Sturdy`s Castle - Historic Coaching Inn near Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
$97
/ night
Avg. for September
Select dates to see prices and availability
$97
/ night
Avg. for September
Monthly average prices
Nightly prices at Sturdy`s Castle - Historic Coaching Inn near Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire average $73 in March, the cheapest month, and $104 in July, the most expensive, based on the last 12 months.
| Month | Average price |
|---|---|
| January | $73 |
| February | $79 |
| March | $73 |
| April | $94 |
| May | $96 |
| June | $103 |
| July | $104 |
| August | $94 |
| September | $97 |
| October | $87 |
| November | $83 |
| December | $84 |
J
F
M
A
M
J
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Sep · $97
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D
Most expensive: July (~$104)
Cheapest: March (~$73)
About this property
Take in the views from a terrace and a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access.
Amenities
Take in the views from a terrace and a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access.
Business amenities
Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access and a business center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Dining
Stop by the inn's restaurant for lunch or dinner, or grab snacks at the coffee shop/cafe. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are served on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM for a fee.
Rooms
Stay in one of 20 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming provides entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and coffee/tea makers.
Location
With a stay at Sturdy's Castle Country Inn in Kidlington, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Blenheim Palace and River Thames. This inn is 8.7 mi (14 km) from University of Oxford and 10.6 mi (17 km) from Bicester Village.
What's nearby
Oxfordshire Museum(2.2 miles)
Blenheim Palace(2.7 miles)
Oxford Bus Museum(4.8 miles)
Rousham House and Gardens(5.1 miles)
J.R.R. Tolkien's Grave(6.1 miles)
Eynsham Park(7.8 miles)
Bicester Golf and Country Club(8.3 miles)
Thames Path National Trail(8.4 miles)
University of Oxford(8.7 miles)
River Thames(8.8 miles)
St. Anthony's College(9 miles)
Thames Path(9 miles)
Kellogg College(9 miles)
Green Templeton College(9.1 miles)
St. Anne's College(9.1 miles)
The preferred airport for Sturdy's Castle Country Inn is Oxford (OXF)(3.4 miles)
Parking
Restaurant
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Banquet Facilities
Garden
Location
Banbury Road, Kidlington, Tackley, England, United Kingdom
Oxfordshire Museum (2.2 miles)
Blenheim Palace (2.7 miles)
Oxford Bus Museum (4.8 miles)
Rousham House and Gardens (5.1 miles)
J.R.R. Tolkien's Grave (6.1 miles)
Eynsham Park (7.8 miles)
Guest reviews
8.3
Very good
Based on 936 verified reviews
Who stays here?
Business
36%
Couple
38%
Family
8%
Group
16%
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
At Sturdy`s Castle - Historic Coaching Inn near Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, travellers often praise friendly service, tasty food across English and Indian menus, and clean, comfortable rooms, while noting that some rooms feel dated and the accommodation sits in separate blocks.
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What guests think
At Sturdy`s Castle - Historic Coaching Inn near Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, travellers often praise friendly service, tasty food across English and Indian menus, and clean, comfortable rooms, while noting that some rooms feel dated and the accommodation sits in separate blocks.
Many highlight ample parking and a convenient location for Oxford, Woodstock, Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds. Food, particularly the curries and cooked breakfasts, earns frequent praise, though some found the breakfast basic or overcooked and the evening hours limited. Rooms are generally spacious and quiet but can be tired, with occasional maintenance issues or noise from neighboring floors. Expect a friendly, good-value country-inn stay with strong dining.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
On-site pub and restaurant receive positive remarks, and parking is ample and free. Rooms are in separate motel-style blocks behind the inn; some guests noted the restaurant or bar can close early or be full.
Related guest reviews
10
ciaran
Sep 8, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice bar/garden/restaurant. Free parking. Beds are comfy. rooms a little dated
Nice bar/garden/restaurant. Free parking. Beds are comfy. rooms a little dated
8
Trevor
Dec 22, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Overall very pleased with stay. Rooms were well above average. However I must have missed in the description that it is motel type accommodation in a seperate block. I would have enjoyed a hotel lounge to sit with friends after the very good meal.
