Through the looking glass
Looking for a location that broadens the mind that has history etched into the architecture? Look no further than Oxford and Oxfordshire. Home to the oldest English speaking university in the world, Oxford’s atmosphere is instantly felt once you turn off the M40. Just an hour and a half from London, this historic city is ideal for a long weekend of punting and painting or sightseeing and sipping. Explore Oxford your way with Quince.
‘That sweet city with her dreaming spires’ Matthew Arnold
While exploring the banks of river beds that make you feel as though you are walking through JRR Tolkein’s magical land, stop by ancient pubs that are steeped in history, or hop into a punt for a day on the Thames river. Gaze upon the historic spires as you wander through the city of Oxford while staying at our converted barns, The Lock Keeper’s Snipe, The Roebuck’s Rose, The Owl’s Barn and The Barns. Make memories that will match your dreams, with Quince.
Explore more, Stay longer
When it comes to planning a trip, it takes more than just click, click, book. We have gathered together our favourite hidden gems, tips, tricks and advice for all of our guests during your stay. We completely fell in love with Oxford and Oxfordshire, and of course The Cotswolds, and that is why we have chosen Bampton for our three Chimney Farm Barns. Just 1.5 hours from London, jump onto the M40 and once you arrive, we’ve got everything else sorted.
A holiday for everyone
We get it. Trying to find activities for every age is challenging. We’ve been there, done that, and have found our favourite places to visit that the whole family will enjoy.
Alice's Shop, Oxford
Curiouser and curiouser. This little shop on the Oxford high street is where the real life Alice in Wonderland, Alice Liddell would visit as a child and also features in Lewis Caroll’s sequel, Alice Through the Looking Glass. Behold games, toys, and of course clocks, and feel a part of the mystery world that is the very same as it was nearly 150 years ago.
Waterperry Gardens
The Waterperry Gardens are a feast for the eyes. Bathed in colour and variety, the gardens let visitors explore flowers from around the world. Home to eight acres of landscaped, ornamental gardens, Waterperry Gardens were made famous by Beatrix Havergal who established the School of Horticulture for Ladies. With a plant centre, garden shop, gallery, museum and gift shop, carve out an afternoon to venture in this habitat of horticulture.
Pitt Rivers Museum
Entirely free of charge, the Pitt Rivers Museum is a must-see attraction in Oxford. With exhibitions from ethnographic displays to television and film culture, Pitt Rivers gives visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Oxford and art. Explore the museum on a rainy afternoon and treat yourself to a hot chocolate at The Horsebox Café or extend on the grass covered forecourt in the sunshine.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Connecting you to history. Filled with fossils, discoveries and historic specimens, The Oxford University Museum of Natural History is a perfect day out to introduce science and discovery to a new generation. With shells, taxidermy butterflies, and collections of heritage and culture research, learn more about the world up until now.
Ashmolean Museum Of Art And Archaeology
Discover treasures from far away lands. The Ashmolean Museum delves into gems of times gone by, from a Japanese gunpowder flask, to Guy Fawkes’ very lantern he was arrested with. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean contains world famous collections that tell human stories across cultures and time.
University Of Oxford Botanic Garden
The UK’s oldest botanic garden, the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum is home to over 5,000 varieties of plants that are indigenous to a vast selection of countries around the world. While the Arboretum lets visitors explore over 130 acres of land filled with the world’s more rare and endangered trees, the gardens offer events and workshops for visitors to enjoy. Start the morning right by experiencing zen with yoga and meditation in the gardens or see the gardens at night with the Twilight Tour or the Bat Walk.
Afternoon Tea at The Randolph
Have your cake (and eat it!) An afternoon tea is an age old tradition, however, The Randolph really is the icing on the cake. With the choice of either The Drawing Room, The Lancaster Room or The Alice, you’ll be spoilt for choice when enjoying the quintessentially British afternoon tea.
Punting
Take a punt and row until your heart's content. From enchanting views of Oxfordshire to winding through historic corners under willow trees, punting is one of the oldest (and most fun) modes of transport Oxford has to offer. Take a walk down to the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse and hire a punt for an hour, or the day, there is even an option to hire a chauffeur to do all of the work for you.
Restaurants and pubs around Oxfordshire
The Barns
Gather and giggle -The Barns is the combination of two of our iconic barns together, The Roebuck's Rose and The Lock Keeper's Snipe. Sleeping twenty six guests in total, this is just the place.
The Owl's Barn
What a hoot - The Owl Barn has a private terrace and courtyard. This spacious hideaway sleeps ten guests across five bedrooms with English country home interiors.
The Lock Keeper's Snipe
Everything and the kitchen sink - Explore our unique y-shaped converted barn, The Lock Keepers Snipe. With vaulted ceilings and a wood stove, this retreat hosts fourteen guests with six bedrooms and has everything you’ll need for a group trip.
The Roebuck's Rose
Linger a little longer - Bask in the beauty of the Roebuck’s Rose. This Cotswold stone modern barn house sleeps up to twelve guests across five bedrooms with vaulted ceilings.
Properties with pedigree
At Quince we know that a getaway isn’t seriously complete without the most important member of the family. No pet peeves wanted, just pure happiness and fun-filled days that your pooches will love too. We provide clean dog bowls for your four legged friends, one less thing for you to remember. There is space for two, very well behaved pups in each of our properties, just get in touch and let us know!