ers of the Joiner’s Arms for nigh and Victoria on 15 years. Frazer-Smith They hope to have it back have worked open as a pub by June/July this hard in the last year with (last orders 9:45) with 10oz year. Our delight at this wel- improvements to the interior steak, chips, salad, onion rings come news is tempered by the and exterior. and mushrooms with half bot- consideration of two of the Their success is, in part, due tle of red, white or rose wine for three village pubs being in the to finding a wonderful regu- £10. The Sunday Lunch offer same ownership. Our reserva- lar chef, Rahul Balehittal, who is starter and a roast for £9.95, tions are shared by the local serves up a menu of English and with this, kids eat free (with residents, The Red Lion Hub, standard meals and sandwiches, a paying adult having the offer who have been campaigning and but also some popular curries they get a free kids’ roast). raising funds to buy the site as a and Indian dishes, all offered at There are two real ales avail- community asset. very reasonable prices. Food is able with Salopian Shropshire The Hub are awaiting com- available every day to eat in or Gold as the regular beer and pletion of the sale before they take away, except Sun evenings. two changing ciders. embark on refunding those The main bar has been Rock of Gibraltar, who have contributed to their restored and decorated in good Enslow Wharf share subscription. Please email taste, and the whole of the out- [email protected] if side of the pub has been redeco- The Rock has been serving up you, as a contributor, have had a rated. Three beers are on offer. new beers from far and wide, change of address. When I called in, there was the though locally they still sell We look forward to future Hook Norton’s Hop To It Jester the Fisher beers from Noke developments and hope that (4.2%), Doom Bar (4.0%) and and White Horse beers from this will result in local drinkers Cotswold Lion’s Hogget (3.8%), Stanford-in-the-Vale. having two viable outlets and all in good condition. The food is proving very pop- a greater selection of real ales Special events include Folk ular and the chef popped out to from which to choose. Nights on Tuesdays, providing have a chat, telling me the food Jolly Weavers, Banbury a range of music depending on is honest pub classics done with who turns up, and Piano Jazz a modern approach and include After a two-year hiatus, work with Nick Gill of Oxford Classic hand rolled fish cakes, seared seems to have restarted at this Jazz on Thursdays, 8-11pm mackerel and steak with fried pub in South Bar Street. The pub is open: Tues–Thurs: duck egg and black pudding. In the meantime, much work 12–3 & 7–11. Fri: 12–3 & 6.30– The Sunday meat raffle con- seems to have been done on cre- 11. Sat: 12–11.30. Sun: 12–4. tinues and they are hosting the ating letting flats above the pub, Closed Mon. Lamm ale festival in May with and extending the Voujon res- plenty of Morris dancing. taurant next door (under same The Swan, Banbury Cross ownership), so we think this has This rambling old pub in South Red Lion, Cropredy been on the back burner. Bar Street has had a makeover After several meetings trying By looking through the win- with a new look to the bar back. to re-negotiate their annual dows there is still a bar, and sig- Bell Inn, Lower Heyford rent with their Enterprise area nage on the front of the pub manager, Gary and Laura were side says “V Lounge @ the Jolly Lyn has confirmed there will left with no option other than Weavers”. The description is a be a beer festival this year, but to resign – the best offer being wine and cocktail bar, the out- dates are yet to be set in stone. unworkable in their opinion. look for real ale seems bleak but They have a special Steak After five years at the pub, you never know. offer from Mon–Thurs 6–10 they’re taking a break from the Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 9 10 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 trade and we wish them well. It A new real ale outlet remains to be seen what devel- in Banbury. Graham ops there. More news as it Harris at the bar of The Musketeer unfolds. The Star, Bicester Doom Bar as a regular with a The Star closed its doors over changing guest, two years ago now, and although currently Abbot the planning notices which were Ale. displayed outside detailing a Food will be proposed change to retail prem- available from ises have now been removed, 12–8 every day there appears to be little hope of and there is a it re-opening as a pub. programme of The Bell, Bicester live music to attract weekend This town centre pub con- custom. tinues to offer a wide range of beers from its three hand- The Plough, Bicester felt a need to write a note saying pumps. The management likes After a miserable couple of years that all six beers were in excel- to support local breweries for Bicester, with four pubs clos- lent condition with top scores so XT from Long Crendon ing in the last two years, there throughout. and Vale from Brill are fea- is at last some good news to The food menu is becoming tured regularly alongside the report with the re-opening of increasingly popular with its resident Wychwood Hobgoblin. the Plough under the steward- ‘proper’ home cooked pub food, From further afield Robinson’s ship of Joshua Khan. and prices are very reason- Trooper and Everard’s Tiger As briefly mentioned in the able considering it uses local- both proved popular recently. last edition, Joshua runs a Good ly sourced quality ingredients. For lovers of rock music there Beer Guide pub in Newbury and The 6oz burger, sirloin steaks is a live gig featuring local bands he is doing his utmost to ensure and fish pie are some of the very every Friday and most Saturday the Plough is also featured next popular dishes on our menu and evenings. year. Having been very taste- vegetarians are also well catered Red Lion, Horley fully refurbished, the Plough for. The homemade veggie burg- offers up to ten real ales at any er with griddled courgette and Our 2015 Pub Of The Year is one time. A number of these feta is a firm favourite along- running a St. George’s Day beer are from the Greene King sta- side the spinach, ricotta and festival, from April 21st to 23rd. ble but beers from St Austell, Shropshire blue lasagne. Open: 6–11 Thurs, 5–11 Fri, West Berkshire, Bath Ales and Free Saturday live lunchtime and Sat 12–11. They will have Hook Norton (among oth- music is back in the Oak Room; nine award-winning real ales ers) have been available since by the log fire. Traditional ses- including CAMRA’s beer of the the pub opened it’s doors again sions, concerts and occasional year 2015, Tiny Rebel’s Cwtch. in November. The house beer, weekend workshops continue The Musketeer, Banbury appropriately called Mister throughout the year. Bicester, is from Belhaven in After a short time here, it’s There have been some big Dunbar, Scotland. great to see Chris & Sandra have changes at this long established A varied menu, with much of returned the pub to the good estate pub on Ruscote Avenue the food locally sourced, is avail- old fashioned ‘hub pub’ of the which has been the subject of a able lunchtime and evenings village. Honest beer, great food recent major refurbishment. seven days a week. and a very warm welcome to all, New manager, Graham Harris, We wish Joshua and his team including dogs. has moved from the Dog & Gun all the best in this new venture. White Swan, Wigginton in North Bar Street and he and Bell Inn, Adderbury his partner Mandy Williams This idyllically-set rural pub have many years of experience Landlord Chris now offers six seems to have been shut more in the licenced trade. real ales on tap with his range of often than open over the last Both the interior and exterior Hook Norton beers. His skills in decade. It’s open now, though, of the pub have been improved cellar management have earned serving excellent local beer and as has the choice of beer. After this pub a very worthy place in good food. many years of keg only there is the Good Beer Guide 2016. The It’s no longer part of Hook now handpumped cask ale, with recent Cask Marque assessor Norton’s estate, but on a recent Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 11 • DELIGHTFUL PUB/RESTAURANT • TRADITIONAL CASK ALES • FINE WINES • FRESHLY COOKED FOOD • REFINED RESTAURANT • RELAXED BAR • OPEN FIRE • TERRACE DINNING • BEAUTIFUL GARDEN WITH DUCK POND • AUNT SALLY • LARGE CAR PARK Main Street, South Newington, nr Banbury OX15 4JE T: 01295 721166 • www.duckonthepond.com