Overall very pleased with stay. Rooms were well above average. However I must have missed in the description that it is motel type accommodation in a seperate block. I would have enjoyed a hotel lounge to sit with friends after the very good meal.
10
Jane
Sep 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
10
Victoria
Jul 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
10
Heather
May 31, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Enjoyed our stay at Sturdy’s Castle, staff welcoming & helpful. Spotlessly clean & comfortable room. Delicious Indian meal one night at in-house dining room. Plentiful free parking a great bonus. Convenient location to explore the Cotswolds. Highly recommend.
Enjoyed our stay at Sturdy’s Castle, staff welcoming & helpful. Spotlessly clean & comfortable room. Delicious Indian meal one night at in-house dining room. Plentiful free parking a great bonus. Convenient location to explore the Cotswolds. Highly recommend.
10
Joyce
Sep 17, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
10
Lisa
Sep 22, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Good parking, rooms were separate to hotel for easenof getting in and out. Clean and friendly.
Good parking, rooms were separate to hotel for easenof getting in and out. Clean and friendly.
8
Philip
Oct 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
8
Lorraine
Oct 28, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very good overall, food good, accomodation good, we stayed saturday & sunday night but didnt realise that sunday night the restaurant closed at 6 and the pub closed at 8pm, probably our own fault for not reading the blurb properly, but still alittle disappointing when in a hotel not close to anything else.
Very good overall, food good, accomodation good, we stayed saturday & sunday night but didnt realise that sunday night the restaurant closed at 6 and the pub closed at 8pm, probably our own fault for not reading the blurb properly, but still alittle disappointing when in a hotel not close to anything else.
8
Tony
Aug 8, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The stay was good, with a nice hotel feel and plenty of seating for lunch, Dinner etc. Good choice of drink and the food was good in the evening. Room 1 was damp smelling which might be due to the window vents being shut and the bathroom fan was off. Opened the vents and turned the fan on for the next guest. Discussed this on check out.
The stay was good, with a nice hotel feel and plenty of seating for lunch, Dinner etc. Good choice of drink and the food was good in the evening. Room 1 was damp smelling which might be due to the window vents being shut and the bathroom fan was off. Opened the vents and turned the fan on for the next guest. Discussed this on check out.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Rooms are generally clean, with several mentions of spotless spaces. A few guests reported damp or mould, stained furniture, or a perceived decline.
Related guest reviews
10
Shakeel
Aug 25, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room was spacious and clean. Good location for Cotswold. Breakfast was great.
Room was spacious and clean. Good location for Cotswold. Breakfast was great.
8
Barbara
Jul 12, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The hotel is really attractive. There was ample parking. The receptionist was extremely welcoming and helpful. The room was clean. It was excellent value for money!
The hotel is really attractive. There was ample parking. The receptionist was extremely welcoming and helpful. The room was clean. It was excellent value for money!
10
Peter
Aug 22, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We enjoyed our stay at the "castle." The room was comfortable and clean. We had hoped to use the restaurant, but were too tired. Nevertheless we enjoyed a cooked to order breakfast, that was excellent.
We enjoyed our stay at the "castle." The room was comfortable and clean. We had hoped to use the restaurant, but were too tired. Nevertheless we enjoyed a cooked to order breakfast, that was excellent.
10
Judy
Jul 22, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely room , helpful staff ,,clean all round good value
Lovely room , helpful staff ,,clean all round good value
4
Tim
Sep 26, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Gone downhill! Used many times but the general cleanliness, amenities and quality of this hotel has deteriorated..
Gone downhill! Used many times but the general cleanliness, amenities and quality of this hotel has deteriorated..
2
Graham
May 6, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Not at all like images on web site, this is a local pub with a collection of two tier box like rooms at the rear of the car park. These are accessed via some grotty algae covered fire escape metal stairs. The pub had that stale food smell on entering, indicative of dirty carpets and soft furnishings. On entering the bedroom we were met with overpowering heat the windows were closed and an electric radiator was on full, it was literally like a sauna managed to open the window which had mould on the frame, but decided it would take too long to cool down, it was a very plain motel type room. Taking everything into consideration I decided to hand back the keys and did not stay. We could not understand how on earth we had chosen to book this terrible “hotel”, so checked the web site for comparison and still feel the impression given is far removed from what is actually on offer.
