Historic city centre pub The Grapes is reopening in Oxford today.

The pub in George Street shut suddenly at the end of 2021 but is now ready to reopen after a London-based pub company stepped in to take it over.

The hostelry, which dates back to the 1800s, closed in December 2021 after the West Berkshire Brewery running it went into administration.

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But the wait for drinkers is finally over and it will reopen for customers from 5pm.

The historic real ale pub will offer 40 keg lines, eight hand pumps, a wide selection of wines and spirits, and a seasonal menu of pub classics done well, according to the new owners.

Dick Morgan, the owner behind The Express Tavern in Kew, and The Sussex Arms in Twickenham said: "I’m pleased to announce the restoration of The Grapes.

"We are reopening at 5pm as an Independent Beer House, and opening for 365 days a year following this.

Oxford Mail: Inside The Grapes

"With more than 50 years experience in the hospitality industry focusing on retaining the best that our historical locals have to offer, whilst bringing a modern approach to licensed retailing, we’re confident that The Grapes will have something to offer for everyone.

"We look forward to welcoming you soon.”

Johnny Roberts, the general manager, said he was pleased to be back in his home city.

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He added: "I’m back in my hometown of Oxford, just a few doors down from where I started my career in hospitality, I’ve had a few years away in Liverpool but I’m back and what a pub to return to.

Oxford Mail: The Grapes in Oxford

"I’m so excited to be back in the community I care the most about, and really excited to be launching the Grapes.

"Anyone who knows me knows I love to support local breweries and CAMRA so you if you love great beer and tasty pub food, I’ll be seeing you in the Grapes very soon."

Oxford Mail: The Grapes is listed in the Good Beer Guide

Weekly food and drink deals are as follows:

Burger Monday: any burger and selected beer, wine or soft drink for £14.95.

Rib Tuesday: BBQ baby back ribs, coleslaw, fries and beer, cider, wine or soft drink for £17.95.

Wine Wednesday: £5 off any bottle of wine and fizz all day.

Steak Thursday: Steak, fries, sides, sauce, salad and beer, cider, wine or soft drink for £17.95 - £18.95 depending on steak.

Tapas Friday: four small plates and a bottle of house wine for £29.95.

Members of Oxford CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) have been looking forward to the pub reopening and have welcomed the new owners.

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

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