As winter sets in, few things beat a roaring fire and a cold pint. We’ve looked into Oxfordshire’s pubs to discover the cosiest spots to warm up this season - from riverside inns to Cotswold hideaways.
Our Cosy Pub Index analysed TripAdvisor reviews, mentions of the words “fire,” “cosy,” and “snug,” the number of fireplaces, and proximity to public transport. The results reveal the pubs offering the warmest welcomes across Oxfordshire.
Cosiest Pub in Oxfordshire – The Trout Inn, Wolvercote
Combined cosy mentions: 159 | Fireplaces: 3 | Score: 81 / 100
Next to the River Thames, The Trout Inn combines rustic charm with roaring fires and scenic views. With more mentions of “fire,” “cosy,” and “snug” than any other Oxfordshire pub, it’s our pick for the county’s cosiest pub.
Highest Customer Rating – The Bat & Ball, Cuddesdon
TripAdvisor: 4.9 / 5 (20 Reviews)
With excellent reviews and friendly service, The Bat & Ball is a favourite for visitors. Guests enjoy its warm atmosphere, hearty meals, and classic fireside feel—everything that makes a country pub great.
Most Fireplaces – The Trout Inn, Wolvercote
Fireplaces: 3
The Trout Inn also wins for the highest number of fireplaces in Oxfordshire. Whether tucked in by the bar or sitting riverside, there will be a crackling fire nearby.
Most Accessible Pub – Red Lion, Steeple Aston
Distance from nearest bus stop: < 10ft (less than a 1-minute walk from the bus stop directly outside the pub)
Offering both charm and convenience, the Red Lion stands out as Oxfordshire’s most accessible log-burning pub—perfect for those arriving by bus and eager to step straight into a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
Other honourable mentions for cosy accessible pubs include:
- The King’s Head Inn, Bledington – less than a 1-minute walk from ‘The Green’ bus stop adjacent to the pub
- The Bear & Ragged Staff, Cumnor – less than a 1-minute walk from the bus stop right outside the pub
Cosy Hotspots Across Oxfordshire
While Central Oxford has several historic pubs with traditional fireplaces, it’s the Cotswold villages that truly shine for atmosphere. Pubs in Bledington, Cumnor, and Ramsden combine period charm, warm interiors, and roaring fires, making them perfect for escaping the winter chill.
“Oxfordshire’s pubs are the beating heart of the community, offering warmth, comfort, and connection through the colder months,” says Tommy Johnson, spokesperson at Homefire. “Our Cosy Pub Index celebrates the venues keeping this log-burner tradition alive, and for those who want that same crackling fire at home, our smokeless fuels and kiln-dried firewood make it easy to recreate the experience.”
Bring the pub-fire glow home this winter with Homefire’s range of heat logs, smokeless fuels, and kiln-dried firewood - perfect for creating your own cosy night in.
