If you are seeking a quintessential Cotswolds weekend getaway, Burford should be at the top of your list. This honey-hued village, with its chocolate box charm, offers an idyllic retreat just an hour from London, attracting stylish city dwellers and countryside enthusiasts alike.
The Bull at Burford: A Historic and Stylish Bolthole
At the heart of Burford lies The Bull, an elegant coaching inn that dates back to 1536, the same year Anne Boleyn was beheaded. Reopened in 2023 by PR titan Matthew Freud, this hotel perfectly blends historic character with contemporary style. The property features heavy wooden panelling and deep stone fireplaces, juxtaposed with modern art pieces like a frenetic Basquiat painting, creating a unique and artsy atmosphere.
Accommodation and Ambience
The Bull offers 18 tastefully decorated rooms, each exuding a moody and intimate vibe. From first-floor windows, guests can enjoy views of Burford's higgledy-piggledy stone houses. The rooms are spacious despite historic low ceilings, with slate grey walls that have a velvety texture. Centred around a large bed draped in linen, the spaces are infused with scents of linden and cedarwood, providing a cosy escape where you can unwind with a signature white negroni in a reading chair.
Dining Options at The Bull
The hotel boasts four distinct dining venues, which might seem excessive for an 18-room property but caters to diverse tastes. Vincent's bar, a dimly lit room with a crackling fire, serves as the focal area. Adjacent is Horn, a gastropub offering classic dishes like steak and chips or custard and crumble. For a more elaborate experience, Wild presents an 11-course tasting menu cooked over live fire, while Sl'ice serves pizza in the summer months. Hiro is reserved for private omakase dining, ensuring options for both locals and visiting celebrities.
Staff and Service
The staff at The Bull are young and friendly, though they may lack formal training. Their welcoming attitude adds to the relaxed and informal charm of the hotel, making guests feel at home in this picturesque setting.
Activities and Attractions in Burford
Burford is the perfect destination for those looking to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures. The town is renowned for its abundance of pubs, nearly matching the number of inhabitants, making it ideal for long walks followed by pints. The high street is lined with cutesy shops, delis, and cafes, including The Oxford Brush Company, which offers an extensive range of brushes.
Historical and Cultural Highlights
A visit to St John the Baptist Church is highly recommended, where you can see the canopied tomb of Sir Lawrence and Lady Tanfield. Known as the 'Wicked Tanfields of Burford,' these 17th-century landowners were despised for their cruelty. Local lore suggests that if the River Windrush's water level drops too low, their spirits might be released to haunt the town again, adding a touch of eerie history to your stay.
With its blend of history, hospitality, and natural beauty, Burford offers a weekend escape that is both relaxing and enriching, proving that Londoners can find a peaceful haven without venturing far from the capital.
