Drawing up to the front entrance of this grand Grade II* listed Georgian house, it’s clear that this is an English country pile with a difference. No fusty furniture or creaky floorboards here - recently completely restored, each of its many sprawling rooms, including 14 ensuite bedrooms, have been meticulously designed, seamlessly blending modern touches with period furniture, like something from a glossy magazine shoot. 

We’re in the pretty country village of Thorpe Mandeville in Oxfordshire, primely positioned for a long weekend escape from London, just 10 minutes from Banbury train station with its direct route in from London Marylebone and easily reached via the M40 by car. Then, it’s just 30 minutes from the quintessential chocolate box villages in the heart of the Cotswolds. 

Grand Entrance

Inside, the manor is both immensely stylish, and overwhelmingly cosy. As we enter the grand entrance hall, walking over its original 17th century flagstone floors and past the baby grand piano, we’re greeted by friendly butlers - masters of hospitality who warmly assist with any request during our stay. 

The property is an exclusive use homestay, popular for special occasions, parties and weddings (it’s ideally situated just opposite the pretty village church). It has a wealth of sociable spaces - an inviting dining room seating 30; a spacious drawing room with plump sofas spread around the fireplace among piles of boardgames and newspapers; a smart billiards room and a sumptuous cinema room, with plush velvet armchairs and an enormous screen - all designed for a riotous break. In the garden, the oversized Swedish hot tub adds to the fun. Yet this is all cleverly juxtaposed with intimate spaces and private corners. Take the fireside bar, for example, all oak wood panel and brass and so very “hygge”. And as all beds are en suite, with bathrooms often as big as the bedrooms - some with freestanding tubs, others with rainforest showers - they are also sanctuaries for peace and space. 

Perfect Night

I’m taken via the sweeping staircase to my room, “Perfect Night”. Each bedroom is named after a racehorse trained by the owner’s stepfather. Perfect Night delivers on its moniker, with all the essential comforts to make us feel at home, from Roberts radios and Egyptian cotton bed linen to Nespresso machines and tea pots. Beds are turned down at night and fresh milk is left outside our door in the mornings. Next door, the teal-coloured bath tub stands on black and white chequerboard tiles, next to my least favourite addition to the house - some disarmingly accurate jockey’s scales! 

“Knucklecracker” has to be the standout suite, a palatial 100 sqm overlooking the garden, with a vast dressing room and an original Edwardian green marble bath. All extremely photogenic, as is each room with its individual style and charm, is.

The kitchen is light, airy and beautifully equipped, a sociable space that comes stocked with everything you could need, as well as all of the latest appliances. The pantry caters to the all day eater, with treats like freshly baked cakes and home made sausage rolls piled temptingly beneath glass closhes; along with baskets of popcorn and snacks for the cinema.

Feasts and florists

Cooking is at our discretion. We can take charge and the owners can facilitate a grocery delivery. Or they can connect guests with fantastic local suppliers and caterers, who can handle anything heavy duty while you kick back and relax. Local florists can even create a stunning bespoke tablescape, tailored to individual tastes. Our wish is their command, and the butler team are very well connected to meet all needs. 

Plenty to do and see

Sitting in a 20 acre estate there are glorious gardens, including as croquet lawn, a Swedish hot tub, a fully equipped gym, yoga lessons, massages, cinema, and games room mean that everyone can relax and have fun. Local walks - wellies supplied - and outdoor pursuits are easily organised, including archery and clay pigeon shooting.

With Oxford and the Cotswolds both within easy reach, you will never be short of things to do at Thorpe Manor.