The Royal Oak, Burford

This is my review from New Year 09/10 and is pasted from BITE so may have changed since... Sign outside reads "Not gastro, not retro, just a real pub. CAMRA recommended". There is no fruit machine, no quiz machine, no jukebox, no music. Fantastic. Bar billiards stuck away at the back in the corner is only concession. Had enjoyable few "frames" on there. Landlord (Gary) does come across a bit miserable at first but he was only too glad to explain a few of the finer points of bar billiards to us and is a very likeable chap once you talk to him. The other entertainment provided was trying to get a cork out of the bottom of a bottle with a piece of string. My companion managed this to a raptorous round of applause and strangely, the bottle had disappeared on the next visit. Also had pleasure of seeing in the New Year here. A small wireless was brought out for midnight and then every single customer (approx a dozen) wished every other one a happy new year, without fail. They do serve food here, but I sense begrudgingly. Quite a stir was caused when someone asked for mash with thier chop. Didn't eat but looked like decent, basic good food. If you want a proper old fashioned pub when eavesdropping on the locals discussions and then joining in is the entertainment, then is for you. Is shut in the afternoons, between 3-7 and was going to say this is all you can fault it on. However, I have a soft spot for the traditional hours. A rare treat just off the High St and first pub I'm giving 10 out of 10 to. Over 1000 Toby jugs hanging from ceiling by the way