Tucked away in the picturesque Cotswolds, The Fox at Oddington is the latest venture from Lady Bamford’s Daylesford empire. This beautiful village pub has been lovingly restored in the airy, cool style that Daylesford is known for, offering a charming blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. While it promises a luxurious countryside escape, a few quirks make the experience uniquely memorable—though not always in the way you might expect.
Arrival and First Impressions
Driving up to The Fox, you’re greeted by the quintessential Cotswolds scene: honey-colored stone buildings, a charming village atmosphere, and the reserved resident parking right out front, a thoughtful touch for those lucky enough to be staying overnight. For non-residents, road parking is available, but be prepared for it to get quite busy.
Check-in, however, was a bit of an odd experience. Instead of the warm welcome one might expect, the process involved a rather frosty exchange with a woman sitting in what can only be described as a cupboard. It was an unconventional start, but we pressed on, eager to explore the much-talked-about rooms.
The Room: Beautiful with Some Unexpected Guests
At first glance, the room was everything you’d hope for in a Daylesford property—beautifully appointed, with a light, airy feel that’s instantly calming. Large windows opened out to a private garden, flooding the space with natural light without compromising privacy. The roll-top bath in the bedroom was a luxurious touch, perfect for a long, relaxing soak. However, it was a bit disappointing not to have a TV that you could snuggle up and watch from the bed; instead, it was placed in the lounge area, making bedtime movie marathons less convenient.
On closer inspection, the room’s pet-friendly credentials became all too apparent. It seemed a black Labrador had stayed the night before, leaving behind a rather generous scattering of black hairs on the bed, sofa, throws, and cushions. While pet-friendly rooms are a lovely idea, the lack of thorough cleaning after our furry predecessor was a letdown, especially given the standard you’d expect from a Daylesford property.
Dining: A Delightful Evening Meal and a Quirky Breakfast
The evening meal served in the pub was where The Fox truly shone. The food was hearty, delicious, and exactly what you’d want from a village pub—comforting, satisfying, and unpretentious. Paired with a beautiful white wine from Daylesford Organic, it made for a fantastic dining experience. The service at dinner was top-notch, with the staff providing warm, attentive service that made the evening feel special.
Breakfast, on the other hand, was an odd affair. The menu was surprisingly small, offering just a single slice of sourdough and a limited selection of dishes. The woman from check-in reappeared, this time serving breakfast, but the warmth still seemed lacking. If breakfast wasn’t included in the stay, it might be worth skipping and heading over to the Daylesford Farm Shop, just a short drive away, for a more fulfilling morning meal.
Amenities: Bamford Luxuries and a Few Quirks
Despite some of the quirks, The Fox does deliver on some key comforts. The Bamford shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner were as luxurious as you’d expect, with a great scent that added to the pampering experience. The water pressure in the shower was excellent, ensuring a refreshing start or end to the day.
The roll-top bath in the bedroom was a true highlight, offering a luxurious soak after a day of exploring the Cotswolds. However, the absence of a TV in the bedroom, where you could relax and watch from bed, was a slight inconvenience. It felt like a small oversight in an otherwise well-appointed room.
Final Thoughts: A Mixed Bag with Plenty of Charm
The Fox at Oddington has all the makings of a wonderful countryside retreat—stunning interiors, a fantastic location, and delicious food. However, the experience is tempered by a few quirks, from the odd check-in and breakfast arrangements to the less-than-perfect room cleanliness. Despite these hiccups, the overall charm of the place and the quality of the evening meal make it a worthy stop, particularly if you’re a fan of the Daylesford brand.
With a bit more attention to detail, The Fox could easily become a top destination in the Cotswolds. Until then, it remains a lovely, if slightly quirky, place to enjoy a weekend away.