The Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel stands on the High Street, toward the eastern end of the old city, near Magdalen Bridge and the Botanic Garden. The building has a long history as an inn and a hotel, and today it offers comfortable rooms in a convenient position for sightseeing. Guests can walk to Magdalen College, the botanic garden and Christ Church in a few minutes, and the centre of the colleges is a short stroll west along the High Street.
Location and getting around
The hotel's position near Magdalen Bridge is helpful for river activities such as punting, and the Covered Market, the University Church and the Bodleian are about ten minutes away on foot. Buses stop nearby, and the railway station is a bus or taxi ride. The High Street can be busy with traffic, so ask about the quietest rooms.
Rooms and facilities
The rooms are modern in style, with a range of categories from standard doubles to larger rooms, and the hotel has a restaurant and bar. Breakfast is available, and the public areas include a comfortable lounge. As with many city centre hotels, car parking is limited or charged, so check before you drive. The hotel is part of a large chain, so standards are generally consistent.
Who it suits
It suits visitors who want a central address at a moderate price, including couples and small families. The location near the river is a plus in summer, and the walk to the colleges is easy. Rates rise during graduation season and in the summer months, so book early if you have fixed dates. It is a practical choice when the more famous hotels are booked or out of budget.
Dining and atmosphere
The hotel's restaurant and bar serve breakfast and evening meals, and the staff can recommend nearby pubs and restaurants on the High Street. The public areas are calm, with comfortable seating, and the style is familiar to anyone who has stayed in a business-class chain hotel. Because the building has a long history, you may find period details mixed with modern fittings, and room sizes vary between categories. Check whether your room faces the street or the quieter side.
Some guests value the location for early starts at Magdalen or for catching the first punting slot at the bridge. The hotel is also a practical base for the evening, since the High Street has restaurants within a few minutes' walk and the last stretch back is easy. Pair a stay here with a morning in the Botanic Garden and an afternoon in the Covered Market, followed by a river walk at dusk.
Why stay here
- ✓High Street location
- ✓Near Magdalen Bridge
- ✓Restaurant and bar
- ✓Breakfast available
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Lounge
- ✓24-hour front desk
- ✓Walk to the colleges
Good questions
Is the Mercure Eastgate near Magdalen Bridge?+
Yes, it is on the High Street near the bridge, which makes it handy for punting and the Botanic Garden.
Can I walk to the colleges?+
Yes, Christ Church, Magdalen and Radcliffe Square are all within a short walk.
Is parking available?+
Parking in central Oxford is limited, so check availability and charges with the hotel before you drive.