The Castle — Restaurant in Oxford

The atmosphere is exactly what you'd hope for in an old Oxford pub. Think low beams, cozy nooks, and that lovely hum of conversation that tells you people are genuinely enjoying themselves. It's got that lived-in feel, you know? Not trying too hard to be trendy, just comfortable and welcoming. They've got a solid selection of beers on tap, a good mix of local brews and some familiar favorites. I went for a pint of the local ale, and it was kept beautifully – always a good sign. I didn't have a full meal, but I did see some of the food coming out, and it looked like proper pub grub: hearty and satisfying. The chips, in particular, looked dangerously good. What really makes The Castle Pub stand out, though, is the people. The staff were friendly and efficient, happy to have a bit of banter without being intrusive. And the clientele seemed like a real mix – students, locals, and a few tourists all blending together, which gave it a really nice, unpretentious vibe. If you're looking for a traditional Oxford pub experience – good beer, a warm atmosphere, and no fuss – then The Castle Pub is definitely worth a visit. It's the kind of place you could easily while away an afternoon with a good book or good company. I'll certainly be heading...

I originally booked a table at this pub because the website advertises a roast dinner, and I had been craving a proper roast for days, if not weeks. Yet when we arrived at the pub, we were told that the Sunday roast menu had stopped - about a month ago. As a result, we ordered bangers and mash, and mac and cheese.

The bangers and mash was not the worst I've ever eaten, but it was by no means good. I've had better mash in a hospital, and the sausages were oddly chewy. Gravy was nice and thick, and the peas were cooked how I like them. The mac and cheese was deceptive, not really being mac and cheese at all. It was overboiled pasta with a layer of cheese on top, but no cheese throughout, more like a pasta bake than any mac and cheese I've ever seen. On a positive note, there was plenty of bacon in the pasta.

Staff were... okay. The woman at the bar didn't really come across as approachable, and the waiter who brought our food was overly defensive when I was discussing the roast dinner issue with my dining companion.

Overall, I would not recommend eating here. Perhaps it is good for drinking - I do not know, I don't drink alcohol. But for...

I come here to meet up with mates. I don't drink, but they have plenty of options for those that are more than just a pint & shot pub. I'm also disabled, which one would think would make this a place that I would have to make a pass on enjoying it.

More fool me. The staff asked me if I required help, and they helped me up the stairs (I'm incapable of walking or climbing anything), made sure that I was comfortable, and asked me what would I like. I'm not looking for anyone to treat me differently than other people. I'm just looking to meet up with mates without being stared at or judged. I don't feel that way at the Castle, and because of this I'm giving them an excellent review.

I've seen this pub trade hands over the years, and there was a time when it was fantastic, and others when it was in a sorry state. I'm really glad to see that it is back to being a place that welcomes all. There's no attitude. Support those that...