Malmaison Oxford
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.
Macdonald Randolph Hotel
More than 150 years old, the Macdonald Randolph Hotel is the oldest operating hotel in the city, offering a combination of history and luxury with a great central location. The public areas offer heritage tones with contemporary embossed wallpaper and charming black-and-white photos of Oxford and its Alice in Wonderland connections.
Each of the rooms is unique in size and character, with shades of muted gray and purple and rich fabrics and furnishings. Views vary, but many of the rooms overlook either the Ashmolean Museum at the front, or the Martyrs’ Memorial and Balliol College to the side.
There are a number of dining options, including the Acanthus Restaurant, the Cartoon Bar, and the wood-paneled Morse Bar.
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Rooms
All rooms are unique in size and layout but feature a common style with classically elegant decor in a range of muted tones. Views vary, but many overlook either the Ashmolean Museum opposite or the Martyrs’ Memorial and Balliol College. Rooms are fitted with double glazing to reduce noise and the Executive rooms are large enough to include an extra bed if required. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout and all rooms have either a shower, bath or both.
Location
The Macdonald Randolph Hotel has a central location opposite the Ashmolean Museum and is just a short walk from Oxford’s main shopping street and some of the city’s oldest colleges.
Food and drink
The Acanthus, the hotel's restaurant, is decorated with Oxford college shields and serves classic British dishes reinvented in a contemporary style and made from regionally-sourced, seasonal food. There are also two bars: the Cartoon Bar, with a focus on gin and champagne, and the traditional, wood-paneled Morse Bar, named after the fictional Oxford detective. Alternatively, enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s luxurious drawing room.
Facilities and activities
The Macdonald Randolph Hotel is one of the only hotels in the city to offer a small gym, as well as a luxurious spa facility. Located on the lower ground floor under a vaulted ceiling, there are four treatment rooms, a steam room, Jacuzzi and sensation shower.
Accessibility
There are a number of mobility accessible rooms and a lift which is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair.
Our opinion
We think this is a perfect option for those looking for a historic hotel which also offers a full range of facilities, including a spa and gym.
Nearby accommodation
Nearby places
Alternative places to stay nearby
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.
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![Malmaison Oxford, Oxford]()
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![Mercure Oxford Eastgate, Oxford]()
Mercure Oxford Eastgate
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.
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![Old Bank Hotel, Oxford]()
Old Bank Hotel
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.
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![Old Parsonage Hotel, Oxford]()
Old Parsonage Hotel
This small, 17th-century hotel is a tranquil retreat in the heart of Oxford. The charming building retains many original features which are combined with rich, contemporary decor to excellent effect.
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The Tower House
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.
Experiences while staying here
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.
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![Blenheim Palace]()
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.
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![Oxford punting]()
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.
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![Oxford]()
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.
