Malmaison Oxford

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Key details

About the Castle Hotel

3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, United Kingdom, OX1 1AY

Steps from Oxford Castle

Great

8.7

8.9

/10

4.1

Loved by Malmaison Oxford guests

Unique hotel
Spacious rooms
Great location
Helpful staff

"The room was great fun, to be sleeping in a cell."

Lynn from United Kingdom

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"The hotel is so different from other hotels it really is unique."

Sophia from United Kingdom

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"Beautiful old prison.... Renovated so sympathetically into an amazing boutique hotel"

Craig

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Amenities

Malmaison Oxford offers 95 well-appointed rooms and suites, each uniquely styled in a historic building that was once a prison. The hotel provides a contemporary brasserie and bar, Chez Mal, where a range of local dishes is served with a modern twist. Meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology cater to various business needs.

Rooms

The rooms at Malmaison Oxford are reminiscent of their historical setting but offer spacious layouts and modern comforts. Options range from standard king rooms to luxurious junior suites, some with feature roll-top baths and twin monsoon showers. Each room includes a flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi, adding convenience to the stay.

Location

Malmaison Oxford is located just minutes from prominent attractions such as Oxford University and the Ashmolean Museum. It is easily accessible, with a 5-minute walk from Oxford railway station and close proximity to various dining and entertainment options. The hotel rests in the historic Oxford Castle Quarter, providing guests a unique perspective of the city.

Dining

Chez Mal Brasserie serves a diverse menu featuring generous portions of classic dishes, all prepared with a modern flair. Guests can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the neon-lit Chez Mal Bar, where a selection of inventive cocktails and fine wines are offered. Afternoon tea, Sunday lunches, and private dining options are also available, making it a versatile dining venue.

Business

The hotel features several meeting rooms designed to inspire and accommodate various group sizes, with capacities ranging from 6 to 25 delegates. Packages include tailored catering options and state-of-the-art presentation technology, ensuring an effective and engaging meeting experience. Natural daylight fills each room, promoting a refreshingly open atmosphere.

Highlights

Location: Oxford Castle Quarter, 5-minute walk from Oxford railway station

Rooms: 95 beautifully styled rooms

Dining: Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar

Business: Meeting rooms with state-of-the-art technology

“Malmaison Oxford delivers an immersive experience, transforming a Victorian prison into a boutique hotel with uniquely designed rooms. Its central location near Oxford Castle and the Ashmolean Museum makes it ideal for exploring the city's historic sites, while Chez Mal brasserie provides a luxurious dining experience. I find the hotel's blend of historical elements and modern luxury genuinely captivating.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Castle-hotel

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast Excellence

The cooked breakfast was waiter service. The menu had many choices. It also offered unlimited tea, coffee and juice.

Oliver from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingValet Convenience

Valet parking made our arrival stress-free. The car was parked right outside the front of the hotel, which was very helpful.

Mia from United States

Review on

Room FeaturesUnique Cell

Staying in a cell room was atmospheric. The windows had wooden shutters. There were tea and coffee making facilities available.

Hans from Netherlands

Review on

BathroomStunning Space

The bathroom had a massive walk-in shower. There was also a roll top bath that filled up quickly with hot water.

Chloe from Canada

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Choose your room

Castle hotels provide room choices such as doubles, family chambers, and grand suites—often with breakfast, free cancellations, and exclusive offers

Junior Suite

2 persons

36 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Standard Double Room

2 persons

18 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Standard Cell Double

2 persons

20 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Club Double Cell

2 persons

20 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Click button to see more rooms

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

See current availability and rates for your selected dates

Facilities

Each castle hotel provides features designed for both comfort and memorable moments

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Valet parking
Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Malmaison Oxford offers a delightful blend of British, French, and European cuisine at the Malmaison Bar and Grill. With a modern and inviting ambiance, guests can indulge in sumptuous dishes and experience the charm of dining in a thoughtfully renovated former prison.

Malmaison Bar and Grill

British, French, European

Ambiance

Modern dining set within the unique and historic atmosphere of a former prison, featuring contemporary decor and friendly service.

Key Offerings

Savor an array of culinary delights, from the signature summer salad with sautéed chorizo and Beauvale blue cheese to a selection of hearty mains like the Mal Burger. Experience high tea and a diverse cocktail menu, along with an expertly curated wine list.

Reservation

Reservations recommended for dinner.

