Etain O'Carroll
Travel Writer
Etain O’Carroll is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in Oxford with a passion for wild places, human stories and how travel affects the world
Hotel Review
voco Oxford Spires, Oxford
WHAT WE LOVE...
Offering the convenience of a central location and the large grounds of a more rural hotel, the voco Oxford Spires is a comfortable base for visiting the city. Recent refurbishment has seen the dated décor replaced with something far more modern, with soft greys and natural tones giving an enduring sense of calm that belie the property's proximity to a busy main route into the city. You can walk to the main sights in about 15 minutes, meander along the river behind the gardens or simply relax in the spa and leisure centre or on the landscaped terrace to the rear. With a decent restaurant and bar, friendly staffing and spacious rooms, it's a reliable bet.
Your expert reviewer
THE DETAILS
Location
We love the combination of space and tranquillity with the convenience of a central location.
voco Oxford Spires is located right next to the Thames, a 15-minute walk from the city centre.
By car: Oxford is easily accessible from London on the M40 and takes around 90 minutes. The drive is around 1 hour 20 minutes from Birmingham and 3 hours from Liverpool. On-site parking is available at the hotel.
By train: 2 hours from Hereford, just under 3 hours from Manchester Piccadilly, around an hour from London Paddington or Marylebone, 20 minutes from Reading. Oxford station is around 10 minutes from the hotel by taxi and fares are typically about £5. thetrainline.com
Style & Character
The village setting is wonderfully tranquil, great for families, dog owners or anyone favouring peace and quiet over bustle of the city. Black-and-white images of Oxford landmarks, vintage maps and splashes of country-house chic adorn the public areas.
Service & Facilities
The outdoor terrace area, where you can linger over a quiet drink after a day of exploring, is fantastic.
- Parking (£10 per night)
- Spa and wellness centre
- Indoor swimming pool
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Picnic area
- Terrace
- Garden
Free Wi-Fi
Family rooms
Rooms
Large windows fill the rooms with natural light and let in views of the gardens. We love the Deluxe Queen with balcony, for its sleek design, garden views and large sleigh bed with super-comfy mattress.
King Suite, Deluxe Queen with Balcony, Premium Queen, Deluxe Twin, Superior Queen, Standard, Accessible Room
Facilities include: Wi-Fi, Flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, safe
free access to leisure club and spa
Food & Drink
The Mediterranean-themed vegan sharing platter is enough to make meat-eaters turn their heads. We love the sweet, moist and flaky pan-fried stone bass served with saffron potato, roasted winter veg and lemon butter.
Deacon's Restaurant: Calm setting, neutral tones. Modern British menu doesn't stray too far from the classics. All-day dining from £5.
Deacon's Bar: For quiet drinks in winter, garden terrace for warmer weather. Serves afternoon tea and informal snack menu. Cocktails from £7.50.
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Rooms available from £149 per night
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