- Food & Drink Award 2023
The hotel has been described as a place where gastronomy, gardens and culture come alive in stunning surroundings. And it’s not surprising as the host of Oxford French-inspired manor house is chef-patron Raymond Blanc OBE.
This retreat in leafy rural Oxfordshire opened in 1984 and in the same year was awarded two Michelin stars, which it has retained ever since. Guests can stroll through the beautiful gardens, innovate at its cooking and gardening schools, and experience fine dining at the double Michelin-starred restaurant.
The passion of Raymond Blanc is reflected throughout the 15th Century manor house. To say food is the focus would be an understatement as Raymond Blanc’s menu described as being “a zest of imaginative spirit”, highlights some 90 different aromatic herbs, fruits and vegetables from the hotel garden.
Current executive chef Luke Selby first trained with Raymond Blanc in 2009 before going on to achieve success with the Michelin star restaurant Evelyn’s Table.
The wine cellar is no less imaginative containing around 600 finely selected grape varieties from around the world.
After a sensational Michelin-starred feast, customers can retire to one of the manor house’s 32 individually-designed hotel rooms. Each one draws on inspiration from Raymond’s travels. The Signature Suites promise exceptional luxury and total peace.
The lush green gardens are filled with colour in summer while cosy log fires in the winter make this an ideal destination for all seasons.
Budding chefs can hone their cooking skills in a fun informal setting. From half-day introductions to residential programmes, and even cooking classes for children. While The Raymond Blanc Gardening School is driven by a passion for garden-to-plate gastronomy and sustainable cultivation techniques.
