Sleep in a Former Prison | Malmaison Oxford * Cell Rooms from $196

Name: Malmaison Oxford, Oxford
Address: 3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1AY
Price range: US$196+
Rating: 8.7

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Key details

About the Hotel

3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY

Next to Oxford Castle

Great

8.7

8.9

/10

4.3

4.1

Loved by Malmaison Oxford guests

Spacious rooms

Comfortable bed

Friendly staff

Delicious breakfast

"Living in a hotel which was a prison it is kind very special."

Elisavet from Sweden

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"They have managed to maintain so many original features and that's what makes this hotel so fantastic ."

anita t from United Kingdom

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"We would definitely recommend upgrading room to a cell. So unique."

Samantha from United States

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4-star boutique hotel in a former prison

Rooms

Malmaison Oxford offers 95 stylish rooms and suites housed in a former prison, each featuring luxurious beddings and modern amenities. Rooms include standard, club, junior suites, and the expansive signature suites, catering to diverse preferences. Each room is equipped with drench showers, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

Dining

The hotel hosts Chez Mal Brasserie, where guests can savor classic dishes with contemporary twists featuring prime ingredients. An array of menu options includes a Prix Fixe special, allowing two courses for £22 or three courses for £27. The neon-lit Chez Mal Bar offers a range of cocktails, wines, and beers in a unique setting.

Meetings & Events

Malmaison Oxford has multiple meeting rooms, allowing for both formal and relaxed gatherings, and accommodates up to 25 delegates. The largest room, Cell 5, includes views into the wine cellar and a dedicated terrace. Each meeting space is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology.

Location

Located in the Oxford Castle Quarter, Malmaison Oxford is a short five-minute walk from popular attractions such as Oxford University and the Ashmolean Museum. The hotel provides convenient access to a range of bars and restaurants within the city center. This area is rich in history, making it an appealing destination for visitors.

Private Dining & Events

The hotel offers unique private dining options in converted prison cells or stylish rooms, seating up to 100 guests. Choices include bespoke menus tailored for special occasions like weddings and corporate events. This unique setting provides a memorable backdrop for any gathering.

Highlights

Location: Oxford Castle Quarter, 5 min from attractions

Rooms: 95 stylish rooms and suites

Dining: Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar

Meetings: Cell 5 meeting room with terrace

Private Dining: Unique dining in former prison cells

“Staying in a former prison, now a boutique hotel, provides a memorable Oxford experience; the location is superb for accessing the city's attractions. I think that the on-site dining shines, especially with special offers and well-crafted cocktails. It's a blend of history and comfort worth considering.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningFaultless Food

Dinner included prosecco. Half-board offers choices: starter and main, or starter and dessert, plus a side. Breakfast offers continental buffet and cooked menu.

Olivia from Canada

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Guest ParkingValet Convenience

Valet parking is available right outside. Some parking is limited to certain hours. An alternative is nearby shopping centre parking.

Carlos from Spain

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BedroomComfy Cells

Cell rooms combine three cells. Bed was comfortable. Some rooms have countdown carpet. Shutters keep heat in. Original bars remain on windows.

Mei from China

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BathroomStunning Space

Bathrooms are very large. Some have roll-top baths and walk-in rain showers. Toiletries are provided, but not body lotion or hair conditioner.

Rajesh from India

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Select your room type

Malmaison Oxford offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Junior Suite
2 persons
36 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
18 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Standard Cell Double
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

September 2026 - September 2027

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January 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Malmaison Oxford offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Valet parking
Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Malmaison Oxford offers a delightful blend of British, French, and European cuisines at its on-site dining venue, where modern elegance meets inviting comfort. The Malmaison Bar and Grill beckons with its superb à la carte menu and friendly service, promising a memorable culinary experience for breakfast, dinner, or even high tea.

Malmaison Bar and Grill
British, French, European
Ambiance
A contemporary restaurant set within a converted prison, featuring a chic yet welcoming atmosphere with nods to its historical past.
Key Offerings
Highlights include a signature summer salad with sautéed chorizo and Beauvale blue cheese, comforting breakfasts with home-baked pastries and fresh fruits, and an indulgent dinner menu with options like the classic Mal Burger and the festive celebration menu.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended to ensure a table.
Breakfast and dinner served; hours may vary.

Malmaison Oxford Location

3, Oxford Castle, New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY

Explore Oxford

Local Experiences near Malmaison Oxford

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

9 minutes' walk

World-renowned museum showcasing art and artifacts, with free admission and special exhibits.

Oxford Castle

3 minutes' walk

Historical site featuring medieval architecture and guided tours, ideal for history enthusiasts.

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

10 minutes' walk

Stunning church offering panoramic views of Oxford from its tower and rich historical context.

Christ Church

7 minutes' walk

Iconic college with beautiful architecture and gardens, also famous from Harry Potter films.

Christ Church Meadow Walk

9 minutes' walk

Scenic walking path ideal for relaxing strolls or picnics, showcasing lush greenery and river views.

Punting on the River Cherwell

15 minutes' walk

Thrilling experience for adventure-seekers; rentals available nearby during warmer months.

Brasserie and Bar at Malmaison

2 minutes' walk

Stylish eatery offering a modern menu with local ingredients; perfect for a relaxed meal.

1855 Wine Bar

1 minute' walk

Charming wine bar with an extensive selection and cozy ambiance, ideal for wine enthusiasts.

The Castle

2 minutes' walk

Historic pub with a welcoming atmosphere, featuring classic British fare and local brews.

O2 Academy Oxford

15 minutes' walk

Vibrant venue hosting live music and events across genres; popular spot for nightlife.

Oxford Playhouse

12 minutes' walk

Renowned theater offering a variety of performances, from drama to comedy in a charming setting.

