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Last updated: 31 October, 2022
Expert travel writer: Annabelle Thorpe

Slap bang in the centre of Oxford, on the buzzy High Street, the Old Bank is an absolute gem – a former Barclays Bank converted into a 42-room luxury boutique hotel.

The spacious, light rooms, lively Quod restaurant and contemporary art on the walls are all winning points, but the real X-factor is the location; most of Oxford’s highlights – the Bodleian, Ashmolean and the world-famous colleges are all just outside the door.

Once you’ve seen the sights, retire to the Old Bank’s wonderful library lounge, which opens out onto the pretty Italianate terrace.

Surrounding area

The Old Bank is at the heart of Oxford; step out of the door and you are on the High Street, with classic Cotswold stone buildings and the spectacular architecture of colleges such as Oriel and Merton just a few seconds’ walk.

One of England’s most beautiful cities, there are architectural gems on every corner – stroll a little further and you’ll come across the Bodleian library and the Ashmolean Museum.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers: Not available
Beach: None
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking: On-site (free)
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Oxford University Colleges

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.4 miles]

Oxford’s extraordinarily beautiful colleges have housed everyone from prime ministers to presidents, and pair centuries of British history with spectacular architecture.

Best for ages: 13+ | £3

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Overview >

Ashmolean Museum

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.6 miles]

A world-class collection of art and architecture in the heart of Oxford that ranges across 3,000 years of history, with Egyptian rooms to rival those of the British Museum.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free

Punting on the River Cherwell

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[1.9 miles]

Glide along the Cherwell in a traditional punt, and take in the spectacular architecture of Oxford’s iconic colleges from the tranquillity of the river.

Best for ages: 6+ | £16 | 1+ hours

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

The exterior of University Church of St Mary. A sandstone church with shrubbery outside, illuminated by golden hour sunshine.
Experience

Church of St. Mary [and climb the spire]

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]

A 13th-century church which was the first university building. Climb the spire for wonderful views over the Oxford Colleges and the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside.

Best for ages: 6+ | £5

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Overview >
Inside the Bodleian Library Divinity School. The room has dark wooden seating and a vaulted, intricately carved stone ceiling.
Experience

Bodleian Library

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.2 miles]

Dating back to the 14th century, the Bodleian buildings – including the Divinity School, Oxford’s oldest teaching room – are some of Oxford’s most beautiful. Visits by pre-bookable tours only.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
The bridge runs between two buildings above a cobblestone street underneath which people are walking. The bridge is arched sandstone with rectangular glass windows.
Experience

Bridge of Sighs

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.2 miles]

One of the city’s iconic Insta shots, this raised bridge, linking two sections of Hertford College is notable for its similarity to the Bridge of Sighs in Venice.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
The outside of the Museum of the History of Science building. A cylindrical pale yellow sandstone building with arched windows and a wooden door.
Experience

Museum of the History of Science

Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)[0.3 miles]

An extraordinary collection of scientific instruments and artefacts, dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, with highlights including Einstein’s blackboard and a Roman disc sundial. 

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Oxford

Oxfordshire, United Kingdom (UK)

One of Britain’s most beautiful and historic cities, graced by heartstopping architecture and home to the world’s second-oldest university.

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Overview >