THE Oxford Arms in Widemarsh Street, Hereford, has been voted the second-best pub in Herefordshire by our readers.

The pub is a 17th-century timber-framed building which, although much altered over the years, still looks and feels genuine.

It’s a popular place for Hereford FC fans on match days, with the pub showing live sport on its televisions.

RELATED NEWS:

This small, two-bar pub, recently redecorated, has a separate pool room and a large garden, and it enjoys a loyal community following.

The old off-sales hatch remains intact in the entrance porch.

Inside, the small bars to the left and right both have 1930s bar backs and panelled counter fronts, while the left-hand room also has its 1930s fireplace.

The room to the rear-right came into pub use more recently.

It also has an old bell box in the lounge.

Current landlady Tamara Woolley has seen the business grow from strength to strength during the last 15 years.

Want to get the latest breaking news alerts sent straight to you? It's easy, just sign up for our breaking news email alerts here and the most important stories will be delivered straight to your inbox.

“We are very family-orientated pub where all our locals are like family to us and they all help out on the crazy busy shifts – we appreciate our locals so much and would be lost without them,” she said.

“We have grown in the time we have had so far in running the Oxford Arms. We have seen many changes in the pub trade and have made the most of every opportunity we have ever had.”

Although it is a small pub, its beer garden is one of the best in the city, said Ms Woolley.

It has had a recent renovation in the garden, which now compromises of a massive under-cover lit-up area, and a stunning marquee that can be hired out for private functions and an outside bar.

“We are a small family pub and to be recognised as a part of Hereford’s best is amazing.

“We are very thankful for the votes to get us to this stage,” said Ms Woolley.

OTHER NEWS:

“Our staff and locals deserve the recognition as they make the pub what it is along with my husband and I, who enjoy every minute of running the Oxford.”

A nomination for the pub said: “This pub is the best because the atmosphere is always top form, the regulars are lovely. The landlady and landlord are the best.”

What you said about Oxford Arms, Widemarsh Street, Hereford

Here is a selection of the comments left when Hereford Times readers nominated the Oxford Arms.

Paul Dainty said: "Great staff and service, decent grub and good beer.

"A brilliant outside area with loads of heating and screens all over to watch sports."

Emma Davies said: "Amazing food, excellent customer service and very family friendly."

Tracy Lucas said: "Great pub. Lovely staff, fantastic food and the best Sunday lunch ever. A brilliant atmosphere.

"The recently-completed outdoor space is absolutely amazing."

OTHER NEWS:

Timothy Gagg said: "Friendly staff, landlady and her husband. The awesome couple can never do enough for you.

"Put up with me so they must be very understanding... lol. Great food, great beer and always something happening."

Mandy Davies said: "It is very clean and tidy and is a very welcome pub.

"It has an amazing big new beer garden. It does lots of events for kids and adults."

She added: "They cater for all sorts of parties, the staff are very friendly and they do fantastic Sunday dinners.

"Everything that you'd want from a pub."