The Royal Oak Inn

Welcome to the Royal Oak, Wantage

The Royal Oak Wantage, is a traditional town pub located 5 minutes walk from the town’s market place. Here you will find the ideal combination of a superb range of perfectly kept ales and an extremely friendly environment.

The Oak is owned and run by the landlord, Paul Hexter and his wife Frankie. Paul and Frankie bought the Oak from Courage in 1983 and earned a place in the Good Beer Guide in 1985 and have featured in almost every edition since then.

The Oak is primarily a real ale pub and offers up to a dozen mainly local real ales and up to 33 ciders. Always on offer are beers from West Berks brewery and Wadworth.

Two of the regular beers, Dr Hexter’s Wedding ale & Dr Hexter’s Healer, were originally brewed specifically for Paul by West Berks Brewery. Dr Hexter's Healer is now available nationally.

Paul and his staff are always happy to offer a taste of any ale or cider to help you make your choice.

Also on offer are a selection of fine wines and an extensive range of malt whiskies. As well as having a wealth of knowledge about ales, Paul is also a connoisseur of wine, whisky and brandy. He has certificates in wine tasting and a prestigious certificate as Remy Martin cognac connoisseur of the year, following a blind cognac tasting.

Paul and Frankie have gained a substantial collection of CAMRA awards during their time at the Oak which are proudly displayed in the lounge bar.

Dr Hexter’s Healer has also won many awards

The Oak actively supports local charities with fundraising events organised by Frankie and her team. A selection of charity collection boxes can always be found on the bar for you to deposit any unwanted change!

Updated Thursday, 19th July 2021

Chris Hill
5 Star
This pub is absolutely based. Proper old style, traditional british wet pub. Brilliant selection, ambiance and service. Also was serving up Titanic Plum Porter when I visited. Will return with enthusiasm.
Tuesday 19th April 2022

Sue Thwaite
5 Star
A friendly traditional local with a great Landlord serving local beers.
Thursday 16th June 2022

Dicky B
4 Star
Spot on for a few beers. 😉
Sunday 17th October 2021

Rob Morgan
5 Star
Probably in my top 3 favourite pubs. So friendly, and the ciders are magnificent. Don't start on the rum cask cider, unless you're looking for an early night.
Monday 26th October 2020

Tom Law
5 Star
Lovely
Friday 18th March 2022