Mercure Oxford’s new boutique look
The four-star Oxford Eastgate Townhouse Hotel has announced its opening after a substantial refurbishment programme.
Located in the centre of Oxford, the 17th century building, which was originally a coaching inn and then the Eastgate Hotel due to its position on the site of the East Gate in the original city walls, has undergone a full refurbishment taking inspiration from the city’s style and heritage.
The hotel features 64 refurbished guestrooms including a new suite, as well as a newly added restaurant, Marco’s New York Italian restaurant.
The exterior of the hotel is signed with a classic and colourful bike adding a personalised and welcoming touch to the front entrance, as well as hinting at the design themes running throughout the interiors, which relate to the city’s iconic cycling culture.
On arrival guests are greeted by Mercure Oxford Eastgate’s Townhouse feature wall, a signature statement in Mercure’s flagship hotels. The wall consists of a classic basket-weave design in modern monotone print, which aims to combine the ancient roots and modern practices of the town.
The reception and lounge area offers a contemporary public space with quirky design features adding to the character of the hotel. Inspiration has been taken from the town’s academic reputation with cosy desk-lamp pendants and a classic bookcase, which also enhances the warm, homely feel to the hotel.
The newly redecorated bedrooms feature an elegant colour scheme with a muted background and jewel accents. The bicycle theme continues with spoke inspired details to furniture and each room has a signature headboard, which exhibits local artwork, images or scenes of the area epitomising the heritage and culture of Oxford.
The hotel features three dining options, one being the High Table Brasserie, which has been redesigned with a distinct literary influence. The restaurant provides fine dining with locally sourced produce, and is named after a favoured dining tradition at the Oxford colleges. There is also a private dining area for business lunches or personal celebrations with a menu of modern British and Mediterranean cuisine.
