A pub company has signed a deal to run The Gardeners Arms in north Oxford.

David and Jenny Rhymes ran the North Parade Avenue watering hole for 30 years until they retired last year.

The pub is currently closed.

Greene King has been advertising for a new tenant, and recently dropped the annual rent.

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It has now struck a deal with Dick Morgan, whose company has bought the lease for The Grapes in George Street. It also runs The Argyll pub in Henley.

A spokesman for Greene King said: “We are delighted to say that this much-loved pub is due to reopen at the end of September following a full refurbishment, inside and out.

"It will be a wonderful community pub run by experienced pub operators and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone in to enjoy the new-look Gardeners Arms.”

Oxford Mail: The Grapes in Oxford

Greene King confirmed The Gardeners Arms would be run by Morgan Pub Collective. 

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The company's website says: "The Morgan Pub Collective is all about great beer, tasty food and good old fashioned hospitality. 

"With pubs across London and the South West and a varied portfolio from the traditional to the contemporary, there is something for everyone."

Mr Morgan visited The Grapes on Thursday just before it reopened to customers.

The historic real ale pub closed suddenly in December 2021 after the West Berkshire Brewery running it went into administration.

Now it has been given a new lease of life after Morgan pub company took on the lease from the city council, which owns the building.

Oxford Mail: The Grapes in Oxford

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Dave Richardson, of the Oxford branch of real ale pub CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), said he was delighted Morgan pub company will now be running The Gardeners Arms.

He said: "I was there on the opening night at The Grapes and I like what they have done with it.

"They have a wonderful range of beers and have decorated the walls with old pictures and maps - it has a real sense of style - there's nothing tacky about it.

"This is a good result for The Gardeners Arms - I think Morgan taking over will suit it."

Oxford Mail: David and Jenny Rhymes

Mr Richardson renewed calls for a change of name at the pub in North Parade Avenue, as there is another pub with the same name in Plantation Road.

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"I personally think it would be a good idea," added Mr Richardson.

"It would avoid a clash and avoid confusion - at the moment it's a pain for everyone."

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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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