Autumn is here! Imagine the bittersweet serenity of the leaves changing their colours and bidding farewell to their trees, the smell of parchment and old tomes from the Bodleian Library. The tantalising tart spice of toffee apples, the slight chill in the air that allows your partner to wrap their arm around you a little tighter as you make your way through the city of Dreaming Spires.

In this latest edition of our blog, we’re welcoming Autumn to Oxfordshire and enlightening you on the most romantic things to do in the most romantic of seasons.

Carfax Tower

In the centre of Oxford, only a 4-minute walk from our boutique hotel, Carfax tower; the remains of the 14th Century Church of St. Martin dominates the skyline. Climb the 99 steps to the top of the tower and take in Oxford all at once at its very best. Watch the leaves from a unique perspective float and fall from the tops of the trees among the sea of burnt sienna, auburn and rouge.

Worcester College

A landscape of romance is waiting just a 5-minute walk away from our Oxford hotel. Worcester College is one of Oxford’s many educational establishments, and yet another architectural splendour. Take a stroll with your partner among the immaculate grounds, maybe with a takeaway coffee or hot chocolate to stave off the chill, before taking in the glorious lake surrounded by weeping willows and wisteria, waving hello to the inhabiting ducks and swans. Afterwards, warm up with a visit to the Chapel, bursting with a riot of colour and detail, completed by WIlliam Burgess in 1864. The chapel is considered the spiritual heart of the college – now what’s more romantic than that?

Magdalen Bridge Boat House

Your staycation is not a true trip to Oxford without a punt down the glorious River Cherwell. Pre-book your boat, pack a picnic and let the water carry your thoughts away as you sit side by side and take in the magnificent surroundings. There’s something about silence while taking in Oxford’s surroundings. Serenity at it’s finest.

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

The Ashmolean Museum is a romantic building in itself, however the aura and energy from the vibrancy of stunning oil paintings and archaeological collections are something else. Silently gaze upon figures once held by historically renowned artists as muses and inspirations for their work. You, and the one who inspires you the most are sure to have a romantic and insightful experience here.

Blenheim Palace

As the King and Queen of your own staycation, why not take a trip to your future home? Blenheim Palace is one of the most elegant estates in the UK, with a maze, a butterfly sanctuary and immaculately well-kept gardens. The estate is the perfect pit-stop for a tour and a spot of lunch before carrying on your romantic staycation.

Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery

For those who wish for a tipsy tasting session, look no further! Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery has expansive tasting sessions, with thorough explanations of each product’s preparation, notes and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur, or just like the odd tipple, any person on the alcohol-loving spectrum can find something interesting here. With the tour guides as enthusiastic as they are informative, you can be sure your visit will be a special one (and it’ll warm you up for the romantic stroll back to our boutique hotel)!

Let’s be honest, is there anywhere more romantic than Oxford? If this blog entry isn’t enough for you, then maybe our 3 for 2 offer can tempt you to stay in our Oxfordshire boutique hotel. Don’t forget to check out our other blogs for top travel tips in the City of Dreaming Spires.

We look forward to welcoming you.