Not at all like images on web site, this is a local pub with a collection of two tier box like rooms at the rear of the car park. These are accessed via some grotty algae covered fire escape metal stairs. The pub had that stale food smell on entering, indicative of dirty carpets and soft furnishings. On entering the bedroom we were met with overpowering heat the windows were closed and an electric radiator was on full, it was literally like a sauna managed to open the window which had mould on the frame, but decided it would take too long to cool down, it was a very plain motel type room. Taking everything into consideration I decided to hand back the keys and did not stay. We could not understand how on earth we had chosen to book this terrible “hotel”, so checked the web site for comparison and still feel the impression given is far removed from what is actually on offer.
8
R
Mar 13, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Very comportable stay, the food was excellent Only two little issues wooden chair in bedroom had large stain oin it and there was no power sockets near bed
Very comportable stay, the food was excellent Only two little issues wooden chair in bedroom had large stain oin it and there was no power sockets near bed
10
Heather
May 31, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Enjoyed our stay at Sturdy’s Castle, staff welcoming & helpful. Spotlessly clean & comfortable room. Delicious Indian meal one night at in-house dining room. Plentiful free parking a great bonus. Convenient location to explore the Cotswolds. Highly recommend.
Enjoyed our stay at Sturdy’s Castle, staff welcoming & helpful. Spotlessly clean & comfortable room. Delicious Indian meal one night at in-house dining room. Plentiful free parking a great bonus. Convenient location to explore the Cotswolds. Highly recommend.
10
Joyce
Sep 17, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
8
Tony
Aug 8, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The stay was good, with a nice hotel feel and plenty of seating for lunch, Dinner etc. Good choice of drink and the food was good in the evening. Room 1 was damp smelling which might be due to the window vents being shut and the bathroom fan was off. Opened the vents and turned the fan on for the next guest. Discussed this on check out.
The stay was good, with a nice hotel feel and plenty of seating for lunch, Dinner etc. Good choice of drink and the food was good in the evening. Room 1 was damp smelling which might be due to the window vents being shut and the bathroom fan was off. Opened the vents and turned the fan on for the next guest. Discussed this on check out.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are simple, comfortable and often spacious, many in a quiet annex with external access. Some feel dated or need refresh, with occasional maintenance issues and minor noise from traffic or upstairs neighbours.
Related guest reviews
10
Tony
Nov 29, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely big room, helpful friendly staff, good menu choices for evening meal. Definitely value for money. Would recommend.
Lovely big room, helpful friendly staff, good menu choices for evening meal. Definitely value for money. Would recommend.
6
Samantha
Jun 3, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Friendly welcome at reception. Rooms are very tired looking. No sound proofing so I was woken by the person upstairs stomping around at 4am.
Friendly welcome at reception. Rooms are very tired looking. No sound proofing so I was woken by the person upstairs stomping around at 4am.
8
Lisa
Aug 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This is a lovely venue the staff were friendly and very helpful. The rooms are a bit dated but overall we’re ok. It was a clean room the one thing that I felt let it down was the pillows they were not great. The location of the hotel is good and we had dinner in the pub in the evening which was amazing. Overall a great little hotel
This is a lovely venue the staff were friendly and very helpful. The rooms are a bit dated but overall we’re ok. It was a clean room the one thing that I felt let it down was the pillows they were not great. The location of the hotel is good and we had dinner in the pub in the evening which was amazing. Overall a great little hotel
10
paul
Jul 31, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
We stayed for one night on q sat Saturday, for a wedding that was near by . The room was a good size and comfortable in an annex so no problems with noise from the pub . Breakfast was excellent. Overall good value for money
We stayed for one night on q sat Saturday, for a wedding that was near by . The room was a good size and comfortable in an annex so no problems with noise from the pub . Breakfast was excellent. Overall good value for money
8
Stephen
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
All the staff & possibly the owners were friendly, polite & very helpful, the food especially the curries are excellent, the breakfast is great too, you have to pre order but it’s great when you want to get on your way. Couldn’t be any better. The owners haven’t been in long but the room we stayed in needed a new bath panel & decorations freshening up. But this didn’t spoil our stay, but it might for some. The spare pillows needed to be replaced but we didn’t use them. Won’t take much to get this done just 1 room at a time & the place will be amazing. The dining area is great & so is the bar area to eat. We loved out stay & only advising so your business will do well. Thanks again for a lovely few days away.
