Ultimate winter comfort: at the Old Parsonage Hotel in Oxford, a 17th-century gem with spiral staircases, dreamy beds and a hearty restaurant that has become a local institution

The wind blows the last leaves from the trees along Banbury Road and sends them flying through the old wooden door that opens into the courtyard of Oxford’s Old Parsonage.

Guests settle for al fresco dining, with handy heaters and large umbrellas in case the weather turns bad.

And while it’s certainly tempting, this city, and especially this hotel, makes for the perfect indoor coziness as the evenings draw in.

A 17th century gem next to the beautiful St Giles’ Church and a short walk from the excellent cafes and bars of the Jericho area, The Old Parsonage houses 35 individually decorated rooms, a private library and the Parsonage Grill – a restaurant that is something of an Oxford institution.

As soon as you step over the threshold, you feel enveloped in a warm embrace.

Adjacent to the beautiful St Giles Church, the hotel is a short walk from the Jericho area’s excellent cafes and bars.

It is a space that proudly wears its history, from the gloomy, dark interiors and large fireplace that dominates the bar to the spiral staircase that leads to the upper rooms.

There is much to explore within the room, from luxurious Noble Isle products in the bathroom to locally roasted coffee and a balcony accessed through French doors.

Overlooking a small courtyard, with the lighted Georgian windows and towers of the neighboring buildings towering above, it gives the space a distinctly Oxford feel.

Grab one of the award-winning short stories by new writers left on the nightstand, and you’ll be instantly transported to a more cerebral, less frenetic world.

Below, the Parsonage Grill offers the ultimate in winter comfort.

The space is advertised as having a “club atmosphere” and there’s certainly a chilled vibe with its midnight blue walls adorned with striking portraits of local writers and artists.

The menu is nice and hearty, with classics like 55-day aged ribeye and chicken, mushroom and tarragon pies that are both exceptional.

There is a distinct lack of urgency, with service on the right side of relaxed. Ginger sponge and a pot of fresh lemon-ginger tea round off the evening perfectly.

The beds are dreamy and the heavy curtains block out all outside light.

“You will be treated to the best night’s sleep imaginable,” says Joe of the hotel

One of the hotel’s 35 individually decorated rooms, complete with a ‘dreamy’ bed

The “delicious” breakfast of the hotel

You will be treated to the best night’s sleep imaginable so that you are ready for the most delicious breakfast.

The poached eggs on sourdough followed by caramelized grapefruit and black coffee of canon quality is sure to be the ideal way to start the day.

Early risers should take full advantage of the vicarage’s proximity to Jericho and the winding paths of Port Meadow, which offer the chance for an invigorating morning.

Upstairs is the Parsonage Grill, a restaurant that is something of an Oxford institution

“As soon as you step over the threshold, you feel enveloped in a warm embrace,” writes Joe

Early risers can make the most of the vicarage’s proximity to Jericho and the winding paths of Port Meadow (above).

Hardy souls can even take a refreshing dip in the Thames at one of the designated bathing spots.

The excellent Jericho Tavern is the place for a quiet pint, while the Last Bookshop rewards avid readers.

And with a hotel that makes you feel part of this beautiful city, it’s very tempting to book a longer, quieter stay.