Business Details
Luxury Boutique Hotel in Oxford City Centre
Vanbrugh House Hotel stands as a testament to Oxford's rich architectural heritage, offering guests an unparalleled blend of historical elegance and contemporary comfort. Our Grade-II listed building, designed by renowned architect Sir John Vanbrugh, has welcomed visitors since the 18th century and retains original features including delft tiling acknowledged by the Ashmolean Museum. With just 22 individually designed rooms, each named after historical figures or locations, we provide a unique experience that combines period charm with modern amenities such as complimentary refreshments and breakfast hampers. Our central Oxford location places guests within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library and Christ Church, while our dedicated staff ensure personalized service that has earned recognition in Muddy Stilettos Awards and Telegraph reviews.The hotel's historical significance extends beyond its walls, with connections to the Peisley family of stonemasons and proximity to the Oxford Union debating society. We maintain the building's integrity through careful preservation of panelled rooms and hidden fortification remnants, while offering modern comforts that have consistently delighted guests from around the world.
Services
Boutique Hotel Accommodation
Historical Room Stays
Breakfast Hamper Service
Champagne Packages
Accessible Rooms
Highlights and features
- We offer 22 uniquely designed rooms preserving 18th-century architectural features
- Our central Oxford location provides walking access to major historic attractions
- We maintain original delft tiling acknowledged by the Ashmolean Museum
- Our staff provide personalized service recognized in national hotel reviews
- We preserve historical elements while offering modern amenities like breakfast hampers
Associations and certifications
- Muddy Stilettos Award
What people say
Central location
Friendly staff
Spacious rooms
Excellent breakfast
Peaceful atmosphere
Services
Boutique Hotel Accommodation
Our 22 individually designed rooms offer a unique blend of historical architecture and modern comforts. Each room preserves original features like wooden beams and panelled walls while providing contemporary amenities including complimentary snacks and premium bedding. Guests enjoy the building's rich history dating back to the 18th century.
Historical Room Stays
Grade-II listed rooms maintain original architectural elements including delft tiling and hidden fortification remnants. Each room's unique design reflects Oxford's history with backstories displayed on bedroom walls. The Vicarage Suite features a private city garden for guest relaxation.
Breakfast Hamper Service
Continental breakfast hampers deliver fresh pastries, cheeses, and beverages directly to guest rooms. Available for in-room dining at leisure, the service combines convenience with quality ingredients. Options include special selections for dietary requirements.
Champagne Packages
Luxury packages enhance stays with premium champagne and complementary treats. Designed for special occasions, these packages add celebratory touches to the historical experience. Available as add-ons to room bookings with advance arrangement.
Accessible Rooms
Ground floor accessible rooms accommodate guests with mobility requirements. Features include widened doorways and adapted bathroom facilities. Located for easy access while maintaining the building's historical character and comfort standards.
Questions
How do I book a room at Vanbrugh House Hotel?
Book directly through our website using the 'Book Now' button or contact us via phone at +44 (0)1865 244 622 for assistance.
What amenities are included in the rooms?
All rooms include complimentary snacks, tea, coffee, and breakfast hampers delivered to your room daily.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Yes, we offer a ground floor accessible room with adapted facilities while maintaining our historical character.
What historical features can guests expect?
Original features include delft tiling, panelled walls, wooden beams, and hidden fortification remnants from the building's 18th-century construction.
What special packages are available?
We offer champagne packages and seasonal promotions like the 20% discount with code VANB20 for Oxford stays.
What nearby attractions are accessible from the hotel?
We're within walking distance of Oxford's major attractions including the Bodleian Library, Christ Church, and Oxford Castle.
Reviews (5)
Angela O'Boyle
Nov 22, 2021
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Great location and pretty clean with good showers. Downsides are that the great, city centre location and historic building (read:single glazing) means its exceptionally noisy. Rooms have very limited noise insulation either from other rooms/hotel areas or outside. We stayed over the weekend and the neighbouring pubs disco night closed at midnight Friday and Saturday so at least its not an all night affair but still wasnt ideal for our purposes. Beds extremely hard and in some cases quite creaky. Rooms in some cases in need of a little TLC eg repair broken towel rail, fix discoloured
Michael Pritchard
Oct 29, 2021
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Great location and very helpful staff, but not sure the high-end room rate is wholly justified. Breakfast hampers rather underwhelming. Rooms are comfortable and some have private outdoor space.
Ariel Shalev
Oct 29, 2021
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Probably the best location for a hotel in Oxford!
However! The hotel is somewhat run down. Little things like tightening the screws on the vanity mirror and a flat floor would make a world of difference. The website claims every room has Dyson fans, but I was in 3 separate rooms over 12 days and only 1 room has such a fun. The others has fans but with no heating function.
Lastly, as an experienced guest there, be sure to book a back room and not one with windows facing St. Michael's Street as it can be quite loud if there are events being held at the college across the street, and the garbage
However! The hotel is somewhat run down. Little things like tightening the screws on the vanity mirror and a flat floor would make a world of difference. The website claims every room has Dyson fans, but I was in 3 separate rooms over 12 days and only 1 room has such a fun. The others has fans but with no heating function.
Lastly, as an experienced guest there, be sure to book a back room and not one with windows facing St. Michael's Street as it can be quite loud if there are events being held at the college across the street, and the garbage
Phil Marley
Aug 20, 2021
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Very disappointed. The good stuff first: the staff were great and very helpful and the location is excellent. Onto the bad... Our room had a faulty shower that sprayed water over the top of the shower screen, soaking clothes, towels and anything else in the bathroom. Not a huge deal: we told the desk staff, who were great and immediately moved us to a different room. But both the original room and the new room (both standard double rooms) were really small: they compared badly to a modern Travelodge, Premier Inn or other budget hotel. Sure, it's an old building and allowances should be made for
Kirstie Hanney
Jul 23, 2021
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Lovely hotel in the heart of Oxford. Spacious and high quality rooms, friendly and professional staff.
