Travel review: Luxury hotel The Feathers in Woodtsock, Oxfordshire

There are some hotels that are so nice, you don't want to leave the room.

That's the point, isn't it, you might say, why would you stay somewhere that isn't very nice?

Well yes, I guess so. But if you're anything like me, the luxury of staying in a hotel means that I'm exploring a new place, and I want to get out and about, but also have a great base for which to anchor my stay.

But every now and again I'll be lucky enough to stay in a room that is just so good, it's a chore going out.

My suite at The Feathers was just that.

The room, in a word, was sumptuous. A real luxury bolt-hole for our stay.

The building is a lovely 17th Century country town house hotel in the historic market town of Woodtsock, Oxfordshire.

Once checked in we were greeted by a large living room area, complete with dining table and chairs, while the lounge part had the softest, plumpest brown sofa and footstool and contrasting purple armchair.

The bathroom was large light and airy – perfect if you need a lot of room for getting ready like I do, with both a bath and a separate shower to unwind in.

Downstairs there's a two AA rosette restaurant, offering a la carte and tasting menus, including a vegetarian tasting menu. But first, you cannot visit The Feathers and not sample its famous gin bar.

• The Feathers Hotel, Market Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1SX

• enquiries@feathers.co.uk

• www.feathers.co.uk

• Bedrooms 21 (including five suites)

• Mid-week guide price £175 per double room, including full English breakfast.

• £229 based on dinner, bed and breakfast for two

The bar is a sight to behold – gin as far as the eye can see – literally. There's more than 400 to choose from and it was the first gin bar into the Guinness of Book of Records. Back to the restaurant and the tasting menu was priced at a very reasonable £55 for five courses, with a wine pairing at £29.95. And the meal was superb.

Outside of the hotel, a walk around the town throws up some lovely neighbouring pubs and restaurants as well as some great little shops.

But you simply cannot visit without a trip to the neighbouring Blenheim Palace – the hotel even does special packages so you can tailor your stay.

The palace, built in the early 18th century, is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, and you can explore an exhibition which takes you on a journey of Churchill's life.

Whether it is for a special occasion, or just as a treat, The Feathers is the perfect destination for a weekend break. Those with an interest in Churchill can also visit his grave in nearby Bladon. While a trip to Oxford or Bicester Village are also within easy reach should you choose to venture further afield. That's if you can bring yourself to leave the room, of course.