This weekend sees an important landmark in the history of Hook Norton Brewery with the opening of its first pub within the city of Oxford. The Castle Tavern on the corner of Castle Street and Pembroke Street will open on Friday 2nd December at 6pm.

Since the start of its pub estate in 1859 Hook Norton Brewery has been on the lookout for a pub within Oxford City with opportunities over the years being few and far between. The brewery have always spent time selecting the right premises for them and felt that The Castle was the perfect opportunity.

The pub dates back to 1892 (almost as old as Hook Norton Brewery itself – 1849) and was constructed to designs by HGW Drinkwater in a distinctive mock – Tudor style with tall red brick chimney stacks. It was almost lost forever in the 1960’s with the development of the original Westgate Centre leading to the loss of many historical building in the area.

Ironically, the current re-development of the Westgate Centre was one of the things that attracted Hook Norton to the pub. That, and the chance to have for the first time in it’s history a Hooky pub within Oxford city itself.

The Castle Tavern will trade over the Christmas and New Year period before closing for an extensive refurbishment.

 Bruce Benyon, Operations Manager of Hook Norton Brewery Tied Estate adds:

“This is an exciting time for the Brewery. We have 38 great pubs and The Castle Tavern will really strengthen our portfolio. We will be serving a great mix of quality cask ales and craft keg beers”