The Perch is arguably the most acclaimed pub in Oxford. It earns extra kudos for its staying power, having survived a roof fire and then floods in 2007. Well worth the half hour walk along the river from Oxford train station.

The Venue
With its thatched roof, low ceilings and wooden beams, The Perch bears more than a passing resemblance to her traditional rival for the mantle of ‘best pub in Oxford’, The Trout. What distinguishes this 17th century Binsey inn is the long, perfectly manicured garden, stretching the 50 metres from the restaurant down to the Thames.

A marquee ensures the garden, containing towering weeping willows, a dozen tables and an adventure playground, can be enjoyed in all weathers.

The People
Perhaps grounded by their challenges in 2007, the staff remain remarkably gracious and welcoming. Visitors are made to feel important the moment they walk into the restaurant, with a couple of greeters always on hand to acknowledge guests.

The Perch’s reputation precedes it, so a sense of occasion is guaranteed. A rural, slightly out of town setting attracts retired locals and adopted Oxfordonians missing the countryside.

The Food
Considering the popularity of The Perch, you would be entitled to expect a truly gastronomic experience here. It is indeed difficult to get a table for Sunday lunch without booking days in advance.

The restaurant menu is surprisingly limited. Just six, seasonal mains are on offer (£12.95 to £17.95), with only one of these a vegetarian option - a red onion and tomato galette with rocket salad and pecorino cheese, although the menu changes regularly.

Red and white meat abound, with traditional roast beef and roast chicken available, but only on Sundays, as well as confit of Barbary duck and calf’s liver.

There is usually one fish dish on the menu, with swordfish and seabass making regular appearances. In the summer there is more meat to be found outdoors, with a barbecue roaring under the canopy and prices go from £7 to £10. Desserts, including a deft mocha cheesecake, are priced at £6.50 and an assortment of cheese at £7.95.

The Drink
The wine list is impressive, with 30 varieties available, 10 by the glass and the house wines can also be ordered by carafe. A 500ml carafe of the full-bodied South African shiraz / cabernet sauvignon blend (£9) is perhaps the most economical way of enjoying the alcohol on offer here but if you want to splash out, the £65 Cotes du Rhone may appeal.

The Last Word
The streamlined menu offers few options, particularly for the vegetarian. However for an outdoor barbecue or Sunday roast, there are few nicer spots to be found in England than the pretty garden of The Perch.

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