The space

The Cotswold Manor Byre is made for groups who want the best of both worlds: space to celebrate together and a countryside setting that feels calm, private and easy-going. Set on the edge of an estate near Bampton, close to the Cotswolds and around 20 minutes from Oxford, this converted barn gives your hen group a generous base for a weekend of food, fizz, games, hot tub time and countryside exploring.

Sleeping up to 16 guests across 6 bedrooms, the Byre works especially well for hen parties who want everyone under one roof without feeling cramped. The open-plan reception space is the heart of the house, with plenty of room for the whole group to gather for welcome drinks, pre-dinner chats, party games or a relaxed Sunday brunch. Large double doors lead straight out to the private garden, so it is easy to move between indoor and outdoor celebrations throughout the day.

The setting adds a real sense of occasion. You have far-reaching views, access to shared parkland and plenty of green space for chilled daytime plans, whether that is a picnic, garden games or simply a slow morning with coffee after a big night. It is also dog friendly, which is a lovely bonus if the bride wants to bring a four-legged guest along for the weekend.

Inside the house

Inside, The Manor Byre keeps things practical, comfortable and sociable. There are 6 bedrooms, each with its own en suite shower room, which is a huge plus for hen groups getting ready at the same time. No long bathroom queues, no complicated rota before dinner, and plenty of privacy for guests who want a quieter moment away from the main group.

The main living area is open plan, bright and spacious, giving you one central place for the weekend to unfold. There is a 40 inch HDTV with a built-in DVD player in the sitting room, so you can line up a favourite film, create a nostalgic movie night for the bride, or use the space for games and downtime between activities. Superfast Air Fibre broadband is also provided, ideal for playlists, planning taxis, sharing photos or streaming a chilled Sunday watch.

The kitchen is well equipped for group catering, whether you are bringing in a private chef, preparing a buffet-style brunch, or cooking a relaxed meal yourselves. It includes an American-style fridge freezer for keeping drinks and food stocked, a range cooker for big breakfasts and group dinners, and a dishwasher to make the clean-up easier. Everyone can dine together, which makes meals feel like part of the celebration rather than a logistical challenge.

Hen weekend highlights

The private garden is one of the standout spaces for a hen weekend. Double doors open directly from the reception room onto the patio, where you will find outdoor furniture and a BBQ area for laid-back lunches, summer evening meals or a casual first-night gathering. Add the optional hot tub and you have a brilliant centrepiece for the weekend: prosecco in hand, robes on, and plenty of time for the bride to unwind with her favourite people.

For groups who love activities without needing to travel far, the shared 70 acres of parkland are a real treat. There are natural ponds, picnic areas and large grassed spaces suitable for sports, ball games and even zorbing, giving you lots of scope to plan something playful on site. Think team games, a bride versus hens challenge, or a relaxed afternoon outdoors before getting ready for dinner.

There is also shared access to a Games Barn, ideal for keeping everyone entertained whatever the weather. With a pool table, football table and table tennis, it is easy to add a little friendly competition to the weekend. This is especially handy for mixed-energy groups: some guests can head for the hot tub, others can take on a table tennis tournament, and everyone can come back together for food and drinks afterwards.

The combination of en suite bedrooms, open-plan entertaining space, hot tub, BBQ area and games facilities makes the Byre particularly well suited to hen parties who want a weekend that feels organised but not over-scheduled. You can make it as relaxed or as lively as you like, with plenty already on site to keep the group happy.

Location & getting around

The Byre is located near Bampton, a pretty Oxfordshire village with a relaxed countryside feel and easy access to both the Cotswolds and Oxford. If your group wants a slower weekend, you can make the most of nearby walks, local pubs and the estate surroundings. There are gastro pubs within walking distance, which is ideal for a low-effort lunch, a celebratory dinner or a Sunday roast before heading home.

Oxford is approximately 20 minutes away, opening up a wider choice of restaurants, cocktail bars, sightseeing and daytime activities. You could plan a punt on the river, afternoon tea, a cocktail-making class, a private dining experience or a night out in the city before returning to the calm of the countryside. The location is especially useful for groups travelling from different parts of the UK, with the appeal of a Cotswolds-style setting without being too remote.

Bampton itself offers a charming base for guests who want village atmosphere rather than city bustle, while the wider Oxfordshire and Cotswolds area gives you plenty of options for spa sessions, country pubs, walks, boutique shopping and group experiences. For taxis, private transfers or activity transport, it is worth planning ahead, especially for larger hen groups and evenings in Oxford.

Enquire today

If The Cotswold Manor Byre sounds like the right fit for your hen weekend, send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any extras you are interested in, such as the hot tub. The host can help confirm availability, sleeping arrangements and the details you need to start shaping a brilliant countryside celebration near Bampton.