Heverlee 0623
Heverlee 0623

About us

The Turnpike was built over two hundred years ago, but was originally known as The Bunch of Grapes. In 1719, this section of the Stokenchurch to Woodstock highway became part of the Turnpike Trust. To the south of any existing building, a cottage and toll booth were constructed and a gate was put across the road. The Turnpike Trust was dissolved in 1878 and the toll booth demolished. The pub building is constructed of Cotswold Stone and the roof is Cotswold stone slate, once described as 'the finest in Oxfordshire' by Sir John Betjeman, Poet Laureate, on one of his visits to Mr George Kolkhurst who owned Yarnton Manor. The first registered landlord was a Mr William Tubb who ran the inn from 1784-1785.

A country pub oozing rural charm and rustic character, our picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for savouring the hearty, seasonal pub-food on our menu, and the carefully nurtured cask ales and fine wines gracing our bar.

Whether you are planning dinner with friends or Sunday lunch with family, book a table online and enjoy some quality time with those you love the most.

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Facilities

Beer gardenCar parkDisabled facilitiesFamily friendlyFoodOutside areaReal aleReal fireWiFi freeCamra membersCask Marque

Pub reviews

Reviews

Ceri M

2 months ago

Visited today for Sunday roast, however were quite disappointed. One of us ordered the pork belly which was pretty much pure fat with very little meat. This got sent back in exchange for another meat. Portions were quite small and quality mediocre. The 2 slices of beef were the best bit. Yorkshire was frozen/reheated. Veg and potatoes undercooked. Certainly not worth the £22 per meal. Service wasn't great either with a drink being forgotten. Also lots of items on menu not available. We have over the years come here regularly for lunch, which has always been lovely. The burgers etc are streets ahead! but won’t be returning for a Sunday roast which frankly was a real disappointment.

Ruth Travell

3 months ago

Came for a work's Christmas party. The food was good and the portions were generous. However, they only had a couple of turkey dishes left so not all of us could have it. They had also run out of Christmas pudding. A bit poor given we came for a Christmas meal and specified this in advance. The service was mixed. Our main waiter forgot 1 drink and we were missing a main and when we asked were told 'Hopefully it is coming' ?!. We had a table right below the spotlight lights which were very bright in our eyes but were told nothing could be done about it. His manner was very flat and we couldn't hear him. We then asked if they could be angled a different way and they were, good but I'm not sure it's up to us to suggest it. Another waitress was very pleasant and jolly. So, I'd return for the food if it was to be in stock but the service was not great.

Kieran Evans

5 months ago

Lovely place and had high expectations for the food. Really fancied a good pizza so went for the pepperoni. Looked amazing but unfortunately didn't taste all that and found it was very bland. Absolutely covered in flour on the bottom.

Phil Wheeler

6 months ago

Returned to the pub we had our first date, just 7 years on. Under new ownership since then and a new menu I'm sure. The food was very nice and £102 for a three course meal for both of us is very good for today's prices. Staff are friendly and service was reasonable. The carpark is just off the roundabout. Will return but probably not wait seven years this time.

Lorraine Jackson

7 months ago

This country pub remains as it's always been. We were greeted by a friendly and enthusiastic Holly on arrival and thoroughly enjoyed a lovely cuppa and the relaxed Sunday afternoon atmosphere. We're looking forward to returning to try the Sunday roast dinner which looked absolutely delicious and of ample portions too. Thanks for your hospitality! 13th August 2023 I have enjoyed another wonderful experience here at the Turnpike. I promised to return for a Sunday roast dinner and did just that. I wasn't in any way disappointed. The whole meal was cooked to perfection and served both hot and quickly. The Trio roast was an affordable £21.75 and definitely value for money, due to the fresh ingredients and ample portions. I did ask for an additional pot of gravy as a roast like this requires lashings of it but that's just my personal choice! Our server was the delightful Victoria who was friendly, accommodating and a true professional. Nothing was a chore and as busy as she was she took the opportunity to have a quick chat and offer more of the excellent dishes available. Well done Victoria we truly appreciated your service. I would definitely recommend this pub for family meals, ample parking and consideration for disabled drivers.

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Opening Times

Mon11:30 – 23:00
Tue11:30 – 23:00
Wed11:30 – 23:00
Thur11:30 – 23:00
Fri11:30 – 23:00
Sat09:00 – 23:00
Sun09:00 – 22:30
Pub food and drink

Food & drink

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Heverlee 0623
Heverlee 0623