Oxford Thames Four Pillars is comprised of a collection of quaint stone houses, some dating back to the 12th century, surrounded by 30 acres of picturesque Oxfordshire parkland. Its lobby area is set in a large renovated medieval cottage with lofty beamed ceilings and ancient bare brick walls. Modern furnishings sit under bannered tapestries and large wrought-iron chandeliers which illuminate an oak-wood paneled reception desk. Manicured lawns lead down to where a riverboat barge is moored on the serene Littlemore Brook that the property overlooks. The scene is restful and rustic, attracting couples keen to spend a few days in a peaceful countryside. The charming grounds are also popular for summer weddings.

The Oxford Thames is located just off a quaint country road in the village of Sandford-on-Thames, a 10 minutes' drive or three miles from Oxford’s city center, which has a range of popular attractions and places to eat and shop. The hotel overlooks Littlemore Brook and the River Thames, so there are plenty of opportunities for pretty riverside walks, but the area is really only accessible by car. The property is about an hour-and-a-half drive northwest from London, or an hour from Heathrow Airport.

The Oxford Thames has 84 guest rooms in all, spread through several modern brick and old stone buildings and featuring distinctive themes depending on the category. Rooms in the original College Hall blend original period features such as oak beams and ornate windows with modern styling and furnishings. Garden bedrooms are tasteful and contemporary, with lovely views of the grounds, while standard rooms are a little lackluster. In-room tech includes 37-inch flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some spaces also include iPod docking stations. Bathrooms are clean and modern, and Superior units provide Clarins toiletries.

The hotel's River Room Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as a Sunday brunch overlooking the river and picturesque parkland. Meanwhile, the baronial lobby hall and gallery provide a medieval setting for evening drinks and light meals. Guests have free use of Jeromes Leisure Club, which includes an indoor Roman-style pool as well as a sauna, steam room, gym, and tennis court. There is also ample space at the Oxford Thames for events such as weddings and conferences; the riverboat is popular for parties. Wi-Fi is offered throughout the hotel and there’s parking on-site; both are free of charge.