Last week, Stephens led a handful of us Easterners on a "little" trek to the well-known Trout Inn north of Oxford. It took just over an hour on foot to get to the historic, 17th-century pub and the walk was so pleasant, as was the company of friends. After getting through the quaint, city streets, we followed Stephens up a bridge, through a park of wide, open spaces, along the River Thames where we spotted fishermen and docked boats, and through meadows filled with cows (close enough to touch!). I am sure this walk was thoroughly "English countryside," but I sure felt like I was back home.
The pub was so, so stellar. It was cozy and bright inside, but the outside was the real stunner. We relaxed at picnic tables on the back patio, right next to the flowing water of the river. There were two pretty, stone bridges in sight and ducks to observe. It was neither chilly nor warm, really, but just perfect. Seriously, I'd say it is the most ideal spot for a pub. Stephens bought us a round of Pimm's and crisps and we just let ourselves unwind (as if we haven't done that at all this trip). Trout's Pimm's was quite different than the Pimm's cocktail I've tried at Freud: less mint, more lemonade. But it still had cucumber + strawberry + orange slices, yum! Per usual, the conversation and atmosphere were delightful and my only motivation to leave the Trout Inn was the promise of another delicious dinner back at Lincoln.
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