Ratings and reviews
James St. Tavern
James St. Tavern: A Must-Visit Spot for Live Music and Great Vibes in Oxford
Nestled in the heart of Oxford at 47-48 James St, England, James St. Tavern is a beloved local pub known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent live music, and welcoming service. Whether you're a local looking for a cozy spot to unwind or a traveler exploring the city's nightlife, this tavern is a destination worth experiencing.
James St. Tavern Offers an Unforgettable Experience with Live Music and a Friendly Crowd
Step into James St. Tavern, and you’ll immediately feel the electric energy of the place. The venue regularly hosts live music performances, ranging from acoustic sessions to full-band gigs. Patrons rave about the quality of the performers, the engaging atmosphere, and how the crowd remains lively yet respectful—a rare balance in the bustling nightlife of Oxford.
According to a recent review, one visitor noted: "Went into James St. Tavern on a Saturday night, great live singer. Busy but a nice crowd, no hassle or usual drunk idiots. The bouncers were polite and friendly, and the bar staff were incredibly attentive." This reflects what makes the tavern stand out: an organized and well-managed environment where everyone can enjoy themselves.
A Well-Organized and Customer-Centric Tavern in Oxford
Unlike many other crowded pubs, James St. Tavern takes pride in ensuring that guests feel comfortable and safe. The establishment is known for its well-trained staff and professional door personnel. One guest humorously mentioned that the bouncers resemble characters from Peaky Blinders, adding a fun and unique touch to the tavern’s identity.
Beyond security, the pub excels in customer service. From the moment you arrive, you'll be greeted with genuine warmth and attentiveness. Their team responds swiftly to inquiries, even on social media, making sure every visit is seamless and enjoyable.
James St. Tavern Delivers Quality Drinks and Generous Portions of Tasty Food
A pub experience isn’t complete without great drinks and delicious food, and James St. Tavern delivers on both fronts. The selection of drinks is impressive, with a wide range of beers, ales, spirits, and creative cocktails. Guests appreciate the reasonable pricing and the well-crafted drinks that complement the lively setting.
When it comes to food, the tavern has earned glowing reviews for its hearty portions and quality ingredients. One loyal patron shared: "We have enjoyed drinking and eating at James St. Tavern for a while now. The food is really good, generously portioned, and not overpriced."
Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a full meal, expect flavorful dishes prepared with care.
The Perfect Weekend Destination with a Beautiful Beer Garden
If you're looking for the ideal weekend spot, James St. Tavern should be at the top of your list. It’s a favorite among those seeking a laid-back yet energetic ambiance. Friday and Saturday nights are particularly special, as the pub transforms into a lively venue filled with music, laughter, and excellent service.
For those who prefer a more tranquil setting, the tavern boasts a beautiful beer garden. It's the perfect retreat for enjoying a refreshing drink under the open sky, away from the city's hustle and bustle.
James St. Tavern: A True Oxford Gem Worth Visiting
In a city known for its historic landmarks and rich culture, James St. Tavern has carved out a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. Its strong sense of community, dedication to quality, and commitment to customer satisfaction make it stand out in Oxford’s vibrant pub scene.
Whether you're in the mood for live music, great drinks, friendly company, or a relaxing outdoor space, this pub delivers on all fronts. Next time you're in Oxford, don’t miss the chance to experience the unbeatable charm of James St. Tavern.
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James St. Tavern Reviews (548)

Always a great time here! Unfortunately had a bad espresso martini, but our waiter Ro sorted us out with a new drink without a fuss, 100% recommend!less

We waited a while to be shown to our table then a further 45 minutes for one pint & 1 g&t to arrive. We weren't warned about the wait for drinks either... I wouldn't recommend.less

Can’t wait for this great pub to re open , Friday and Saturday nights are brilliant as the atmosphere is great , no hassle and great service . Live music is perfect and the garden is beautiful . As it’s just off the Cowley road you may think it’ll be rowdy and full of kids but I can assure the the Doorstaff ( who by the way look like they’re straight out of the peaky blinders ) look after the pub and customers very well . Well worth a visit for sure .less

The crisp variety at this place is outstanding , and don’t get me started on the size of the bags ... insaneless
A bit off the beaten track, this pub has changed a lot in the last few years. Once a student dive, it's now a fairly standard Greene King pub. And it's fine - I've nothing to complain about. The beer is fine. The staff are friendly. The outside seating is good for Cowley Road. We got a selection of small plates which were fine, but a tad small for the price and nowhere near as good as other places on the same road. In short, you can certainly do better than here but there's nothing with it.less