After three years as a lively, values-driven community pub operated by social enterprise Tap Social Movement, The White House on Abingdon Road has officially changed hands.
The independent venue closed on 16 June and will remain shut over the summer while it undergoes a significant refurbishment before reopening under its new identity – The Slow & Steady – on Friday, 06 September.
The incoming operator is Oxford-based Dodo Pub Co., the team behind several of the city’s most beloved neighbourhood pubs, including The Rusty Bicycle and The Up In Arms. The company has leased the site from Brasenose College and says it’s excited to breathe new life into the landmark venue with its trademark mix of hearty food, local beer and laid-back hospitality.
Speaking as he collected the keys to the building, Dodo co-founder Leo Johnson said: “We’re excited to launch our fourth Oxford site in a new part of town by creating an awesome neighbourhood pub with a strong sense of community. In standard Dodo style, you can expect a full interior and exterior revamp, as well as a quirky name change that nods to the history of the building and the surrounding area.”
The name The Slow & Steady is a reference to the pub’s original architect, Henry Hare – who also designed Oxford’s Town Hall. But the name has sparked debate, with members of the public suggesting The Folly or a return to a former name, The Folly Bridge Inn.
Nevertheless, Dodo is pushing ahead with its plans and says the focus will remain firmly on the community. “We’re looking forward to continuing where Tap Social left off,” Johnson added. “This is a fantastic site and we’re keen to keep building on what has already been achieved here.”
From reintegration to renovation
Tap Social took on The White House during the height of the COVID-19 restrictions in 2021, transforming the space into a welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike. Known for its commitment to employing people with lived experience of the criminal justice system, the organisation created thousands of hours of paid employment at the pub and hosted countless inclusive events.
“As two local independents with firm roots in the Oxford community, we pride ourselves on building and running fun, inclusive venues where all are welcome,” said Tap Social co-founders Paul Humpherson and Leo Johnson in a joint statement. “As Tap Social hands the reins over to Dodo Pub Co, we’re pleased to say the focus on serving the local community remains the same.”
Tap Social continues to operate its flagship taproom in Botley and other venues, including the Market Tap in Oxford’s Covered Market, Proof Bakehouse in Kennington, and a bar in Banbury’s Lock29. It also runs a larger brewing facility in Kidlington. Just last month it hosted the latest edition of its Change is Brewing festival.
What to expect at The Slow & Steady
Dodo Pub Co. plans to offer 15 taps at the new venue, serving a mix of craft keg and cask ales. That includes three beers from Tap Social’s award-winning range, plus the brewery’s flagship IPA Time Better Spent on draught at two other Dodo pubs in Oxfordshire as part of a new long-term supply agreement. Dodo has also committed to maintaining Tap Social’s ethos of social inclusion, and all jobs at the site have been protected.
Food-wise, the menu will follow Dodo’s successful formula: Dodo burgers, authentic slow-rise Neapolitan pizzas, weekend brunch and plenty of sides — all served in a relaxed, refurbished space, complete with an upgraded garden area.
The pub becomes Dodo’s ninth in total, joining The Up In Arms in Marston (also free of tie), The Part & Parcel in Witney, and a growing list of out-of-county venues including the Airs & Graces and Bottle of Sauce in Cheltenham, The All Inn in Bristol and The Last Crumb in Caversham.
A heartfelt goodbye — and a new beginning
Reflecting on Tap Social’s departure from The White House, co-founder Paul Humpherson said: “This announcement is of course tinged with sadness.
“We’ve created so many good memories here and delivered on our mission to support people leaving prison through meaningful work. But while it’s tough to part with this amazing building and its wonderful regulars, we have big plans for the future and we’re excited to see what Dodo does with the space.”
Tap Social has thanked its supporters and Brasenose College for their ongoing partnership. And with Dodo pledging to honour the pub’s independent character while bringing fresh energy to the building, The Slow & Steady looks set to remain a local favourite — even if the name is still up for debate.
