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Guest House

The Tower House

15 Ship Street, Oxford · Guest Accommodation

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Photo: Titan Pua

A 17th-century townhouse on Ship Street in central Oxford with just 8 low-key rooms and free on-site parking.

Photos

Photos via Google

About The Tower House

Dating back to the 1600s, The Tower House is a small guest accommodation on Ship Street in the heart of Oxford, with just 8 rooms behind its period façade. The building's age gives it plenty of character, though the rooms themselves are kept simple and unfussy rather than styled to match the history outside.

Each room comes with free WiFi and air conditioning, and the property runs to a lift, making it easier to reach the upper floors. Breakfast is served on-site, and there's a restaurant and bar for guests who'd rather not venture out in the evening. A garden offers a quiet spot to sit, and practicalities are well covered with luggage storage, porter and concierge services, business facilities and a gym. The Tower House also operates as a wedding venue and offers free on-site parking, a genuine bonus for a central Oxford address.

Ship Street sits within walking distance of Oxford's historic landmarks and the River Thames, with pubs, restaurants and entertainment all close by. It's a straightforward base for exploring the city, best suited to guests who want a central location without expecting a boutique finish.

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

Jess Carrier

A few little things but overall I had a pleasant stay. As I arrived there was no one to let me in and it was pouring rain. I rang the door several times and tried to call the number, but reception in that walled street is poor so I could not get the call to connect. Eventually someone who was staying there let me in where I found the wifi and connected and was then able to call the number and get my room key. By then I and my luggage were soaking wet. Then hauling my heavy luggage up the small winding stairs was tricky. Be aware also that the ceiling beams and doorways are low (given that this is a very old building it's to be expected) but if you are 5'11 or taller be mindful in the night or you will bonk your head like I did. This is my own fault though and not to be blamed on the establishment. Be aware also that there are a fair number of stairs so if you find stairs difficult it could be a problem though this was not an issue for me The room and linens were clean and the bed was comfortable. However again being an old building in a rainy city, there was some mildew which my allergies did not appreciate, so if you have allergy problems more severe than mine it might not be a good fit. The location is fantastic, close to everything in the city center. Yet the side street or was on was nice and quiet with a nice view. Which is good because you'll need to have the windows open for cool air. Overall a pleasant stay aside from the trouble at check-in, otherwise hassle free and a nice stay for a few nights.

2 months ago · via Google

revcult999

This hotel is absolutely disgusting. The room was filthy, covered in dust, with moldy bedding and a damaged ceiling. The pictures online are fake compared to reality. Enjoy an inflamed nose after breathing in all the dust. The staff actually call it on the building being “heritage.” Heritage isn’t an excuse for mold or zero cleaning Don’t waste your money unless you enjoy sleeping in dust and mold.

a month ago · via Google

E

The man on reception was friendly and helpful, allowing us to check in early. I really liked this quirky hotel, from it's wooden beams to it's beautifully tiled Victorian bathrooms. The rooms are spacious, very comfortable and had everything we needed. The complimentary hot chocolate went down very well. The rooms are well furnished with nice wooden furniture and artistic lamps. The location is perfect for visiting central Oxford, you are in the middle of it all. Perfect for graduations at the Sheldonian Theatre, which is a very short walk away. If you are a tall person, you might not like it here, but for everyone else if you want a very comfortable, slightly quirky old fashioned hotel in a perfect location look no further.

9 months ago · via Google

Ollie Laver

Location was central, but the room was completely not as described or shown in the pictures. Dirty sink in the corner of room that smelt of sewage. Shared shower broken. Attempted to reach absolutely anyone, ignored completely and disregarded me as a paying customer. Terrible service, wouldn’t recommend.

6 months ago · via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Laid-back lodging in a 17th-century house in the city center, offering low-key rooms with Wi-Fi.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
15 Ship Street, Oxford, OX1 3DA Get directions
Property type
Guest Accommodation
Location
15 Ship Street, Oxford
Good for children
Yes
Destination
Oxford