Old Bank Hotel

With a handsome, contemporary style and a historic backbone, Old Bank Hotel is quintessentially Oxford. The hotel is situated amongst three buildings; the main one functioned as a bank for over 200 years and features a classic, late-1700s Georgian facade. Inside, the property perfectly pairs classic and contemporary style for a look that's both sophisticated and homey. In the lobby, a marble reception desk offers a luxe balance for dark teal walls and contemporary art from the hotel's extensive collection that hangs everywhere from hallways to guest rooms. Quod, the hotel's restaurant, features a charming casual air with arched windows, brick accent walls, and a large central bar. Its often crowded with diners, from lunching locals to hotel guests, giving the property a lively feel. Guests here are a range of well-heeled travelers visiting Oxford sights and universities; couples in particular are drawn by the double rooms.

The hotel's location is hard to beat: it's right on High Street, historic Oxford's charming main road lined with restaurants and shops. Landmarks also pack the neighborhood: Church of the St. Mary Virgin is across the street, Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera are just a two-minute walk, Christchurch Meadows is a five-minute walk south, and Magdalene Bridge and the Botanical Gardens are a six-minute walk east. The hotel lends out bikes for free and offers free daily walking tours. Parking is available on-site for free, though spaces are limited. London's Heathrow Airport is about an hour's drive away.

Rooms and suites are contemporary, with subdued decor that feels both upscale and comfortable. A stately color palette of cream and gray is accented with a rosy red. The real style is in the details though -- walls are finished with framed prints or paintings from the hotel's art collection, writing desks are accented with leather tops, window seats feature grey herringbone cushions finished with red piping. Bathrooms are luxurious with cream-colored marble tiling, chic square sinks, and rainfall showers; most rooms also have separate tubs. At 160 square feet, entry-level rooms can feel tight, especially compared to some of the upper-category rooms which may add 100 square feet of space or more. All rooms are air-conditioned and have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, plus extras like umbrellas and safes. Bathrooms have robes and high-end Noble Isle toiletries. Entry-level rooms lack coffee/tea service, though upgraded rooms have Nespresso machines. Rooms higher up and facing the road may offer nice views of High Street.

Features at Old Bank Hotel are a mixed bag -- wellness facilities may be limited, but dining is top-notch. Quod, the on-site restaurant, is popular and features a central bar and often a crowd of diners. Full English Breakfast and a la carte options are offered every morning for a fee, and the hotel serves lunch, afternoon tea, dinner (everything from pizza to fish and seasonal fare), and drinks until late. Outdoor courtyard seating is available, and the hotel has private dining rooms for meetings or special events. Rooms service is also provided.Staff are efficient and helpful, offering the service guests expect from a luxury hotel, including concierge service, room service, ticket assistance, and in-room childcare (extra fee). Bikes are available to borrow free of charge and free walking tours leave daily from reception. There's free parking on-site, but spaces are limited. Wi-Fi throughout is free. There are no on-site wellness facilities, but the hotel does offer free passes to a nearby gym and a menu of in-room spa services.