The Perch

Did Lewis Carroll ever imagine, while sipping ale at The Perch, that his “Treacle Well” tale would echo through time? The Perch, nestled in Binsey, just northwest of Oxford, is more than just a pub. It’s a living storybook, its pages filled with 800 years of tales. The current building, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a Grade II listed testament to its rich history. The Perch has witnessed countless pints raised, conversations whispered, and laughter echoing within its walls. It even survived not one, but two devastating fires, in 1977 and 2007, rising from the ashes each time like a phoenix. Imagine C.S. Lewis, another frequent patron, finding inspiration within these very walls. Or perhaps Gerard Manley Hopkins, lamenting the felled Binsey Poplars, seeking solace in a pint. The Perch’s connection to literature is undeniable. It is even rumored that Lewis Carroll held some of the first public readings of “Alice in Wonderland” right here. But The Perch isn’t just a literary haven. From 1928 to 1948, the pub transformed into a vibrant jazz hub, drawing Oxford University students eager to hear the latest rhythms. The Brecon Jazz Festival even recognized The Perch in 2009 for its significant contribution to jazz music in the UK. Now, picture yourself in the pub’s vast garden, overlooking the River Thames, with the scent of summer blooms filling the air. The gentle clinking of glasses and the murmur of conversation create a soothing soundtrack. Perhaps you’ll even catch a glimpse of the ghostly sailor said to haunt the inn, adding another layer of intrigue to The Perch’s captivating story. The Perch isn’t just a pub; it’s a timeless experience.