Pub in Cowley
Malt Shovel
63 Iver Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JE4.3out of 5 on Google, from 2,032 ratings
Details last checked October 2024. Things may have changed since.

About Malt Shovel
Whitewashed, canalside pub with a homely feel and a hearty menu of seasonal British dishes.
A nineteenth-century, Grade II listed, canal-side building which has retained a little of its character despite being transformed from an old basic boozer into a Harvester Inn several years ago. Now part of the Vintage Inn chain the pub has a traditional bar. Real ale festivals were held annually under canvas in the garden usually around the time of the late May bank holiday.
Fully refurbished in July 2024.
Description from WhatPub, CAMRA’s pub guide, with a summary from Google Maps.
Features
- Dog Friendly
- Outdoor Seating
- Real Fire
- Live Music: Last Friday in the month
- Family Friendly
- Quiet
- Serves Food
- Serves Lunch
- Serves Dinner
- Restaurant
- Real Ale
- Cask Marque
- Events: Quiz night every Thursday; Brush strokes Painting once a month
- Disabled Access: Via Canal towpath
- Accessible Restroom
- WiFi
- Reservable
- Parking
- Smoking
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Accepts Debit Cards
- Accepts NFC
Opening times
- Monday
- 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
As listed in October 2024. Hours change, and bank holidays differ: check with the pub.
Good to know
- Operator
- Mitchells & Butlers
- Price
- 2 out of 4 (Google’s price level)
- Phone
- 01895 812797
Photos
Photos from Google Maps contributors, stored when the pub was last checked.
Google rating and reviews
4.3out of 5 on Google, from 2,032 ratings
5 out of 5Randyon Google, August 2024
Absolutely phenomenal service from Reece! From the moment we were seated, Reece went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of perfect. His attention to detail, friendly demeanor, and deep knowledge of the menu made our evening truly memorable. Reece anticipated our needs before we even had to ask and made excellent recommendations that enhanced our meal. It's rare to find someone who is so passionate and dedicated to their work. If you're lucky enough to be served by Reece, you're in for an exceptional dining experience. Five stars all the way!
3 out of 5ShaziCee Ohhhon Google, September 2024
The potential to have a really good time here can be ruined by a) the attitude of the staff b) the time waiting for food c) the quality of the food served. I’d read the reviews and knew there was a chance of a long wait for food however an hour wait for a Sunday roast is too long. Starters: sharing platter came without any side plates for the four of us and the lack of presence from staff meant we just ended up scoffing them down like slobs. And they didn’t bring any serviettes! But it tasted really nice though. Main: Sunday roast. Took over an hour to come. The meats were ok but the…
5 out of 5Richard Con Google, July 2024
Recently refurbished pub. Had a lovely Sunday roast by the canal. Plenty of tables inside and out by the canal. Food excellent, large portions and very tasty. Good value for money Was just getting busy as we left at 1pm. Photo of Lamb, Beef and Pork roasts
5 out of 5Ian Coxon Google, August 2024
Had an amazing birthday meal here yesterday and the food and service was fantastic. As I'm on the mailing list I received a free bottle of prosecco for my birthday and our server Ronnie-Ann gave me a free birthday sweet treat. Remarkable service by a remarkable member of the team.
1 out of 5Jack Kimbelon Google, August 2024
Food arrived after over an hour, the excuse given was that there is a 45 minute wait time... not sure how that makes sense honestly? Barely any fish in the sandwich as well and also came out stone cold. Calamari had to be sent back as it came out cold before the sandwich arrived ajd hilariously came back cold again after being sent away, it arrived at the same time as the sandwiches so couldn't be bothered raising for a 2nd time that the food was cold. As someone who genuinely hates raising complaints (I can't think of anywhere else that I've had to?) the fact that I've had to do so here…
Rating and reviews are from Google Maps, as they stood in October 2024. See the latest on Google Maps.









