Bucknell, Oxfordshire. Bucknell is a small village (population 717 in 2011) located just outside of Bicester, and is named in the Doomsday Book of 1086. The building dates back to 1637, although it didn't officially become a pub until 1946 (previously it had operated as a butchers shop and an off license). It is notable for its rubble stone, original beams , and an inglenook fireplace. An open metal grid on the exterior wall was historically used by villagers to bake bread in outdoor ovens while visiting the pub. The name comes from a duck pond located across the road. It is a classic village pub - warm, cozy, and friendly. The couple we were house sitting for (Paul and Louise) took us there for lunch. The food - fish and chips, steak and ale pie (obvious choices!) was delicious. It is a Wadworth pub (their 6X is one of my favorites) and I chose a beer I had not seen from them - Horizon Crisp Golden Ale. It tasted just as advertised, and was a perfect match for my fish and chips.