The Cartwright Hotel, a landmark Grade II listed hospitality property in one of Oxfordshire’s most desirable rural locations in the picturesque village of Aynho, near Banbury, is heading to auction at a guide price on £1.2 million, offering a rare mixed-use and residential development opportunity. The property combines a traditional public house with staff accommodation and 21 ensuite courtyard bedrooms within 0.34 acres.
Named after the prominent Cartwright family, who lived for over 400 years in a nearby stately home redesigned in 1800 by one of England’s most influential architects Sir John Soane, the venue sits at the heart of a village increasingly recognised as a high-end lifestyle destination.
The transformation has been driven partly by the nearby Aynhoe Park estate, now home to the European headquarters of US homewares and furniture brand RH, which attracts visitors from across the globe to its showrooms, restaurants and extensive gardens.
The property, in Croughton Road, has planning approval to create four self-contained residential homes. Its established hospitality layout currently features a 50-cover restaurant, commercial kitchen, bar, cellars and a two-bedroom manager’s apartment.
Associate Partner, Ben Charsley, in our residential agency team, said the property is expected to attract strong interest when it goes under the hammer via the firm’s online auction platform. “This is a stand-out opportunity in a highly sought-after rural setting on the edge of the Cotswolds,” he said.
“Aynho offers the charm of an English village while benefiting from excellent links to Oxford, Brackley and Banbury. The wider area is exceptionally well connected since Junction 10 of the M40 is close by, meaning it is really easy to reach London, Oxford and the Midlands.
“The surrounding area has become a magnet for visitors and high-end buyers alike, with major attractions including Silverstone F1 Circuit, Blenheim Palace, Soho Farmhouse and Bicester Village which are all within easy reach.
“With its combination of planning consenta, location and heritage, we anticipate significant demand for the Cartwright Hotel. It offers flexibility for a range of buyers from hospitality operators to residential developers who are looking to capitalise on the area’s continued growth and prestige.”