Deep in the heart of East Oxford there was once a pub where cheer and warmth went to die - the Eagle Tavern. Now, marked by an old bike hanging outside, it’s the home of the Rusty Bicycle, a wood-floored gem run by a pair of young, friendly landlords.

The Venue
The pub recently underwent a massive refurbishment and inside it sparkles with charm. A fireplace at the back surrounded by several sofas give it a homely feel, and a selection of board games and newspapers, as well as a dart board, offer a reason to linger for hours.

Bold wallpaper, photos by local artists, pop art posters, and old cartoons lend the place a delightfully mismatched feel. There's a good selection of outside seating with a smoking shelter out the back, and two large benches at the front of the pub. However, space is limited and the location of the building makes sunshine a rarity.

Refreshingly for an East Oxford pub, the Rusty Bicycle has no television screens, but offers free WiFi to customers. The Rusty Bicycle is a prime place to escape from the world and have a pint, with friends or alone. Also be on the lookout for open mic nights, live music, quizzes, and other events — this is a truly community-orientated pub.

The People
As it's located at the crossroads of two largely residential streets the Rusty Bicycle attracts a mixed and interesting crowd. On weeknights the area’s abundant student population tends to flock to the bar from 9pm onwards.

Equally prevalent are a host of neighbourhood characters and locals of all kinds, from young hip couples to successful professionals and families. One of the two landlords, who say their goal is to make everyone feel welcome, is nearly always serving at the bar, and staff are friendly, often pausing to chat with regulars.

The Drink
As this is an Arkell’s pub it features several real ales from the brewery and these change monthly. They can include Maypole Mild, Kingsdown Special Ale, 3B, and Moonlight.

There are also several lagers including Carling, Kronenbourg, Becks, and Grolsch as well as Guinness and Stowford Press cider on tap.

Wines include European and new world reds and whites. House wines are a neat £10 a bottle or £2.60 for a small glass, and all other wines are £12 a bottle or £2.90 for a small glass. Bottled drinks include Bulmers, Newcastle Brown Ale, WKD, Budweiser, and Corona.

Non-alcoholic options include as Coca-Cola, Red Bull and juices, as well as coffee and tea — perfect for an afternoon spent taking advantage of the pub’s free WiFi.

The Last Word
This small pub with a seriously cosy, local feel, is worth a trip, or several. With its emphasis on comfort and community, the Rusty Bicycle is a perfectly lovely place to spend a few hours on any day of the week.

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