Hotel Review: Malmaison Oxford Prison Break

I've been lucky enough to stay at some pretty nice hotels, but this may just be the most unique hotel I've gotten to sleep in. The Malmaison in Oxford is steeping in history, as a part of the Oxford Castle and Prison, which records show began locking up misbehaving students starting in 1216, and served as a prison until 1996. Today, the hotel has cleverly transformed the building's original cells into luxury hotel rooms - combining two cells for the bedroom, and another for a bathroom. Staying in a jail cell has never been so comfy!

Where is it located?

The Oxford Malmaison is perfectly located for a mini-break in Oxford - about an eight minute walk to the city centre, and nine minutes from the Oxford train station in the other direction. It's a great location for those who want to be close to town, but not too close to the hustle and bustle (and noise) of the city.

What is the hotel like?

It might sound like sleeping in a converted jail cell won't be very comfortable, but that could not be more wrong! The hotel rooms are beautifully designed and feature loads of luxury elements (claw foot tub, anybody?), alongside some really unique and quirky touches that call back to the building's original purpose (the cabinets are made of old lockers, the artwork is all prison themed, etc).

The rest of the hotel is beautiful, as well. The inner courtyard maintains the original prison layout, and the restaurant and bar area are lovely and well considered.

What are the amenities at the hotel?

The hotel features a bar and a lovely restaurant - my partner and I agreed that it was one of the best meals we've ever had at a hotel! They also have an original jail cell so that you can see what the hotel rooms previously looked like, which was super interesting and cool to see!

The hotel also offers a discount to guests for the Oxford Castle & Prison experience, which is next door to the hotel and well worth a visit!

How do I book?

Use this link to book - just so you know, booking through my affiliate link gives me an extra kick back with no additional costs to you!

What should I do in Oxford?

Check out my detailed blog post for 15 Best Things to do in Oxford!

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If you found this helpful, make sure to check out my other blog posts for more recommendations about things to do and where to stay for numerous other destinations! And follow along with my adventures over on Instagram at @elise.abroad! I look forward to seeing you there!