12 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 visit was serving Hooky (in that three real ales are sold, very good condition and including Hooky. unusually cheap) as well as Butcher’s Arms, Nice Try, alongside Stratford Fringford Brewery’s Dark Star Porter. The pub has been run since The three regular real ales March 2015 by Trev Beadle including Black Sheep Bitter (the Chipping Norton butch- have been tasting good. The £3 er) and Linda Millar. It’s a a pint offer on selected beers lovely old ironstone building, gets the taps flowing on Mon- with an open fire and beams Friday from 5–6pm. lightened with fresh white The daily pub food menu, paint.It’s set in good walk- Weds & Thurs steak nights ing and cycling country and offer, Mon–Sat senior citizen you’ll often spot a red kite offers and take-away fish and nearby. chips early Friday evenings Current opening hours are are available at the bar or pre- weekday evenings and all day booked on 01869 277363. Saturday and Sunday (with The pub will again be a focal generous Sunday roasts avail- point for the village’s popular Candleford Beer & Cider able). Jen Allott and Mike Hendry – new faces at Festival on Saturday 11 June. The Hook Norton dray still The Bell, Shenington Muddy Duck, Hethe delivers on Wednesdays. The Bell, Shenington Peyton Arms, Stoke Lyne The current gravity-fed guest This recently reopened with beers include Skinner’s Betty Congratulations to Jean and new proprietors after its closure Stogs (4.0%) copper ale and, new Mick the Hat on their pub once in 2015. Jen Allott is the new to the pub, Phipps IPA (4.3%) again being in the top six pubs licencee who runs front of house a local favourite and award- in North Oxfordshire as final- whilst her partner Mike Hendry winning hoppy ale from Phipps ists in the Branch’s 2016 POTY controls the kitchen, who both NBC. Regular ales continue competition. have vast experience with years from Timothy Taylor, St. Austell The gravity-fed Hooky beers of working in Michelin star and and Hook Norton breweries. are always well conditioned and higher-end restaurants. Hook Norton’s Twelve Days went extremely well along with Jen, who originally grew up (5.5%) was on offer during the the congenial conversation over in the village, wants the pub to festive season as the choice dark the Festive/New Year season. remain a community pub but winter ale and was in good con- Red Lion, they are keen to stamp their own dition. Discussions are in pro- Stratton Audley mark on it with a simple but gress for a meet the brewer top quality menu which chang- evening in the summer. Three real ales on pump, cur- es daily. In addition to restaurant meals rently Timothy Taylor Landlord, The pub is a free house with (01869 278099) there are bar Black Sheep Bitter and Hooky two pumps maintained by Hook meals and snacks available and Bitter, along with a draught cider Norton which recently served as the warmer weather arrives are on offer. The pub’s food Hooky and Belhaven Grand the garden areas prove popular. menu includes a steak night on Slam but they are actively can- Wednesdays and a fresh fish vassing support from locals to The Fox, Souldern menu on Fridays (bookings on put on a third pump. Timothy Taylor’s Boltmaker 01869 277225). One of the main village events continues to be very popular as On Saturday 4th June, The is ShenFest, a village-wide music the current regular ale, while Red Lion is participating in a festival and Jen hopes to be other pumps have recently seen village festival raising funds in involved by possibly putting on Timothy Taylor’s Golden Best, support of the church restora- some live music. Otter Bitter and Hooky Bitter. tion and other village groups. Current opening hours: 12–2 Goff’s Twelfth Knight, a 4.5% Church Street will be closed Weds–Sun with special lunch mellow dark ale with light spicy off, the pub will be organis- offers & 7–10:30 Tues–Sat (food hints, was a festive season ale. ing a selection of real ales and is available 7–9). Two upcoming special events ciders, and there will be a pig are a steak night menu on roast, food stalls and live music The Harrow, Enstone Tuesday 22nd March and chef from local artists including The Having reopened recently as a Paul Rasteiro has designed a Brickwork Lizards. coffee house and bar, we believe Portuguese themed menu for Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 13 THETHE FOXFOX leafield

• Traditional good quality home-cooked pub grub • Traditional home-cooked Sunday roast. • Good selection of fine quality ales from local microbreweries. • Beautiful picturesque village • Large pub garden The Green Leafield, OX29 9NP Tel: 01993 878647 www.foxleafield.co.uk

Opening hours Bar: Mon–Thurs Noon Midnight • Fri & Sat Noon–1am Food: Mon–Sat 12–3/6-9 • Sun 12–3

