The Old Black Horse - Inn

I've been coming here for about thirty years, going back to the old, dated rooms under the previous owners. Pete has worked hard over the years to keep upgrading and maintaining them. Room 10 has since been extended, so it's bigger and much better for a short break. It was newly refurbished and spotless this time, with a lovely ensuite and a very practical kitchen area. We even used it to finish off food left from our picnic and barbecue the day before. The beds were just right, not too firm or soft. Pete and the staff gave us their usual warm welcome. The Tandoori Mixed Grill, Dhal and Garlic Naan waiting for us were superb, and there was a nice range of lagers and ales to go with it. The OBH is at the end of Cowley Road, close to its cafes, cinema, restaurants and shops. Cross Magdalen Bridge and you're in the city centre after about five minutes on foot. I'd gladly recommend the Old Black Horse to anyone. Thank you very much, diolch yn fawr!

It was cheap and clean, but I didn't sleep well. The windows wouldn't shut properly, so street noise kept me awake all night. When a bus or large car passed, the house shook.

The location is superb, but the room was small and the bed was old, very small and a bit uncomfortable. It had the basic amenities we needed. The car park is behind the hotel, though the code reader wasn't sensitive enough to open the barrier. And, as with many older London apartments, there are narrow stairs to climb, which is a challenge with big luggage.

We had a wonderful time at The Old Black Horse Inn with our two boys. Pete, the owner, was incredibly thoughtful, helping us at the Inn and sharing recommendations for our family while we were in Wolverhampton for a soccer match. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, the beds were good, the price was great, and having a bar downstairs was a nice touch. I got to watch Liverpool's opening match of the season there. Pete's a Liverpool fan too, so match days are fun. It felt like exactly the kind of Inn we'd hoped to find in England. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants within walking distance, and Oxford University and the Botanical Gardens are close by. We also used it as a base for Puzzlewood, the Cotswolds and Bourton-on-the-Water, each about an hour's drive away. If we come back to Oxford, we'll stay here again. The hospitality made our trip memorable, and I'd highly recommend The Old Black Horse Inn.