The Lion at Bicester

We're big fans of this group, with other properties such as The Chequers and The Townhouse – among others – under their belt. The Lion at Wendlebury is the latest to be added to the collection –  a recently re-launched 18th-century village pub in Oxfordshire that's also home to 13 very chic new rooms.

Each is dog-friendly, has an en-suite with a high-pressure walk-in shower and is individually decorated; choose from standard, superior or deluxe. Regardless, you'll be greeted by a restful space, complete with antique furniture, Feather & Black beds, velvet blackout curtains and Nespresso machines. Some feature full-height glazed doors leading onto Juliet balconies, others have dual-aspect windows, and several are suitable for families.

It's an inviting and characterful place – there's a welcoming bar, Cotswold stone wall dining rooms and a beer garden, ideal for a pint on warm days. Food-wise, ingredients are locally-sourced from the Cherwell Valley and the surrounding countryside – how does pressed chicken, tarragon and apricot terrine, spiced chickpea, feat and mint burger, or roasted guinea fowl with chorizo and saffron aioli sound?

Wendlebury itself is a picturesque spot, with the inn at its centre. Blenheim Palace and Oxford are close by, whilst shopoholics will be clapping their hands with glee – the property is just two miles fromthe  Bicester outlet village. Indulge in some retail therapy, then back to The Lion for a tasty meal and a cosy place to lay your head.