The Dial House Guest House

The location is fantastic, and the garden was the nicest part. But the guest house is very run down and needs a lot of renovation before it feels like a decent place to stay. It may once have been beautiful. We rented two rooms and found it far too expensive for what it is.

I called to see whether I could book directly at a better price after finding the guest house on booking.com. The woman on the phone said I could use their website. I asked whether breakfast was included, since it appeared in the booking.com price in the photo. She said continental breakfast cost an extra £8 per person per day. I pointed out that it was included if I booked through booking.com, and she rudely snapped that I was wrong before hanging up. I called back twice, but she didn’t answer. The lack of basic decency and customer service was unbelievable.

The breakfast was very good, with plenty of continental options as well as a cooked breakfast. Our room was spacious and clean, and the price was very reasonable. The bus stop to the city centre is right outside, and there are lovely walks, restaurants and local shops in the area. Our flight was delayed, but the owner and staff were so accommodating and kept our luggage for us, so we didn’t have to carry it around. Everyone was very friendly. I can’t recommend the Dial house highly enough.

The room was bright and light, and looked delightful. Staff were friendly and helpful. It’s a quiet spot that’s ideal for an overnight or weekend stay in Oxford, with a bus stop literally outside and only a short ride to the city centre. We didn’t have breakfast, so I can’t comment on that. I’d certainly stay here again for a weekend break.