In our review of this charming inn near Oxford, we found a cozy retreat that’s big on character and convenience. Just a short drive from the city’s dreaming spires, this place offers comfy rooms with a dash of history. The food is hearty British fare, and you can wash it down with some top-notch local brews.
Now, it’s not all roses. The inn’s popularity means it can get a bit noisy, especially on weekends.
And if you’re looking for cutting-edge modern amenities, you might find the period details a tad old-fashioned.
But for travelers who want to soak up some authentic English atmosphere without breaking the bank, this spot hits the mark. It’s perfect for history buffs, couples on a romantic getaway, or families looking to explore Oxford’s treasures without the city center hustle and bustle.
Just remember to book early – with those glowing reviews, rooms here tend to fill up fast!
Good To Know
- The Bear and Ragged Staff is a historic inn located 5 miles from Oxford city center, known for its 450-year-old building and traditional British cuisine.
- The inn offers a variety of room types, including Twin/Double, Family Suites, Double, King, and Superior King, all equipped with modern amenities.
- Guests can enjoy free parking, Wi-Fi, and kid-friendly amenities, as well as award-winning ales at the on-site restaurant that uses locally-sourced ingredients.
- With an average rating of 9.4 for cleanliness and comfort, and 9.6 for staff friendliness, the inn is a popular choice for couples and families visiting the area.
- The inn’s location provides easy access to attractions like the Ashmolean Museum and Blenheim Palace, making it an ideal base for exploring the local area.
Location and Accessibility
Situated just 5 miles from the heart of Oxford, the Bear and Ragged Staff offers an excellent location for exploring the city’s renowned attractions.
Rated 9.2 out of 10 based on over 1,200 reviews, the inn’s prime position makes it easy to reach nearby sites like the Ashmolean Museum and Blenheim Palace.
Couples especially appreciate the convenient locale, scoring it 9.1 for two-person trips.
With free parking and Wi-Fi, the Bear and Ragged Staff provides a hassle-free base from which to discover the historic city and its surroundings.
Accommodation Offerings
The Bear and Ragged Staff is a historic inn with parts dating back over 450 years.
The rooms feature high sloping ceilings, king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, and charming old features. Guests can choose from various room types, including Twin/Double Rooms, Family Suites, Double Rooms, King Rooms, and Superior King Rooms.
All rooms have showers, and most also have baths. The inn offers free parking and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, guests are sure to find an accommodation that meets their needs at the Bear and Ragged Staff.
Room Types and Features
Within the historic Bear and Ragged Staff inn, guests can choose from a variety of room types to suit their needs. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the inn offers accommodations to meet different preferences. From the cozy Twin/Double Room to the spacious Family Suite, each option features charming period details and modern comforts. All rooms come equipped with king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, and ensuite bathrooms with showers, while some also boast additional bathtubs. The diverse room selection allows guests to find the perfect fit for their Oxford stay.
| Room Type | Bed Size | Occupancy | Bathroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twin/Double | Twin/King | 1-2 guests | Shower |
| Family Suite | King | 2-4 guests | Shower & Bath |
| Double | King | 1-2 guests | Shower & Bath |
| King | King | 1-2 guests | Shower & Bath |
| Superior King | King | 1-2 guests | Shower & Bath |
Dining and Amenities
What culinary delights await guests at the Bear and Ragged Staff? The historic inn boasts an on-site restaurant featuring traditional British cuisine and award-winning ales.
Diners can savor a wide selection of delectable dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Beyond dining, the property offers several other amenities to enhance the guest experience. Complimentary perks include free parking and Wi-Fi access.
Additional services, such as meeting/banquet facilities and kid-friendly amenities, are available for an extra charge. Pets are also welcome, though fees may apply.
With its combination of quality dining and convenient facilities, the Bear and Ragged Staff ensures a well-rounded stay for all its visitors.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Bear and Ragged Staff, as evidenced by its impressive overall ratings.
With an average score of 9.4 for cleanliness and comfort, as well as 9.6 for staff friendliness, it’s clear that the inn delivers an exceptional experience.
Reviewers were particularly impressed with the delicious breakfast and the attentive staff.
One guest noted, "Gorgeous room, friendly staff," while another praised the "wide choice" of food.
At 8.9 out of 10 for value, the Bear and Ragged Staff provides a top-notch stay without breaking the bank.
Arrival and Departure
Visitors can check into the Bear and Ragged Staff from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The check-out time is until 11:00 AM.
Guests should be aware that cancellation and prepayment policies may vary depending on the accommodation type they’ve booked.
Children of all ages are welcome, and cots are available upon request for free for children aged 0-2.
However, the property doesn’t accept American Express or Diners Club cards.
It’s also important to note that access to upper floors is via steep staircases, and room sizes and shapes may vary.
Child-Friendly Policies
The Bear and Ragged Staff welcomes child guests, providing free cots for infants under 2 years old upon request.
The historic inn offers several amenities to cater to families:
- Kid-friendly dining options, including a children’s menu and highchairs available.
- Access to a grassy outdoor area where children can play safely.
- Board games and books available in the common areas to keep young guests entertained.
- Staff happy to provide recommendations for family-friendly activities and attractions in the local area.
While the property doesn’t have dedicated childcare services, the Bear and Ragged Staff strives to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay of all ages.
Payment and Access Information
Paying for a stay at the Bear and Ragged Staff can be done through various methods. The property doesn’t accept American Express or Diners Club cards, but guests can use other major credit cards.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary, so it’s best to check the conditions for the specific accommodation type booked.
Check-in is from 3 pm to 10 pm, and checkout is until 11 am. Access to upper floors is via steep staircases, and room sizes and shapes differ.
Children of any age are welcome, and cots are available for free for those 0-2 years old upon request.
Questions About Staying Here
Is the Property Suitable for Guests With Disabilities?
The property may not be fully accessible for guests with disabilities, as it has steep staircases to access upper floors and rooms that vary in size and shape. Guests should check accessibility details before booking.
What Is the Nearest Public Transportation Option?
The nearest public transportation option is a 10-minute drive to the city center, where guests can access Oxford’s extensive bus network. There are no details provided about on-site or nearby public transit options at the Bear and Ragged Staff.
Can Guests Book Spa or Massage Services On-Site?
The property does not offer spa or massage services on-site. Guests seeking such services would need to explore options in the local area, as the inn focuses on providing traditional British dining and accommodations.
Is There a Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurant?
There’s no formal dress code for the on-site restaurant. Guests can dine comfortably in casual attire, though some may prefer dressing up a bit. The restaurant welcomes all guests regardless of their choice of clothing.
Are Any Special Event Packages or Wedding Services Available?
The inn offers special event packages and wedding services. Couples can host celebrations in the meeting/banquet facilities, with catering and event planning support available for an additional charge.
Worth The Stay
The Bear and Ragged Staff inn offers a charming and convenient retreat near Oxford’s cultural heart. With over 450 years of history, it provides comfortable accommodations, traditional dining, and an array of guest-friendly amenities. Boasting exceptional ratings, this historic hotel promises an unforgettable Oxford experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the city’s rich heritage.