14 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Tuesday 19th April. To book nations rugby matches are to be The Falcon is now very much for these events and for general shown live. a 21st century gastro pub with dining and group bookings, call Three Conies, an interesting changing menu 01869 345284. Thorpe Mandeville – we had a bouillabaisse and a Oxfordshire Narrowboats, dahl as mains on a recent visit. Tanicha Boneham, until recently The company is very commit- Heyford Wharf manager at Ye Olde Reine Deer ted to real ale with seven hand- With the loss of Oxfordshire in Banbury, has taken over at pumps dispensing good quality Ales (see Brewery News), David this old Hooky pub just over ales including Hooky, Oakley’s at this canal-side bistro/shop the Branch border in Northants Tiffield Thunderbolt and North has room for locally brewed bot- with her boyfriend Leigh since Cotswold’s Hung, Drawn & tled beers. He plans to continue it reopened early February. Our Portered. They also have a with Hooky, West Berks, Loose good wishes go with her. house special, Original Bitter Cannon, Wychwood/Brakspears, The Falcon, Warmington at 3.8%, developed by 12 beer but wants more local beers. enthusiasts within the company He’s prepared to stock any Just over our Branch border working with Tony Allen of the brewery in Oxon, Berks, South in Warwickshire this pub re- Phoenix Brewery of Oldham. Warks, West Northants – so if opened to great acclaim in early Version number eight is the one you are a local brewery and are December. Formerly the Wobbly the company were finally happy looking for a new outlet for your Wheel it has had an extensive to put their name to, and it is an beers please get in touch with refurb under the new ownership easy-drinking deep gold/amber Oxfordshire Narrowboats to of Brunning & Price, a small beer with a malty, fruity sweet- discuss details. pub chain of 50 pubs (some may ness and a rounded but refresh- For everyone else the selection have visited their Greyhound on ingly dry finish. Well worthy of of beer at this canal-side beer the A420 at Besselsleigh). a visit to sample this beer alone. haven is well worth a trip. Love Wine, Woodstock Planning Ahead: A Note From Love Wine are now offering pubs an on-trade wine supply Our Chairman launched a ‘revitalisation pro- and wine list design service. As ject’ to take a new look at the well as having a range of craft After much consideration I have Campaign’s aims, structures and beers and ciders for sale in their made a decision not to stand for processes, which is an opportuni- shop in Woodstock. re-election at the next Branch ty to engage with other Branches The list includes local brew- AGM in July. I’m finding less and CAMRA HQ to contribute eries such as XT, Cotswold time available to devote to the towards fresh ideas and policy Spring, Prescott, Loose Cannon, role than I feel it deserves and I changes and apply them across Compass, Donnington, Wiper think the Branch would be bet- the North Oxon area. Even for and True, Peasons Cider Co. ter served going forward by let- those with no aspiration to take ting someone else take over. an active role, please look out Siege of Orleans, Although the AGM is some for revitalisation feedback forms Carterton months away, I feel it’s only fair due to be sent out to all mem- to give as much notice as possi- Continuing with four real ales, bers in the coming months, and a ble, to allow time for volunteers local (Oxford) workshop in April. one of which comes from the who might wish to take up the Marston’s empire, and one cider Every member’s views deserve to position to come forward. be, and will be, considered. the closest micro-pub to our The North Oxon Branch has Branch has announced Siege I hope somebody will be keen much going for it, with a stead- to take up the role of branch Fest 2016! ily growing membership, our The event runs over the week- chairman. It can be challeng- excellent quarterly publication ing at times but is ultimately end of 26–27 March with ten Beer on Tap which consistently live artists. It will be £3 on the rewarding. Please give it some receives very high praise, and an thought. As a key position with- door with all monies raised increasingly popular beer festi- going to Libfest 2016. in the branch the role must be val attracting visitors from far filled come July else the future They are now doing a happy and wide. Our branch area also of the branch will be threatened hour on Mondays from 6–7 holds a wealth of fantastic pubs … which would be a shame, I’m when all real ales and cider as well as four breweries pro- sure everyone will agree. If any- are £2.50, and poker night is ducing top quality real ale. one has questions about the role, Wednesday from 7:30pm. They This is an interesting time please feel free to ask. also have live music and comedy to be involved in CAMRA. Cheers. nights on a regular basis. All six Chief Executive Tim Page has Geraint Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 15 16 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Main Branch Event Moves to Winter Date The 2016 Banbury Beer and days after being racked to ensure we hope that this will avoid Cider Festival was faced with it is in good condition before other local festivals. The change a dilemma over the date and being served, which means that of date will also enable the fes- venue for the event when, after a venue is required for a whole tival to showcase a lot more been held successfully for the week – and this has made it diffi- winter type seasonal beers last eight years at the TA Centre cult to find a new location. than usual, so it will be a great in Banbury on the second week- The popularity of the event chance for the beer lovers in our end in May, the usual dates were means that any venue must be Branch to try a range of beer not available for 2016. able to accommodate enough not usually available during the The Army, who are respon- people and be close enough to normal May Festival. sible for the Centre, were una- the centre of Banbury for the The other good things about ble to confirm a booking for the all-essential transport links. the BBCF will obviously contin- event as building work is being The conclusion reached is that ue – with live music, food and done in the garage building this the TA Centre has been such a friendly enthusiastic staff on the Spring, and this impinges on the great partner for North Oxon menu again. facilities available to CAMRA to CAMRA that we want to con- We plan to market the festi- the point that it would make it tinue using their facilities. The val as Banbury Winter Beer and impossible to run the festival. Festival for 2016 will therefore Cider Festival 2016 and whilst A number of alternative ven- be moved to a new date but stay this will give us an opportuni- ues were approached to find a at the same venue as usual. ty to offer a fantastic range of suitable location on the same After much deliberation the winter beers we fully intend to dates. The requirement is such new date has been agreed as return to the second weekend in that the beer needs a number of 18th and 19th November, and May for 2017. Golden Citrus Is The Star At Caulcott’s Meet The Brewer Event known and new hop varieties. We then sampled and offered John Romer, owner/ amount of hops feedback on Porter Mocca, a brewer of Turpin in Kipling and 3.8% dark porter with a lower Brewery, sited at then decided hop level but five malts giving Turpin Lodge in Hook to double it – aromas and tastes of Italian cof- Norton, held court at resulting in the fee and of chocolate. There were the Horse & Groom, well-hopped brew varied views on this beer from Caulcott in late January style John is now those who liked it to those who for a Meet the Brewer well known for. felt the bitterness, while not of a evening. In 2013, John set burnt nature, needed softening To kick-off everyone up Turpin Brewery – to which John advised adding was given Turpin’s award- 4.2% abv and then entered oats4. 2would% abv be the likely option. winning Golden Citrus, a Hoppy, Golden Ale his Elderflower Hoppy,Looking Golden Ale to the future, John 4.2% well-balanced light, Power into Hook has plans to expand the brewery hoppy flavoursome ale to sam- Norton Beer Festival where and recently bought a six barrel ple while John outlined his ear- it won Champion Beer. Soon plant and is working on convert- lier career in technical engi- after came Golden Citrus which ing a barn adjacent to the cur- neering and the music industry is now John’s signature beer, rent brewhouse, to install it. which took him to Continental which has been the first to sell Branch Chairman Geraint Europe and to Belgium where out at several festivals including Jones concluded by thank- he gained a love of good ales. Oxford and Stratford, and was ing landlord Jerome Prigent for It was later on, back in the Champion Oxfordshire Beer at hosting the evening and offer- UK, with Tim Young at the Oxford Festival 2015. ing congratulations on the pub’s Patriot Brewery, a microbrewery In an interesting discussion, selection for the final six pubs installed in an outhouse at the John explained the current hop in the 2016 POTY competition. Norman Knight, that John first industry trends and hop sup- Geraint also thanked John for brewed a beer, favouring very ply situation where the boom providing samples of his beers hoppy real ales like Thornbridge in micros and craft brewing has and an entertaining ‘meet the Kipling and Jaipur IPA. For resulted in hop shortages and brewer’ evening. that brew he determined the led growers to search for lesser Andrew Davison Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 17 The Lamb & Flag Hailey, nr Witney OX29 9UB • Tel: 01993 702849

