The Osney Arms, Oxford, Oxfordshire

We love the easy access to the river towpath to escape the city, entering a world best described by Phillip Pullman's fictional boatmen, the Gyptians.

The hotel is less than a 15-minute walk to the Ashmolean Museum, Christ Church and the High Street and only five minutes to the River Thames.
By car: the journey from London or Bristol takes around 1 hour 30 minutes and just over 3 hours from Manchester. Off road parking for guests.
By train: 50 minutes from London Paddington, 1 hour 20 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads and 2 hours 45 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly. The hotel is a five-minute walk from Oxford train station. thetrainline.com

The hotel suits independent travellers looking for local character and affordable rates rather than an impersonal hotel. The understated period detailing in the old fireplaces, leaded windows and antique furniture is beautiful.

Staff know the city inside out and can offer the kind of tips and recommendations that only locals know.

• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• Breakfast included
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Courtyard garden

Fast Wi-Fi and good fans in the front rooms mean you can relax there on hot evenings. We love Room 7 which overlooks the courtyard garden.

Small Double, Twin Room, Single Ensuite, Standard Double Ensuite, King Double Ensuite, Super King Double Ensuite
Facilities include: TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer

The arched, leaded windows, antique tables and friendly, personable staff make breakfast feel like a cosy, social affair. Communal dining in the morning is a pleasant change.

Breakfast: While there is no restaurant, guests can expect breakfast in a well-lit dining room at a long antique table, featuring a selection of continental breakfast items, from cold meats and cheese to fresh fruit salad, yoghurts, cereals, jams and pastries.