Opened in 2013, this modern British inn proves the perfect weekend escape.
A little over an hour and a half drive (or train journey) from London will land you in Oxfordshire’s honey-hued Kingham. The 18th-century property, reimagined by Carole Bamford, is just the ticket for those seeking comfortable quarters, and satiating fare, within easy reach of the capital.
The Vibe
“The idea was to create a place that felt like home. Somewhere with warmth, light, good company, and great food.” – Carole Bamford
Taking the cottagcore trend to new heights, while away a weekend in the glow of a log fire, playing numerous Scrabble games fuelled by copious cups of tea (and dunked ginger snaps).
The Rooms
Those staying in the pub itself will have 13 rooms to choose from; of these, The Rabbit is our favourite. Interiors are presented in neutral tones with a focus placed on raw materials – think linens, wools, rattan, and wood. Aged oak beams and exposed stone walls dominate across most rooms – of these, some feature four-poster beds whilst in other bedrooms, beds are framed by suspended basket lights. Little reading nooks and traditional touches add a certain quaintness.
The Kingham Village cottages are ideal for larger groups, longer stays, and guests seeking out a little more privacy. We stayed at The Bunny, which sleeps four. Make best use of your split-level abode, complete with garden, kitchen and dining area, living room, and en-suite bathrooms (stocked with Bamford Bath & Body, The Geranium Collection, no less), adjoining to bedrooms fitted with king-size or twin beds in each room.
The Little Extras
Check in is from 4PM and check out is by 11AM.
On arrival, those staying in the cottages can enjoy a well-stocked fridge laden with the most delectable treats from Daylesford Farmshop – organic cheese and artisan breads await. Plus, The Wild Rabbit guests receive 10% off their Farmshop groceries.
The Food + Drink
Elevated pub grub is The Wild Rabbit’s main draw. For a casual bite, take a seat out on the terrace (weather permitting), and order a selection of bar snacks (start with a combo of Nocellara olives and Ortiz sardines – and do save room for the lemon posset for pud) paired with a chilled glass of Rose de Léoube.
For something a little more formal (though, still rather laidback), book a table in the airy dining room towards the rear of the property. In view of the open kitchen, make your selections from a compact a la carte menu which places focus on seasonal produce – we’d recommend the asparagus with parmesan custard and morels, followed by the herb crusted lamb saddles paired with wet garlic and chervil glazed carrots. Alternatively, opt for the tasting menu, priced at £75 per person.
Breakfast is served buffet style – peruse the farm table of produce spanning fruits, cereals and pastries, to breads, meats and cheeses alongside a selection of fresh juices. Hot breakfast offerings include eggs Benedict, smoked kipper, and porridge, and can be ordered from the table.
Those staying in the cottages should note that the cottages are self-catered – order a welcome breakfast pack of sourdough, conserves, organic eggs and more to start off your day right.
The To-Do List
Daylesford Farm and Bamford Wellness Spa are both a short distance from The Wild Rabbit (approximately 30 minutes on foot or three minutes by car). A free shuttle is also available to guests to and from the hotel.
Over the course of your stay, explore what events are happening at the Daylesford Organic Farm – from cookery masterclasses and floristry workshops, to Pilates sessions, there’s likely to be something to whet your appetite.
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