• 17th century family run village inn • Family friendly • Dog friendly • Multi roomed pub exposed beams, inglenook fireplace and flagstone flooring • Good value homemade food catering for vegetarians • Great Sunday lunches • Large garden

Three ales on tap including local Wychwood ales Open: Mon 4–8; Tues & Weds 5–11; Thurs 12–11; Fri & Sat 12–11.30; Sun 12–10.30 Food: Tues 5.30–9; Weds 12–2.30 & 5.30–9; Thurs–Sun All Day 12–9

The Lion is full of character. From the welcoming flagged bar with roaring fire through to the relaxed dining rooms and beer garden, the emphasis of quality regional food and drink combined with traditional pub values is offered to all who visit us. Daily deliveries directly to the kitchen from the finest local free-range and artisan producers demands a regularly changing menu gov- erned by the season. We open at 10.30am daily for morning ground coffees and food is served all day, everyday from noon Beer Sale Fridays – all ales are £2.50! Wendlebury Road, Wendlebury Bicester OX25 2PW Tel 01869 388228 http://thelionwendlebury.co.uk Find us on [email protected] Facebook

18 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Round-Up Of Local Beer Festivals Rose & Crown, Charlbury, Winter Beer Festival 2016 This regular event in an other- wise quiet time on the real ale front in our Branch is the ideal excuse not to bother with a ‘dry January’, and yet again it proved to be a beacon of winter cheer to CAMRA members, locals and discerning drinkers who found their way via train or bus. With 24 real ales and five traditional ciders/perrys, there is always a great choice across all Doing a roaring trade at the styles and preferences, although top bar (above) and the back this year there was just one very bar (right) for the Rose & strong ale, which was Keltek’s Crown Winter Beer Festival Beheaded (7.5%). 2016 Dark beer fans had Brandon’s Slippery Jack and White Horse which was flavoured Black Horse Porter to savour, with all-US hops to and there were ample session give a full taste with ales such as Six Bell’s Detox lots of interest. (3.5%), Wye Valley’s Celestiale Two of my partic- (3.7%) and Purple Moose’s ular favourites were Ysgawen (4% elderflower ale). both 4.6% – Milton’s Highlights included the Minerva, a true Downton Honey Blonde (4.4%) hopfest with a multi-layered fla- ish, and Animal’s Manta Ray a and GWB’s Moose River (5%) vour from start to lingering fin- triple hopped pilsner-style ale which had a huge complexity Beer Festival DIARY live music. 50+ real ales & cider/ perry. Starts noon from the added American green APRIL JULY hops. 21–23: Red Lion, Horley St 15–16: Horse & Groom, By far the most interesting ale George’s Beer Festival. 9 real ales Caulcott Beer, Cider & Music was Bad Seed’s Orange & Rose- 21–23: Gloucester CAMRA Beer Festival. Noon–11. BBQ & live mary Belgian Pale, made with Festival, Blackfriars Priory. 100 music the zests of 600 oranges which real ales & 30 ciders 16: Hook Norton Festival of Fine was almost luminously hazy. A 22–24: Fox Inn, Westcot Barton St Ales. 127 ales last year. Live definite ‘marmite’ beer which George’s Day Beer Festival. Food music punters either loved or hated, available. 16: Buckingham Beer & Music 27–1 May: Reading CAMRA Beer Festival. Noon–11. Buckingham but one that was hugely reward- Festival, Christchurch Meadows RFC. 30 real ales, 8 ciders/ ing for those prepared to push (new location). 550+ ales last year, perries. BBQ & live music the boundaries to experience a plus huge selection of cider/perry AUGUST fascinating Belgian-style tripel 30: Witney Beer Festival, St. Mary’s : Great British Beer Festival, with an orangey twist. Church. Starts noon 9–13 JUNE Olympia, London Hot food was served all week- SEPTEMBER end by the Charlbury Riverside 4: Chadlington Beer Festival, Memorial Hall. Starts noon. 20 9–10: North Cotswold CAMRA Festival crew, to raise money for real ales and cider plus wine and Beer Festival, Moreton-in-Marsh their 2016 festival on the Mill- Pimms. BBQ & entertainment cricket ground. field on 23–24 July. 11: Queen’s Birthday Mini Beer 9–10: Ardley with Fewcott Beer Landlord Tom reports that it Festival, Fox Inn, Westcot Barton. & Cider Festival, Village Hall. 24 real ales & 10 ciders/perries. was another great success with BBQ & live music a steady trade all weekend he 11: Candleford Beer & Cider Festi- BBQ & Live music val. Cricket Ground, Fringford. 30 24: Stonesfield Septembeerfest, enjoyed spending with a friend- real ales & 10 ciders/perrys. Food Stonesfield Village Hall ly, fun-loving bunch of people. stalls and live music NOVEMBER Let’s hope more festivals join 25: Charlbury Beer Festival, Charl- 18–19: Banbury Beer & Cider this annual event to help cope bury Cricket Club. Food stalls & Festival, TA Centre, Banbury with those long winter blues. Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 19 at Fewcott WHITE LION OX27 7NZ Tel: 01869 346676 Email: [email protected]

Opening Times Monday: Closed Tuesday: 16.00–23.00 Pub Quiz (20.30) Wednesday: 16.00–23.00 Thursday: 11.00–14.00 & 16.00–23.00 Friday: 11.00–14.00 & 16.00–23.00 Saturday: 11.00–00.00 Sunday: 12.00–22.00

• Regular changing Real Ales • Hand pulled Real Cider • Large Pub Garden with Pirate Ship • Real log Fires • Darts. Bar Billiards. Aunt Sally • Pizzas and Paninis available Thurs/Fri/Sat • Homemade cakes Thur & Fri lunchtimes • BT Sport & Free WIFI

9 High Street, Bodicote Banbury OX15 4BZ http://www.ploughbodicote.co.uk/ Tel: 01295 258909 Open: 12–3pm & 5–11pm daily Lunch 12–2pm • Dinner 7–9pm (No food Sun evening & Mon) Traditional village pub with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Good food is served using the finest locally sourced ingredients, famed for its generous portions! Private parties can also be catered for with a choice of delicious buffets. The Plough features in the Camra Good Beer Guide so you can be sure of a well kept pint of real ale here too. Wifi • Dogs welcome • Family friendly • Lovely, secluded, courtyard patio garden Home-made, reasonably priced, food, from an extensive varied European menu catering for all tastes which can be eaten in the bar, the garden or the restaurant area. Selection of fine Wadsworths ales always on tap Four handpumps • Real fire • Newspapers