Breakfast, Dinner, High tea

Malmaison Oxford Location

3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, United Kingdom, OX1 1AY

Map view

3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, United Kingdom, OX1 1AY

City landmarks

Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

1.3 km

Museum

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

730 m

Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum

1.4 km

University

Bridge of Sighs

930 m

Landmark

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

760 m

Museum

Museum of the History of Science

980 m

Botanical Garden

Oxford Botanic Garden

1.2 km

Landmark

Bodleian Library

860 m

Landmark

Magdalen College Deer Park

1.2 km

Landmark

Sheldonian Theatre

960 m

Library

Radcliffe Camera

780 m

University

Balliol College

740 m

Church

Exeter College

690 m

University

Trinity College

830 m

University

Brasenose College

700 m

University

Merton College

910 m

University

The Queen's College

870 m

University

St Peter-in-the-East

940 m

Landmark

New College

1.2 km

University

University of Oxford

960 m

Landmark

Martyrs' Memorial

940 m

Nearby

Castle

Oxford Castle

170 m

Church

Christ Church

500 m

Market

The Covered Market Oxford

530 m

Tower

Carfax Tower

370 m

Museum

Museum of Oxford

440 m

University

St Peter's College

270 m

Museum

The Story Museum

410 m

Town Hall St. Aldates

Oxford Town Hall

440 m

Gallery

Modern Art Oxford

210 m

Restaurants

Brasserie and Bar at Malmaison

120 m

3 Oxford Castle

1855 Wine Bar

40 m

4 Oxford Castle New Road New Road

Prezzo

80 m

2 Oxford Castle New Road

Slug & Lettuce

80 m

1 Oxford Castle New Road

The Castle

110 m

24 Paradise Street

Nando's Oxford

130 m

Castle Street RU6

Castleyard Cafe

90 m

44-46 Oxford Castle

Comptoir Libanais Oxford

190 m

227 The Westgate Queen Street

Sticks'n'Sushi Oxford

160 m

311 Westgate Queen Street

Ole & Steen Oxford Westgate

150 m

L42

Explore Oxford

Activities Near Malmaison Oxford

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

9 minutes' walk

The Ashmolean showcases art and artifacts from around the world, with free admission and special exhibits throughout the year.

Christ Church

7 minutes' walk

Christ Church combines stunning architecture with historical significance, notable for its connections to Harry Potter films.

Oxford Botanic Garden

15 minutes' walk

Established in 1621, the Botanic Garden features diverse plant collections, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quiet picnic.

Bodleian Library

11 minutes' walk

One of the oldest libraries in Europe, Bodleian offers guided tours that provide insight into its vast historical collections.

Punting on the River Cherwell

15 minutes' walk

Punting offers a unique way to experience Oxford's scenic rivers with guided tours and rentals available for adventurous guests.

Yoga at The Oxford Yoga Studio

10 minutes' walk

Relaxation awaits with classes available for all levels, promoting wellness in a tranquil studio setting.

Brasserie and Bar at Malmaison

2 minutes' walk

A stylish dining spot offering a modern twist on British classics, perfect for casual meals or special occasions.

1855 Wine Bar

1 minute' walk

Charming wine bar with an extensive selection of wines and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed evening out.

The Castle

2 minutes' walk

Historic pub featuring traditional British fare and local brews, known for its inviting atmosphere and outdoor terrace.

Oxford Playhouse

12 minutes' walk

The Oxford Playhouse hosts a variety of performances, from drama to comedy, perfect for an engaging night out.

The Bullingdon

18 minutes' walk

Music venue known for live gigs and a lively atmosphere, with events ranging from DJs to local bands throughout the week.

Local transport options

City Centre

Oxford5 min · 400 m

Airports

Gloucestershire (GLO)110 min · 72.8 km

London Heathrow (LHR)113 min · 75.0 km

Bus

Bus stop2 min · 100 m

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site (reservation might be needed) at GBP 34 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP27 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Guest reviews & ratings

Guest impressions & feedback from past stays

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Malmaison Oxford offers a unique experience in a central Oxford location, within walking distance of city center attractions. Guests often praise the spacious Club Cell rooms, some featuring roll-top baths, and appreciate the modern amenities, including coffee machines with complimentary Nespresso capsules and free water. While some guests have found the parking fees to be quite high, the hotel's overall quirky charm and convenient parking make it a popular choice for visitors.

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Review score

Based on 2000 verified reviews

8.6/10

Great

88%

Recommend

Location

9.6/10

Staff

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.4/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Pros

Spacious room

Quiet location

Comfortable bed

Friendly staff

Easy access

Cons

Limited breakfast

based on 4080 reviews

4/5

rosie from united kingdom

Couple

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:February 02, 2026

9.5/10

fascinating stay

warm staffthoughtful extrasamazing food

i found the staff warm! they were helpful at every turn. my room was really nice, it was appointed with thoughtful extras. i particularly enjoyed the dining experience, and the food, especially the fillet, was amazing.

the cooling fan in my room did not work very well, so the room got a little warm.

