The Fleece, Oxfordshire

Overview

The Witney outpost of the small and independent Peach Pub Company is a handsome 10-bedroomed inn overlooking the beautiful church green in this classic market town. Flanked by gorgeous Georgian houses and making the most of its swanky location with tables on the green for summer alfresco drinking, The Fleece has proved a hit among Witney residents for its chic décor, laid-back atmosphere and Continental-style breakfast.

Expect a unique and stylish atmosphere, think leather sofas around low tables, fresh flowers and fat candles, and mirrors and modern artwork on warm, earthy coloured walls; as well as a lively, buzzy atmosphere throughout. Arrive early to bag one of the sought-after pavement tables that overlook the attractive village green and surrounding Georgian houses.

Rooms from

Doubles and twins: £95

Good to know

All major credit cards accepted
Disabled access
Parking available
Alfresco and private dining

Town and city
Enjoy exploring the historic market town of Whitney, The Fleece also makes for a peaceful base explore more of the charming villages found in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.

Family favourite
The relaxing and informal vibe extends to a warm welcome to families with half portions or simplified versions of the dishes available. Extra beds are available, too.

No car needed
A 15-minute taxi ride from Long Hanborough and in the centre of Cotswolds walking country, cars can be left at home when visiting The Fleece.

Rooms

Ten bedrooms are split between the inn and the adjoining cottage; all were stylishly spruced up in late 2018, so expect contemporary smart decor and swish newly tiled bathrooms with rain showers and posh Damana toiletries.

Rooms range from cosy to premium doubles and the spacious four-poster (the best in the house) - you'll find deep armchairs, classy throws on big, comfortable beds, quirky motif wall coverings, and modern lamps and mirrors. Front rooms overlook the attractive town green.

Restaurant & bar

Expect delicious modern food served throughout the day. Pop in to peruse the papers, order a pint of Abbot Ale or one of 14 wines by the glass and tuck into one of their delicious deli plates.

Pub favourites are all available and there are plenty of more sophisticated, refined options too. Produce is fresh and seasonal, with free range and fully traceable meats. Expect a mind-boggling choice of drinks from delicious cocktails, a raft of gins and wines, as well as interesting alcohol-free cocktails.

Things to do

This is an amazing cycling spot, with the Oxfordshire Cycle Way running near Witney. Follow on of many enjoyable cycle rides along quiet lanes and off-road stretches through the region. For something a bit different, try a combination of bike and train, using the nearby Cotswold Line. A string of local stations enables you to use the service on a hop-on, hop-off basis. If you get the chance, call at Kingham, which is served by the Cotswold Line and was once judged 'England's Favourite Village' by Country Life.

You're not far from Blenheim Palace here - one of Britain's largest and most famous stately homes which offers a host of treasures to discover. There are guided tours of the staterooms and a chance to explore the estate's sumptuous parkland - not to be missed for art lovers and history buffs alike!

For those wanting some time on the waves, Cotswold Water Park between Cirencester and Swindon has windsurfing, kayaking and canoeing all available. Or, spend the day on horseriding at Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre, which offers scenic rides around Bourton-on-the-Water and the picturesque villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, with good-natured horses and expert tuition.

Getting here

Directions

Nearest train station:Long Hanborough
Taxi from station: 15min
Drive: 15min from Burford, 40min from Oxford

Address

11 Church Green, Witney, Oxfordshire OX28 4AZ

The Fleece

From £95 per night