20 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 New CAMRA Beer Days Out Book 101 Beer Days Out ist wanting to explore ies – Shepherd Neame, Tim Hampson (Author) our rich beer and brew- Harveys, Ringwood 2015 CAMRA Publications ing culture. From his- and of course Hooky £12.99 (discounted on the toric city pubs to beer – Faversham hop fes- CAMRA website and others) festivals; idyllic coun- tival, a hop farm fam- ISBN-13: 978-1852493288 try pub walks to rail ale ily park, two rail ale trails; guided brewery trails on the Bluebell With our recent acquisition of tours to serious brew- and Watercress rail- a motorhome and time on our ing courses – the UK ways, a day out at the hands, this revised and updated offers a huge variety of Ascot Racecourse beer CAMRA publication was first beer and brewing expe- festival as well as ‘six of on my Christmas wish list, and I riences, ordered geographically the best’ to include a pub crawl was not disappointed! with full visitor info and colour round Oxford which most of us Tim Hampson has compiled photography. could name! 101 exciting and unusual experi- Our own area features in Our local Pear Tree gets a ences for any beer lover to visit the South East section where mention in the section on Hook around Britain. It is the perfect you will find 14 sugges- Norton Brewery, as does The handbook for the beer tour- tions including four brewer- Sun in the same village, both in connection with accommo- dation for visitors wishing to Beer On Tap On Its Travels do a brewery tour. The Castle Queen Elizabeth, pictured with at Edgehill and Ye Old Reine Tim Wonnacott, a self-declared Deer in Banbury are included supporter of real ales. in a section on the Civil War It was when David appeared but here Tim falls into the trap on board with his Beer on Tap of the popular local myth that that attracted Tim’s atten- Cromwell personally used the tion and when he saw it was a latter for which there is no doc- CAMRA publication, he was umental evidence – the Globe very keen and willing to pose for Room therein merely being the picture. used by parliamentarian forc- The ship acknowledges that es but the ‘headquarters of his there’s a limitation to serv- (Cromwell) army’ it was not and ing cask ales but they do sell neither is it recorded that the Old Speckled Hen as standard man himself sat there ‘in judge- keg ale as well as a selection of ment of the Royalist trials’! That bottled ales including London apart and the fact that the out- David Dean of the White Lion Pride, Marstons Pedigree, Jaipur dated Hooky ‘Progress is meas- Fewcott at the Cunard Princes IPA, Old Thumper and St ured in pints’ logo is used, the Trust Auction aboard The Peter’s Honey Porter. book will provide us with many suggestions for our travels. Here’s a photo of I hope to report back on our Tom Longfellow, Bar progress in a future edition of Manager of the Rose Beer on Tap. We currently plan & Crown, Charlbury, to have a drink in the 100-year- checking out an arti- old pub at Beamish Open Air cle or two in a recent Museum, travel by steam train issue of Beer on Tap to the Snowdonia Rail Ale festi- on the summit of Ruku val, meet some shire horses in Pichincha (15,413 ft), Kent and with the Banbury Beer a mountain peak just and Cider Festival 2016 maybe outside of Quito in featuring Yorkshire beers we’ll Ecuador. visit some pubs in York as well Unfortunately, there as admiring the only UK’s only was no great view as cooper still working in a brew- he was well into the ery at Theakston’s in Masham. clouds at that altitude. Andrew Davidson Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 21 Give us a call to book a table on 01295 730750 and come and enjoy our Traditional Comfort Pub Grub, with a good selection of Hooky Ales, Ciders and other beverages to choose from. https://www.facebook.com/Butchers2015 Family friendly – Food served swings adjacent to pub Tuesday–Friday car park 6.30–9pm Dog friendly Saturday/Sunday 12–4pm and Saturday Cyclist and Walker 6.30–9pm friendly! Earlybird discounts Hook Norton ales on meals between Large grassed garden 6.30 and 8pm with excellent views Sunday roasts Hidden gem Opening hours Recently refurbished Tuesday to Friday interior 6-11pm Ales from the cask Sat/Sunday 12-11pm including three Hook Closed Mondays Norton ales and one Quiz last Wednesday of guest ale. each month Tel: Shutford Road 01295 730 750 BALSCOTE Oxon OX15 6JQ

3 REAL ALES Two large superior 10 REAL CIDERS en-suite Homemade rooms lunches Large flower- Mon–Sat 12-2 filled garden

OPENING HOURS Roaring log Mon-Thurs fires 11-3 & 6-12 Fri 11-3 & 5-12 Family and Sat/Sun 11-12 dog friendly

SAME FAMILY RUN PUB FOR 40 YEARS OX15 4LZ www.bloxhampub.co.uk 01295 720383

22 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 ACVs): A Beginner’s Guide! It was something I’d been con- The pub’s details are required from different sidering for a while; getting including address and a descrip- households, one of my local pubs listed as tion of the pub and its bounda- but the form an Asset of Community Value ries and the land registry docu- allows for 26. (ACV), but never got round to. ments indicating whether it’s a Having brought There was always an excuse – freehold or leasehold. This was the form down to the pub one ignorance of the process being simple as I emailed CAMRA Tuesday evening and asking number one and of course time. at [email protected] with the (nicely) everyone in the pub – However, having read Brian details of the pub (including its which included people from Wray’s article on ACVs, in the post code) and they sent over Carterton and Chipping Norton last Beer on Tap, I decided the both the land registry docu- who use the pub regularly – I time was right, and having col- ments and the boundary infor- left the form with the landlord lected a form from Chairman mation. It took about five days and went back to check several Geraint (who also gave me a from sending the email to times before finally collecting it brief explanation); I was off! receiving all the information, with a full list of 26 names after The forms are available which was printed off and filed five days. from your local council web- with the forms. I put all the paperwork in sites at http://www.westoxon. Next, and most important- an envelope and posted it to gov.uk/residents/communities/ ly, the form needs a descrip- my local district council, West community-rights/ and http:// tion as to why the pub is impor- Oxfordshire, and I’m waiting for www.cherwell.gov.uk/index. tant and warrants the protec- their response. Once I hear back cfm?articleid=9425 or from the tion of an ACV. This is where from them, I will of course put CAMRA website at www.camra. the landlord’s input was essen- the news in Beer on Tap – but org.uk/list-your-local. tial as a chat, over a pint, gave until then I’ll have to wait to see Once in possession of the me all the details of what the if my council attaches the same forms they are fairly straight pub does for the community. As importance on the Fox as I do! forward with one individual tak- well as a meeting place for locals I would encourage anyone to ing the lead and filling in their it was amazing to see what else have their pub listed. It’s not a details as a point of contact. the pub does for the local com- lot of effort to add protection Firstly I approached the land- munity, from catering for big to your local amenity, because lord to gauge his response and events, wakes, christenings and once it’s gone it’s gone! seek his support, with this in the weddings to film afternoons for Pubs in our Branch which bag I moved on to the form. children and quiz and poker have the protection of an ACV: The form demands that the nights and much, much more. • Barley Mow, Upper Heyford group applying for the ACV Finally came the list of 21 • Bell Inn, Shennington listing have a name, and this other individuals who were pre- • Bell Inn, Charlbury caused some debate in the pub, pared to put their names to my • Butcher’s Arms, Balscote but eventually Tim came up application. We needed 21 sig- • Carpenter’s Arms, Middle with “The Fox for Life Group”. natures, and they have to be Barton • Cock Inn, Combe ‘Locals’ Good For Your Wellbeing • Duke of Cumberland’s Head, Clifton A recent report from Oxford • People in city centre bars may • Gardiner Arms, Tackley University reveals that people be in larger social groups than • Hand & Shears, Church who have a ‘local’ pub are not those in community-oriented Hanborough only significantly happier than pubs, but they are less engaged • North Arms, Wroxton those who do not, but also have with those with whom they are • Pear Tree Inn, Hook Norton higher life satisfaction and have associating and have significant- • Quart Pot, Milton-under- more close friends. It found: ly shorter conversations Wychwood • People who have a ‘local’ and • Those who were casual visitors • Red Lion, Bloxham those using community-type to the pub, and those in larger • Seven Stars, Piddington pubs have more close friends pubs, say they consumed signifi- • Sun Inn, Hook Norton on whom they can call for sup- cantly more alcohol than those • White Horse, Stonesfield port, and are happier and more drinking in their local or smaller • White Horse, Duns Tew trusting of others than those community pubs If your local isn’t on this list who do not have a local. They • Limited alcohol intake improves perhaps it’s time to do some- also feel more engaged with wellbeing and some social skills, thing about it! I hope mine will their wider community cognitive abilities and health. be soon… Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 23 ASTHALL & SWINBROOK CIRCULAR By Keith Rigley

