The Manor at Weston On The Green Country House Hotel is located in Weston-on-the-Green in an Oxfordshire village. It is near iconic places such as Oxford, Bicester Village, Silverstone, and the Cotswolds. Surrounded by stunning grounds this 11th Century Manor is Britain’s heritage at its best. What a perfect way to make such an entrance than with my Bentley Bentayga. The first impact I experienced was the long driveway.
The recorded history of Weston Manor spans just over nine hundred years. When the Normans arrived in Britain under William the Conqueror and took over the Saxon manors, their domes day survey records Weston’s overlord as Wigod. A manor house was in existence in the early medieval period, when it became the seat of the Abbot of Osney’s bailiff, who held his courts in the Baron’s hall which is the present dining room. This and the hall’s original chapel (now a small adjoining room) are the earliest parts of the building.
Weston Manor’s Ghosts
The most famous ghost who haunts the Weston Manor is Mad Maude, a young nun who has burnt alive five centuries ago, when this place was supposed to have been a monastery. Maude was said to have fallen in love with one of the monks. One fateful night Maude was discovered in her lover’s cell. On the grounds of Weston Manor, Maude was chained to a stake with faggots heaped around her and turned into a human torch as an example of wrongdoers. Many guests I have been told request this particular room.
The Grounds
The Manor is surrounded by endless ground and hedges. The hedges are turned into animal-like images. I loved walking around these grounds appreciating the garden and looking back at this iconic 11th Century Manor. I didn’t have time on this occasion, but the tennis courts are the perfect way to spend your time here. Followed by a glass of wine or afternoon tea. Make sure you take the time to explore every part of this Manor.
The Entrance hall
This is just mind-blowing the moment I opened the red door to the entrance hall I was greeted by a massive open fire. This Manor took me back in time. I explored every part and just loved hearing the floorboards squeak. The art work displayed throughout the Manor was just as endearing as the building itself. The endless history and places you can sit and just take in is why I would encourage anyone to stay here for more than one day.
Breakfast The Baron’s Hall
The dining areas for both lunch and dinner overlook the grounds and the interior of the place is beautiful. I noticed you can also book The Manor for conferences and team-building exercises within these stunning halls. As for breakfast, I sat in the Baron’s Hall. The most important survival of the earlier, pre – sixteenth-century building is the medieval Baron’s Hall. ( 42feet x 19Feet).The halls roof and walls are late fifteenth century which means that it was built prior to the Dissolution of the Monasteries. As far as breakfast settings go, it was the perfect way to start my day.
The Chapel
Tucked away and locked is the oldest part of the Manor which is the Chapel. I loved this part all I had to do was ask at reception for the keys. I took the time to meditate on those monks and Mad Maude who once walked these parts.
The Tudor Bedroom ( Mad Maude’s Room )
I was given this suite and it was just delightful. I never came across mad Maude let alone her ghost during my stay. But I certainly pondered what happened over the years in this room. As for the views they were just breathtaking. Regarding my bathroom, I have to say this was one of the best toilet seat views I have ever encountered. I woke up at 5 am to also see the sunrise and take in this stunning setting. I adored walking around late at night hearing the wood move and the floors creak. Off I went sound asleep waiting to hear the next movements within the Tudor bedroom.
View from the bathroom
Along with The Manor’s individuality across the hotel, each of the beautiful suites has its own personality. Enjoy a greeting from a huge, regal mahogany four-poster bed, inter-connecting rooms to double the generous space, spacious feet-up sofa areas, or marble bathrooms to get lost in whichever suite. My team member stayed in another suite overlooking the driveway, which was beautiful both day and night. The suites are the largest rooms within the Manor. They have glorious King beds, mostly four-poster King size or Super King. The suites have great working desks with lights, and when you are ready the armchairs and sofa are a real relaxation place to soak up this spectacular history.
The Georgian Drawing Room
When I entered the manor I immediately entered the Georgian drawing-room, what a statement piece it was. It was just brilliant sitting and watching that huge open fire roar. Looking up at the ceilings watching the beautiful carved out wood, I could not get enough of this room let alone The Manor itself. I could live here forever. The environment was relaxed and the staff allowed me to explore The Manor at my own leisure.
Just to the right of the Georgian Drawing room, is a nice relaxing bar. For those who love chess, this was the perfect Manor to showcase your chess skills.
Conclusion
For me, Weston Manor is the perfect definition of a luxury lifestyle. My time here was far too short. The history, the decor, and grounds are truly what I adore about Britain and its heritage. The Manor is a place to treat your loved ones and to reflect on what’s important in one’s life. The 28 rooms including the Manor can be booked out for private events. Life is short so take the time and relive history at the Weston Manor.
Bovey Castle is another hotel similar to staying like this one.
Details
- Room reviewed: The Tudor Bedroom
- Website: www.themanorweston.com
- Address: Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, Bicester OX25 3QL, UK
- Phone: +44(0)1869 350621
