In our review, we found this charming Oxford hotel to be a real gem. Tucked away in an old building from the 1700s, it’s smack-dab in the middle of all the action.
With only 22 rooms, each one is unique – no cookie-cutter stuff here! Guests rave about the friendly staff, cozy rooms, and tasty breakfast. Plus, it’s just a short stroll from the train station, making it easy to explore the city’s famous sights.
Now, let’s be honest – no place is perfect. The building’s age means some rooms might feel a bit snug, and street noise could be an issue for light sleepers. But don’t let that scare you off!
This hotel is ideal for history buffs, couples looking for a romantic getaway, or anyone who wants to soak up Oxford’s atmosphere.
If you’re after a personal touch and don’t mind trading a bit of space for character, you’ll feel right at home here. It’s not for travelers seeking a modern, spacious hotel with all the bells and whistles, but for those wanting a true taste of Oxford, it’s hard to beat.
Good To Know
- Boutique hotel located in a historic 18th-century building in the heart of Oxford, with 22 individually designed guest rooms.
- Highly rated for excellent location, charming ambiance, and personalized service, including complimentary in-room continental breakfast.
- Offers free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, and facilities for guests with disabilities, providing a comfortable and accessible stay.
- Conveniently situated within a 7-minute walk from Oxford Rail Station and close to popular attractions like the Ashmolean Museum.
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary, and pets are not permitted, but children are welcome with no extra beds available.
Hotel Overview
The Vanbrugh House Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Oxford, occupying an 18th-century building.
This 22-room hotel has an excellent location, with a rating of 9.5 out of 10 from guests. Reviewers praise the unique character of the individually designed rooms and the friendly, accommodating staff.
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and serves an Oxfordshire continental breakfast in-room. As a listed building, the Vanbrugh House Hotel offers a distinctive experience, appealing to travelers seeking a charming and historic stay in the university city.
With an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10 from 1,365 reviews, the hotel provides a comfortable and well-situated base for exploring Oxford.
Guest Experience Highlights
Guests consistently praise the Vanbrugh House Hotel’s excellent location and lovely rooms, with couples especially appreciating the 9.5/10 location score for two-person trips.
The boutique hotel’s friendly and accommodating staff also earn high marks, with some guests reporting complimentary upgrades for special occasions.
Visitors highlight the unique character of the 18th-century listed building, and the in-room Oxfordshire continental breakfast is a popular perk.
Room Amenities and Features
Within the historic 18th-century building, the Vanbrugh House Hotel’s 22 individually designed rooms feature an array of modern amenities and thoughtful touches.
Each room is equipped with a tea/coffee maker, providing guests with the convenience of in-room refreshments. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, allowing visitors to stay connected during their stay.
For added comfort, the rooms are non-smoking, catering to the preferences of health-conscious travelers. The hotel’s dedication to accessibility is evident, with facilities available for guests with disabilities.
Dining and Breakfast
Although the Vanbrugh House Hotel does not have an on-site restaurant, it offers a complimentary Oxfordshire continental breakfast served directly in guests’ rooms. This breakfast spread includes a selection of fresh pastries, bread, jams, and juices, ensuring a delightful start to the day. Guests can enjoy their meal in the comfort and privacy of their own accommodations, which adds to the boutique hotel’s charm and personalized experience.
| Breakfast Items | Description |
|---|---|
| Pastries | Freshly baked croissants, muffins, and danishes |
| Bread | A variety of artisanal loaves and toast |
| Jams | An assortment of homemade preserves |
| Juices | A selection of freshly squeezed citrus and fruit juices |
| Tea & Coffee | Gourmet tea and coffee options |
Facilities and Services
The Vanbrugh House Hotel offers a range of thoughtful facilities and services to enhance guests’ stays.
Free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, and facilities for disabled guests ensure comfort and convenience. Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour front desk and in-room tea/coffee making facilities.
The hotel also provides additional services, including private check-in/check-out, a concierge service, and luggage storage. While fax and photocopying services incur an additional charge, these amenities cater to the needs of both leisure and business travelers.
- Free Wi-Fi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Facilities for disabled guests
- 24-hour front desk
- In-room tea/coffee making
Accessibility and Policies
Guests can check in to the Vanbrugh House Hotel from 3pm onwards, with checkout required by 11am. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children of any age are welcome, but cots and extra beds aren’t available. Pets aren’t allowed, and the minimum age for check-in is 18.
| Accessibility | Parking |
|---|---|
| Facilities for disabled guests | No parking available |
| Private check-in/check-out | Nearest public parking is Worcester Car Park (5-minute walk, £35/24 hours) |
| Concierge service |
The absence of on-site parking may be an inconvenience for some guests, but the hotel’s excellent location near public transportation and attractions makes it a convenient choice for exploring Oxford.
Nearby Attractions
Vanbrugh House Hotel’s excellent location provides guests easy access to Oxford’s renowned landmarks.
Just a short walk away, visitors can explore the Ashmolean Museum, admire the stunning architecture of Exeter College, ascend the Carfax Tower for panoramic city views, and discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Oxford Covered Market.
The hotel’s central position also makes it convenient for those seeking to explore further afield, with the Oxford Rail Station just a 7-minute walk away and the city center of London accessible within 1.5 hours by car.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this historic university town, Vanbrugh House Hotel’s prime location ensures you can make the most of your Oxford experience.
Getting to Vanbrugh House
Reaching Vanbrugh House Hotel is a straightforward endeavor. Located just a short 7-minute walk from Oxford Rail Station, the hotel is easily accessible via public transportation. For those driving, the nearest public parking is at Worcester Car Park, a mere 5-minute walk away, though it does come at a cost of £35 per 24 hours.
| Transportation | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Train | Oxford Rail Station | 7 minutes |
| Car | Worcester Car Park | 5 minutes |
| On Foot | From Oxford Rail Station | 7 minutes |
Whether arriving by train, car, or on foot, Vanbrugh House Hotel’s central location makes it a convenient choice for exploring the historic city of Oxford.
Questions About Staying Here
Does the Hotel Have an In-House Restaurant or Bar?
The hotel does not have an on-site restaurant or bar. However, guests can enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast served in-room. There are numerous dining options within walking distance of the hotel in the historic city center of Oxford.
What Are the Designated Smoking Areas on the Property?
The hotel has a strict no-smoking policy throughout the property, including in all rooms and common areas. Designated smoking areas are not provided on the premises.
Can Guests Arrange for a Private Airport Transfer Service?
The hotel doesn’t provide a private airport transfer service. Guests can take a taxi or use public transportation to get to the hotel from the nearest airport, which is about 1.5 hours away by car.
Are There Any Fitness Facilities or Gym Available for Guests?
The hotel does not have any on-site fitness facilities or a gym. However, guests can inquire with the concierge about nearby gym and fitness center options that may be available for use during their stay.
Does the Hotel Have a Designated Area for Bike Storage or Rental?
The hotel doesn’t have its own bike storage or rental facilities. However, guests can safely store their bicycles with the hotel staff, and they can also get recommendations for local bike rental shops nearby.
Worth The Stay
Vanbrugh House Hotel offers guests an authentic Oxford experience. Its 18th-century charm, personalized service, and excellent location make it an ideal choice for visitors. With well-appointed rooms, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to the city’s attractions, the hotel provides a memorable stay. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can expect a comfortable and enjoyable experience at Vanbrugh House Hotel.