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Bailey Head Market Square

4.7
·511 reviews·, United Kingdom

Oswestry's vibrant heart, featuring an award-winning pub with an unparalleled ale selection and a lively market square.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Market Days

Experience local buzz

CrowdMedium
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Bailey Head Market Square - Image 1

Bailey Head Market Square

Best Time

Market Days

Experience local buzz

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Oswestry's vibrant heart, featuring an award-winning pub with an unparalleled ale selection and a lively market square.

4.7
(511 reviews)

"A multi-award-winning pub offering more ale and cider than you can shake a stick at."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍻 CAMRA Pub Gem

Don't miss the pub, a multiple CAMRA award winner with an amazing ale selection. Check Untappd for tap takeovers!

⏰ Check Opening Times

Some days the pub opens at 3 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Award-Winning Pub

The Award-Winning Pub

Bailey Head Market Square

A multi-award-winning pub boasting an incredible selection of real and craft ales, including high-strength dark beers sold as halves.

Market Day Buzz

Market Day Buzz

Bailey Head Market Square

Experience the lively atmosphere of market days, with local vendors offering a variety of goods and a true taste of community life.

Historic Town Square

Historic Town Square

Bailey Head Market Square

The central hub of Oswestry, offering a glimpse into the town's heritage and a perfect spot to people-watch and explore.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Oswestry's Heart

Bailey Head Market Square is the vibrant center of Oswestry, a town with a rich history and a unique border identity. It's a place to soak in local life, enjoy a pint, and explore the surrounding shops and eateries. Plan your visit to coincide with market days for the full experience.

A Pub Lover's Paradise

The square is dominated by a multi-award-winning pub, celebrated for its exceptional range of real and craft ales. If you're a beer enthusiast, this is a must-visit destination. Check opening times, as some days they open later in the afternoon.

Best Times

When
Market Days
Why
Experience local buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings at the Pub
Why
Award-winning ales await
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Residents Of Oswestry Were Asked If The Town Was Welsh or English #Wales #cymru #cymraeg #welsh
@daibach2
8.3K likes • 149.5K views

🍻 CAMRA Pub Gem

Don't miss the pub, a multiple CAMRA award winner with an amazing ale selection. Check Untappd for tap takeovers! Reddit

⏰ Check Opening Times

Some days the pub opens at 3 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

The pub is welcoming to dogs, making it a great spot to relax after a walk. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Nights

Keep an eye out for live music events, adding to the already great atmosphere. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🍻 CAMRA Pub Gem

Don't miss the pub, a multiple CAMRA award winner with an amazing ale selection. Check Untappd for tap takeovers! Reddit

⏰ Check Opening Times

Some days the pub opens at 3 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

The pub is welcoming to dogs, making it a great spot to relax after a walk. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Nights

Keep an eye out for live music events, adding to the already great atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ Outside Food Welcome

Food isn't served, but you can usually eat food purchased from nearby takeaways inside. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(511 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the award-winning pub at Bailey Head Market Square for its exceptional and diverse selection of real and craft ales, often highlighting its CAMRA accolades. The welcoming atmosphere and competitive prices are also frequently mentioned positives. Some visitors note that food is no longer served on-site, and opening times can vary, requiring a quick check before arrival.

"Marvellous pub on the square offering more ale and cider than you can shake a stick at. It’s recently won CAMRA pub of the year so you can’t get a better endorsement than that. It’s the champions league/academy award for pubs isnt it, so well in on the accolade. Its also getting the thumbs up from me and I’ve been to a pub or two in my time. Definitely stop off at this one when in the town and probably worth making the stop off alone for. It’s nice inside and the building is a gudun. Decent prices too..Recommended 🍻"

g t

"CAMRA’s current national pub of the year ~ a real varied mix of cask ales on sale at competitive prices which is always good to find. Look out for the Tap Take Overs which will be advertised on the Untappd beer app."

Mark Nicholson

"CAMRA pub of the year!! Excellent range of beers!! Plenty on dark/Porter tyres at very high strengths...thus only sold as halves!! Really great discussion with local about home Brewing....he sounded almost like a professional. But note opening times....some days at 3pm. So I had time to burn for two hours! Great place."

Vince While

What People Like

Outstanding ale selection
CAMRA award-winning pub
Friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

No food served
Variable opening times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bailey Head Market Square is centrally located in Oswestry. If arriving by car, there are several car parks nearby. For public transport, Oswestry bus station is a short walk away, with services connecting to surrounding towns and cities. Reddit

Yes, there are several public car parks within easy walking distance of the square. Some may have time limits or charges, so check signage. Reddit

Absolutely! Bailey Head Market Square is a central point in Oswestry, so it's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town center. Reddit

Oswestry is accessible by train to nearby stations like Gobowen, followed by a short bus or taxi ride. Alternatively, major bus routes connect Oswestry to larger cities like Shrewsbury and Wrexham. Reddit

The square itself is generally flat and accessible. The award-winning pub has some steps, so it's worth checking accessibility directly if needed. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bailey Head Market Square is a public space and entry is free. You only pay for any purchases you make at the market or in the local establishments. Reddit

As a public square, it's always accessible. However, individual shops and the renowned pub have their own operating hours, with the pub sometimes opening at 3 PM on certain days. Reddit

There are no entry fees to enter the pub. You pay for your drinks and any food you might purchase from external vendors. Reddit

Market days are typically held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering a lively atmosphere and local produce. It's best to check local listings for specific times. Reddit

