Heythrop Park hotel in Oxfordshire open for bookings after £40m refurbishment

A 440-acre country hotel is reopening its doors in time for summer escapes after undergoing a £40m investment.
Oxfordshire bolthole, Heythrop Park has undergone a complete renovation since being purchased in 2018, to become the 15th property hotel group, Warner Leisure Hotels’, portfolio.
Guests can now snap up one of its 337 meticulously designed bedrooms, with breaks on sale now.
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Days can be filled enjoying a host of activities from archery to laser clay shooting, or a round of golf on the Bainbridge Championship Golf Course. While those looking for some R&R can unwind with a treatment in the hotel’s spa – complete with a brand-new thermal and sensory suite and outdoor hot tubs.
The 300-year-old Grade II* listed property is the result of a happy collision of great minds in the early 18th century - the vision of political powerhouse, Charles Talbot, and architect, Thomas Archer, who adored Italian architecture. It still offers lofty lounges and sweeping staircases, but now also a trio of restaurants and two large theatres for daily shows, bands, music festivals and comedy nights.
The opulent manor’s extensive grounds provide the perfect setting for romantic parkland walks and bike rides, with gems such as the ‘whale cave’ and a hidden waterfall to discover.
Surrounding the hotel are many wonderful sights, such as the famous Blenheim Palace, just a quarter of an hour’s drive away and Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop which sells local produce and merchandise.
Other highlights include shopping outlet, Bicester Village, and Heythrop Zoological Gardens which is just next door - a private zoo specialising in exotic animal training and positive reinforcement.
Last minute staycationers are urged to be quick as summer breaks are expected to sell out fast amid the boom for domestic travel.
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Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels, said: “We’ve seen first-hand that the rise in demand for domestic breaks is here to stay as people recognise the treasures we have on our doorstep.
“The appetite for summer breaks is huge this year as people are no doubt looking forward to a holiday season free of limitations. The last couple of months have brought an influx of bookings and we’re over the moon to welcome guests new and existing through Heythrop Park’s doors in August to showcase some of the best the UK has to offer.”
Like many others, Warner Leisure Hotels has seen guests flocking back to enjoy a great British staycation since travel has been back on the map, and the opening of Heythrop Park is a pleasant indication that UK travel is thriving.