All the staff & possibly the owners were friendly, polite & very helpful, the food especially the curries are excellent, the breakfast is great too, you have to pre order but it’s great when you want to get on your way. Couldn’t be any better. The owners haven’t been in long but the room we stayed in needed a new bath panel & decorations freshening up. But this didn’t spoil our stay, but it might for some. The spare pillows needed to be replaced but we didn’t use them. Won’t take much to get this done just 1 room at a time & the place will be amazing. The dining area is great & so is the bar area to eat. We loved out stay & only advising so your business will do well. Thanks again for a lovely few days away.
10
ciaran
Sep 8, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice bar/garden/restaurant. Free parking. Beds are comfy. rooms a little dated
Nice bar/garden/restaurant. Free parking. Beds are comfy. rooms a little dated
10
Jane
Sep 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
10
Victoria
Jul 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
10
Joyce
Sep 17, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
The bedrooms are a two block building which is separate from the country inn. They are located behind the Inn. We found the room and bathroom to be clean. The bed was comfortable.There was instant hot water when needed.The food was very good. The staff were helpful and friendly.
8
Philip
Oct 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Staff are frequently described as friendly, welcoming and efficient, with several guests noting excellent service. Isolated complaints mention unsympathetic handling of early luggage and slow follow-up for dessert orders.
Related guest reviews
10
Donald
Sep 28, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very professional and efficient staff. Warm welcome and excellent service through our visit. The food was of a high standard, we all enjoyed breakfast and a wonderful curry.
Very professional and efficient staff. Warm welcome and excellent service through our visit. The food was of a high standard, we all enjoyed breakfast and a wonderful curry.
6
David
Dec 24, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Didn’t start well, planned to arrive early, appreciated room might not be available but assumed we could leave cases in hotel until room ready, as offered everywhere else we stay, not the case here. Unsympathetic to our plight. When we did get into room much later, central heating not working, kindly left an oil filled radiator but failed to turn on so room was freezing. Decided to go to the bar and stay warm while radiator warmed the room, only to be told bar closes in 30 minutes at 8pm. Not ideal as hotel in middle of nowhere. To add insult to injury, went to have a shower only to discover we had no water. Decided to watch sky tv to find only 3 channels available. Such a shame as stayed here 3 years ago and it was perfect.
Didn’t start well, planned to arrive early, appreciated room might not be available but assumed we could leave cases in hotel until room ready, as offered everywhere else we stay, not the case here. Unsympathetic to our plight. When we did get into room much later, central heating not working, kindly left an oil filled radiator but failed to turn on so room was freezing. Decided to go to the bar and stay warm while radiator warmed the room, only to be told bar closes in 30 minutes at 8pm. Not ideal as hotel in middle of nowhere. To add insult to injury, went to have a shower only to discover we had no water. Decided to watch sky tv to find only 3 channels available. Such a shame as stayed here 3 years ago and it was perfect.
10
Craig
Jun 16, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
We thoroughly loved our stay at Sturdy's Castle. From the moment we arrived we were treated royally! One of the great services we received was that a member of the staff helped us with our laundry. We'd been traveling for many days and needed to do some laundry. When I asked if there was a laundry for guests to use, I was informed no. However, she said that she would be willing to help us and she did! When I tried to pay her, she would not accept. Such service is rare and exceptional. Thank you so very much for a perfect stay at Sturdy's Castle. We'll be back!
We thoroughly loved our stay at Sturdy's Castle. From the moment we arrived we were treated royally! One of the great services we received was that a member of the staff helped us with our laundry. We'd been traveling for many days and needed to do some laundry. When I asked if there was a laundry for guests to use, I was informed no. However, she said that she would be willing to help us and she did! When I tried to pay her, she would not accept. Such service is rare and exceptional. Thank you so very much for a perfect stay at Sturdy's Castle. We'll be back!
