AN historic village pub has gone up for sale after a 'tough' decision by its popular landlord to retire.

The White Hart pub, in Wytham, near Oxford, has been put up for sale by landlord Mark 'Baz' Butcher who felt 'it was time to pass over the reins after eight years.

It has stood for more than 300 years and parts remain almost unchanged since 1720, including its walled courtyard – despite the addition of Covid-safe dining pods – opened by Oxford vaccine team leader Dame prof Sarah Gilbert – and a weather-proof canopy.

The pub has established a reputation as a cultural magnet under Mr Butcher's stewardship. It has hosted musical events including jazz concerts and this year staged its own literary festival, with speakers including food critic Jay Rayner – who admitted to being a huge fan of the pub. It also featured in the sequel to the Mamma Mia film. 

The 18th century pub is now on sale with Fleurets, a property specialist, with the price available upon application.

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Oxford Mail and Oxford Times food writer Tim Hughes said Mr Butcher's departure was a blow not only to Wytham but to the cultural and culinary life of Oxfordshire. He said: "Baz took what had once been a rather dowdy and unwelcoming pub and turned it into the treasure it always deserved to be.

"He fizzed with energy and was a gastronomic genius, making this quaint stone pub a destination not just for discerning diners but music and literature lovers. His departure is a real loss to the city."

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Read more from this author

This story was written by Gee Harland. She joined the team in 2022 as a senior multimedia reporter.

Gee covers Wallingford, Wantage and Didcot.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Gee.harland@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @Geeharland

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