One of Oxford's oldest pubs marked its 400th birthday with 200 people toasting the milestone.

The King's Arms, in Holywell Street, which has been serving drinkers since the time of James I, opened its doors to regulars for a special invitation only party.

And Alister Dunn, landlord of the pub, said he was delighted to see so many of his regular customers coming out on the night to join in the festivities.

He said: "It was a fantastic night and everyone seems to have really enjoyed themselves.

"It was great having all of the regulars down to join in with this special occasion.

"I feel I have the best regulars that any landlord could ask for, so it was fitting that they be the ones at the birthday party."

Mr Dunn admitted there had been some early nerves as guests started arriving, but once the buffet had been served, he was able to relax and enjoy the evening.

He said: "As soon as everything was taken care of, I was able to let my hair down and enjoy myself - but not excessively, of course."

Guests at the party were treated to live entertainment, with jazz music, a card table, and a caricaturist drawing portraits on special commemorative paper.

Peter Thompson, from Grandpont, who works at nearby St Cross College and has been drinking regularly at the pub for six years, said he felt honoured to have been invited.

Dr Thompson, 47, said: "It was a really good night and a great chance to meet other regulars and old friends.

"I think many people who attended the evening will have felt privileged to be sharing in the history of the pub by attending the evening. It wasn't just a night out drinking."

However, Dr Thompson did indulge in the specially brewed 400 ale that went on sale for the first time.

He said: "It was dangerously drinkable and it slipped down a treat."

Fellow reveller, Victoria Grant, 48, who has been drinking at the pub since she moved to Oxford as a student 30 years ago, said she felt the pub was the best in Oxford.

Mrs Grant, from Princes Street, East Oxford, said: "For me, there is no pub better than the King's Arms.

"It doesn't have loud music blaring out, there are no televisions for people to stare at mindlessly, it's just good beer, great food and a fantastic atmosphere.

"It's great being here tonight to join in the celebrations and it's definitely going to be an evening I will remember."

Costumed serving wenches in period dress from the 17th century were also on hand to serve food.

Mr Dunn said: "I also had a costume lined up. I was supposed to be dressing as James I - who the King's Arms gets its name from - but the costume was too big."