Beer on Tap Pub Walks Two beautiful country pubs on a charming walk in the Windrush valley Distance: Just under 4.5 miles. gle keep straight on along a way- Walk up the slope ahead then Allow: Around 2–2.5 hours. marked bridleway by walking turn left on a dirt track where Map: Explorer OL 45. through a gap to the left of a gate. it bends round to the right (a Parking: The Maytime Inn has a Keep along on the bridleway as it wooden sign points up this track car park (call first if you plan to eat continues uphill, but you will be marked Swinbrook, Fulbrook, or drink after the walk) or park on glad to know that the route soon Widford, Burford). Carry on up the road in the village. levels out, then you eventually the slope on this dirt track, go With your back to the front door reach a narrow single-track road through a pedestrian gate to the of the pub, turn left to walk back where you need to turn left. The left of a large gate and continue to the green triangle and turn left road is quiet and very pretty as on in the same general direction to walk along a very quiet road you walk downhill with woods on where you soon walk along the As you leave the village, take each side with plenty of space on field edge, keeping some large the left fork and cross the stone verges if you encounter a car. trees to your right. There are bridge ahead. Keep along the On joining a larger road just great views on this part of the road around a couple of sweep- past some 30mph signs, turn walk. ing bends then walk up the hill right, walk past some cottages and Where the wood on your right ahead. then take the left fork at a trian- bends round to the right, strike When you reach a green triangle marked with a cul-de-sac sign. out straight ahead (you might be able to see a well-

Payne’s trodden path ahead), Farm Cottages and walk down the To Fordwells slope ahead. As you & Leafield go down the slope, the path bends round to the right, where To Fulbrook you need to aim for a gate ahead. Walk through the pedestrian gate to the side of a large gate then head up another slope on a green lane. You will soon reach

Dean Bottom To a narrow tarmac road, Swinbrook Asthall Leigh where you need to Manor turn right. Keep on Farm Old Farmhouse along this road where Widford village it soon goes down a dip, where you will The find two waymark Swan signs close to each Widford other at the bottom of the dip. Take the first To path (signed Widford Burford Asthall ½ mile) and cross over Farm a stile. Walk ahead The into a lovely green Maytime Asthall valley (called Dean Bottom) as it slopes To A40 & A40 To A40 Worsham gently downhill. Follow the course of 24 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 the valley and soon you will walk Note that the last gravestones the field. Next to the gate you’ll through a gate where you can see you see before reaching the find a stone stile which you need the isolated church of St. Oswald church are those of the Mitford to cross, then walk ahead, keep- and the deserted village of Old family (Nancy, Unity, Diana and ing a stone wall and barbed wire Widford on the right. The church Alexander). This church is also fence on your left. Where the is well worth a visit as it has very worth a visit as it contains some wall bends round to the left, keep old wall paintings and unusu- impressive reclining effigies of straight on, aiming to the left of al wooden stalls. The village is the Fettiplace family (who, like a large tree ahead where you will believed to have been abandoned the Mitfords, were a famous local find a stile. around the time of the Black family and who are buried there). Make sure that you take the Death in 1349, possibly when the After passing the church you larger stile which takes you into locals left to work on large estates walk down some steps to reach the next field (there is no right as farm workers were hard to find the road through the village of of way if you take the other due the number of people who Swinbrook, where you need to stile to follow the course of the died in the plague. turn right. Follow the road as it river). After crossing the stile, To continue the walk, go passes a green area with a stream head diagonally right, aiming through the gate at the bottom of and keep on to eventually walk for the stone bridge over the Dean Bottom and head towards round to the right to find the River Windrush. Cross a wood- a cottage – but don’t walk up to drinking area outside the Swan en stile by the bridge to find a a gravel track leading to the cot- Inn just before the stone bridge. road, where you turn right to fol- tage, you need to turn left just If you don’t visit the pub, to low it back to where you started before the grounds of the house continue the walk you need to the walk by turning right at both and walk into the next field climb a stone stile on the left, green triangles ahead. where you will see a well-trod- on the outside of the corner, just Pubs on the walk route den path ahead. Keep along this past the ‘Welcome to Swinbrook’ track, first crossing a double- road sign. If you to to the pub, The Swan, Swinbrook, Oxon OX18 stile and then aim for gate in the as you leave the front door, look 4DY. www.theswanswinbrook. co.uk. Tel: 01993 823339. Email: stone wall ahead. Go through the left to find the waymark (signed [email protected]. gate and walk along a very nar- Asthal ¾ mile) over the stone Otter Bitter and two beers from row path between stone walls stile just to the right of the road- North Cotswold Brewery on sale which leads into the churchyard sign. As you enter the field, walk last visit. of St Mary’s Church, Swinbrook ahead, keeping a hedge and trees The Maytime, Asthall, Oxon OX18 (don’t take a different path on on your right, then after passing 4HW. Tel: 01993 822 068. Email: your right at the end of the path the end of the property on your [email protected]. Three ales between the walls) and follow the right, strike out slightly diagonal- which vary but often include beers path as it goes to the right of the ly left across the field ahead, aim- from North Cotswold, Abingdon church. ing for a gate on the far side of Bridge and Purple Moose. Banbury Guardian’s Pub Of The Year Is The Pear Tree ing a good pint of beer and he their friends were too young to runs the Cask Ale Training and be allowed in. They’ve got used The Pear Tree in Hook Norton Appreciation Course for the to buying loss-leading alcohol scooped the coveted award of Hook Norton Brewery along in supermarkets and drinking Banbury Guardian Pub of the with fellow CAMRA member in parks or the homes of friends Year, from a short list of ten Paul ‘Monty’ Montague; the where parents either don’t mind pubs in Banbury and the sur- monthly course is attended by or don’t know what these young rounding villages. publicans and their staff. people are doing. The competition saw peo- John has been running pubs “Pubs aren’t just about selling ple vote for their favourite pubs since 1981 when he was man- alcohol, they are places where and John Bellinger, landlord ager of the Truman’s pub The people can go to socialise with of the Hook Norton Brewery Unicorn in Camden Town, and friends and meet new people in Tap spoke of his delight at win- took over the ‘Tree’ in 2013. He an environment which is safe for ning the award. “It’s absolutely believes that more should be both men and women alike!” fantastic news! We were run- done to make pubs and cask ale John and wife Trisha’s tradi- ners up in the CAMRA PotY more inviting to the younger tional single bar hostelry, dates competition, which we won generation. He said, “There is a back to the 18th Century, and when we were at the Bell Inn in whole generation of people who it also has three en-suite letting Adderbury back in 2008”. have never used pubs, either rooms which are busy through- John prides himself on keep- because it’s un-cool or because out the year! Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 25 Westcote Barton THE FOX Oxfordshire OX7 7BL FORTHCOMING BEER FESTIVALS AT THE FOX St George’s Day Beer Festival 22nd–24th April Open: 12–12 Friday and Saturday (Food served: 12–3 & 6–8) 12–11 Sunday (Food served: 12–5) Lots of real ale available, with 10p per pint donated to charity Queen’s Birthday Tel: 01869 340338 Mini Beer Festival Pub open – Mon: 5–11, Tues–Thurs 12–11, Saturday 11th June Fri & Sat: 12–12, Sun: 12–11 Open: 12–12 FOOD: Tues–Sat: 12–3 & 6–9 (no food Mon) (BBQ menu served 12–9) 10p a pint donated to charity Selection of real ales always available Live music