10
Lesley
Dec 2, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Welcoming staff, clean rooms, breakfast was included and was a good size.very good value stay wouls stay again
Welcoming staff, clean rooms, breakfast was included and was a good size.very good value stay wouls stay again
8
Stephen
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
All the staff & possibly the owners were friendly, polite & very helpful, the food especially the curries are excellent, the breakfast is great too, you have to pre order but it’s great when you want to get on your way. Couldn’t be any better. The owners haven’t been in long but the room we stayed in needed a new bath panel & decorations freshening up. But this didn’t spoil our stay, but it might for some. The spare pillows needed to be replaced but we didn’t use them. Won’t take much to get this done just 1 room at a time & the place will be amazing. The dining area is great & so is the bar area to eat. We loved out stay & only advising so your business will do well. Thanks again for a lovely few days away.
All the staff & possibly the owners were friendly, polite & very helpful, the food especially the curries are excellent, the breakfast is great too, you have to pre order but it’s great when you want to get on your way. Couldn’t be any better. The owners haven’t been in long but the room we stayed in needed a new bath panel & decorations freshening up. But this didn’t spoil our stay, but it might for some. The spare pillows needed to be replaced but we didn’t use them. Won’t take much to get this done just 1 room at a time & the place will be amazing. The dining area is great & so is the bar area to eat. We loved out stay & only advising so your business will do well. Thanks again for a lovely few days away.
10
Craig
Nov 22, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Beautiful country pub with great accommodation and wonderful food (English & Indian menu) . Service was efirst class and very friendly too.
Beautiful country pub with great accommodation and wonderful food (English & Indian menu) . Service was efirst class and very friendly too.
10
Peter
Mar 7, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent service and food, very friendly staff, I will definitely stay again when working in the area.
Excellent service and food, very friendly staff, I will definitely stay again when working in the area.
10
Victoria
Jul 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
We chose to stay here as they offer some ground floor rooms and we like the fact that they open directly to the outside. We were made to feel most welcome. The room was comfortable and of a reasonable size. We enjoyed the curry and the breakfast was good too.
10
Mark
Feb 1, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Top quality service by all members of staff
Top quality service by all members of staff
10
Susan
May 19, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely room, clean and comfortable. Good breakfast, order night before. Everything excellent about room, check in and breakfast. Only slight downside was that we ate in the restaurant one evening - were given menus but it was a long time before someone came to take our order. In fact we got menus for desert but gave up as nobody returned to take order for 15 minutes!
Lovely room, clean and comfortable. Good breakfast, order night before. Everything excellent about room, check in and breakfast. Only slight downside was that we ate in the restaurant one evening - were given menus but it was a long time before someone came to take our order. In fact we got menus for desert but gave up as nobody returned to take order for 15 minutes!
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Convenient for Blenheim Palace, Woodstock and Oxford, with easy road access. Some find it a little remote for alternatives, though a few noted nearby public transport options.
Related guest reviews
6
Motse
Jun 13, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The property is near Woodstock, but cheaper than staying in central, making it convenient for anyone visiting Blenheim Palace Triathlon
The property is near Woodstock, but cheaper than staying in central, making it convenient for anyone visiting Blenheim Palace Triathlon
8
Helen
Dec 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Excellent location to Blenheim Palace
Excellent location to Blenheim Palace
8
Lisa
Aug 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This is a lovely venue the staff were friendly and very helpful. The rooms are a bit dated but overall we’re ok. It was a clean room the one thing that I felt let it down was the pillows they were not great. The location of the hotel is good and we had dinner in the pub in the evening which was amazing. Overall a great little hotel
This is a lovely venue the staff were friendly and very helpful. The rooms are a bit dated but overall we’re ok. It was a clean room the one thing that I felt let it down was the pillows they were not great. The location of the hotel is good and we had dinner in the pub in the evening which was amazing. Overall a great little hotel
10
Shakeel
Aug 25, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room was spacious and clean. Good location for Cotswold. Breakfast was great.
Room was spacious and clean. Good location for Cotswold. Breakfast was great.
10
Jane
Sep 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
Easy to find, quiet property with good parking. Had an excellent curry for dinner. Helpful staff. Spacious room and ensuite. Some traffic noise in morning.
