Home > Oxfordshire > Long Hanborough > Bell Inn Bell Inn
Date of photo: 2014	Picture source: Movement80
The Bell Inn was situated at 115 Main Road. This Greene King house closed in 2012.
In the early 1970’s this pub was better known as “Dudley’s” after the owner/manager who was generally to be seen propping up one end of the bar. The dining room was a large affair and I particularly remember one dish which was pigeon in chocolate sauce – very innovative for the time. I celebrated my 21st birthday there with a group of University friends but I don’t recall much of that night!
Granville Taylor (November 2019)
Review from tantallon.org.uk:
There are two pubs in Long Hanborough which plug themselves as restaurants, and for my money, this is the less impressive of the pair. The service is friendly enough, but it's all a bit tacky. Complaints about the chocolate fudge cake tasting synthetic. The "panoramic views of the Evenlode valley" promised in the restaurant bit are all very well, but it's not the most impressive of valleys. The walls of the Gents are covered in unamusingly aphoristic graffiti. (1997-06)
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Name	Dates	Comments
David Cowell	1980-2001	Landlord was a chap called Graham Lahir(or similar surname) Ale & food were superb. Morelands- kept putting rent etc up, which forced Graham to pack it in. Bell was always packed and you had to book very early to get a table. On one occasion, there were a group of older chaps in the Dining Room, who were enjoying themselves and it turned out to be a 'CHINDIT's reunion. Very, very fond memories of the Bell & Graham. Similarly, superb staff.
Paul Beresford	1974-1986	Spent our courting days at the Bell. A ‘pre-gastro’ pub before it’s time. Great food (Red Mullet speciality starter) chicken in cider sauce (still a favourite at home), venison - etc. Had draught vintage cider and, yes, draught milk which my wife had when pregnant. Sold frozen venison from a freezer in the bar. Later extended to have dining in an upper story. Great times and Graham always the perfect host - bit of a friendly ‘piss-taker’ too.