Want to add the English countryside to a London trip without going very far?
Estelle Manor is an 85-acre country estate in Oxfordshire, surrounded by more than 3,000 acres of parkland and gardens. It’s close enough to London for a quick escape but feels like a completely different trip.
Think Great Gatsby meets Downton Abbey — but with a Roman-inspired spa, padel courts, kids club and very good food.
Why We Love Estelle Manor
The interiors are beautiful and a little over the top in the best possible way — vintage pieces, original artwork, rich fabrics and plenty of personality.
But there’s also a lot to do here. Spend the day riding, shooting, trying falconry, playing padel, walking the grounds or doing absolutely none of the above and heading to Eynsham Baths.
And I really like the range of accommodations. There are 108 rooms and suites spread between the Manor House, Walled Garden and Stables, plus private cabins and houses ranging from two to six bedrooms. That makes Estelle Manor just as interesting for a couples weekend as it is for a big family trip.
5 Reasons to Visit Estelle Manor
1. It’s Easy to Add to London
You don’t need to commit to a week in the English countryside, London plus 2 or 3 nights is perfect. Estelle Manor is roughly an hour from London, making it an easy addition before or after a few nights in the city.
2. The Houses Are Fantastic for Families
Families can choose two-bedroom Woodland Cabins or private houses with up to six bedrooms. The largest, Bluebell House, sleeps up to 12 people plus children and even has its own playroom. The private houses also come with a dedicated butler, who can help with everything from stocking the kitchen to organizing activities and transfers. For a multigenerational trip, I’d look at these before booking a collection of separate hotel rooms.
3. Eynsham Baths Is Worth Making Time For
This isn’t a little hotel spa tucked downstairs.
Eynsham Baths is a 3,000-square-metre Roman-inspired bathhouse hidden in the woods, with five pools, a tepidarium, sauna, steam and a thermal journey. One important thing to know: it’s adults only, for guests 18+ and you NEED to book in advance. Don’t worry we always connect our clients with concierge about 2 months before arrival and make sure the dining and spa appointments are confirmed.
4. It Works With Kids — If You Book the Right Room
Estelle Manor is family-friendly, but there are some rules worth knowing. Children can stay in the Walled Garden, Stables, Woodland Cabins and private houses. Manor House rooms are for guests 13 and older.
There’s also a kids club, The Nook, plus family activities and outdoor country pursuits.
5. You’re Perfectly Positioned for Oxford + the Cotswolds
Estelle Manor sits on the doorstep of the Cotswolds, so you can easily get out and explore. I’d use it as a base for Oxford, Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds rather than changing hotels every night. But, you don’t need to leave – there is plenty to do at the estate.
Who I’d Send to Estelle Manor
Couples: Absolutely. Spa, countryside, great interiors, restaurants — easy weekend.
Families: Yes, but choose the accommodation carefully. I’d lean toward the Walled Garden, Woodland Cabins or houses depending on family size.
Multigenerational families: One of the most interesting reasons to stay here. The private houses let everyone be together without giving up hotel service.
Girls’ trip: Very good fit. I’d do a house, Eynsham Baths and dinner and call it a weekend.
London visitors: Definitely. It’s close enough that adding a few nights doesn’t complicate the trip.
Good to Know
LOCATION: Oxfordshire, England
GETTING THERE: Fly into London, then drive or take the train. Plan on roughly an hour depending on where you’re coming from and traffic.
HOW LONG: 2–3 nights works well as part of a longer England trip.
BOOK EARLY: For weekends, holidays and the private houses, I wouldn’t wait. The best family configurations are limited.
KIDS: Children are welcome, but guests must be 13+ to stay in the Manor House rooms.
SPA: Eynsham Baths is for guests 18+.
PRIVATE HOUSES: These come with a dedicated butler — a big plus for a family or group trip.
ONE MORE THING: Estelle Manor also operates as a private members club. Hotel guests have access to the estate, but I would book the restaurants, spa and activities ahead rather than assuming you can figure everything out when you arrive.
ONE ONE MORE THING: If you love the idea of a country estate where everyone can do their own thing during the day, Estelle Manor reminds me a little of Gleneagles (and they share the same leadership). A beautiful setting, plenty to do and just as good for a couples weekend as it is for a family trip. The difference? Estelle Manor feels a little more glamorous and design-forward, while Gleneagles is bigger, sportier and has even more for kids. If you’re trying to decide between the two, read my Gleneagles blog post for everything I learned staying there with my own family.
Why Book Estelle Manor With Us?
You can certainly book Estelle Manor yourself. But if you’re already booking a luxury hotel, there are often additional benefits available when booking through us — at no additional fee to you.
As a Virtuoso Partner agency, our clients booking eligible rates typically receive benefits such as complimentary breakfast, hotel credits, priority for upgrades when available, exclusive amenities and VIP recognition.
