Best for: understated, old school luxury
For a pampering five-star stay, book Oxford’s glorious landmark hotel, Old Bank – as the name suggests, from 1775 it was a mighty bank and it oozes history – I’d recommend it for a spoiling stay at Oxford’s heart. OB has that big bank, old-world refinery, that feels special, but with a lighter, avant-garde spin to make it more relevant today.
There are 43 rooms and suites in the sophisticated hotel set in the heart of the city, on the High Street, no less. On arrival, you’ll spy the dashing Georgian exterior, and once inside, it feels like an art space with soothing white and neutral tones, splashes of jewel-hued colour and bright artworks – the owners’ own.
Once in the rooms, this continues and then some: there are decadent Epoc beds and seductive marble bathrooms, care of Carrara. There’s a mix of rooms to book, but if you’re feeling flush, you must book the headliner, The Room With The View – I recommend the hotel’s signature suite – and what a view it has. The wow outdoor terrace overlooks the exquisite cityscape and it would be rude not to have some fizz. 36 St Giles, The Oxford Collection’s two light-filled residences are serviced by the hotel team, have all the luxuries and lots of space. Quod, with views of the Radcliffe Camera, dishes out European classics with flair.
Address: 92-94 High St, Oxford OX1 4BJ
Price: From about £330 per night.
The Netty
Best for: niche story; fabulous interior design
I just loved the design of The Netty, it’s a bit like arriving in Wonderland, its surprisingly original aesthetic care of interior design wizz, Rachael Gowdridge. The Netty is Oxford’s smallest (and surely, most unique) boutique hotel and a thoroughly extraordinary stay – secretly hidden under Oxford’s streets in what was once a Victorian public loo. Today, there are two gorgeous design-led suites, both of which have such dreamy interiors that the last thing you’ll be bothered about is the building’s former life.
The focus is on vintage features, decadent textures and bespoke items; it’s distinctive yet luxurious. There are only two suites sleeping two people: the first suite has richer tones and darker fabrics with pops of colourful tapestries; the second suite has a softer energy with its pastel-hued, botanically-inspired elements. This hotel is totally niche, a perfect, fun escape for two.
Address: St Giles, 1a, Oxford, England, OX1 3JS
Price: From about £200 per night.
