The space

Set in the Oxfordshire countryside near North Newington, this spacious holiday house is a brilliant base for a hen weekend that blends celebration, comfort and plenty of time together. The setting feels private and relaxed, with open countryside around you, a village pub within walking distance and Banbury close by for meals out, cocktails or a bigger night on the town.

The house has the kind of layout hen groups love: generous indoor spaces for gathering, outdoor areas for sunny drinks and games, and a mix of leisure facilities that mean you do not need to plan every minute of the weekend. Spend the afternoon by the seasonal heated pool, book a private chef for dinner in the large kitchen dining space, then move into the games and cinema room for music, drinks and a few competitive rounds around the games table.

Sleeping up to 16 guests, the property works especially well for groups who want a country-house feel without giving up the fun extras. With a hot tub, pool, BBQ areas, garden, workspace and multiple places to eat, lounge and celebrate, it is set up for everything from relaxed spa-style weekends to lively hen party itineraries.

Inside the house

Inside, the property is designed for group living. The main social hub is the impressive live-in kitchen, a large Smallbone walnut and silver space with everything needed for weekend catering, grazing boards, brunch spreads and dressed-up dinners. The kitchen is well equipped with quality crockery, cutlery and glassware, making it easy to serve cocktails, afternoon tea or a celebratory meal without feeling like you are compromising on style.

The open-plan dining area can seat up to 22, so a group of 16 has plenty of room to dine together comfortably. There is also a more formal dining room seating up to 16, ideal if you want to make one evening feel a little more special with table decorations, matching pyjamas, a private chef or a sit-down meal before heading out.

Bedrooms are spread across the main accommodation and additional self-contained spaces, giving the group flexibility when it comes to sleeping arrangements. Many rooms have zip-and-link beds, so they can be arranged as doubles or singles depending on what suits your party best. That is a real bonus for hen groups with a mix of friends, family and bridesmaids who may not all know each other before the weekend.

For downtime and evening entertainment, the games, party and cinema room is a standout feature. It includes a large screen TV, disco lighting, a bar area and a multi-games table for pool, air hockey and table tennis. Whether you are planning a bride quiz, a playlist-fuelled pre-drinks session or a chilled film night after a day of activities, this room gives the weekend a ready-made party space without needing to leave the house.

Hen weekend highlights

The outdoor facilities are a major part of the appeal here. The 18-metre heated outdoor swimming pool is available seasonally, generally from mid-April to the end of September or by arrangement, and makes warm-weather hen weekends feel instantly more indulgent. Think poolside fizz, matching swimsuits, floating photo moments and a relaxed afternoon before everyone gets ready for dinner.

The hot tub is ideal year-round, especially for groups wanting a spa-inspired feel without booking a full spa day. It is a lovely spot for a first-night catch-up, a morning-after soak or a calm hour with the bride before the evening plans begin. Add robes, chilled drinks and a pamper hamper and you have a simple activity that feels special without too much organising.

Food and drink are easy to centre the weekend around. Outside, there is a flat-plate gas BBQ, a fire-pit wood BBQ, a large paella dish and even an internal charcoal BBQ in the Arctic Cabin. That gives you lots of options, from a casual BBQ lunch to a themed Spanish-style dinner or a cosy evening gathered around the fire. Large outdoor dining tables, huge sofa suites, party lighting and garden games mean summer evenings can flow naturally from food to drinks to music.

The garden is made for group fun, with table tennis, outdoor games and a sunken trampoline for anyone who wants a playful afternoon. There is also a gym with a Nordic elliptical trainer, weights, rower and vibration plate, useful for guests who like to start the day actively or balance out the weekend treats.

For hen party planning, the house gives you plenty of easy wins: cocktail making in the kitchen, a private chef dinner in the dining room, pool games in summer, hot tub sessions, karaoke-style fun in the party room, a film screening, themed dinner parties, garden brunches and relaxed Sunday recovery time. It is a property where the facilities do a lot of the work for you.

Location & getting around

The house is located near North Newington, just outside the village of Shutford and within easy reach of Banbury. It is a lovely choice if you want a countryside setting while still having access to shops, restaurants, pubs and nightlife. Banbury is close enough for taxis into town, so the group can enjoy dinner and drinks out without making the whole weekend feel urban.

There is a local pub within walking distance, which is handy for a low-key first evening, a Sunday roast or a quick group walk with a reward at the end. The surrounding Oxfordshire countryside is also great for fresh-air plans, from gentle walks to photo stops and slower mornings after a late night.

For daytime activities, the area gives you a good base for classic hen extras such as mobile spa therapists, yoga instructors, private chefs, cocktail workshops or craft sessions coming to the house. You are also well placed for exploring pretty Oxfordshire villages, country pubs and nearby market towns if the bride prefers a more relaxed itinerary. Banbury has rail connections and road links, making it practical for guests travelling from different parts of the UK.

Enquire today

If this Oxfordshire house sounds like the right fit for your hen weekend, send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any plans you already have in mind. The host can confirm sleeping arrangements, seasonal pool availability and any details you need to shape the weekend around the bride.