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The setting
The Holt Hotel is on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, in the countryside of Oxfordshire, on the outskirts of Bicester, about 12 km from the city centre. The surrounding area is characterized by expansive rural landscapes and a calm, peaceful atmosphere; there are few shops in the immediate vicinity of the hotel, but plenty of fields and small paths. It’s convenient to have a car here. Those travelling on foot can explore the surrounding streets and paths, but once you’ve checked in, your stay at the hotel proceeds at a leisurely pace.
What to expect
This is an independent hotel with 87 rooms, in a building constructed in 1475 as a post station. The rooms are well-equipped with all necessary amenities. On the ground floor, there is a restaurant serving local cuisine, as well as a bar where you can enjoy a relaxing evening. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and for guests who want to stay in shape even while on holiday, there is a fitness centre on the premises.
Things to do nearby
Nearby is Rousham House and Gardens—a must-see for anyone who appreciates 18th-century landscape gardens and walled gardens. The centre of Bicester is just a few minutes’ drive away, where you can enjoy shopping and cafes. In addition, the vast Cotswolds region lies right on your doorstep, and with country roads and villages so close by, the area is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Best for
Whether it’s couples looking to spend a quiet weekend in Oxfordshire, hikers looking to explore the surrounding area, or anyone interested in historic post stations and the story of the outlaw Claude Duval—there’s something for everyone here. The hotel’re also happy to welcome families with children; the hotel has a playroom where the little ones can have fun. Since the hotel is also used for weddings and small events, there’s a festive atmosphere here on the weekends.
How to get to the hotel
London Heathrow Airport is about a 1-hour, 15-minute drive away, and Birmingham Airport is about the same distance to the north. The Bicester Village and Bicester North train stations are about 12 km from the hotel. Trains depart regularly from London Marylebone and cover this route in less than an hour; from there, you can quickly reach the hotel by taxi or rental car. Since the hotel offers free parking, driving there is also easy.
Choose your room
âś“ Your selectionStandard Double room
Simple layout — double bed, private bathroom, comfortable enough for two.
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+ÂŁ20Superior Double room
A step up in size and finish, with a double bed and en-suite bathroom.
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+ÂŁ85Deluxe Double room
The largest of the three, with a double bed, more space to spread out and a private bathroom.
View room →- Free Internet
- Parking
- Billiards
- Library
- Gym
Property, in pictures
Latest reviews
Great value accommodation and good service
The reservation staff were extremely helpful in making a room booking in a family room that suited our family and incorporating our disability issues. They were also… Read full review on ZenHotels →
Lovely hotel with excellent service
We had a 3 night stay recently Our room had a balcony, the room was spotless with a coffee machine, large television, table and chairs in the room and on the balcony… Read full review on ZenHotels →
A really lovely hotel staffed by the loveliest of people. Amazing food and really great service
A really lovely hotel staffed by even lovelier people. Rooms are very comfortable and nicely decorated and the restaurant serves lovely tasting high end foodThe staff… Read full review on ZenHotels →
Your 3 days, loosely planned
Suggestions, not orders. Tour ideas to mix and match for your trip.
Arrival and Rousham gardens
If you arrive in the afternoon, drop off your luggage and take a stroll around the grounds to relax after your trip. Head to Rousham House and Gardens & Gardens, located right off the road, and spend about two hours there among the manicured lawns, exquisite architecture, and walled garden. When you return to the hotel, you can relax with a drink at the bar before dinner at the restaurant. The restaurant’s dishes are prepared primarily with regional ingredients.
Cotswolds villages and country lanes
After breakfast, you’ll head west and spend the morning leisurely exploring the “Honeystone”-style villages on the outskirts of the Cotswolds. After lunch at one of the village pubs or cafes, you’ll return via Chipping Norton and take a stroll through the market square and the area’s quaint shops. If you still have some energy left, you can take a short walk along the local hiking trails before you return to the hotel for a quiet evening.
Slow morning and Bicester
Let’s spend your last morning in a relaxed atmosphere. After breakfast, if you’d like, you can work out in the gym. After checking out of the hotel, you’ll drive a short distance to Bicester. There, you can take a stroll around town or grab a coffee. If you’re interested in outlet shopping, Bicester Village is right nearby. From there, you can easily get back onto the highway. Those who want to extend their trip by one more day can continue south to Oxford.
Where you'll be
Chipping Norton, UK
FAQ
Can children stay at the hotel?
Yes, the hotel is perfect for families with children and features a playroom where the little ones can have fun. For families travelling by car, the free parking spaces are very convenient, and thanks to the location in the countryside, there’s also plenty of space for children to run around to their hearts’ content between activities.
What's there to do on site?
The hotel features a fitness centre for guests who want to work out during their stay, a restaurant where you can sample local delicacies, and a bar where you can relax in the evening with a glass of your favourite drink. In addition, the hotel has a playroom for children, and the hotel grounds are ideal for short walks.
When is the best time to visit?
Late July, when this stay falls, is a strong choice: long daylight hours, warm weather for exploring Rousham's gardens and the Cotswold villages, and pub gardens at their best. Book ahead as summer weekends fill up quickly in this part of Oxfordshire.
Is the hotel a good base for exploring the Cotswolds?
Yes. Since it’s on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, with Chipping Norton and Bicester nearby, this place is an ideal starting point for road trips to the surrounding villages. For those interested in historic gardens, Rousham House and Gardens & Gardens is also very close by.
Does the hotel have any history worth knowing about?
There’s plenty to see here. This building was constructed in 1475 as a post station and is also linked to the story of the 17th-century outlaw Claude Duval—a figure whom people of that time revered as a hero. This independent hotel in Oxfordshire has 87 rooms and operates as a full-service hotel, yet it has retained some of its traditional charm.
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