About This Pub
Ah, the Ancient Oak in Cottam – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a friendly neighbourhood gem, you know? From the reviews, the staff really shine, with folks raving about how they make you feel right at home, fostering that fun community spirit that's so hard to find these days. The food gets a big thumbs up too, especially the Sunday roast, which sounds like a proper treat with its delicious flavours and welcoming presentation – ideal for a family get-together or a casual mid-week bite. And let's not forget the beer garden; it's a brilliant spot to soak up the sun with a cold one, and they've got thoughtful touches like EV charging and menus for all tastes, including veggies and little ones. On the downside, though, a few people have mentioned portions not quite hitting the mark, like that avocado on toast that left some feeling short-changed, and there was one particularly rough experience that soured the whole visit for a group. Still, with an overall solid rating, it's worth swinging by if you're in Preston, just keep in mind it might have its off moments like any spot. All in all, it's a reliable choice for a laid-back evening, but go in with a balanced view and you're likely in for a good time.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are absolutely welcoming and create a real sense of community, making it feel like a proper local spot for catching up with mates.
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They serve up some cracking pub grub, with the Sunday roast getting high praise for its taste, presentation, and generous portions – perfect for a hearty meal.
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The beer garden is a lovely spot for enjoying a pint outdoors, especially on a sunny day, and it's family-friendly with options for kids and even a vegan menu.
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It's conveniently located near the M6 and local attractions, plus they've got EV charging points, which is a nice touch for anyone popping in after a drive.
Cons
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Portion sizes can sometimes fall short, like with the avocado on toast where they stick strictly to half an avocado per serving, which might leave you wanting more.
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There have been a few inconsistent experiences with service and food, as one review highlighted a disappointing visit that really put a dampener on things.
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It might not always live up to expectations for everyone, with some feeling the offerings are a bit basic or that extras come at an extra cost.
Contact Information
Merry Trees Ln, Cottam, Preston PR4 0NZ
+441772731992
Pub
Opens at 11:00
Opening Hours
Monday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
Tuesday (Today) | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
Friday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 - 00:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Brian encompasses everything that a pub should stand for - fun, community and happy faces! We love you Brian!! P.s Brian said we could have a play area! Thank you 🙂 please also keep the Weston’s tap forever!
The Oak is great! Highly recommend! 👍
I really would give this 0 stars if I could. We visited relatives we haven't seen for several years who have had a hard time recently. They wanted to have lunch here as it is local to their house.
We sat in the garden as it was a beautiful day. We ordered scampi and chips x 2 and they had falafel wraps. It was one of the worst meals I've ever had. The peas were like bullets, some of the chips were hard but all of them were dry and powdery inside. The scampi was the worst. Very small pieces and a stale taste to the breadcrumbs. The tartar sauce was around a teaspoonful in a stainless steel holder. Presentation appalling. I left most of my food. It made me gag. Our relatives ate the falafel but left the wrap and fries. We did not complain as they were already upset about a personal matter.
I would not return.
Brian and his staff was very welcoming, first time coming into the pub, lovely setting, the price of food and drink meets the area. Will be back
Went to the ancient oak this evening and to my surprise they was still serving food around 7:45pm!! I opted for the Sunday roast and it was delicious from the presentation down to the taste and how it was cooked , honestly one of the best roasts I’ve had! Lauren and Alex were very welcoming from the start. Will definitely come again.
My burger was good quality beef but lacking salad and seemed a bit basic. My wife's avocado on toast seemed short on avocado, and when we asked for a bit more, we were told we would have to pay as they only use half an avocado per serving. Should get bigger avocados then so the toast can be coated properly. Quality seems ok, but lacking the pride from the chef/ cook to get it over the finish line to give a 5 star review.
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