The Story of The Prince of Wales at Iffley
Tucked away on Church Way in the heart of Iffley village, just a short walk from the River Thames, the Prince of Wales has been part of local life for over 150 years. More than just a pub, it has always been a place where stories are shared, neighbours gather, and visitors discover the unique charm of this historic Oxford village.
From house to public house
The building was first constructed in the 1820s as a private home. In 1863 it opened its doors as a public house and it has served the community in that role ever since. Its traditional design and surviving features give it a strong sense of character and link it firmly to the village’s past.
As the only village pub in Iffley, the Prince of Wales has always been a natural meeting place. Over the years it has welcomed locals, walkers, and visitors alike, becoming a focal point for social life in the village. One quirky detail remembered in local folklore is the claim that, in the mid twentieth century, it was “the only inn I know which has no front door.” Whether the entrance was tucked away or simply struck a visitor as unusual, the story adds a touch of eccentricity to its history.
Ties to Wadworth Brewery
By the late 1980s the Prince of Wales became part of the Wadworth family of pubs. With it came a focus on real ales, hand painted signs and traditional brewing heritage. For local beer lovers, the pub became a favourite meeting place, with events and festivals that carried its reputation well beyond Iffley.
A Time of Uncertainty
Like many village pubs, the Prince of Wales has seen both busy years and quieter times. In early 2023 the doors closed, leaving a noticeable gap in village life. For a time it seemed that the story might be coming to an end.
A community hub
The Prince of Wales has always been more than a place for food and drink. It has hosted events, provided a space for groups to meet, and played a part in local traditions. During the pandemic it even supplied free meals to residents of Iffley and Rosehill, showing its importance as a source of support in difficult times.
In 2022, Friends of Iffley Village successfully nominated the pub for inclusion on Oxford City Council’s register of Assets of Community Value, highlighting its long history and essential role in village life.
A New Chapter
In June 2023 the pub came back to life under new tenancy - Mathew and Sage. Careful planning and restoration work began straight away, focusing on both the structure of the building and the atmosphere inside.
By October 2023 the interior had been refreshed with new flooring, refurbished tables, reupholstered chairs, updated lighting and newly decorated walls. A bar walk was added, giving the pub a warm and welcoming heart once again. That same month the Prince of Wales hosted its first live music event under new stewardship. A summer fete and barbecue brought the community together, and improvements to the garden set the stage for outdoor gatherings.
The following year saw further progress. In October 2024 the exterior was fully redecorated. The windows were repaired and painted, a fresh colour scheme was introduced, traditional hand painted signage returned, and colourful hanging baskets gave the building a lively and inviting face.
Looking ahead, the summer of 2025 promises more improvements, more community events and more reasons for both locals and visitors to step inside and share in the story.
A Living Part of Iffley Village
Today the Prince of Wales stands as a true community pub in Iffley. Its long history can be felt in the brickwork, the stories and the traditions that live on, but its future is just as bright. With live music, seasonal events and a warm welcome, it continues to be a place where the village comes together.
Whether you are strolling through Iffley, visiting Oxford, or simply looking for a classic English pub with character and heart, the Prince of Wales invites you in to become part of its story.