Voco Oxford Thames Hotel

If you’re visiting Oxford for its history, then you can’t get more historical than this. The building, set on 30 acres (12ha) of parkland, has been owned by notable religious figures, lords and even kings throughout the centuries – and its surroundings were originally the headquarters of the Knights Templar. You won’t be sleeping on bails of hay, however. The simple, chic rooms – some with views of the Thames – are housed in a sympathetically restored building which boasts a spa, pool and fitness centre.