Premier Inn Banbury

Yes, Banbury is definitely worth a visit! It’s a market town with a rich history, lovely canal-side walks and plenty of green spaces. You can explore interesting spots like the Banbury Museum, enjoy a stroll past Banbury Cross, or treat yourself to a traditional Banbury cake. With welcoming pubs, local markets and nearby countryside, it’s a great place for a short break. 

Banbury is known for Banbury Cross, the “Fine Lady” statue, and its historic Oxford Canal which winds through the town. It’s also recognised for traditional Banbury cakes and a strong market town identity, with regular markets, independent shops, and welcoming pubs and cafes. 

Banbury is considered a medium-sized town that strikes a nice balance – large enough to have a bustling town centre packed with high-street shops, independent stores, supermarkets, cafes and entertainment venues, but not so big that it feels overwhelming. Plus, its compact layout makes it easy to get around on foot.  

Technically, Banbury isn’t within the official boundaries of the Cotswolds, but it’s right on the doorstep. That means you’re only a short drive from rolling countryside, scenic villages and that iconic Cotswolds charm. In fact, many of the nearby villages have the same honey-coloured stone buildings and timeless appeal that the Cotswolds are known for. So, while Banbury itself isn’t “in” the Cotswolds, it’s a great base for exploring everything the region has to offer. 

Banbury is a mix of history, charm and the countryside. Start at Banbury Cross, where you can see the statue of the ‘fine lady’ from the famous nursery rhyme. Just outside town, Broughton Castle is a must-visit, with its moat, gardens and classic medieval charm. For a peaceful village stroll, head to Aynho, known as the “Apricot Village” thanks to its fruit-covered cottages. While you're there, check out Aynhoe House and Park—a 17th-century stately home with unique style, occasionally open to visitors. 

Banbury town centre is packed with history and character. One of the main landmarks is Banbury Cross, where you'll find the well-known statue of the “Fine Lady” from the nursery rhyme. Shoppers can browse Castle Quay Shopping Centre, which includes high-street brands and local boutiques. History buffs will enjoy the Banbury Museum & Gallery, located right by the canal, which also offers boat trips and pretty waterside walks. There’s also the Mill Arts Centre for live performances and exhibitions, and a great choice of places to eat, from cosy pubs to independent cafes. For a bit of green space in between, head to People’s Park or Spiceball Park for a stroll or picnic. 

Banbury is great for families travelling with kids. There are several parks and play areas around town—People’s Park is a favourite, with a playground and an aviary with birds to spot. The nearby Spiceball Park has plenty of space to run around and riverside paths to explore. At Banbury Museum & Gallery, kids can enjoy interactive exhibits, and there are often child-friendly events and workshops during school holidays.  

Banbury is nicely positioned near several cities, but the closest major city is Oxford, which is about 22 miles away. Oxford is famous for its prestigious university, architecture and rich history, making it a fantastic day trip from Banbury. Birmingham, one of the UK’s largest cities, is also within easy reach, roughly 40 miles away, with lots of shopping, entertainment and cultural spots.  

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Our standard check-in time is 3pm. For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

Checkout is by 12 noon on your departure date. If luggage storage is available, our teams will be happy to store any bags for you if you’d like to check out before 12pm.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

In 2020 we launched Premier Inn CleanProtect™, our rigorous, daily cleaning method that’s used throughout our UK & Ireland hotels. Developed in partnership with Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene products for the healthcare and hospitality industries, our promise seeks to give you extra peace of mind so you can always book and stay with confidence.

Check-in - minimising contact at reception and providing hand sanitiser in most public areas for peace of mind. 

Bed linen and towels - laundering all our linen and towels at over 60°C to thermally disinfect them, so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. We’ve also placed spare pillows in a zip-up bag, for extra peace of mind.

Equipping our teams - providing our team members with all the equipment and sanitisers they need, as well as always operating in the safest way possible for our teams and guests.

A generous serving of safety - you can relax knowing that enhanced cleaning measures are in place throughout our restaurants. Tables are cleaned between visits and contactless payment is in place too, so you can dine safely and comfortably with us every time.

Clean on request - if you'd like your room cleaned during your stay with us, just let us know at reception and use the handy door hanger on the back of your door by 12pm each day.

Most Premier Inns have specially-adapted rooms allowing easier access for customers with disabilities. If there is no specially-adapted room available at the hotel of your choice, we will be happy to offer you alternative accommodation at a nearby Premier Inn. If you have difficulty walking, but do not need a specially-adapted room, please feel free to request a room near reception on the ground floor for easy access. 

If you'd like get in touch, you can reach out to our specialist team via email at pi.accessible@whitbread.com or call us on 0333 0919 817 between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday (calls charged at local rate).

Unfortunately, with the exception of trained assistance dogs, we don't allow pets to stay at our hotels.