The Old Bell - Henley-On-Thames

I felt I was in a parallel universe where everything was as it should be. My wife and I finished our UK holiday at a very posh hotel in Henley and after eating felt we needed a beer. Found this spectacularly good pub while looking for a Brakspears pub. I drank this beer in my youth and needed to try it out. The low strength standard bitter called Gravity was in perfect condition, served at cellar temperature with a lacey head and a lovely hoppy aroma and aftertaste which lingered in the mouth for minutes after you drank it. More importantly, the atmosphere in the pub took me back to the 60s with all the staff friendly as soon as you walked in, and the happy and jovial customers just as welcoming. I was transported back to a time when pubs were full of happy people having a great time. Even though we were only there for a short time we struck up conversations with 3 or 4 customers and thanked the landlady who clearly knew how to look after the beer and her customers. Sigh I wish the pubs near me flowed the example set by the Old Bell, Henley on Thames.

Good old fashion local pub good atmosphere and layout, Tidy

Decent pint of ale and lager served here, in quaint surroundings. Nice little pub garden at the rear too.

Lovely little pub in the middle of henley with good beer, a great hostess and a lovely atmosphere. We called in here for one in the afternoon and liked it so much we stayed for the Monday night quiz which was a great laugh with really friendly locals. Thanks to Claire for making us feel so welcome and northern Chris for a great quiz.

Lovely and quaint location. Only popped in for a drink but would definitely ho again.