Vanbrugh House
Hotel

History

BOOK NOW
calendar
calendar

Created by Oxford’s leading stonemasons, Vanbrugh House Hotel has a special place in the city’s history.

It’s no surprise if the grand baroque exterior of our Oxford hotel looks familiar. 18th-century architect, Sir John Vanbrugh styled Vanbrugh House, as well as the spectacular Blenheim Palace.

Vanbrugh House was home to three generations of the Peisley Family.

Vanbrugh House was home to three generations of the Peisley Family.

The Peisleys, leading stonemasons in Oxford at the time, were associated with many of the city’s most beautiful buildings such as the Chapel at Trinity College. They are best remembered for their work at Blenheim Palace in the early 18th century, as Bartholomew Peisley created the Palace’s magnificent bridge.

Our Oxford hotel is situated within a short distance of the Saxon tower of St Michael at the Northgate, that has overlooked Oxford for more than a thousand years. The hotel is also opposite the Oxford Union, the university debating society. This magnificent Gothic Revival building has nurtured the political careers of many key politicians.

Our unique Oxford hotel has retained many of its original features.

Our unique Oxford hotel has retained many of its original features.

With only 22 rooms, Vanbrugh House Hotel has retained much of the intimate character of the original 17th and 18th-century building.

The ground floor of the Oxford hotel showcases beautifully panelled rooms and hidden behind the cellar walls lay vestiges of the original fortifications. These were built to guard the city from Viking invasions, dating back to the time of King Alfred.

Our luxury Oxford hotel also features beautiful original delft tiling which has been acknowledged by the famous Oxford Ashmolean Museum. The Royal Commission on Historical Monuments mentions the painted alcove as being of special interest.

Reviews

See, Do, Eat

View our handy guide to Oxford and the surrounding area.

EXPLORE OXFORD

Latest News

5 Family-Friendly Things To Do With Children In Oxford

At Vanbrugh, we’re dedicated to making sure you have the best holiday possible. We know the local area. You could say we’re experts. Our unique hotel in Oxford is here to help you plan a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday. So take a look through these family-friendly options.

Find out more
Easter In Oxford – 5 Amazing Things To Do

The beautiful city of Oxford is home to so many wonderful places that come to life at Easter. We have made a list of 5 things to do during your visit, we hope that you feel inspired!

Find out more
Tantalise Your Taste-buds: Festive Food Picks In Oxford This December

Our list of festive food finds showcases the true variety of what our favourite restaurants have to offer this December. From more traditional festive British cuisine to funky Christmas burgers, there is something to tantalise everyone’s taste buds.

Find out more
Hidden History: Tales of Oxford’s Winters Past

Oxford isn't just about books and exams. It's got a history that's even cooler than the weather, especially during winter. Get ready to dive into the less-known tales of Oxford's winters past.

Find out more

Book Now