Key details

About the Hotel

91 Old High Street, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9HT

Close to the University of Oxford

Great

8.4

9.7

/10

4.5

4.3

Loved by The Black Boy guests

Charming hotel

Free parking

Delicious meals

Comfy bed

"The homemade pizzas are stunning and the wine list was very good."

BruceDaisy from United Kingdom

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"Parking was a massive plus."

Diane from United Kingdom

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"The room was very clean, well stocked with tea and coffee, and the local soaps were nice in the clean and modern bathroom."

Cara

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4-star inn in Oxford with in-house British restaurant and garden events

Dining Experience

The Black Boy's restaurant serves British cuisine with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Evening meals use seasonal ingredients and the bar offers unique themed drink offerings. Breakfast includes continental, à la carte, and full English/Irish choices prepared fresh.

Outdoor Spaces & Events

The inn has a garden area for relaxation and hosts community events such as movie nights and pub crawls. Guests can join themed dinner nights or explore the area on cycling routes. The outdoor space also accommodates private gatherings with its charming setting.

Rooms & Comfort

Rooms include flat-screen TVs and are decorated with local art and design pieces. The property provides non-smoking rooms and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Housekeeping services and express check-in/check-out are available.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Black Boy is 5 km from the University of Oxford and 15 km from Blenheim Palace. Guests can reach the city center via a short bus ride from the nearby stop. Other attractions include the Pitt Rivers Museum and Notley Abbey.

Family & Business Amenities

Families can order kids' meals while business travelers benefit from free parking and express check-in. The inn offers prompt resolution of guest issues and friendly staff assistance. Daily housekeeping and CCTV security ensure a safe stay.

Highlights

Restaurant: British cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options

Garden: outdoor space for community events and relaxation

Art: rooms decorated with local art and design

Location: 5 km from University of Oxford

Parking: free on-site parking

Events: themed dinner nights and movie nights

“Staying at the inn, one is immediately struck by the attentive staff and the spotlessly clean, modern rooms. I especially appreciated the full English breakfast, a proper start to the day. The easy walk to shops and cafes, plus the hotel's calling a taxi for trips into Oxford, blends convenience with genuine hospitality.”

Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Location: Great

8.6/10Review score

View our interactive map

Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast Bliss

The breakfast included perfectly poached eggs with flavoursome smoked salmon. I highly recommend it, a superlative way to start the day.

Robert Smith from South Africa

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Guest ParkingParking Peace

It was very helpful that I could easily park my rental car. Free parking is a big bonus, a short walk to the buses.

Elizabeth Green from United Kingdom

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BedroomBed Comfort

The beds were super comfy with high-quality bedding. I had a great night's sleep. The room was also nice and warm.

Lindsey Cole from United Kingdom

Review on

BathroomBest Shower!

My modern en-suite bathroom had local soaps. The shower was the best ever, with decent water pressure; fresh towels every day.

Caroline White from Canada

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Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included

Deluxe King Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
King Room
2 persons
205 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones

Facilities: Great

8.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage

Sports & Fitness

Cycling

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Dinner

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Black Boy offers a delightful dining experience, blending modern British cuisine with an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an array of healthy options in a charming garden setting, perfect for meals throughout the day.

Black Boy Restaurant

Modern British

Ambiance

Family-friendly, modern and romantic setting complemented by a charming garden.

Key Offerings

A diverse menu accommodating Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, with continental breakfast and delicious lunch and dinner options.

Reservation

Recommended for dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 to 14:30 and 17:30 to 20:30, and Sunday from 12:00 to 16:00.

The Black Boy Location

91 Old High Street, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9HT

Map view

City landmarks

Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

2.0 mi

Landmark

Headington Shark

2300 ft

School

Oxford Brookes University

1.1 mi

Botanical Garden

Oxford Botanic Garden

1.8 mi

Landmark

Bodleian Library

2.0 mi

Church

Holy Trinity Church Headington Quarry

3800 ft

Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum

2.0 mi

Market

The Covered Market Oxford

2.1 mi

University

Bridge of Sighs

2.0 mi

Church

Christ Church

2.1 mi

Landmark

Magdalen College Deer Park

1.7 mi

Landmark

Barton

4600 ft

Landmark

Sheldonian Theatre

2.0 mi

Landmark

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

2.0 mi

Landmark

New College

1.9 mi

Museum

Museum of Oxford

2.2 mi

Nearby

Park

Bury Knowle Park

2000 ft

Restaurants

The Black Boy Pub and Restaurant

200 ft

91 Old High Street

The White Hart

300 ft

12 St. Andrews Road Headington

Acropolis Greek Tavern

1600 ft

146 London Road

Asian Mama

1600 ft

148 London Road Headington

C.R.A.F.T Burger

1700 ft

1 The Parade Windmill Road Windmill Road

Il Botanico Oxford

1700 ft

9 Windmill Road Flower shop / cafe'

Heavenly Desserts

2100 ft

73-75 London Road Headington

Beirut

2200 ft

6 Osler Road

The Britannia Inn

2300 ft

London Road Headington

Explore Oxford

Explore the Best of Headington

Headington Shark

9 minutes' walk

An iconic rooftop sculpture, the Headington Shark is a quirky landmark attracting visitors with its unique charm.

Holy Trinity Church Headington Quarry

15 minutes' walk

A historic church known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a short visit.

