South East / Oxfordshire
The Spread Eagle has graced the heart of the historic market town of Thame since the 16th Century. The Grade I listed hotel is nestled amongst the artisan butchers, bakers, delicatessens and teashops that line the charming town centre, which is used as a filming location for ITV’s Midsummer Murders. During its colourful history, The Spread Eagle has played host to many historic figures such as King Charles II, and writers such as Evelyn Waugh and John Fothergill (An Innkeepers Diary).
From the exterior, the hotel is instantly recognisable by its 30ft original sign depicting The Spread Eagle crest that has welcomed travellers for over a century. The hotel retains its sense of heritage and personality on the inside, where a meeting room named The Cockpit can be seen next to the entrance. This room was historically used for cockfights, but now provides a sophisticated space accommodating up to 8 people for private dinners or meetings.
The adjacent bar area is stylish and inviting, with tastefully quirky furniture. Silver and taupe armchairs are clustered around coffee tables supported by antiquarian books, while high-wing back dining chairs sit elegantly on the light oak-wood flooring. An oversize silver knife and fork sculpture is suspended above the restaurant, which serves quality food including breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.
The hidden gem of this quirky retreat is its surprisingly extensive banqueting hall with its own private entrance and substantial parking, located at the rear of the hotel. This separate annex, clad in beautiful ivy, houses a large function suite seating up to 200 guests. Complete with its own bar, private cloakrooms and separate kitchen, it is the largest venue in the area.
The 35 guestrooms are reached by a series of higgledy-piggledy staircases with a maze of corridors and black baroque carpets that add to the character and charm of the hotel. Once reached, the guestrooms are tastefully decorated in a romantic style with four-poster beds and vintage furniture. Modern amenities such as flat screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities and sleek modern en-suites bring the rooms up-to-date for the 21 Century traveller. The hotel offers a choice of 3 spectacular suites. The stunning Hayloft Suite was once a real Hayloft, and features vaulted Tudor style ceilings with dark wood beams. The dramatic furniture includes a silver and purple chaise longue and mirrored dressing table, while an extravagant stand-alone bathtub adds a spectacular feel to the suite.
Guests can roam around the quaint town of Thame with its thatched roofs, renowned farmers markets and pretty pubs. Nearby attractions include Oxford - the city of dreaming spires, Blenheim Palace, and the Silverstone.
Please note: On site car parking is available at a cost of £3.00 per 24 hours. On presentation of the car park voucher you will be entitled to a cup of tea, coffee or a selected soft drink.
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