The Old Crown Coaching Inn

The Old Crown Coaching Inn – The Ballroom Restaurant

Overview

In the heart of Faringdon, Oxfordshire, The Old Crown Coaching Inn stands as a beautifully restored 16th-century coaching inn, blending rich heritage with modern boutique comfort. This handsome property overlooks the lively market square, making it a fine base for a short gourmet break in the Cotswolds. In recent years, the Inn has become something of a destination for food lovers, thanks to its focus on refined British dining and its characterful, individually styled rooms.

Eat

The showpiece at The Old Crown is The Ballroom Restaurant, an elegant yet inviting dining room led by acclaimed head chef Samuel Squires. The restaurant holds two AA Rosettes, marking it out for its creative approach and depth of flavour, and took home the "Best Restaurant 2024" accolade from Ox In A Box. The emphasis here is on contemporary British cooking with a playful, intelligent twist, built on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Menus lean into the generosity of the region—think beef cheek and suet pie or locally reared chicken—while snacks and starters might showcase pickled vegetables or foraged produce. Presentation is assured, with plates that feel both grounded and artfully constructed. Diners can expect attentive, unfussy service and a choice of à la carte, tasting menus and a chef’s table experience for those marking special occasions.

Sleep

Upstairs, a collection of boutique rooms mixes historic features with updated comforts. Some boast four poster beds, chandeliers, or freestanding tubs, nodding to their 16th-century origins yet offering modern indulgence. Rooms are distinctively decorated, from rich velvets to bold wallpapers, ensuring no two stays feel quite alike. Think squishy armchairs, fine linens, and thoughtful extras—a relaxing antidote to the bustle of the market square below. Couples, solo foodies, and small groups wanting a setting with real personality will find much to enjoy here.

Retreat

A night or two allows time to settle into the rhythm of Faringdon, with boutiques, quirky bookshops and Saturday market stalls all within steps. Historic landmarks such as Faringdon Folly Tower and the peaceful Ridgeway Trail beckon keen walkers. The Cotswolds’ classic towns—Burford and Lechlade—are a short drive, while Oxford sits just over 20 miles away. Return in the evening for a cocktail in the courtyard or a nightcap in the handsome bar. There’s secure parking on site, and Faringdon is easily reached by car from London in around 90 minutes or by train via Swindon or Oxford (followed by a short taxi ride). It’s a winning choice for a relaxed weekend with genuine Cotswold flavour.