The Old Bank Hotel occupies a group of former banking buildings on the High Street, in the middle of the university quarter. Its location is among the best in Oxford, within a few minutes of Radcliffe Square, the Covered Market and Magdalen Bridge. The hotel is known for its modern interiors and a collection of contemporary art on the walls, and the brasserie, Quod, is a popular spot for locals as well as guests. Guests who like a stylish base with character rather than a traditional hotel will find it appealing.
Location and getting around
The High Street entrance puts you close to the University Church, the Covered Market and Christ Church, and you can walk to most sights in under ten minutes. The railway station is a taxi or bus ride away. High Street is busy with traffic and buses, so ask about quieter rooms at the back if you are sensitive to noise.
Rooms and facilities
The hotel has a relatively small number of rooms, which are styled in a contemporary way with a mix of room sizes. Facilities include a bar, brasserie and a garden terrace where guests can sit in good weather. Breakfast is served in the restaurant, and some rooms have views over the rooftops toward the spires. Check what each room category offers, as smaller rooms can be compact in an historic city centre.
Who it suits
This is a good option for couples and for travellers who want a stylish, central address and enjoy the buzz of a brasserie on the ground floor. It is less suited to families who need larger rooms or to guests who want a quiet street. Rates are higher in summer and on graduation weekends, and the hotel often sells out for popular dates, so book well ahead. The location makes it easy to enjoy an evening walk through the colleges and back.
Dining and atmosphere
The ground floor brasserie and bar create a buzz that continues into the evening, with people from the city as well as guests. Breakfast is served in the same space and can be busy at weekends, so arrive early or late. The art on the walls is part of the hotel's identity, and the public rooms are bright and modern against the old stone of the street.
Because the hotel is formed from several buildings, corridors can twist and some rooms are on different levels, so ask about step-free access if you need it.
Parking is limited and charged, and the hotel can advise on nearby car parks or the park and ride. Staying here pairs well with a morning at the Covered Market, an afternoon at Christ Church and an evening walk along the High Street toward Magdalen Bridge, where the river and the tower are at their best near sunset.
Why stay here
- ✓High Street location
- ✓Brasserie and bar
- ✓Garden terrace
- ✓Contemporary art collection
- ✓Breakfast available
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Walk to the colleges
Good questions
Is the Old Bank Hotel central?+
Yes, it is on the High Street and close to Radcliffe Square, the Covered Market and Christ Church.
Does the hotel have a restaurant?+
Yes, it has a brasserie and bar on site, which is popular with locals as well as guests.
Is the High Street noisy?+
It can be, so ask for a quieter room at the back if you prefer.