I seem to know a lot of people who are a member of Soho House… which means I hear a lot about Soho Farmhouse, the group’s countryside retreat in Oxfordshire. Last week, finally, I had the opportunity to visit this much-loved property for a day exploring the facilities.

Driving in through the grand entrance gates I was struck by the sheer size of the estate. 40 cabins, a four-bedroom cottage and a seven-bedroom farm house are set amongst 100 acres of lovely English countryside. Once inside the Soho Farmhouse gates, the most difficult decision you’ll make is where to enjoy your morning cappuccino.

The spa is particularly spectacular, with an indoor pool and heated outdoor pool, steam room and sauna, high-tech gym and a wide range of Cowshed spa treatments.

There are numerous spaces for relaxing and working, and I can only imagine how the outdoor areas come to life in the summer. We sat for a while in the main barn, where the sofas are topped with plumb velvet pillows, there are cosy log fires offering warmth and staff are on hand to bring you whatever beverage or snack you desire. I also loved the Farmshop & Deli, a perfectly quaint space with tiled floors, delicious delicacies and wholesome lunch options.

I spent a while wandering outside too… as guests rode by on their branded bicycles I went to say “hello” to the horses at the stables and visited the greenhouse and gardens. Kids can roam free in the Soho Farmhouse grounds, and with so many different activities there is always something to entertain them.

Hungry from the intake of fresh country air, we headed back to the Main Barn for lunch, though I was tempted by the Japanese cuisine at Pen Yen. The food is simple, wholesome and comforting, whether you want something indulgent like the house cheeseburger, or prefer to choose from the healthy salads and soups. We nearly opted for the Spit roast Springfield Farm chicken for two with pork stuffing and potato & onion bake (which felt fitting in these surroundings) but decided to choose an assortment of dishes from the main a la carte menu… wood oven margarita pizza, wonderfully creamy burrata and delicious charred roasted cauliflower with onion.

Sadly, after lunch it was time to return to reality and drive back to London, but not before a quick pitstop at Bicester Village… just 15 minutes drive from Soho Farmhouse. It is yet another reason to stay at this British countryside sanctuary.

More information and book a stay at Soho Farmhouse here.

Oxfordshire was seriously lacking in lovely boutique accommodation… until Artist Residence opened a branch of their cosy characterful hotels in the small village of South Leigh.

This hotel is the newest in the Artist Residence family, with other branches in London, Brighton and Cornwall. Much like the other properties, the venue captures the essence of the surrounding area while also injecting the recognisable Artist Residence fun and quirky style into the rooms and common spaces.

Thanks to the building’s heritage as a traditional pub, the hotel still operates as a pub / dining room on the ground floor, and the food here is worth visiting for alone. Head Chef Leon Smith has worked in some top UK kitchens and his experience of flavour shines through on the dishes. Hearty plates of food showcase the finest British ingredients, whether its foraged herbs and wild mushrooms or dairy from the local producers.

I was lucky to be one of the first to experience the brand new Barn. This grand suite is a recent addition to the hotel, housed within one of the outbuildings with a private terrace and in-room log burner. The spacious suite has a high ceiling and original wooden floorboards. Colourful details, such as Morris & Co fabrics and vibrant artwork, add flair and personality. One night was not enough to get to know every quirk in this spectacular bedroom.

The en-suite dark green tiled bathroom featured a big free-standing bathtub and rainfall shower, and a generous supply of Bramley organic toiletries was provided.

And though the Barn is indulgently wonderful, you don’t need to stay in the biggest room to have an indulgent night here. Even the smallest ‘Rabbit Hole’ bedroom is comfortable and beautiful, decorated and designed in a chic farmhouse style.

I would recommend this charming hotel to anyone in need of a minibreak from London. Artist Residence Oxfordshire is affordable, eclectic and special… it is the perfect getaway.

More information and book a room at Artist Residence Oxfordshire here.