Myself and my wife arrived a little earlier than the earliest stipulated check-in time of 1600. Not to worry. A friendly face (Debbie) appeared at the window, and welcomed us to the guest house and allowed us early entry for which we were extremely grateful after a long day travelling. We had already paid so check-in was speedy and efficient - the receipt was already made out. Why can't all guest houses be as efficient?!!
Our room was on the first floor and was accessed down a noisy, squeeky, uneven wooden corridor There was a pitcher of water in this corridor on a small sideboard which wobbled quite enthusiastically every time someone walked past it and looked like it might end up on the floor, sooner rather than later! I think the bed had seen better days and was a little soft for my liking. The en suite bathroom was 'compact' to be kind to it but functional. Don't bring your cat because there ain't enough room to swing it in the bathroom!! The bedroom was on the small side but I have stayed in smaller in particular in London.
There is a restaurant at this B&B but this was shut for evening meals for at least three days during our stay. I think the reason given was that there weren't enough people staying to open it. Shame really because the best selling point for this place is its wonderful breakfast. Based on the standard of breakfast I was hoping to taste some home-made cuisine. Actually, we did eat one evening. I had fish 'n' chips which was great but my wife's lasagne was stone cold. It was cooked al micro but obviously not cooked long enough. My wife not wanting to make a fuss, never said anything til afterwards - I wish she would be like that with me when I cock-up the dinner!!! There's plenty of places to eat in Banbury town centre so the restaurant not opening was not a problem.
As I have said, I particularly loved mornings here eating breakfast in the lounge. Great standard of food & there was always a friendly atmosphere among the guests.
Outside and set a little back from the busy Oxford Road which the house lies right next to is a lovely garden. Unfortunately, this time of year & the weather it brings we were unable to take advantage of it but I can imagine in the long days of summer relaxing in the garden with a book and a glass of wine, with a couple of tame, grey, squirrels for company!
Would I recommend this B&B and would I stay here again? To be honest, I would prefer to be nearer the centre and would prefer not to have to walk up the rather steep hill to this B&B. However, to me, this establishment represents outstanding value for money - it is perfectly comfortable but in no way luxurious. The good breakfast gives you a good start to the day So, yes I have no hesitation in recommending this B&B to others. One little niggle is that (as someone else has commented on before) food & drink is not allowed in your bedroom. I found this to be quite out of order. I couldn't eat in their restaurant on the three days it was shut and really didn't want to eat out every night but did not order a take-away to the B&B because of the rule of food not being allowed in the room.
