HOTEL of the week

VANBRUGH HOUSE OXFORD

WHERE AND WHY Smack bang in the centre of Oxford, it’s ideal for a city break, a stone’s throw away from everything Oxford has to offer. It was the 18th century home of the architect Sir John Vanbrugh, who designed the nearby Blenheim Palace. His style was bold, yet the hotel is modest with a simple elegance, with 22 individually decorated rooms full of rich historical tales. There are many original features and fireplaces, mirrored by the cobbled streets outside. Walk only a few minutes and you are in the thick of the 21st century hustle and bustle of a busy city centre. What’s not to like? The hotel has all mod cons and the staff are lovely.

ON THE MENU Breakfast is in a converted basement with the original city walls as a backdrop. On offer are fresh fruit and croissants, and a lovely selection of cereals, cheeses and meats. The cooked options really are fit for a king. I had eggs Benedict – delicious.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE The City of Dreaming Spires awaits! Choose from the glorious University colleges, superb museums, Weston Library – exhibiting some of the Bodleian Library’s greatest treasures including Magna Carta, Jane Austen manuscripts and Shakespeare’s first folio. You can immerse yourself in 1,000 years of history at Oxford Castle. Add great pubs, Inspector Morse locations, independent shops and punting on the river in good weather and your weekend is packed with goodies. Walking tours are widely available and a great way to discover the city.

WAKE-UP CALL B&B from £79.50pp. vanbrughhousehotel.co.uk, 01865 244622