The Cotswolds’ Crowning Glory
Less than 90 minutes on a train from London, Church Entone’s The Crown Inn manages to feel a million miles away from the Big Smoke.
Built from traditional Cotswolds stone, the 17th Century guesthouse reopened earlier this year after extensive and careful renovation in the very attentive and passionate hands of Victoria and George Irvine.
Arriving on a balmy September Sunday we basked in the late summer sun in the large garden as our room was prepared.
Each room is named after a nearby village, the ‘Great Tew’ was to be our home for the weekend.
Part of me wished the weather was cold and rainy and we’d have an excuse not to leave our room.
Stylish, charming and luxurious, there were enough small touches to make it truly feel like a home away from home, such as the (thankfully unneeded) hot water bottle in our bathroom.
The decor blends vintage and antique furniture with other design pieces, as well as artwork by owner George himself.
The wow factor came as we discovered the bathroom which housed a wonderful walk-in shower as well as a huge stand-alone bath.
The Inn building retains many original features – original wooden beams and exposed Cotswolds stone walls as well as the original fireplace in the main pub – mixing old and new in a very stylish and sophisticated way. Artwork by George and other local artists decorates the interior.
Back in the pub we found George and enjoyed a chat about the history of the building, sharing interesting fun facts and anecdotes, talking about his paintings and quirky collectables. He told us that when he started out in hospitality he was a waiter at Sting’s wedding, and he still has a piece of the wedding cake which is now proudly displayed in a box on a shelf in the pub.
We enjoyed a delicious dinner that evening. Starter of sautéed scallops and king prawns served with cous cous were followed by mains of pan fried halibut with orzo pasta, and a Ribeye Steak with delicious trimmings.
We finished our meal with a raspberry and white chocolate crème brulee and selection of sorbets.
The Crown Inn keeps things as local as possible, from ‘100 Acre’ toiletries in the bedrooms, to locally-sourced food and produce – meats and cheeses, fish, poultry, including the breakfast foods on offer such as the apple juice, jams and honey, bread and pastries, even the vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers are from Victoria and George’s own garden. It doesn’t get more local than that!
The Crown Inn was a glorious find, a welcoming venue where customers are greeted like old friends.
- The Crown Inn, Mill Lane, Church Enstone, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 4NN.
- Visit www.crowninnenstone.co.uk for more information. Room prices range from £110 – £150 per night for two people on a B&B basis.
- Our stay was complimentary, all views are honest reflections of our experience.
