My Favorite Airbnb: An Idyllic Writers’ Retreat in Oxford, England

While the flat sleeps six, and the minimalist Scandi-style decor—reflected in the furniture, art, and decor accents throughout—makes it feel bigger than it is, it’s still not quite big enough for such a large group to hang out in all day. Fortunately, its location just a short walk from the city center more than makes up for it. Some of my favorite spots in town included the iconic domed Radcliffe Camera library, where you could apply in person for a pass to read, study, or write alongside students and faculty. There was something wonderful about the energy of the space—sprinkled with students diligently studying for final exams. After I was done acting studious, I headed over to the nearby (and more than slightly hidden) Turf Tavern, which is tucked away down a narrow alley, and found a nook to nurse a pint while eavesdropping on University gossip alongside the medieval remains of Oxford’s city walls. For literary souvenir shopping, look no further than Scriptum, a cram-packed treasure trove of inkwells, fountain pens, leatherbound journals and wax seals. I got my daughter a feather quill pen that has become her most treasured possession.

Another plus about our location was that we were a short-ish walk from some of our favorite evening spots in Port Meadow, an area with restaurants and pubs accessed by a walking path along the eastern bank of the River Thames. A favorite was The Medley, where we enjoyed dog watching, phenomenal pizza, and a few too many ice buckets of the house white.

Christ Church College in Oxford

Dana Kravis

Students studying in the library

Dana Kravis

I would come back to Oxford in a heartbeat, and this excellent Airbnb is a soft place to rest your head, not only for writer retreats but also for friend groups and family vacations—just don’t forget about the third bedroom!

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