You’re Invited
For centuries, Sturdy’s Castle has been a place to stop, gather and feel at home. From its beginnings as an Oxfordshire coaching inn to the local legend behind its distinctive name, this has always been a place with a story to tell.
Today, we’re proud to carry that tradition forward, combining the character of a historic country inn with great food, comfortable rooms and genuinely warm hospitality, right in the heart of Oxfordshire.
The Legend of Sturdy & Castle
Our name comes from a colourful piece of Oxfordshire folklore dating back to 1790. Local legend tells of a dramatic encounter near the inn between two men, Mr Sturdy and Mr Castle. The reason for their dispute has been lost to history, although it has been suggested that a disagreement over land may have been at its heart. The tale has a darker ending, Mr Sturdy is said to have defeated Mr Castle, only to be arrested and later executed for his actions. More than two centuries later, their story lives on in our name and the original pub sign found inside the venue.
Our 400-Year-Old Coaching Inn
Our story stretches back centuries. In the days of horse and carriage, Sturdy’s Castle stood on the road between Oxford and Banbury, offering a welcome stopping place for people making their way through the Oxfordshire countryside. Here, guests could pause to eat, drink and rest before continuing towards Oxford, Banbury and the surrounding towns and villages.
Overnight Stays
Hospitality has been at the heart of Sturdy’s Castle for centuries, and today we’re proud to continue that tradition. Our comfortable guest rooms give you the opportunity to stay beside our historic country inn and make Sturdy’s Castle your base for discovering Oxfordshire. With breakfast, dining, a welcoming bar and free parking all on site, you can settle in and enjoy the comforts of a modern stay surrounded by centuries of history. Rated 8.3/10 on Booking.com by thousands of guests, we’re proud to continue welcoming people through our doors, just as this inn has done for generations.
Food Crafted with Michelin Experience
Food is a big part of who we are. Our kitchen is led by acclaimed chef Krishnapal Negi, whose career includes Michelin recognition and experience working alongside Michelin-starred chefs. That experience influences everything we put on the table, from hearty British pub classics and traditional Sunday roasts to authentic Indian dishes filled with carefully balanced spices. We bring together the warmth and generosity of country inn dining with the skill and attention to detail of an accomplished restaurant kitchen.
Our Legendary Sunday Roasts
Our traditional Sunday roasts have become a firm favourite, served with crispy roast potatoes with rosemary, seasonal vegetables, a golden Yorkshire pudding and plenty of proper gravy. Choose from nut roast, roast chicken, topside of beef, leg of lamb, pork loin or a combination of two meats. Sundays can get busy, so we always recommend booking your table in advance.
Perfectly Placed for Exploring Oxfordshire
From Sturdy’s Castle, Woodstock is just 2 miles away, Blenheim Palace around 3 miles and Oxford approximately 7 miles, with Bicester Village, Banbury and Silverstone also within easy reach. Whether you’re joining us for lunch from nearby, staying overnight while exploring the county or simply escaping to the countryside for a few days, we’re perfectly placed to help you experience more of Oxfordshire.
