CHECKING IN: THE RANDOLPH HOTEL, OXFORD
A few weeks ago we were invited on a group Press Trip to Oxford with Graduate Hotels. Sadly Simon had work commitments but I was able to dash over to the city of dreaming spires for a whirlwind 24hours at The Randolph Hotel.
IN ONE SENTENCE
A literary-inspired (and very British) city break in the heart of historic Oxford
SETTING THE SCENE
Originally opened in 1866, The Randolph hotel is a grand old corner block building, perfectly located in the historical heart of Oxford and visitors will have a hard time hunting out a better spot for a city stay. Having been taken over and renovated by the American chain ‘Graduate Hotels’ in 2019 (Graduate only have outposts within University towns), the hotel is a whimsical mix of Victorian-esque and quintessential British design. There’s also plenty of nods to Oxford University and it’s famous Alumni, with the references to the likes of Lewis Caroll and Oscar Wilde to be found across the property.
Theres also a good range of communal areas to settle down in with a book (points if its by either of the afore mentioned authors) or drink. The Morse Bar, just off the lobby is where author Colin Dexter apparently penned parts of his famous Inspector Morse novels and the space itself also features in ‘Inspector Morse’ the television series.
THE ROOM
The hotel has 151 rooms, varying in size (most quite generous) and outlook but with a similar design aesthetic to all. Having been recently refreshed most rooms are spacious and modern-feeling but certainly still with the quirks of an old building; squeaky floorboards and wonk walls abound.
Overlooking the Ashmolean Museum across the road, suite number 25 was my home for the trip and easily located on the first floor off the grand lobby staircase. With two large interconnecting rooms, I termed the design ‘Grandma-Chic’ and was very on-board with the clashing blue patterned wallpaper and carpets, offset with florals and cosy cable knit throws. The moody green bathroom with black and white subway tiles was the right amount of modern and heritage and although I didn’t get a chance to indulge in the tub it was great to have the option. The room was also light and bright thanks to 3 huge sets of windows, which gave me plenty of opportunity to people watch and if I’d needed any further entertainment the suite also had two TVs (one in the bedroom and one in the sitting room).
Special mention goes to grand size of the suite, the super comfy bed with on-theme Alice in Wonderland rabbit lamps and the very good biscuit and tea situation provided in-room (it really is the little details that make a hotel experience memorable in our opinion).
ALICE’S
Having eaten lunch at Alice’s on our trip to Oxford just a few weeks ago, I was looking forward to dinner as soon as the press trip invite came in. With candy-pink banquette seating, oversized crystal chandeliers and playful Alice in Wonderland watercolours, the interiors really steal the show. The menu is “comforting, seasonal British dishes with a contemporary twist” and I found the meals here to be one of the highlights of both visits to Oxford. It’s an all-day-dining spot that’s pleasing to the eyes and the taste buds (make sure to leave time for a visit to Alice’s good-looking bar too, the cocktails are as equally pleasing as the food).
HOW TO GET THERE
Trains run frequently and directly from London Paddington in about an hour and The Randolph is an easy 10minute walk away. Alternatively driving from London will take about 2hours (the same from Bath).
GOOD TO KNOW / PACKING TIPS
Cobble-stones abound in Oxford so ditch the heels and pack some comfortable walking shoes instead
The Hotel is in the perfect position for exploring all the main sights, and can help with booking walking tours too (personally we think this is the best way to get acquainted with Oxford and we always recommend booking something for when you first arrive in order to get hints and tips on how to plan the rest of your tip)
Although I didn’t get a chance to experience it, there is also a wellness centre on site
The hotel is pet friendly, guests are able to add a four legged friend to their booking for an extra fee.
I was an invited guest of the hotel but I was under no obligation to write a blog post and my thoughts and opinions are my own
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