Oak House No 1
Tetbury, Cotswolds, UK
This fabulous B&B brims with Warhols, wellies and a welcome to remember - the countryside has never been so cool
In the town where Camilla Parker Bowles is a member of the WI,
austere wisteria-clad hotels with expensive spas are to be
expected. But not this: a rock’n’roll haven in the
centre of Tetbury (antiques centre of the Cotswolds), where
chandeliers dangle and modern art overstimulates your senses to the
point of giddiness. Attracting city couples in need of a
countryside fix, this B&B has just 3 rooms and is
full of the kind of party spirit you want to bottle and take home
with you.
You’re close to Westonbirt Arboretum and the wider
countryside for fantastic walks (there are Hunter wellies to
borrow); Highgrove's glorious gardens are a short drive away, and
with 2 polo clubs plus the Badminton horse trials nearby, there are
plenty of opportunities for hearty outdoor pursuits.
If you run out of ideas, the exuberant owners Gary and Nicky are
on-hand to offer personalised itineraries, lend you their friendly
dog Woody for a walk, and book you polo lessons or a table at one
of the local restaurants. We absolutely loved it.
Reviewed by Laura Dixon
Last updated 12 January 2012
Highs
- Complimentary English afternoon tea on arrival – tea, cake, scones and jam
- Design freaks will love the unique furniture and original artwork by some of the world's most famous artists
- The Chef's Table, headed up by Michelin-starred chef Michael Bedford, is within walking distance
- Popular with A-listers - Gary will regale you with his Who's Who of former guests
- A beauty centre in the basement, where you can have facials, manicures and massages
Lows
- If you’re looking for somewhere impersonal where you don’t have to talk to anyone, you won’t like it here
- You'll need to book in advance as it’s very popular, particularly for long weekends in the summer
- No twin rooms
- Children are only welcome if they're under 1 or over 11 (a bonus for some)
- Evening meals by arrangement only, for groups of 6-8, otherwise you have to dine out. Breakfast is a communal affair - not to everyone's taste
