New U.K. Boutique Hotel to Open in Former Historic Department Store

Everything old is new again.  

The Store, a 101-room boutique hotel, will open in May at the location of the former Boswells Department Store, paying homage to the historic Oxford U.K. retailer that opened in 1738 and was one of the world’s oldest family-owned department stores. 

“Because it’s located in the heart of the city, it means so much to our local community and was truly a place of discovery,” Simon Drake, general manager of The Store Oxford, told TMR. “We are excited to be giving new life to this space and honoring its legacy through the design of the hotel, continuing that feeling of discovery, so locals and travelers from far and wide can appreciate its history and story for years to come.” 

The new hotel will be a prime luxury location for travelers who want to stay outside of London – but still nearby – and explore the charming areas of Oxford and the Cotswolds. The hotel is on Cornmarket Street, within walking distance of many historical landmarks, shops, and amenities. 

The entire hotel has an ultra-modern vibe throughout its spacious guest rooms, lobby bar and workspaces, rooftop terrace, eateries, and spa. It is being operated by EQ, the same company behind Hôtel Dame des Arts and Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs in Paris, and was designed by Reef Group.

“Guests will see first-hand how The Store’s design team has brought Boswell’s spirit into the design and just as the department store was in the past, we’re hoping that The Store becomes a cultural hub here in Oxford,” Drake said. 

The Store’s signature restaurant, Treadwell, will serve locally sourced food reflecting Oxford’s cuisine. The Roof bar will also host culinary pop-ups and Chef’s Table dining experiences. Plus, the lobby bar will have signature cocktails and teas for guests and locals to enjoy, along with 1,800 square-feet of light-filled coworking space in the lobby. 

The British spa brand Oskia will also open at The Store and offer spa and wellness treatments in a relaxing, minimalist atmosphere.