Located just 15 miles from Oxford and 11 miles from Blenheim Palace, Old Swan & Minster Mill is nestled within 65 acres of idyllic grounds in the picturesque village of Minster Lovell. Our quintessentially English pub and modern riverside hotel blend rural charm with contemporary design, offering luxurious comfort and seasonal menus crafted from the finest local produce. Guests are invited to unwind in The Garden Spa, enjoy the indoor pool, rock sauna and aroma steam room, and explore magical gardens, wildflower meadows and woodland. From fishing and walking to croquet and tennis, every stay is designed for relaxation and enjoyment, whatever the season.
Old Swan & Minster Mill sit in the heart of Minster Lovell, a village with a remarkable past shaped around a grand medieval manor. Just a short walk from our gardens lie the riverside ruins of Minster Lovell Hall, originally constructed in the 1430s by William, Ninth Baron of Lovell and Holland, one of the wealthiest men in England of his time, as a demonstration of his status and wealth.
In later years, the hall became associated with Viscount Francis Lovell, a close ally and confidant of King Richard III, who bestowed honours upon him during the turbulent Wars of the Roses. After Richard’s defeat at Bosworth in 1485 and Francis’s subsequent disappearance, the manor passed into royal hands and later through various owners before being abandoned and partly dismantled in the 18th century.
Today the atmospheric ruins, steeped in centuries of history, provide a dramatic and evocative backdrop to our quintessentially English estate, bridging the heritage of the past with the comfort of the present.
Yes. Non-residents are welcome for drinks or dining at The Pub, Wildling Restaurant, or the Terrace. We recommend booking a table in advance
By car: Arrive at the Minster Mill courtyard and the team can help you unload before you park in the complimentary car park. Directions are via the M40 (J8 from the south, J9 from the north), then towards Oxford and follow signs for Cheltenham A40. Take the slip road for “Carterton, Minster Lovell”, continue through the village, then follow signs to Old Swan & Minster Mill. Cross the stone bridge and Reception is on your left.
By train: Nearest station is Charlbury (approx. 7 miles) or Oxford station (approx. 15 miles). Taxis are available, or transport can be pre-arranged on request.
By air: London Oxford Airport (approx. 18 miles), Staverton/Cheltenham (approx. 31 miles), Heathrow (approx. 60 miles), Birmingham (approx. 75 miles), Gatwick (approx. 95 miles)
Yes, taxis can be pre-booked when you make your reservation.
Blenheim Palace is around a 20-minute drive away, making it an easy day trip from Minster Lovell.
Check-in is from 3pm and check-out is 11am. You’re welcome to arrive early or stay after check-out to use the lounges or explore the gardens.
Yes, dogs are welcome in selected rooms (32 designated dog-friendly rooms). Please call to arrange. Charge is £25 per dog, per night, including a dog bed, water bowl and treat. Guide dogs and accredited assistance dogs are welcome throughout the hotel.
Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Infants (0–2) stay free. Children (3–16) are charged at the same board basis as adults on the booking (e.g., bed & breakfast). Children are welcome in the restaurant until 8pm (last orders 7pm). Smaller portions are available, including the Garden Menu for V.I.L.P.
Hotel guests receive complimentary access to the pool and thermal facilities when booking any spa treatment. Spa Days include a 90-minute pool and thermal session. Non-residents with a spa treatment can add pool/thermal access for £25.
Dry cleaning and pressing are available for an additional charge, with items returned within 24 hours. Irons and ironing boards are also available via Reception.
There is no dress code, we want guests to be relaxed and comfortable during their stay.
Yes, the hotel hosts special celebrations, weddings and small meetings. Please call 01993 774 441 or email events@minstermill.co.uk
Yes, walking and cycling maps are available from Reception.
Smoking is permitted outside where ashtrays are provided. Please do not smoke or vape inside public areas or bedrooms. Smoking indoors is prohibited and will incur a charge.
No, the spa is for guests aged 16+ only.
Board games and playing cards are available any time.
Campfire Experience: 24-hour notice required.
Walking History Tour: two weeks’ notice required.
Bicycle hire: subject to availability on the day.
Tennis: no pre-booking required, ask Reception for rackets and balls.
Croquet: no pre-booking required, Reception can help with rules.
Yoga: no pre-booking required, collect a mat and guide from Reception
Old Swan & Minster Mill
Minster Lovell
Oxfordshire
Cotswolds
OX29 0RN
info@minstermill.co.uk
01993 774 441
Proprietors: Andrew & Christina Brownsword
Regional General Manager: Beverley Molmans
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Minster Mill
Minster Lovell
Oxfordshire
Cotswolds
OX29 0RN
01993 774 441
info@minstermill.co.uk
