REWLEY HOUSE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
About the Castle Hotel
Rewley House, Oxford - A Historic Hub for Learning and Lodging
Rewley House stands as a distinguished academic and hospitality anchor in Oxford, serving as the primary base for the University's esteemed Department of Continuing Education. It offers a serene sanctuary, yet remains deeply connected to the intellectual heartbeat of the city. Professor Matthew Weait's arrival as Director signals a fresh chapter for this institution, promising a continued commitment to academic excellence and refined guest experiences. Personally, I find its dual role as a place of learning and a comfortable lodging option quite compelling.
Location
Situated in a quiet enclave of central Oxford, Rewley House occupies a prime position within Wellington Square, mere steps from some of the city's most ancient and historically significant colleges. Its proximity to the Bodleian Library, Oxford Castle, and the University of Oxford itself is remarkable, placing guests within a pleasant 500-meter radius of key academic and historical sites. The full spectrum of Summertown's excellent shops and restaurants are also within easy walking distance, offering both convenience and local flavour.
Style and Character
Rewley House exudes an atmosphere of understated academic elegance. While specific design details are not overtly detailed, its setting within a historic college environment implies a character steeped in tradition, yet adapted for modern comfort. The property features a secluded central courtyard and a beautifully maintained landscaped garden, providing tranquil spaces for relaxation or private receptions. This integration of natural beauty within an urban academic setting contributes to its unique and appealing character.
Service and Facilities
The facilities at Rewley House are geared towards both academic pursuits and guest comfort. The Department houses two dedicated conference facilities, complemented by additional meeting spaces. For guests, a fully licensed bar and a common room offer spaces for socialising and unwinding. Essential amenities such as luggage storage and a vending machine are also available. The property benefits from free WiFi throughout. While the emphasis is academic, these features ensure a pleasant and functional stay for all visitors.
Rooms
Rewley House offers 35 en-suite bedrooms, catering to a range of needs. Standard rooms feature comfortable King size and Double beds, Freeview television, and complimentary WiFi. Some rooms provide enhanced comfort with a seating area for relaxation, and all are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities. A particular highlight is a spacious penthouse twin-bed apartment, complete with a fully-equipped kitchenette, dining area, and a seating area with a flat-screen TV, alongside a separate bathroom. A rare offering for this category of establishment is a self-contained disabled suite. It is worth noting that some rooms lack lift access and are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with specific accessibility requirements.
Food and Drink
Dining at Rewley House is centred around a daily breakfast buffet, available from 08:00 to 09:30, offering a choice between a full English or a Continental selection. Beyond breakfast, the property features a fully licensed bar, providing a convenient spot for an evening drink. While not a primary dining destination, the availability of these facilities ensures guests have convenient options during their stay.
Value for Money
As part of a university department, Rewley House likely offers competitive pricing, particularly given its prime central Oxford location and its association with the University. The inclusion of breakfast and WiFi, coupled with the comfortable room amenities and access to gardens and common areas, provides a solid value proposition, especially for academics, researchers, or those seeking an authentic university experience.
Accessibility
Rewley House provides a dedicated self-contained disabled suite, indicating a commitment to accessibility. However, it is important to note that certain rooms, particularly those without lift access, are not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with disability access requirements. Prospective guests are advised to inquire about specific room suitability when booking.
Family-Friendly
While primarily an academic facility, the availability of a spacious penthouse twin-bed apartment with a kitchenette could lend itself to families or those needing a bit more space. The tranquil gardens also offer a pleasant environment. However, specific family-focused amenities or services are not detailed, suggesting it caters more to adult visitors and conference delegates.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free Wi-Fi
- No pets allowed
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Guest Parking
- Shared kitchen
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Housekeeping
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Self-catering
- Shared kitchen
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor