UK hotel of the month
Thinking of indulging in a romantic spring city break? You could head for Paris, Venice or Vienna. Or then again, you could spare yourself the hassle of travelling overseas, and follow in the footsteps of Inspector Morse instead!
Morse's favourite hotel - the Macdonald Randolph in the heart of his beloved Oxford - has recently been awarded five-star status, thanks to a series of improvements and investments.
Want an example? Well, there's now a luxury candlelit spa in the old cellar - complete with vaulted ceilings, gorgeous Italian tiling and lush fabrics. Pampered guests can try out the thermal suite, hydrotherapy bath, bio sauna, aromatherapy steam room, ice room or relaxation area.
But it would be a shame to spend your entire stay underground! The hotel's 151 rooms have also recently been refurbished - while the restaurant has just won a second AA rosette in recognition of its mouthwatering contemporary menu and unrivalled setting with fabulous views of the city.
Oh, and you can also indulge in some celebrity-spotting during your stay. The cast of Morse spin-off Lewis are regularly seen in the Morse bar after filming - and past guests include Sir Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger.
As with all perfect city breaks, though, location is all-important - and the Randolph's address in the centre of Oxford is second to none. It's directly opposite the famous Ashmolean Museum (www.ashmolean.org) and close to many of the university buildings, shops and restaurants.
And this being a city of scholars, you'll also be surrounded by literary landmarks - but that doesn't mean you have to hang out in a college library. You can also browse for souvenirs at nearby Alice's Shop, which features in Lewis Carroll's Alice Through The Looking Glass, and was once frequented by Carroll's inspiration, Alice Liddell. Then you can relax with a drink or two in the Eagle and Child, the pub where JRR Tolkien used to meet up with CS Lewis.
Rooms start at around £85 per person per night - although special rates are often available for weekend breaks. For more information, go to www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk.