26 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Roundup Of Local Brewery News Hook Norton ceased production and vacated The National Trust estate at Hooky is re-launching its Hooky its premises in Marsh Gibbon. Waddesdon Manor commis- Ale Trail. This was done a few XT sioned a unique beer made with years ago and I still treasure my quinces. The quinces are grown pint tankard! It is also taking a The new annual on the estate and XT worked stand at Craft Beer Rising on special is XT16, with them to create a very spe- the 26–7 Feb at the Old Truman a punchy 6% cial bottled beer. Quince Ale Brewery in London. Belgian-style (4.2%) will be available exclu- The brewery now exports its IPA. Quadruple sively in bottle from Waddesdon beer all over the world, with hopped with Manor from the spring. Australia, Russia, Italy, Sweden, some of Europe’s XT are currently working on Germany and Finland all lucky finest greenery. Special Belgian packaging their beers in cans. recipients of our local brew. malts and a European Union If trials go well, the cans will be Seasonals in the coming of hops, all presided over by available later this year. months are Hooky Gold (March a Brussels Abbey Ale yeast. The next brewery open day and April) and Hop To It a 3.8% Appropriately, the XT Brewery is on St George’s day, Saturday light quaffable ale (March). May is built on the site of an 23rd April, from 10:30. Free sees the arrival of a special beer Augustinian Abbey. Entry, all beers £2 per pint. to celebrate 167 years of brew- The Animals Chadlington Brewery ing at the brewery with 167, a have also been 6.7% ale described as similar to busy with two The Chadlington Brewery owner Diamond reserve. Also in May new cask beers. has had a very successful launch and June we’ll see Drayman’s Big Foot is a of a cask version of his 4% abv Droop, a 3.7% light brew with a noble hopped Golden Ale to the point where complex hop character. 4.6% crisp pale the first batch has sold out (note ale. ‘Noble’ hops that the original beer launch was Chiltern are particular all bottled beer). Congratulations to Chiltern for historic traditional varieties, He is now brewing another brewing their 2,000th gyle (the many of which are grandparents batch and is actively looking for amount of beer produced in a of the newer ‘trendy’ strains. pubs who want to take it. If any single brew), in just 36 years, an Animal Shark is a transatlan- landlord is interested, they can amazing achievement and a suit- tic Anglo-American style amber call Jason Chipchase direct on able cause for celebration. It will ale, with a battle of English and 07931 482807. Although Jason be a bottle-conditioned classic American hops and a unique doesn’t brew it yet (his brew- IPA in the making, using pure Anglo-US yeast blend. ery may be on-stream this year Maris Otter malt and highly There are also two new ‘craft’ on a farm in Chadlington) it is hopped Bramling Cross and beers for bottles brewed to his recipe, and I found English Cascade hops. and keg. Perfect it to be a very accessible beer The final result won’t be ready for Easter is with wonderful balance. As it’s to drink for several months. Rabbit 5% so new it is likely to be of great Brewer Dave McGovern says: Motueka IPA, interest to any local beer drink- “This IPA should be a true clas- such a great hit ers. Bottles are also available, sic, light golden in colour with last year, it’s contact Jason for details. a fruity aroma, set off by a dry bouncing back West Berkshire Brewery malt middle and a long hop fin- again for 2016. ish and will be about 6% vol An um-bongo of a beer packed A few months ago people were strength.” Look out for it online with Kiwi hops and now in a asked it they would be interested (www.chilternbrewery.co.uk) and more nimble smaller suit. in attending a Homebrew Club on the shelves at the brewery The Oink! 4.6% Red Rye for budding home brewers and shop in Terrick, near Wendover. Yakima was one the response was incredible! of the first of With the arrival of the pilot Oxfordshire Ales the Animals and plant kit the launch will be at the It is with great sadness that the he’s back in bot- brewery on Sunday 13th March, Branch learned of the demise tle form. Red 10am–4pm. Bring along any of Oxfordshire Ales following rye malts and home brew creations, the more the winding up of the company hops from the interesting the better! Let them in January. Unfortunately it has Yakima Valley. know you’re coming by sending Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 27 28 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 an email to clare.candy@ welcome whether home Cross and Willamette. wbbrew.com. Brewer Steve brew fanatic or just a beer A caramel and bis- will head up the Club, dem- geek! cuit aroma is over- onstrating a live brew on the The seasonal spe- laid with light cit- new pilot plant kit. There will cial is Skiff (3.6%), first rus and berry fruit. also be an intro into the world brewed in 1996 for The finish is clean of brewing, a chance to chat Reading Beer Festival, and well balanced with their brewers and to meet a light gold ale, gen- between malt and other home brewers. All levels tly hopped with Bramling bitterness. Mallorca: Beaches, Sun ... And Craft Beer Cervesa Mallorca! – The Growth of Craft Beer in Spain Mallorca may not bring to mind artisanal beers savoured in mod- erate volumes – but the influ- ences of quality beer creeps further each year and the Balearic island is now home to several innovative micro-breweries. No holiday would be complete without researching my favourite local malt beverage and to meet up with any local brewers. Tucked away in historic towns across the island there are now seven local producers making a seriously wide range of beers. Finding them however did prove a little tricky. is widely available in supermar- chewy stouts. Their bottled I started my beer travels at kets is Cas Cerveser Galilea, beers are all bottle-conditioned. a wonderful bar in the capi- based in Puigpunyent. Sullerica Their draught beers are on keg tal: Palma. Instead of seeing from Soller on the western coast – but they are ‘keg conditioned’ the usual single ‘cervesa’ (often make a great black ale brewed by filling kegs with ‘live’ beer, unbranded), the long line