The Woodstock Arms

I find it hard to recognise some of the previous reviews as being about the same pub! We had an excellent two evenings here. The staff were wonderful. Very attentive, welcoming and professional. Also made a nice fuss of our dog. There was a lovely atmosphere and we went on two different evenings once for drinks only later in the evening, and the following night for dinner a little earlier in the evening. The pub decor is quirky and cosy. The menu has a good range of choice. We tried the feta and green bean salad, cottage pie, blade of beef bourguignon and it was all hot and delicious with good portion sizes. Was it pricey? Yes, but no different to every where else of this quality these days. Loved everything about this pub. Keep up the great work team!

We explored Woodstock on a Thursday and dropped by the Woodstock Arms for drinks. Impressed, we booked a table for lunch the following Sunday. Our Thursday visit was delightful; the bar team were excellent, and the food looked appetising. However, on Sunday, despite being shown to a different table than booked (initially not a concern), our experience took a downturn. Ordering starters took approximately 25 minutes. We opted for the Cheddar N’duja croquettes and Fried Whitebait, both delicious. After another 30 minutes, we ordered mains, specifying rare and medium-rare for beef. When the dishes arrived, both were presented as rare and medium-rare, though my rare was more akin to well-done. Upon notifying the waiter, one plate was taken away, and the barman later explained the beef was cooked sous vide, limiting the degree of doneness. We opted for a whole roast chicken instead. The chicken, presented on a platter, and so followed several more platters of roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and vegetables. The table was full of platters of food, leaving us nowhere to put our dinner plates to eat. At this stage we requested condiments and cutlery, and that the gravy was missing. Despite asking for a larger table, we were given an additional bar table to put the platters on. The carving knife and fork provided were not fit for purpose and the knife was blunt, making it hard to carve the overcooked chicken. By the time the chicken was carved, the rest of the items were all cold. When we pointed out the issue to the waitress, there was a lack of apology or concern. The entire meal was sent back. The barman apologised again, offering additional items, but we had reached our limit. Despite poor service and substandard food, the bill lacked any adjustment or removal of the gratuity. We paid the bill, deeply disappointed. Reflecting on the experience for a week, I decided to write this review, hoping they elevate their standards.

Met friends from Banbury for lunch the A board outside advertising a roaring Log Fire encouraged us in sadly no log fire in either of the two fireplaces although it wasn’t a cold day what a difference it would have.made.The staff we’re very friendly and helpful our food was delivered in good time the prices were on the high side. £7 for a portion of Halloumi Fries £18 for fish and chips but I suppose this is Woodstock! Our bill ended up at £147 no starter no puddings one round of drinks 4 coffees a big surprise £14 addition to the bill 12% service charge I hate that we always leave a tip.we ate in the bar not in the restaurant. Generally we enjoyed our visit although the pub could do with investment it’s a bit rough around the edge’s

We stayed here for New Years Eve, booked directly for bed and breakfast however, later told after eating breakfast, this wasn’t included. Even though our invoice sent by them clearly says bed and breakfast rate £120 and on their website!! This was eventually wavered. No way would we have paid an extra £30 for breakfast considering the quality of accommodation offered. Basic and tiny room, no space for any luggage. Safety concerns plug socket hanging off wall with sticky note, side lamp hanging from exposed wire, no plug near electricals/kettle and coffee machine or long enough leads, meaning you had to put kettle on floor to plug in and use. Coffee machine no coffee pods, so couldn’t be used. Three tea bags for two people, no complimentary tray of water or biscuits for example. Mini fridge not plugged in or working. Bathroom needs an update, compact. Burnt leg on radiator next to toilet. Only positive comfortable bed and warm room. We couldn’t fault the food in the pub, excellent quality and attention to detail. Shame about the rooms. So we would return to the pub but rooms not worth the money and need some time and attention.

Sunday lunch at this restaurant is a perfect 10/10. The food is fantastic with generous portions and beautiful presentation. The meat was cooked perfectly, there were plenty of vegetables, and the atmosphere was delightful. You can't go wrong with this place!