The Best Hotels in Witney, the Cotswolds

The Blue Boar is a rustic boutique hotel in Witney, right in the market square. The rooms have a countrified, industrial quality that’s pleasing to the eye. The old wooden floorboards have been repurposed as rustic headboards complemented by crisp white linens. This treasure ticks all the boxes of an upmarket Cotswolds establishment, from the honey-hued stone building to the open fires, interesting history and locally sourced menu.

Fans of Downton Abbey will love the Oxford Witney Hotel, only a few miles from where the hit TV show is filmed. The best thing about this beautiful hotel is the spa – a bright and airy annex featuring a fully equipped gym, indoor pool and jacuzzi, as well as a menu of beauty treatments. The rooms are modern and functional and come with free tea, coffee and Wi-Fi. Opt for a deluxe room and you’ll be welcomed with a complimentary bottle of wine and newspapers in the morning.

The Artist Residence group of hotels has become an absolute must for well-heeled Londoners, so expect to see city types snapping the gorgeous interiors at the Oxfordshire outpost. Bohemian charm meets whimsical decorative touches in the bedrooms – a Beatles cushion here; a repurposed packing crate there. Of course, it’s all about the art, so expect works from local artists throughout. Whether you’re there to enjoy the grub – the downstairs pub has a fantastic all-day menu – or are looking to explore the neighbouring towns and villages, Artist Residence Oxfordshire offers a cosy sanctuary.

Overlooking Witney’s church green, the Fleece is one of the only hotels in the area that doesn’t feature the hallmark Cotswolds stone. It’s beautiful, even so – twice voted in the top 20 best pubs in the UK, its atmosphere is friendly and its service charming. There’s plenty of space in the downstairs lounge to book in for a late brunch or long dinner, and the menu features everything from steaks to vibrant salads and eggs benedict. Stay over and enjoy the contemporary-chic bedrooms, where even dogs are welcome to join.

Sure, there’s a tennis court, croquet lawn and restaurant serving up everything from afternoon tea to a killer wine list, but it’s the spa at Old Swan in Witney you’ll be talking about for months. There’s an ice fountain, aroma steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, as well as a beautiful infinity pool you’ll be dying to sink into. The rooms are equally beautiful – all chequered rugs and wooden beams. There’s also plenty of fresh air to be had in the 65 acres (26ha) of private grounds – that’s if you manage to tear yourself away from the spa.