10
Alison
Jun 16, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Easy booking in. Food looked excellent, although we didn't eat here this time. This was our second stay at Sturdy's, staff were lovely and helpful. Will stay again, Easy access to Woodstock and Blenheim
Easy booking in. Food looked excellent, although we didn't eat here this time. This was our second stay at Sturdy's, staff were lovely and helpful. Will stay again, Easy access to Woodstock and Blenheim
10
Maureen
Sep 12, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very convenient for Blenheim Palace& Oxford. Friendly staff. Delicious food. Would definitely stay again.
Very convenient for Blenheim Palace& Oxford. Friendly staff. Delicious food. Would definitely stay again.
10
Roger
Feb 21, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Helpful, friendly staff, very convenient for hopping on to a bus straight to the centre of Oxford (far better than taking the car), convenient, less than a 10 minute walk on a quiet lane to North Oxfordshire Crematorium, spacious room, good breakfast and Black Sheep on hand pump!
Helpful, friendly staff, very convenient for hopping on to a bus straight to the centre of Oxford (far better than taking the car), convenient, less than a 10 minute walk on a quiet lane to North Oxfordshire Crematorium, spacious room, good breakfast and Black Sheep on hand pump!
8
Tony David
Oct 17, 2024
·
A great place to stay outside of a busy Oxford city. Stayed a few times and all stays have been good.
A great place to stay outside of a busy Oxford city. Stayed a few times and all stays have been good.
8
David
Jun 24, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Its situated just outside Oxford the nearest park and ride transportation was 20 minutes away. It was just by luck that i asked a local about getting into Oxford when we found out the nearest train station was only a couple of mile away in the lovely village of tackley. 1 stop away from Oxford only £10. Return for 2 adults straight into Oxford city centre. Within 10 minutes. Very clean hotel and great food .
Its situated just outside Oxford the nearest park and ride transportation was 20 minutes away. It was just by luck that i asked a local about getting into Oxford when we found out the nearest train station was only a couple of mile away in the lovely village of tackley. 1 stop away from Oxford only £10. Return for 2 adults straight into Oxford city centre. Within 10 minutes. Very clean hotel and great food .
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
Food is widely praised, especially the Indian dishes and cooked-to-order breakfasts; two menus (pub and Indian) offer plenty of choice, and breakfast is typically pre-ordered. Some found breakfast basic or overcooked, and evening hours or menu variety occasionally disappointed.
Related guest reviews
8
Martin
Sep 14, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Nice rooms, comfortable bed, friendly staff, main meals were good, breakfast was ok, but not much choice if you like a continental breakfast, easy place to get to.
Nice rooms, comfortable bed, friendly staff, main meals were good, breakfast was ok, but not much choice if you like a continental breakfast, easy place to get to.
10
Donald
Sep 28, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very professional and efficient staff. Warm welcome and excellent service through our visit. The food was of a high standard, we all enjoyed breakfast and a wonderful curry.
Very professional and efficient staff. Warm welcome and excellent service through our visit. The food was of a high standard, we all enjoyed breakfast and a wonderful curry.
10
Julie
Jun 11, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely staff. Friendly and welcoming. Food was good. Room was clean and tidy. We didn't hear the main road overnight. The mattress was quiet firm, just in case you are used to a soft mattress. Plenty of parking and close to lots of things.
Lovely staff. Friendly and welcoming. Food was good. Room was clean and tidy. We didn't hear the main road overnight. The mattress was quiet firm, just in case you are used to a soft mattress. Plenty of parking and close to lots of things.
10
lee
Jul 1, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room was lovely, staff superb, dinner was scrumptious, I had the Indian menu, my wife chose from the pub menu, both were perfect, very reasonable prices also for food and drinks,
Room was lovely, staff superb, dinner was scrumptious, I had the Indian menu, my wife chose from the pub menu, both were perfect, very reasonable prices also for food and drinks,
10
Ann
May 28, 2025
·
Stayed 5 nights
We enjoyed excellent food throughout our stay. The choice of freshly cooked breakfasts was very good, and then in the evenings we ate in the restaurant which had a wide selection of food on two different menus. One menu was classic Pub food and the other was Indian, with dishes specially created by an award winning chef. The Indian food was delicious with interesting spices, and not too hot, so we worked our way through most of the dishes, enjoying them all. Our room was comfortable and a decent size, but would benefit from some repainting. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. We would happily stay there again.