Getting around

City Centre
Oxford 5 min · 1400 ft
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO) 110 min · 45.2 mi
London Heathrow (LHR) 113 min · 46.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site (reservation might be needed) at true.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 27.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Malmaison Oxford from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently highlight the hotel's unique charm, appreciating that it's a beautifully preserved former prison, with a fun glimpse into history with an optional tour of the prison museum. Rooms are often described as spacious, modern, and well-appointed, with amenities like coffee machines and comfortable beds, though some found the windows had limited opening. Its central Oxford location, near the station and within easy reach of shopping, also receives high praise.

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Review score

Based on 2220 verified reviews

8.7 /10

Great

88 %

Recommend

Location

9.6/10

Staff

9.3/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.4/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Pros

Historical setting

Well-situated hotel

Friendly staff

Cons

Outdated decor

based on 4080 reviews

4/5

grant from united kingdom

Couple

standard cell double

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 04, 2026

9.5/10

charmed stay at the cell

helpful staff historical theme convenient location

the reception staff were very helpful upon arrival. the historical theme throughout the hotel was fascinating. i found the location very convenient for exploring nearby attractions and shopping centres. the room size was sufficient, and the bathroom had all necessary amenities.

The cooling fan in my room didn't work as effectively as i expected. The room got a bit warm.

Dining

9/10

the breakfast selection offered many choices cooked to order (especially the eggs benedict). the food was delicious and presented well. the bar served lovely cocktails.

Rooms

9/10

the room was clean, and the bed was very comfortable. the original cell door added to the authenticity of the stay. i had a glimpse of what it would have once been like with the original window. the walk-in shower and roll top bath were luxurious.

Location

10/10

this location is central and convenient, near shopping and the theatre. the building is historic. parking is available, a valet meets you at the door. i found the location easy to walk to nearby attractions.

Service

10/10

the staff were warm and helpful at all times. i was greeted by a wonderful lady upon arrival. special mention goes to callum who went the extra mile to. michael and william greeted us on arrival and departure.

0 Helpful

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Judith from Germany

Couple

Club Double Cell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 27, 2026

6/10

excessive fee uncomfortable bed

The parking fee of £37 per night felt excessive. I ALSO needed to pay £2 for an umbrella. I found that a bit much. The bed was quite uncomfortable, leading to a poor night's sleep.

0 Helpful

Thomas from United Kingdom

Single

Standard Cell Double

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: January 11, 2026

9/10

central building

early check-in coffee machine

the staff were very accommodating as i arrived early. they allowed early check in before 3 pm. my room had a fridge, iron, hairdryer, and coffee machine. the bathroom vanity had plenty space.

0 Helpful

John from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Standard Cell Double

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 24, 2025

9/10

central location friendly staff unique room

the location IS central. i stayed in the standard cell double, it was quite unique. the staff WAS super friendly and helpful with directions and recommendations.

the windows in my room WAS small and did not open.

0 Helpful

Tony from United Kingdom

Couple

club double cell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 18, 2025

9.0/10

nice anniversary stay

accessible room spacious wetroom friendly staff

i celebrated my anniversary at this distinctive location. our wheelchair accessible room featured a spacious wetroom. the wetroom even had a shower chair. all staff members were friendly. the room had super clean condition and so did the public areas.

Service

9/10

the front desk staff demonstrated efficiency, promptly addressing requests. concierge services included helpful suggestions for local attractions. i observed quick responses to inquiries.

Rooms

9/10

my room featured a comfortable king bed and modern amenities. the bathroom had both a separate tub and rainfall shower. complimentary toiletries were provided.

0 Helpful

Emma from United Kingdom

Single

Club Double Cell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9/10

unique hotel with convenient location

unique building helpful staff early check-in

the hotel is very unique, located conveniently near the city center. the staff was helpful, they allowed me an early check-in. the hotel provided a seamless experience and the room was ready ahead of schedule.

Dining

9/10

the restaurant offered a diverse menu, including vegetarian options! breakfast included a buffet with pastries, fresh fruit, and hot dishes. dinner service was available, the staff ensured a pleasant atmosphere.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Malmaison Oxford

Are twin rooms available for booking?

15 November 2024

Twin rooms can be accommodated upon request.

What are the best options for a special occasion room with a bath?

22 August 2024

For a special occasion, consider booking a Junior Suite or a Duplex for an exceptional experience. Most Superior Cell rooms feature a bath, and the Executive room has the most luxurious option.

Where can I find parking near the hotel?

5 April 2025

Parking is limited on-site and must be reserved in advance. Nearby, the Westgate Shopping Centre and Worcester Street Car Park are great alternatives.

Is there a vegetarian cooked breakfast option?

12 February 2025

Yes, a vegetarian cooked breakfast is available, featuring items like vegetarian sausages, spinach, and a choice of eggs.

Are there accessible rooms for guests with disabilities?

3 March 2025

Rooms are available that are specifically designed to accommodate guests with disabilities.

Is the hotel dog-friendly?

18 January 2025

Yes, pets are welcome at the hotel.

How can I ensure that I get a specific ex-cell room?

10 June 2024

To guarantee an ex-cell room, book specifically from the prison cell category.

What is the cost per night for parking?

27 October 2024

Parking is available for £28.50 per night and needs to be booked in advance due to limited spaces.

What distinguishes a club room from a standard cell room?

8 December 2024

The primary difference lies in the bathroom; club rooms come with larger bathrooms featuring a roll-top bath and walk-in shower, while standard cells typically have a shower or a shower over a bath.

Which type of room has a balcony?

25 September 2024

The Club Double room is the only option that includes a balcony.

What breakfast options are offered?

14 April 2025

The hotel provides both continental and fully cooked breakfast options to cater to different preferences.