Artist Residence Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire, England - Explore & Book

"From the outside, this cosy thatched pub is perfectly charming and exactly what you might expect from a well-to-do Oxfordshire village. Yet, anyone familiar with the London, Brighton, Bristol or Penzance offerings will know that Artist Residences take the traditional and turn it on its head. Naturally, they've made the most of the original farmhouse features: flagstone floors, wooden beams and huge open fireplaces are complemented by dark floral walls, vintage furnishings and battered leather armchairs. But throw in some urban neon lighting, offbeat retro signs and Pulp Fiction-inspired art, and you've got yourself a cool little speakeasy in the middle of the countryside. The eclectic vibe continues upstairs, where 5 bedrooms evoke bohemian loft-style living, and outside, where there's a converted Shepherd's Hut and 9 more romantic bedrooms in the old stable and barns. But this isn't a case of style over substance. There's a genuine sense of integrity throughout, from the soft Volga linen and organic Bramley bath products to the satisfying menu of posh pub classics showcasing local, seasonal and foraged produce. Cleverly designed so that city slickers and laid-back locals will feel equally at home, it’s essentially a wholesome country retreat that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Highs We loved the quirky design, eclectic decor and pop art prints giving it a high-class but fun-filled atmosphere Stylish rooms, breakfast in bed and champagne by the glass ensure a romantic stay Lovely on-site eatery, The Mason Arms, serves up posh pub grub with a local twist The Oxfordshire location, just off the A40, makes it easily accessible for a weekend in the country or a stopover to break up a long journey Lows Though certainly not noisy, it's an old property with wooden floors and creaking doors - some noise inevitably travels between rooms in the main building While it's convenient for day trips to the Cotswolds or Oxford, the rural location means there isn't much in the immediate vicinity, and the local village is very sleepy Neither the rooms nor the pub are well lit, but this is part of the speakeasy look they're going for" - Emily Preece