Malmaison Oxford
Oxford Castle quarter, near station · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: Mateusz Cieslak
Four-star hotel inside the converted Victorian wing of Oxford's former prison, with 95 rooms and the Chez Mal brasserie.
Photos
Photos via Google
About Malmaison Oxford
Malmaison Oxford is built into A Wing of the old Oxford Prison, which closed in 1996 and now forms part of the Castle Quarter development beside the mound of the Norman castle. The Victorian wing has been kept largely intact: you walk in under the original iron galleries, look up through three storeys of landings and netting, and find your room behind a heavy door on a walkway. It is theatrical, and the hotel knows it.
Most of the 95 rooms are made from two or three knocked-together cells, which produces deep, narrow spaces with very thick walls, small high windows and better soundproofing than any modern build. The decor is dark and clubby rather than institutional, with big beds, baths and power showers. There are also rooms in the former governor's house and the House of Correction, which are conventionally shaped and better for anyone who would rather not sleep in a cell, and a handful of suites at the top of the wing.
Chez Mal Brasserie occupies the vaulted basement and does grills and classics; the bar spills into the courtyard in summer, where there are usually a few outdoor tables and, in the surrounding quarter, several other restaurants and the Oxford Castle and Prison visitor attraction. Practically, this is one of the best-placed hotels in the city for arrivals by train - the station is a seven-minute walk - and Westgate shopping centre, the Covered Market and Carfax are all within five minutes on foot. Parking is in the adjacent public car park rather than on site.
Reception hours
- Monday
- Open 24 hours
- Tuesday
- Open 24 hours
- Wednesday
- Open 24 hours
- Thursday
- Open 24 hours
- Friday
- Open 24 hours
- Saturday
- Open 24 hours
- Sunday
- Open 24 hours
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
If you’re looking for a hotel with real character, stay here. Malmaison Oxford is a fascinating conversion of a former prison, and it’s one of the most memorable places we’ve ever stayed. The original architecture has been beautifully preserved while creating remarkably comfortable, stylish rooms. It’s such a unique experience sleeping in what were once prison cells, and they’ve done an incredible job blending history with luxury. What really made our stay stand out, though, was the staff. Callum at the front desk gave us one of the warmest welcomes we’ve had anywhere. He was genuinely friendly, knowledgeable, and couldn’t have been more helpful, making us feel at home from the moment we arrived. We also had dinner and drinks at Walk on the Wild Side, and it was excellent. Alex behind the bar mixed some fantastic cocktails, and the food was every bit as impressive. Kieran the food and beverage manager was incredibly helpful. It would be worth visiting even if you weren’t staying at the hotel. Between the unique setting, beautiful rooms, outstanding service, and great food and drinks, this was an easy five-star stay. We would happily return and recommend it to anyone visiting Oxford who wants something far more memorable than a standard hotel.
a month ago · via Google
We are currently staying at Malmsison. I have to tell you our travel agent gave several recommendations of places to stay, we chose this one! This place is crazy and so unique. When we arrived a few days ago Marina was working at the front desk. She was so kind and was able to let us check in early. She personally walked us to the room, showed us how to work the ac and the various features of the room. When we had an issue with safe not locking she sent someone up right away. All of the staff from the greeter at the entrance to the housekeeping staff have been kind and welcoming. Now the room is very unique. They created guest rooms out of 3 cells with coffee, tea, plush robes and slipper. The bed is very comfortable and our room was spotless! The area is very close to restaurants, pubs, coffee shops and historical building. We walked everywhere but take a bus to Blenheim Palace. The transportation service here is great and easy to maneuver. If coming to Oxford I highly recommended this hotel!
a week ago · via Google
Stayed here on a Sunday night and spent a couple of days exploring Oxford. The hotel is full of character but well adapted and decorated. It has a lot of atmosphere and it is really central and next to the castle Check in was quick and the staff friendly and helpful. We staying in a club room in the new part of the hotel and had a lovely balcony looking over the castle mound. Room was clean, large and well appointed, the bed was big and comfortable and the bathroom nice and modern. The rolltop bath was great for relaxing, especially after walking miles that day! Breakfast was good, nice selection of fruits and bakery items plus the hot food made to order was brilliant (I am not a big fan of the usual hot buffets where the scrambled eggs etc... sit under a hot lamp for a long time) Overall an excellent stay in an unusual historical building. Would return and recommend
3 months ago · via Google
Love this hotel!!! The vibe is fun and the history, fascinating. Our room was very comfortable with plenty of amenities like a Nespresso machine, robe and slippers. Everyone is very welcoming. And the happy hour in their basement bar is THE BEST! We had a delightful hour with two delightful barmaids, Leah and Maddie. Loved Oxford! Loved Malmaison!
2 months ago · via Google
Guests consistently praise this hotel for its friendly and helpful staff and its superb central location. They also praise the delicious food, excellent breakfast options, spacious rooms featuring unique prison cell conversions.
Some reviews mention the rooms can be poorly maintained.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- 3 New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Oxford Castle quarter, near station
- Star rating
- 4 star
- Guest score
- 8.4 / 10 (3,400 reviews)
- Prices from
- £175 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Oxford