The Old Crown Coaching Inn

Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, The Old Crown Coaching Inn is home to a 4-star hotel and an AA 2 rosette restaurant, plus a set of very comfortable guest rooms that have recently been updated and restored to their former glory. Dating back to 1550, the property provides a little slice of history and is the ideal base for those wanting to explore this scenic corner of Oxfordshire.

The Old Crown Coaching Inn is the latest in a trio of venues owned and run by the Westbrook Hotel Company. It's our favourite kind of place to stay, in that it's an old coaching inn that's been brought back to life and refurbished for the 21st century, without losing any of its essential charm. They've preserved the traditional main bar at the front with its original inglenook fireplace, but at the same time, elevated the hotel's game, particularly when it comes to food.

The bar area offers a menu of small plates featuring locally sourced seasonal produce. But the main event is the excellent 'Ballroom' restaurant at the back, with an acclaimed Head Chef at the helm. Together with his team, they've put together a selection of beautifully presented modern British dishes – fine dining across à la carte and tasting menus.

There are 14 bespoke guest rooms, each one different and individually furnished with flair and style. The flagship suite, 'The Courtroom' is popular with honeymoon couples, featuring a super kingsize four-poster bed. Meanwhile, the superior doubles are home to super kingsize beds, and the standard doubles have kingsize beds – all with uber-comfortable mattresses. There are also two twin rooms and a triple with a double and a single bed – ideal when travelling with a child. Whichever room you opt for, you'll be greeted by WiFi, large flatscreen TVs, tea-making facilities, Nespresso coffee machines, and en-suite bathrooms with fluffy bath sheets and toiletries.

Finally, Faringdon may also just be the best-situated Oxfordshire town you've never heard of – handy not only for the Cotswolds and the Thames just to the north, but also close to Oxford, Cirencester and Swindon. It's a historic but relatively unknown small town, which makes it a cheaper place to stay than many other more traditional Cotswolds locations, yet it's surrounded by beautiful and explorable countryside, and there are lots of good walks on your doorstep. There's even a Folly Tower, bookable via the hotel for a visit, and made even more enjoyable with canapés and champagne – offering glorious views of five counties, plus the Vale of White Horse and the Ridgeway, it's a special spot indeed. All in all, it's a great place for an affordable weekend away.