We enjoyed excellent food throughout our stay. The choice of freshly cooked breakfasts was very good, and then in the evenings we ate in the restaurant which had a wide selection of food on two different menus. One menu was classic Pub food and the other was Indian, with dishes specially created by an award winning chef. The Indian food was delicious with interesting spices, and not too hot, so we worked our way through most of the dishes, enjoying them all. Our room was comfortable and a decent size, but would benefit from some repainting. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. We would happily stay there again.
10
Gillian
May 29, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely room with all the extras that make a difference, good toiletries, hot drinks tray with biscuits and bottled water . Good breakfast which you order the night before. We also ate in the restaurant for dinner and we're a bit disappointed by the menu. It was fairly basic pub food but there were no specials to add to it
Lovely room with all the extras that make a difference, good toiletries, hot drinks tray with biscuits and bottled water . Good breakfast which you order the night before. We also ate in the restaurant for dinner and we're a bit disappointed by the menu. It was fairly basic pub food but there were no specials to add to it
8
David
May 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice room excellent evening meal, but breakfast was dry, overcooked which reduced the rating
Nice room excellent evening meal, but breakfast was dry, overcooked which reduced the rating
10
Susan
Feb 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Sue greeted us at reception, she was very helpful and friendly. Room was clean and tidy. Evening meal was delicious and served quickly. A nice short stay and would recommend to potential guests!
Sue greeted us at reception, she was very helpful and friendly. Room was clean and tidy. Evening meal was delicious and served quickly. A nice short stay and would recommend to potential guests!
8
Philip
Oct 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
Stayed one night while on a long walk. On arrival had to preorder breakfast and give a time. Room was in a block behind the inn and was fine but could do with a bit of a refresh. Tea making facilities (but needed more tea bags and milk), bathroom had a bath with shower over but only one tiny bottles of shower gel not quite enough! The beds were comfortable though, it was very quiet and we slept well. We had boooked for dinner but then they didn't have room in the restaurant so we ate in the bar which was fine. The menu is English food one side / Indian other side and we decided (having seen the table next to us have Indian and make great comments!) to have than and it was very good indeed. Decent Inches cider on draft and the servers were all very helpful and friendly. Breakfast is served in the restaurant and you help yourself to any juice, cereal etc. before the cooked breakfast and tea is brought to you. The full English was excellent. Overall the food was probably better than the room but it served us well enough!
10
Allan
Oct 16, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Excellent in all respects. Pleasant staff, comfortable room and superb food in attractive restaurant.
Excellent in all respects. Pleasant staff, comfortable room and superb food in attractive restaurant.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
4
darren
Jul 17, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Disappointing hotel - rooms not air conditioned - although food was acceptable but breakfast mediocre - breakfast staff really abrupt
Disappointing hotel - rooms not air conditioned - although food was acceptable but breakfast mediocre - breakfast staff really abrupt
10
Chris
Jul 15, 2026
·
Stayed 3 nights
Friendly welcome on our arrival. Food was excellent and reasonably priced. Hotel room was clean and well stocked with teas and coffees. Recommend a visit.
Friendly welcome on our arrival. Food was excellent and reasonably priced. Hotel room was clean and well stocked with teas and coffees. Recommend a visit.
6
Lauren
Jul 6, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
The bedroom decor was tired and the bathroom even worse, quite off putting but the bed was comfortable although the bottom sheet didn’t quite cover the whole bed. Food very nice
The bedroom decor was tired and the bathroom even worse, quite off putting but the bed was comfortable although the bottom sheet didn’t quite cover the whole bed. Food very nice
10
John
May 19, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Easy to find and comfortable place to stay. Check-in was efficient, and we planned to change before having dinner - but we ended up staying in the bar and eating there. The meal was very good and the staff were very attentive and friendly. Some of the same staff served breakfast the next day and it too was very good. The place was obviously well liked by the locals as it was pretty full most of the time we were there. (It turns out this is owned by the same people as The Falcon at Hatton so no surprise that the food was good)
Easy to find and comfortable place to stay. Check-in was efficient, and we planned to change before having dinner - but we ended up staying in the bar and eating there. The meal was very good and the staff were very attentive and friendly. Some of the same staff served breakfast the next day and it too was very good. The place was obviously well liked by the locals as it was pretty full most of the time we were there. (It turns out this is owned by the same people as The Falcon at Hatton so no surprise that the food was good)
10
Clare
May 2, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Fabulous stay, wonderful welcoming staff, amazing food
Fabulous stay, wonderful welcoming staff, amazing food
FAQs about Sturdy`s Castle - Historic Coaching Inn near Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
Is parking available at the property?