While the pub is popular, booking is generally not required for casual visits. However, for larger groups or during special events, it might be advisable to inquire directly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere on market days, explore the unique shops surrounding the square, and most importantly, sample the extensive range of real and craft ales at the award-winning pub. Reddit

The pub is famous for its diverse selection of cask ales and craft beers, including dark beers and porters, often at high strengths. They also feature 'Tap Take Overs' advertised on Untappd. Reddit

Yes, the historic architecture of the square and the lively market scenes offer great photographic opportunities. The pub's interior can also be quite atmospheric. Reddit

Oswestry has a rich history, and while Bailey Head Market Square is the modern hub, the surrounding streets offer glimpses into its past. The town's border location also adds a unique historical context. Reddit

The market square is a public space, so dogs are generally welcome on a lead. The award-winning pub is also dog-friendly, making it a great stop for pet owners. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, the highly-rated pub no longer serves food. However, patrons are usually permitted to bring in food purchased from nearby takeaways, such as the Indian restaurant next door. Reddit

Yes, the square is surrounded by various shops, cafes, and eateries, including an Indian takeaway conveniently located next to the pub. You'll find options to suit different tastes. Reddit

Given the proximity, you can expect typical takeaway options like Indian cuisine. Exploring the surrounding streets will reveal other cafes and eateries offering diverse choices. Reddit

Reviews suggest that prices, particularly at the award-winning pub, are competitive and offer good value for money. Local eateries are also generally reasonably priced. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can purchase food from local vendors and enjoy it in the public square, weather permitting. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the bustling market scenes on market days, the historic architecture of the surrounding buildings, and the inviting facade of the award-winning pub. The square itself offers good vantage points. Reddit

Yes, the pub's interior is often described as atmospheric and welcoming, making it a good subject for photography. Be mindful of other patrons and ask permission if photographing individuals. Reddit

Market days offer dynamic shots with people and stalls. For a quieter, more architectural focus, early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds. Reddit

While Bailey Head Market Square is more of a modern hub, exploring the older streets of Oswestry can reveal historical architecture and plaques that tell the town's story. Reddit

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm equivalent, would be useful for capturing both wider scenes and details. A fast prime lens could be great for low-light shots inside the pub. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about beer, Bailey Head Market Square is a pilgrimage site. The award-winning pub is renowned for its extensive and ever-changing selection of real ales and craft beers. You'll find everything from traditional cask ales to unique high-strength brews. Don't miss their 'Tap Take Overs' advertised on Untappd. Reddit

Be aware that some of the stronger beers are sold in halves. While the pub doesn't serve food, you can often bring in food from nearby takeaways, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a pint and a bite. Remember to check their opening times, as they can vary, with some days starting later in the afternoon. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

Bailey Head Market Square is an ideal stop for a day trip to Oswestry. It's easily accessible and offers a concentrated dose of local charm. Spend your morning exploring the market stalls (on market days), then head to the highly-acclaimed pub for a well-deserved drink. Reddit

There are also various shops and cafes around the square to explore. If you're looking for a relaxed pace, simply enjoy the atmosphere of the town square. The pub's dog-friendly policy also makes it a great option if you're traveling with a canine companion. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Good news for dog owners! The award-winning pub on Bailey Head Market Square is very dog-friendly. It's a perfect place to rest your feet and enjoy a pint after a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

Oswestry itself offers plenty of opportunities for walks, and returning to a welcoming pub with your dog is a real treat. Just ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a lead within the pub and the market square. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pub: A Beer Aficionado's Dream

Bailey Head Market Square is home to a pub that has garnered significant acclaim, including multiple CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) awards, often being named Pub of the Year. This establishment is celebrated for its exceptional and diverse range of cask ales and craft beers. Visitors can expect a constantly rotating selection, featuring everything from traditional bitters to high-strength dark beers and porters, which are often served in halves due to their potency. Reddit

Beyond the impressive beer selection, the pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's a place where you can strike up conversations about brewing and enjoy a genuine pub experience. Keep an eye on the Untappd app for announcements about their 'Tap Take Overs,' which showcase special brews. While food is no longer served on-site, the pub's policy of allowing patrons to consume food purchased from nearby establishments, like the Indian takeaway next door, adds to its community-focused appeal. Reddit

Practical Tip: Due to its popularity and sometimes later opening hours (some days from 3 PM), it's wise to check the pub's specific opening times before your visit to ensure you don't miss out on experiencing this renowned establishment. Reddit

Oswestry's Border Identity and Market Culture

Bailey Head Market Square sits at the heart of Oswestry, a town with a fascinating border identity, historically straddling the line between England and Wales. This unique position has shaped its culture and heritage, offering a blend of influences that can be felt throughout the town. The square itself serves as a focal point for community life, especially on market days. Reddit

Market days, typically Wednesdays and Saturdays, transform Bailey Head into a lively hub of activity. Local vendors gather to sell a variety of goods, from fresh produce and artisanal crafts to everyday essentials. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, interact with stallholders, and discover unique items. The buzz of the market provides a vibrant backdrop to the historic architecture surrounding the square, offering a glimpse into the town's enduring traditions. Reddit

While the square is a modern center, its historical significance is tied to Oswestry's long past. The town's Welsh heritage is a notable aspect, with discussions about its historical ties to Wales still present. TikTok Visiting Bailey Head Market Square offers not just a chance to enjoy a great pub or browse market stalls, but also to connect with the distinct character of this border town. Reddit

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