of taps with cacao. The tiniest brewery unfiltered so the beers gradual- in the Cook & Beer Brewpub is Talaiotika from Porreres, run ly develop their own ‘fizz’ so no was a very welcome sight. by a winemaker and chef. extra gas is added. English, Belgian and a wide Beer Lovers Brewery from Bottled and draught beers are selection of local beers were Alcúdia have developed a great all generally hazy and quite live- available, served by an enthusi- local following for their wonder- ly which seems to be the mark astic barman-brewer who took ful English and American influ- of a ‘craft beer’. Continental and time to chat about local brewer- enced beers which exude more North American beer lovers ies and recommended bars. hop character than some of the know that good beer is defined In the same neighbourhood as other local beers. They have a on appearance: Cook & Beer is the Tramuntana patio bar and hold regular beer • Clear Beer = Filtered = Brewery and bar, named for the and food matching events. Industrial = Bad! beautiful mountain range that All the breweries produce an • Hazy Beer = Unfiltered = runs along the northern coast, astonishing range of styles, real- Craft = Good! and a bottle shop: Del Món; ising they are never going to which differs from the English both well worth searching out. compete for the ‘session’ lager notion that the method of dis- Forastera brewery has some market with ‘Euro-Fizz’ costs pense determines the quality: funky looking beers, located fur- being so low. As they need to • Keg Beer = Industrial = Bad! ther south towards the airport. persuade buyers to spend almost • Real Ale = Craft = Good! Heading east to Algaida, ten times more for their prod- Whereas really it’s simpler than Cervesa des Pla make an inter- ucts, there is a trend for a full- that: esting soured honey-wheat beer er flavour in a range from pale • Good Beer = Good! called Xeixa. Finding the beers wheat brews through to very • Bad Beer = Bad! can prove difficult, but one that convincing dark porters and Russ Taylor, XT Brewery Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 29 Planning Application News In Our Branch n Application for alterations associated hotel block into (registered in Cheltenham), at the Bull in Charlbury has nine houses. This is separate so the likelihood of it reopen- been approved. from the existing undecided ing could be very slim. Could n Application for alterations application for 12 houses in be worth reapplying for ACV at the Cotswold Gateway in the same space, but applica- status to give additional plan- Burford has been approved. tions for 11 or more prop- ning protection. n erties are obliged to make n Admiral Holland in Banbury Application for alterations at ‘affordable’ housing provision. the Old Bull in Burford has is believed to have closed The pub should be unaffected with the rumoured intention been approved. by either application. n of redeveloping the site. No Application for a house n Black’s Head in Bletchingdon response so far with attempts behind the Shaven Crown in has had its ACV status to contact the pub. Shipton has been approved. removed following sale in July. BrianWray n Oxfordshire Inn, Heathfield It is now owned by a com- has applied to convert their pany called EMN Property Closures Fall: Marble Win at CAMRA’s But CAMRA National Winter Ale Festival Says Tax Cut Chocolate Marble, a 5.5% time Champion Winter Beer chocolate stout from Marble from West Yorkshire’s Elland Still Needed Brewery in Manchester, was Brewery, won Silver this year. Pub campaigners are welcoming crowned 2016 Champion The Bronze award went to a fall in the number of UK pub Winter Beer of Britain Inncognito, a 4.8% port closures, but CAMRA is calling at CAMRA’s National stout from Plain Ales in on the government to cut beer Winter Ales Festival Wiltshire. tax to help reinforce the fragile held in February at Tring Brewery’s recovery. The Roundhouse, rich barley wine A report by independent Derby. Packed Death or Glory research company CGA Strategy with flavours of (7.2%), which shows that 27 pubs a week chocolate, coffee, featured at the closed in the second half of 2015, cocoa and liquo- Banbury Festival compared to 29 a week in the rice, the bottled in 2012, won previous six months. CAMRA is version of this Gold in the Barley now calling on the government premium beer won Wine, Strong and to continue and strengthen its Champion Bottle Old Ales category. support for pubs by further cut- Beer of Britain at GBBF It is brewed annually by ting tax to help keep beer afford- 2014. the Hertfordshire brewery able and pubs open. Nik Antona, CAMRA’s to commemorate the anniver- Particularly encouraging is National Director, said: “Marble sary of the Charge of the Light news that closures of local com- Chocolate is a more than wor- Brigade. munity pubs have fallen, down thy winner of one of CAMRA’s Look out for winning ales from 26 closures a week to 20. highest accolades. It embodies from CAMRA’s Winter Ales However, although the trend is everything a great winter beer festivals and from local brew- improving, CAMRA hopes the should be, packed with flavour, eries at the Banbury Winter government will help to keep complexity and depth, but still Beer and Cider Festival at the closures on the decline in the incredibly drinkable.” Army Reserve Centre on 18-19 longer term to save one of our 1872 Porter, the classic 6.5% November 2016. national treasures – the British dark ruby porter and three- Andrew Davison pub. The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions for publication. Copyright © North Oxon CAMRA 2016 Disclaimer: The views expressed in articles are those of individual contributors, and are not necessarily the views of the North Oxfordshire Branch, The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. North Oxon CAMRA accepts no liability in relation to the accuracy of advertisements; readers must rely on their own enquiries. It should also be noted that acceptance of an advertisement in this publication should not be deemed an endorsement of quality by North Oxon CAMRA. Edited by Stephen Lympany • Designed & Produced by Keith Rigley, Charlbury, Oxon • Printed by Information Press, Eynsham, Oxon 30 Beer on Tap – Spring 2016 Magazine of CAMRA North Oxfordshire 31