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Set on the site of a medieval parsonage which stood here until the mid-14th century, the Old Parsonage Hotel in its current form dates back to 1660 and still boasts its original wooden door. It’s been welcoming guests for over 300 years, often lodging college students including the flamboyant Oscar Wilde.
The internal décor uses a dark, heritage palette of deep red, purple and gray, which, combined with the hotel’s original features and open fires, creates an intimate, secluded atmosphere. Many of the 35 rooms include quirky elements and all are quietly indulgent with a pared-back contemporary style, handmade beds, rich fabrics and sketches of Oxford.
The Parsonage Grill exudes sophistication and charm, with walls adorned by the owner’s personal collection of 20th-century portraits.
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There are just four rooms in the original building, with views to the front of the property and original features such as fireplaces, exposed wooden beams and low ceilings. The rooms in the newer extension have a private terrace or Juliet balcony that opens up onto the garden courtyard. All are decorated in an understated, contemporary style and feature natural linens, soft velvets, warm woods and fresh flowers. Amenities include a minibar, smart TV, complimentary Wi-Fi and DAB radio. Junior suites and suites also have a coffee machine. The bathrooms have under-floor heating and depending on room category, have a walk-in shower, shower over bath, or in the suites, a separate shower and free-standing bath.
The hotel is just a ten-minute walk from the heart of Oxford and is surrounded by a number of the Oxford colleges, museums, historic pubs and restaurants. It’s also close to the fashionable area of Jericho, known for its hip coffee shops, cocktail bars, art house cinema and independent retailers.
The hotel has one restaurant, the Parsonage Grill, which serves an à la carte menu of classic British dishes cooked with modern flair for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served by the fire in winter, in the peaceful library or on the courtyard terrace in the warmer months.
The hotel offers a daily walking tour for guests at the Old Parsonage Hotel and its sister property, the Old Bank Hotel. Alternatively, explore the city as a traditional Oxford student and borrow one of the complimentary vintage bicycles available for use. Although there are no spa facilities, in-room beauty treatments can be arranged.
The hotel has two ground-floor rooms which are accessible by wheelchair. Rooms are equipped with wet rooms and suitable wash basins.
The most luxurious option in Oxford, this small hotel exudes character and history with excellent service standards.
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.
The grande dame of Oxford establishments, the Macdonald Randolph Hotel is full of history and character and offers old world charm, a range of dining options, spa facilities and a central location with easy access to the city’s museums and colleges.
A modern, boutique hotel set in a converted prison building and located in the shadow of a Norman castle, Malmaison is set in Oxford’s most historic area yet within an easy walk of the city's colleges and museums.
Originally a coaching inn, the conveniently located Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel combines period charm with modern facilities and is home to a well-regarded Italian restaurant owned by a celebrity chef.
A historic building with a contemporary, modern style and a full range of facilities, the Old Bank Hotel has a wonderful, central location offering easy access to the city’s main sights, colleges and museums.
The Tower House is a small, charming guesthouse situated in the heart of the city. Set among many of the oldest colleges and close to the city's main shops, sights and museums as well as the historic Covered Market, it makes a very convenient base.
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
Blenheim Palace half-day tour
Uncover the fascinating history, frayed relationships and royal connections of Blenheim Palace on a private half-day tour of this monumental country mansion. A Baroque masterpiece home to the Duke of Marlborough, its lavish rooms and elaborate gardens are fabulously impressive.
Chauffeured punting
Discover Oxford's tranquil meandering waterways, glorious architecture and beautiful gardens on a chauffeured punt ride along the River Cherwell. Without the hassle of steering these temperamental vessels you can sit back and soak up the scenery.
Oxford walking tour
Walk through the medieval streets of Oxford guided by a university graduate to seek out some of the city's more interesting colleges, chapels and laneways as you follow in the footsteps of famous writers, politicians or philosophers.
