The Royal Oak

Walk into The Royal Oak and you'll clock straightaway this isn't trying to be anything it's not — it's a proper pub, the kind where regulars have their spots and newcomers get welcomed in without fuss. You're looking at solid traditional fare, the sort of stuff that pairs perfectly with a pint, served up in a space that feels lived-in rather than designed. The London Road location means it's become something of a proper community hub for that part of town, where locals genuinely want to spend their evenings rather than just kill time. With nearly 500 reviews hitting above 4 stars, people keep coming back for the straightforward hospitality and decent value.