OXFORD AND AROUND We reveal what’s new for weddings and staycations in this famous city THE FEATHERED NEST, NETHER WESTCOTE This charming gourmet country pub built from traditional Cotswold stone provides some of the best views in the Cotswolds of the surrounding valley and beautifully landscaped gardens. Dating back to the 15th century, the interiors are brimming with rustic charm, combining contemporary and traditional pieces with cool muted tones, eclectic furniture and exposed wooden beams. The Feathered Nest is the ideal location for an intimate celebration or grander affair. The gardens are the perfect location where a canopy provides shelter and bespoke art sculptures and firepits are dotted around the grounds. Ceremonies take place in the main restaurant or garden room where up to 65 guests can be seated either inside or outside the building on the covered terrace. The restaurant and bar allow for smaller celebrations, with diners enjoying 3 AA Rosette cuisine and for larger events, a marquee or tipi can be erected on the grounds. The property has recently launched a new cottage to add to its bespoke room collection. The cosy accommodation combines period charm and modern elegance with original features including flagstone flooring, an exposed fire mantle and wooden beams. The sitting room and modern kitchenette feature a comfy sofa and dining area. On the middle floor is a modern bathroom and on the top floor is a luxurious double bedroom home to a super king-size bed. The cottage is offered free for the couple on the night of the wedding as well as a six-course tasting menu (with wine) on their first anniversary. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01993 833 030 https://thefeatherednestinn.co.uk HEYTHROP PARK, CHIPPING NORTON Warner Leisure Hotels has opened bookings for Heythrop Park, a 440-acre country hotel that’s reopening its doors in time for summer staycations and mini-moons after undergoing a £40m investment. While this Oxfordshire bolthole doesn’t host weddings, guests can now snap up one of its 337 meticulously designed bedrooms, and it’s a great choice for the first-night stay for those marrying nearby. Heythrop Park has undergone a complete renovation since being purchased in 2018, to become the 15th property in the adult-only hotel group, Warner Leisure Hotels’ portfolio. Days can be spent enjoying a host of activities from archery to laser clay shooting, or a round of golf on the Bainbridge Championship Golf Course. Those looking for some pre-wedding pampering can unwind with a treatment in the spa complete with a brand-new thermal and sensory suite and outdoor hot tubs. The 300-year-old Grade II listed property offers loft-inspired lounges, sweeping staircases and a trio of restaurants plus two large theatres hosting daily shows, bands, music festivals and comedy nights. The opulent manor’s extensive grounds provide the perfect setting for romantic parkland walks and bike rides, with little gems such as the whale cave and a hidden waterfall to discover. Surrounding the hotel are many wonderful sights, such as the famous Blenheim Palace, just a quarter of an hour’s drive away and Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop which sells local produce and merchandise. Other highlights include the shopping outlet, Bicester Village, and Heythrop Zoological Gardens, a private zoo specialising in exotic animal training and positive reinforcement which is just next door. Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels, says, “We’ve seen first-hand that the rise in demand for domestic breaks is here to stay as people recognise the treasures we have on our doorstep.” Contact: www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/heythrop-park-hotel Spotlight on... www.gettyimages.co.uk 19 LOCAL VENUES
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