When planning a trip to Oxford, England, one of the most important decisions to make is where to stay. The city is rich in history, culture, and education, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your experience, providing you with a comfortable home base to explore all that Oxford has to offer. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Oxford, taking into consideration factors such as location, amenities, and budget.
Importance of Choosing the Right Accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that you have a comfortable and restful stay, allowing you to recharge and make the most of your time in Oxford. A good night’s sleep is essential for maintaining energy levels and enjoying your activities. Additionally, the right accommodation can enhance your overall experience by providing convenient access to popular attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation
When selecting accommodation in Oxford, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- Location: Proximity to popular attractions, public transportation, and amenities
- Amenities: Availability of features such as Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast
- Budget: Balancing cost and value to fit your travel expenses
- Comfort: Ensuring a restful and enjoyable stay
- Reviews: Gauging the experiences of other travelers
Top Areas to Stay in Oxford
When it comes to location, there are several top areas to consider in Oxford. These include:
- City Centre: Offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and provides easy access to popular attractions such as the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Castle, and the University of Oxford.
- Jericho: A trendy and vibrant neighborhood with a mix of independent shops, restaurants, and pubs. It is located slightly north of the city centre and offers a variety of accommodation options, from bed and breakfasts to serviced apartments.
- Summertown: A charming and affluent area located about two miles north of the city centre. It features beautiful gardens, independent shops, and a variety of restaurants. Accommodation options include bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments.
Recommended Accommodations in Oxford
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are some recommended accommodations in Oxford:
- The Old Bank Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city centre, offering elegant rooms, a popular restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- Vanbrugh House Hotel: A boutique hotel situated in a historic building near the University of Oxford. It offers comfortable rooms, a charming courtyard garden, and a convenient location for exploring the city.
- Central Oxford Self-Catering: A collection of serviced apartments located in the city centre, providing a home-away-from-home experience with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living spaces, and convenient amenities.
Best Places to Stay in Oxford, England
Oxford, England is a city rich in history, culture, and academia. With its stunning architecture, world-renowned university, and charming streets, it’s no wonder that Oxford is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. But with so many options for accommodation, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in Oxford, taking into account different budgets, interests, and travel styles.
1. Central Oxford
If you want to be in the heart of the action, central Oxford is the place to be. This area is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Covered Market. It’s also a short walk to the University of Oxford, making it an ideal location for students or academics.
Luxury Accommodation: The Randolph Hotel
The Randolph Hotel is a five-star hotel located in the heart of Oxford. This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1864 and has hosted notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher. The hotel’s rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and feature modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s restaurant, the Acanthus, which serves modern British cuisine. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Carmel By The Sea)
Mid-Range Accommodation: The Old Bank Hotel
The Old Bank Hotel is a boutique hotel located in a historic building in the heart of Oxford. The hotel’s rooms and suites are stylishly decorated and feature amenities such as Nespresso machines and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a popular restaurant, Quod, which serves Italian-inspired cuisine.
Budget Accommodation: YHA Oxford
YHA Oxford is a budget-friendly hostel located in central Oxford. The hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, making it a great option for solo travelers, couples, and families. The hostel also has a cafe, a bar, and a lounge area, as well as a self-catering kitchen for guests who want to cook their own meals.
2. Oxfordshire Countryside
If you’re looking for a more peaceful and rural experience, the Oxfordshire countryside is a great option. This area is home to many charming villages, historic houses, and beautiful gardens. It’s also a short drive from Oxford, making it easy to explore the city while staying in a more tranquil setting.
Luxury Accommodation: Soho Farmhouse
Soho Farmhouse is a luxury hotel and members’ club located in the Oxfordshire countryside. The hotel is set on a 100-acre estate and features a variety of accommodations, including cabins, houses, and a farmhouse. The hotel’s amenities include a spa, a gym, a cinema, and a variety of restaurants and bars. The hotel also offers activities such as horse riding, boating, and cycling.
Mid-Range Accommodation: The Feathers Hotel
The Feathers Hotel is a charming hotel located in the village of Woodstock, just a few miles from Oxford. The hotel’s rooms and suites are individually decorated and feature amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a popular restaurant, the Brasserie, which serves modern British cuisine.
Budget Accommodation: Blenheim Palace Camping
Blenheim Palace Camping is a budget-friendly camping site located on the grounds of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The camping site offers tent and campervan pitches, as well as glamping options such as bell tents and shepherd’s huts. The site also has facilities such as toilets, showers, and a cafe. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Yellowstone)
3. Oxford Riverside
The Oxford riverside is a beautiful and picturesque area of the city, with views of the River Thames and many of Oxford’s historic colleges. It’s also a great location for outdoor activities such as punting and cycling.
Luxury Accommodation: The Cherwell Boathouse
The Cherwell Boathouse is a unique hotel located on the banks of the River Cherwell. The hotel’s rooms are located in converted barges and feature amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a popular restaurant, which serves modern British cuisine, and a punting station, where guests can hire punts and explore the river.
Mid-Range Accommodation: The Macdonald Randolph Hotel
The Macdonald Randolph Hotel is a four-star hotel located on the Oxford riverside. The hotel’s rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and feature amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a popular restaurant, the Morse Bar, which is named after the fictional detective created by author Colin Dexter.
Budget Accommodation: Port Meadow Campsite
Port Meadow Campsite is a budget-friendly camping site located on the banks of the River Thames. The camping site offers tent and campervan pitches, as well as facilities such as toilets, showers, and a cafe. The site is also located near Port Meadow, a large open space that is popular for walking, horse riding, and birdwatching.
Recap
Oxford, England is a city with many options for accommodation, depending on your budget, interests, and travel style. Central Oxford is a great location for those who want to be in the heart of the action, with many top attractions and the University of Oxford nearby. The Oxfordshire countryside offers a more peaceful and rural experience, with charming villages and beautiful gardens. The Oxford riverside is a picturesque area with views of the River Thames and many historic colleges. Whatever your preference, Oxford has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay in Oxford, England
Where is the best area to stay in Oxford for tourists?
The city center, specifically around High Street and Broad Street, is the best area for tourists to stay in Oxford. This location places you near popular attractions such as the Oxford University colleges, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Bodleian Library.
What are the best budget-friendly accommodations in Oxford?
Some budget-friendly options in Oxford include:
1. Central Oxford Budget Rooms
2. YHA Oxford – Hostel
3. Tower House Hotel
4. St. Margaret’s Hotel
5. The Bocardo Hotel (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Times Square)
Which Oxford hotels are best for families?
Family-friendly hotels in Oxford include:
1. The Randolph Hotel, by Graduate Hotels
2. Vanbrugh House Hotel
3. The Oxford Hotel
4. Hawkwell House Hotel
5. Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel
What are the top-rated boutique hotels in Oxford?
Boutique hotels in Oxford with excellent ratings are:
1. The Old Bank Hotel
2. Malmaison Oxford
3. The Feathers Hotel
4. The Macdonald Randolph Hotel
5. The Westwood Hotel
Are there any pet-friendly hotels in Oxford?
Yes, some pet-friendly hotels in Oxford are:
1. Remont Oxford Hotel
2. The Galaxie
3. Vanbrugh House Hotel
4. The Old Black Horse Inn
5. The James Figg Pub and B&B