Rooms

9/10

the standard double room had good facilities. the room provided tea and coffee making equipment. it also included a generously sized bathroom. i found the bed comfortable.

Service

10/10

the reception staff offered valet parking and took my car at the door. i met a wonderful lady at the door. michael and william greeted me on arrival and departure. everyone was friendly.

Facilities

9/10

the location is central! it provided easy access to shopping and the theatre. the architecture was converted from a prison very well. the prison walkways added authenticity.

Dining

10/10

breakfast had a great selection, and the items were cooked to order. the cocktails at the bar tasted lovely. i would certainly recommend dining at the hotel on an evening. the food was delicious.

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Judith from United Kingdom

Couple

Standard Cell Double

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 21, 2026

9/10

wheelchair accessible roomspacious wetroomfriendly staff

The wheelchair accessible room was beautiful. The wetroom was bigger than expected and included a shower chair. The staff was very friendly and helpful.

THE ROOM got A bit warm during the night.

0 Helpful

Jessica from United States

Family with children

Club Double

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 09, 2026

6/10

Reasonable stay with some drawbacks

convenient locationonsite parkingfriendly staffaverage bathroomuncontrollable temperatureunfixed issue

The hotel's location was quite convenient. Parking was available on site. This detail was a relief. The staff members were friendly and willing to assist me with my needs.

The bathroom had facilities that I found average. The shower was placed over the bath, and it was somewhat inconvenient. I could not control the water temperature in my room, and it remained unfixed . I reported this issue, but no immediate solution looked.

0 Helpful

Jack from United Kingdom

Single

Club Double Cell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 23, 2025

6/10

Acceptable but Disappointing

convenient locationhigh noise levelsloud heating

The location was really convenient for exploring the city center.

The noise levels were pretty bad. I could hear music late into the night, and early morning trash collection woke me up. The heating system was also loud and made it hard to sleep. I booked a club double cell, and expected a quieter night.

0 Helpful

Kelly from United States

Single

Club Double

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 17, 2025

6/10

a stay with some drawbacks

polite staffefficient staffcar parkingtired room

the staff was very polite and efficient. they parked my car for me, helpful (i was very tired). the room was lovely. it was clear everywhere was beautifully clean.

i had to take the stairs to the third floor, difficult. the room felt tired and the bathroom was not properly cleaned from previous guests.

0 Helpful

Isabella from Italy

Couple

Club Double

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:August 29, 2025

9/10

delicious menushelpful staff

The room had both a tub and a shower. Breakfast and dinner menus were delicious. I appreciated the kind and helpful staff, especially Adrian.

The room was too warm. There was no air conditioning.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Malmaison Oxford

Are there options for twin rooms available?

10 January 2024

Yes, twin rooms can be provided upon request.

Is a cooked vegetarian breakfast available for guests?

5 February 2024

Yes, a delicious vegetarian cooked breakfast called Chez Mal veggie breakfast is offered, including options like vegetarian sausages, spinach, baked tomatoes, mushrooms, potato croquettes, beans, and a choice of eggs.

Where can I find parking options nearby?

22 March 2024

Limited parking is available on site, but it must be reserved in advance. Alternative options include the Westgate Shopping Centre and Worcester Street Car Park, both just a short walk away.

Are any of the rooms designed for disabled guests?

15 April 2024

Yes, special accommodations are available for guests with disabilities.

Is the hotel pet-friendly?

10 May 2024

Yes, dogs are welcome at the hotel.

How can I ensure I book an ex-cell room?

3 June 2024

To guarantee an ex-cell room, it is advisable to book from the prison cell category.

What sets the club cell room apart from the standard cell room?

13 July 2024

The main distinction lies in the larger bathroom of the club cell, which features a roll-top bath and a walk-in shower, while the standard cell typically has a shower or a shower over bath.

What types of dishes are served at the hotel restaurant?

25 August 2024

Chez Mal Brasserie offers a range of iconic dishes with a modern twist, focusing on fresh, local produce and generous portions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Is there air conditioning available in the rooms?

14 September 2024

Rooms are equipped with an air cooling system to maintain comfort.

What should I expect to pay for parking during my stay?

7 October 2024

Parking is available at a cost of £28.50 per night and needs to be reserved in advance due to limited availability.