Oxford, England – Around Town
Oxford. There’s something inherently magical about college towns, much-less home to a university that is nearly 1,000 years old and the location for numerous Harry Potter scenes. Although our hotel was just outside of town, the 20 minute walk didn’t stop us from venturing in for dinner and ales each night. Oxford is charming and possesses some of the most impressive architecture I have ever seen. It’s dripping with history and makes me envious of the students that get to call it home.
We passed by Parade Street on our way into town each night. On Thursday nights the street is closed for an evening market, which vendors setup charming food, crafts and art stands by candlelight (!!).
One pub we returned to numerous times, Lamb & Flag, was along our walk to/from town. Like most places in Oxford, the history of this little pub super-secedes that of the United States. It was originally established as an Ale House in 1695 over the centuries it’s been the watering hole for literary legends – CS Lewis, JR Tolkien, to name a few. 
Named after the Prince, the Duke of Cambridge pub was established in 1981 after his birth. Although I adored the signage, it was one of the only pubs we went to that didn’t have anything on draft. Shame. 
FYI – When given the opportunity, ALWAYS always go with Marston’s Oyster Stout. I can’t say how many pints of this stuff I inhaled. A rich, dark, creamy stout – smoother than Guinness, it’s my absolutely favorite beer.
When visiting England, expect to spent around 90% of your waking hours in a pub. It’s the community center, gym, and food supply, all in one.