Free self-parking is available on-site, but it is limited.
What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?
Cooked-to-order breakfasts are served on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM for a fee of approximately GBP 10.00 per person.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and check-out is by 10:30 AM. Early check-in and late check-out are available for a fee of GBP 15.00, subject to availability.
What accessibility features are available for guests with disabilities?
The property features step-free entrances and wheelchair-accessible facilities, including public areas and rooms.
What is the location of the property in relation to key landmarks?
The property is located in Kidlington, within a 15-minute drive of Blenheim Palace and Thames River. It is approximately 8.7 miles from the University of Oxford and 10.6 miles from Bicester Village.
What are the policies regarding children staying at the property?
Children 16 years old and younger are not permitted at the property from January to December.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
September 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
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October 2026
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-09-05: NO DATA
- 2026-09-06: 83.13172931365966USD
- 2026-09-07: 90.58814556732177USD
- 2026-09-08: NO DATA
- 2026-09-09: NO DATA
- 2026-09-10: 89.45753677368164USD
- 2026-09-11: NO DATA
- 2026-09-12: NO DATA
- 2026-09-13: 73.80372163848877USD
- 2026-09-14: 85.20002116394043USD
- 2026-09-15: 118.82403623046875USD
- 2026-09-16: 93.00002297668458USD
- 2026-09-17: NO DATA
- 2026-09-18: 116.60708709411621USD
- 2026-09-19: NO DATA
- 2026-09-20: 84.1588264892578USD
- 2026-09-21: 94.27285613098144USD
- 2026-09-22: 85.15247422485352USD
- 2026-09-23: 92.24504917907714USD
- 2026-09-24: 94.27285613098144USD
- 2026-09-25: 103.52186996307373USD
- 2026-09-26: NO DATA
- 2026-09-27: 70.98733638534546USD
- 2026-09-28: 94.27285613098144USD
- 2026-09-29: 90.82473722229004USD
- 2026-09-30: 92.29002649230956USD
- 2026-10-01: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-02: 78.07523727874755USD
- 2026-10-03: 93.71001946105957USD
- 2026-10-04: 68.9399736946106USD
- 2026-10-05: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-10-06: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-07: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-08: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-09: 84.39002192993163USD
- 2026-10-10: 93.37002251739501USD
- 2026-10-11: 68.92093631134033USD
- 2026-10-12: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-13: NO DATA
- 2026-10-14: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-10-15: 77.10001996307373USD
- 2026-10-16: 85.76002238464355USD
- 2026-10-17: 93.37002251739501USD
- 2026-10-18: 66.90001418457031USD
- 2026-10-19: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-10-20: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-10-21: 77.67001614227294USD
- 2026-10-22: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-10-23: 85.76002238464355USD
- 2026-10-24: 94.43001976470947USD
- 2026-10-25: 68.86001845703125USD
- 2026-10-26: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-10-27: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-10-28: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-10-29: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-10-30: 86.21001703643799USD
- 2026-10-31: 95.33002678985595USD
- 2026-11-01: 68.4400175415039USD
- 2026-11-02: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-11-03: 76.25001431274414USD
- 2026-11-04: 77.11001492156983USD
- 2026-11-05: 77.11001492156983USD
There is no front desk at this property. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions. The host will greet guests on arrival. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 18 years old.
- Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
- Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
- Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
- This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
- Children 16 years old and younger are not permitted from January to December.
- Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
- Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: approximately GBP 10.00 per person
- Early check-in fee: GBP 15.00 (subject to availability)
- Late check-out fee: GBP 15.00 (subject to availability)
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
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General
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Activities
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Free Wi-Fi