If you’re looking for an interesting and unique hotel experience, look no further than our Oxford hotel. Our luxury rooms are packed with a fascinating history that you can explore. Whether you’re a fan of literature, history or just want to learn more about the city of Oxford, our hotel rooms are sure to inspire. Check out these five amazing stories from our rooms and start planning your stay today!

City Wall Room

Our luxury hotel overlies the lines of Oxford’s original, medieval city wall. Originally running from the castle and connecting Westgate, Northgate and Eastgate, the city walls can still be seen today in certain parts of Oxford. Head to the gardens of New College where the walls are clearest and are inspected every three years by the Lord Mayor.

The Safe Room

Vanbrugh House Hotel once played host to Marshall & Galpin Solicitors, who occupied the building for more than half a century. This unique room in our Oxford hotel was once their large, walk-in safe which held many sensitive documents. The door to the safe was located where the sink basin and mirror now stand in the en-suite.

The Vicarage Suite

Interestingly, this half of our building was once the vicarage for St Michael’s at North Gate Church. You can visit the church on Cornmarket Street by turning left when you exit our hotel. Originally built around 1000-1050 AD, the church is Oxford’s oldest building and still holds a Saxon tower from 1040. 

The Bartholomew Piesley Room

Masterful stonemasons, the Piesley family were noted for their work throughout Oxfordshire and beyond. Bartholomew Piesley II worked alongside Sir John Vanbrugh on the grand bridge at Blenheim Palace, among other famous works. Our hotel housed three generations of the Piesley family, including three Bartholomew Piesley’s!

Sir John Vanbrugh Suite

Designed in honour of the namesake of our boutique hotel. Sir John Vanbrugh was a 15-16th century English architect, best known for creating the English Baroque style, Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard. Vanbrugh was a bold, daring and radical character, who is thought to have designed the front of our building.

If you enjoyed these tales from our luxury hotel in Oxford, be sure to check out our rooms pages for more pictures of the beautiful Vanbrugh House Hotel. We hope to welcome you soon!