The only real pub left in Summertown. It was originally a cottage and then let as a shop and a beer house. It became a Simmond’s pub in 1888 which was later taken over by Courage. The pub still bears the name of the shopkeeper, J.H. Vallis, who became the licensee in 1902 and incorporated the shop into a larger pub. He operated a daily beer delivery round by pony and trap. Morse creator Colin Dexter was a regular visitor here and the pub features in many of the novels. There are 2 entrances to separate bars although you can get round at the far end.