DoubleTree by Hilton Oxford Belfry

The approach to the hotel is via a hedge- and tree-lined country road and through a large swathe of car park, which fronts the collection of ivy-clad, farmhouse-style buildings that make up The DoubleTree by Hilton Oxford Belfry. Glass revolving doors lead into a bright and modern reception area typical of a more corporate style of hotel -- smart and professional but a little lacking much in the way of character or pizzazz. The property is set on 17 acres of grounds, which includes two central courtyard gardens with plenty of seating -- one featuring an aged stone pagoda set on a patch of manicured lawn for weddings. Interiors feel chain-like, though hallways are broken up nicely with the odd medieval-style tapestry. It's a popular destination for events and weekend breaks for couples looking to get away to the peace of a country retreat -- albeit a modern and slightly uninspiring one.

The hotel is located in Milton Common in the Oxfordshire countryside, eight miles or a 20- to 30-minute drive from the center of Oxford. Being positioned just off a main country road that runs parallel with the M40 means easy access by car to London and Birmingham (each a little over an hour with clear roads) as well as Heathrow Airport, which is about a 35-minute drive. It is also a short drive to several nearby quintessentially English towns and villages, and just 20 minutes to the Bicester Designer Village Outlet.

The hotel has 154 rooms, most of which are pretty spacious and all decorated with a blend of colorful contemporary and muted earthy tones. When it comes to the beds, padded headboards are the norm. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee facilities. Bathrooms are generally clean and functional, with shower/tub combos. An upgrade to a Qstar Room will get guests fluffy bathrobes, face cloths, and high-end bath products. The lack of air-conditioning can be an issue during the summer.

The spa and health facilities are the highlight here, and include a gym, steam room, sauna, and seven treatment rooms --  though no hot tub. There is also a fairly good-size pool (with specific hours for children) and two outdoor tennis courts. The Oxford Belfry Restaurant serves a full English breakfast (usually included in the rate) and the usual mix of international cuisines, including Thai and Mexican dishes throughout the day. A Costa Coffee lounge provides lighter meals and hot drinks, while a bar serves something a little stronger -- though prices are a little high. Parking is certainly not an issue here, with 450 spaces which are free of charge.