Crazy Bear Country breaks the usual hotel mould, tipping its hat wholeheartedly to excess and eccentricity, where velvet-draped bedrooms, flickering candlelight and a sense of theatrical escapism replace the norm. Set within the Oxfordshire countryside, this is the original Crazy Bear outpost, starting what has now been 30 years of flamboyant hospitality.
The Country Pub is the beating heart of the hotel, combining proper pub classics with Thai dishes and a great selection of drinks. The space is designed with dark wood, plush armchairs and grand chandeliers providing the warmth of a cosy tavern and a touch of luxury.
Bridging British and Thai flavours, the menu is wide-ranging and versatile. For example, snacks range from crispy ham hock croquettes with gribiche sauce, to chargrilled chicken thighs with a miso glaze, or shrimp crackers. For starters, explore nostalgic options such as a half pint of prawns, to cured trout with creme fraiche, coronation chicken with grilled sourdough and heritage tomato with whipped feta.
For mains, the pub offers familiar favourites alongside grilled meats and Thai dishes. There’s everything from a prawn panang curry and chicken pad thai to pin wheel sausage and herb gnocchi. From the grill, choose from flat iron steak with peppercorn sauce, dry aged cote de boeuf (for two), or a cheeseburger with bacon jam. Can’t decide between British or Thai? Enjoy the best of both worlds with dishes such as rabbit Pad Thai and pork chop with pineapple relish.
Puddings continue the British-Thai theme, with a caramelised pineapple sundae, English strawberry Eton mess, and vanilla creme brulee. There’s also a stellar ice cream selection for a lighter treat.
Whether it’s a long lunch, a special dinner or a cosy Sunday, The Country Pub at Crazy Bear is a warm, welcoming place to dine, drink and relax with loved ones.