“A brilliant example of a 16th century Cotswold Inn which has been expertly renovated. Well-loved by the locals with welcoming staff and an excellent restaurant, the menu is constantly changing with traditional dishes and seasonal twists. Rooms are cosy and well-designed with all creature comforts.”

Hotel review

Imagine stepping into the pages of Laurie Lee’s ‘Cider with Rosie’ and the Cotswold village of Church Enstone is perfectly depicted. The Crown Inn, part of the landscape from the early 16th century, has been welcoming villagers for a refreshing ale for centuries. In 2018, new owners, George and Victoria Irvine decided to add to the character of this charming Inn. The upper floors, which have been skilfully renovated, provide five beautifully designed rooms, traditionally beamed and tastefully lit, with large comfy beds, crisp cotton sheets and plush upholstered headboards. A choice of tasteful cushions complement the colour palette of chalky walls, patterned textiles and rich red velvets. The additional homely touch of a colourful geranium, vintage Roberts radio, Tea Pig teas and tempting nibbles are all you need. Tiled in bold strong colours, the en-suites are expertly designed. Pampering is complete with fluffy towels and bathrobes, and sensitively blended oils and soaps by the local 100 Acres Apothecary. A new addition to the stable is the Crown Cottage and adjoining one-bedroomed studio, again beautifully designed with the same attention to detail. Perfect for family or romantic breaks. The cosy flag-stoned bar and restaurant is enhanced with paintings from local artists including a collection of George’s colourful landscape paintings. Seasonal dishes are carefully prepared by Chris Taylor and Christopher Sheppard to excellent effect. A pint can be swapped for fresh produce, and all ingredients are locally sourced, no wonder local custom is very popular.

Colette Bett
Colette Bett Review published: 2019-10-29

Recommended for

  • Great walks

    • Borrow an Ordnance Survey map and explore the myriads of footpaths all around the village
  • Other Activities

    • There is an open air Lido at Chipping Norton nearby - open in the summer months
  • Designer Shopping

    • Every possible designer outlet at nearby Bicester Village - 20 mins by car
  • Restaurant

    • From light meals to traditional pub favourites with a touch of panache!
  • Sit-out Terrace

    • Limited space at the front of the pub, more in the garden to the rear
  • Romantic Break

    • A wonderful Cotswold weekend getaway only two hours from London.
  • Country Escape

    • In a beautiful village with country walks from your doorstep.
  • Cycling

    • Cycle hire available at TY Cycles in Chipping Norton
  • Sights nearby

    • Blenheim Palace, Weston Park and Deddington Castle
  • Art Classes

    • Art courses with Artist owner George Irvine
  • Child friendly

    • Children of all ages are very welcome.
  • Learning

    • 9th century village St Kenelm's Church
  • Riding

    • Available at nearby Cotswold Riding
  • Traditional

    • with all modern comforts
  • Golf

    • at Heythrop Park
  • Good wine list

  • Full of character

  • Inn

  • Village

  • Owner managed

  • Romantic

  • Charming

Facilities

  • Rooms

    7 rooms in this hotel
  • Bar

    Serving local ales - Hook Norton amongst others, ciders & a selection of Gins.
  • Restaurant

    From light meals to traditional pub favourites with a touch of panache!
  • Sit-out Terrace

    Limited space at the front of the pub, more in the garden to the rear
  • Child friendly

    Children of all ages are very welcome.
  • No pets

    Pets are not allowed
  • Wifi

    Hi speed wi-fi
  • Good wine list

  • Garden

  • Cots available

  • Parking

  • Bath robes

Activities

  • Great walks

    • Borrow an Ordnance Survey map and explore the myriads of footpaths all around the village
  • Other Activities

    • There is an open air Lido at Chipping Norton nearby - open in the summer months
  • Designer Shopping

    • Every possible designer outlet at nearby Bicester Village - 20 mins by car
  • Cycling

    • Cycle hire available at TY Cycles in Chipping Norton
  • Sights nearby

    • Blenheim Palace, Weston Park and Deddington Castle
  • Art Classes

    • Art courses with Artist owner George Irvine
  • Learning

    • 9th century village St Kenelm's Church
  • Riding

    • Available at nearby Cotswold Riding
  • Golf

    • at Heythrop Park

Map & Location

Other reviews

The Crown Inn

A proper boozer with stylish bedrooms which are individually decorated.

Originally published by Sunday Times

The Crown Inn

Art, food and drink combine at this traditional country village inn. The works of owner and artist George Irvine grace the walls throughout while the chefs create works of art in the kitchen.

Originally published by The Telegraph online

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