Shotover Country Park

19 minutes' walk

Offering scenic trails and lush woodlands, this park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a refreshing retreat.

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

35 minutes' walk

Home to stunning exhibits, this museum showcases natural history and features impressive architecture and free admission days.

Outdoor Hiking

19 minutes' walk

Hiking in Shotover Country Park offers scenic trails with breathtaking views perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Relaxation at Wellness Spa

10 minutes' drive

Indulge in relaxation treatments at nearby wellness spas, offering services including massages and rejuvenating therapies.

The Black Boy Pub and Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Traditional pub atmosphere with a menu featuring classic British dishes and local ales. Reservations recommended for dinner.

Acropolis Greek Tavern

6 minutes' walk

A cozy setting serving authentic Greek cuisine, including fresh mezze and grilled meats that bring a taste of the Mediterranean.

Asian Mama

6 minutes' walk

A vibrant eatery with a menu focusing on Asian fusion dishes, known for their flavorful curries and lively atmosphere.

The White Hart

2 minutes' walk

A classic pub offering a relaxing environment with comfort food, local beers, and a family-friendly dining area.

The New Theatre Oxford

10 minutes' drive

Main venue for live performances featuring theater, comedy, and music; check for exciting shows during your stay.

Headington Festival

short driving distance

A community-based festival featuring local art, music, and food, occurring annually-perfect for family-friendly entertainment.

Tips on navigating the city

City Centre
Oxford 6 min · 2.1 mi
Airports
London Heathrow (LHR) 105 min · 43.4 mi
Gloucestershire (GLO) 113 min · 46.6 mi
Train
Oxford Train Station 7 min · 2.7 mi
Bus
Bus stop 5 min · 1400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-21:00

Check-out

until 10 am

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 15.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Black Boy offers a comfortable stay with spacious and well-equipped rooms, with modern bathrooms and amenities such as tea, coffee, and biscuits provided daily. Guests appreciate the tasty full English breakfast and the option to enjoy dinner in the pub. While a few guests have noted the need for some maintenance, the location provides convenient access to Oxford via a quick bus ride, making it easy to leave your car at the hotel and visit nearby landmarks such as The Shark art installation.

Review score

Based on 4 verified reviews

7.7 /10

Very good

100%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.5/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Facilities

8.4/10

Pros

Friendly staff

Comfortable bed

Clean rooms

Delicious food

Short taxi ride

Cons

Small fan

Random parking

Pamela from United Kingdom

Business traveller

King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 18, 2026

9.0/10

amazing stay

friendly staff coffee facilities comfortable bed

the staff was very friendly and helpful, providing excellent service at every turn. the room was clean and well kept with wonderful tea and coffee facilities (i do love a good cuppa!). i especially appreciated the comfortable bed, because a good night's sleep is so important.

I did notice some peeling paint on the exterior. A fresh coat would definitely enhance the curb appeal and overall impression.

Rooms

9/10

the room was very clean and modern, with local soaps included in the bathroom, i found it really nice. the super comfortable bed also featured really soft bedsheets ensuring a good night's rest.

Location

9/10

the location was great, providing easy access to both a bus stop and local shops. the hotel also offered convenient parking right in front, a big plus for me! i didn't have to worry about finding a space.

Service

10/10

the staff members were friendly and helpful. kathleen was especially cute upon my arrival! they gave excellent advice about the bus to downtown.

Dining

9/10

the breakfast was delicious, with a proper full english breakfast (yum!). they managed to squeeze me in even though it was busy when i hadn't reserved for dinner, which i really appreciated.

Facilities

8/10

parking was easy right in front of the hotel, a big convenience. the venue had a very well-appointed bathroom. the whole place was quiet, so it was great for relaxation after a long day.

0 Helpful

Molly from Ireland

Couple

King Room

6 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 02, 2025

7/10

Acceptable Stay

friendly staff great decor excellent food premises closure lack response overpriced hotel

The staff was friendly. My room had great decor and amenities. The food was excellent, and I enjoyed it.

I was not informed that the premises are closed on a Sunday night. I was lucky to get back in time. Otherwise, I would have been locked out. There was little or no response from the owner to discuss problems. I would not book again since it is overpriced for the lack of facilities.

0 Helpful

Liam from Ireland

Couple

Deluxe King Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 15, 2025

8.7/10

A pleasant stay

clean room comfortable bed convenient location

The rooms were clean. The bed was VERY comfortable. The location is quite convenient to city transport with bus stops nearby.

The restaurant staff sometimes seemed unsure of their duties.

Service

9/10

The staff was helpful and they always assisted with a smile. I saw prompt food and drink service. A young waitress was efficient and pleasant during a lunch service, too.

Facilities

8/10

The building is beautiful. There IS climate control and window options in the rooms, and I appreciated this. The bar area is pleasant and I found it to be fairly busy most evenings.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast was lovely and well presented. The dinner menu had a beef brisket option. The restaurant offers good value for money. The breakfast was excellent.

0 Helpful

olivia from united kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 08, 2025

6/10

some issues

poor cleaning uncomfortable bed

i was disappointed with a few things . the room's cleaning wasnt great because i found hair in the shower. also, the bed wasn't very comfortable, and its size didn't match the price i paid. these issues.

0 Helpful

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