HotelChatter

Tags: Hotels / → All Tags

More Than A Suite Cell

Where: 3 Oxford Castle, Oxford, England, United Kingdom, OX1 1AY

Last September, the UK's first prison, H.M. Oxford, was converted into The Malmaison Oxford.

The NY Times dropped in on the former prison-turned-hotel in this week's travel section.

The cells/rooms date back to the 11th century with low, barrel-vaulted ceilings, exposed brick and metal, and sliver thin windows. But, you aren't gonna suffer from claustrophobia.

The Grey Lady attests that the average room are a lot bigger than they sound (about the size of two cells and a third for a bathroom). While dim lighting might be good for setting the mood, it's not so good for writing journal entries. We suggest you bring your iBook, and take advantage of the free WiFi.

While some guests (including the NY Times reporter) said service was weak, overall the hotel's quirky style and location (five minutes from train station and other historical sights), are worth the experience.

Related Stories:
·  Oxford, England: Malmaison Oxford [NY Times]
·  Newest Malmaison Opening in Oxford [HotelChatter]
·  Malmaison Oxford guest reviews [Trip Advisor]