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Athena Guest House

Oxford · United Kingdom

Cowley Road, 255View location

4.4/10Review score164 Reviews
Cleanliness4.6/104.6
Service5.2/105.2
Comfort5.0/105.0
Condition4.2/104.2
Neighborhood7.6/107.6
Amenities4.8/104.8
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About Athena Guest House

The Athena Guest House is a charming Victorian red-brick house located in Oxford. We offer comfortable double, triple, and family en-suite rooms, each equipped with a washbasin, toilet, bath, water filter, tea and coffee facilities, and a TV/DVD player.

Both wired (RJ45) and wireless internet access are available, ensuring a stable connection regardless of your device. A public PC with free high-speed internet is also provided.

Read more about this hotelShow less

With a stay at Athena Guest House in Oxford (East Oxford), you'll be a 3-minute drive from University of Oxford and 7 minutes from River Thames. This guesthouse is 10.8 mi (17.3 km) from Blenheim Palace and 15.1 mi (24.3 km) from Bicester Village.

Treat yourself to a stay in one of the 7 guestrooms, featuring private hot tubs. Prepare your meals in the shared/communal kitchen. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Conveniences include desks and electric kettles, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Featured amenities include luggage storage, microwave in a common area, and refrigerator in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Concierge
Non-smoking

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 4:00 PM
Check-in until midnight
Check-out until 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

No rollaway/extra beds available No elevators No front desk Professional property host/manager Property does not offer onsite COVID-19 testing Property does not require health documentation at check-in Pets not allowed

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available

Important information

  • You need to know
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    There is no front desk at this property. This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 72 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions. Guests can access their accommodation through a private entrance. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Spoken Language

    English

    Chinese (Mandarin)

Nearby attractions

Cowley Road 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
University of Oxford 1.2 km / 0.7 mi
Oxford Brookes University 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
South Park 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Magdalen College 1.4 km / 0.8 mi
Iffley Road Track 1.4 km / 0.9 mi
St Hilda's College 1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Merton College 1.5 km / 1 mi
Churchill Hospital 1.6 km / 1 mi
University Botanic Gardens 1.7 km / 1 mi
River Thames 1.7 km / 1 mi
New College 1.7 km / 1 mi
University College 1.7 km / 1.1 mi
Examination Schools 1.7 km / 1.1 mi
The Queen's College 1.7 km / 1.1 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 7
  • hotel
  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa
  • Maestro
  • Visa Electrón
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Luggage room
Show 2 more facilities & services
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • TRIPLE ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMTRIPLE • ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMTPL.AX-FH

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    TRIPLE ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–5 • Adults: max. 3 • Children: max. 4
    Room type
    TRIPLE
    View / characteristic
    ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TPL.AX-FH

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARDDBL.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TRIPLE TWO BEDSTRIPLE • TWO BEDSTPL.2B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    TRIPLE TWO BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–5 • Adults: max. 3 • Children: max. 4
    Room type
    TRIPLE
    View / characteristic
    TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TPL.2B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • FAMILY ROOM ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMFAMILY ROOM • ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMFAM.AX-FH

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    FAMILY ROOM ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    FAMILY ROOM
    View / characteristic
    ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: FAM.AX-FH

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TWIN ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMTWIN • ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMTWN.AX-FH

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    TWIN ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.AX-FH

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMDOUBLE • ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOMDBL.AX-FH

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    DOUBLE ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    ANNEX WITH SHARED BATHROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.AX-FH

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • FAMILY ROOM THREE BEDSFAMILY ROOM • THREE BEDSFAM.3B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    FAMILY ROOM THREE BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    FAMILY ROOM
    View / characteristic
    THREE BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: FAM.3B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TWIN STANDARDTWIN • STANDARDTWN.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Athena Guest House

    TWIN STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about Athena Guest House

4.4
Review score
164 Reviews
Cleanliness
4.6 /10
Service
5.2 /10
Comfort
5.0 /10
Condition
4.2 /10
Neighborhood
7.6 /10
Amenities
4.8 /10
75 reviews shown
2/10
Poor
17 Jul 2026
ELLEN
Truly awful. Visibly very unclean - mould all over the shower, dust, oil, and grime all over the room. Every surface was sticky and the room and the building as a whole had an awful smell. The front door didn't lock and the bedroom door could be overcome by just pushing. The staff were unhelpful and unprofessional. I arrived at the property only to be directed to a house a 10 minute walk away, further from the city centre. I am deeply confused at how you could own a hotel and not even begin to clean it.
Self
2/10
Poor
07 Jul 2026
John
The hotel cancelled my booking due to them having an electrical problem. I would like a refund for my booking.
2/10
Poor
07 Nov 2024
robert
Apart from the bathroom, which looks new, the property is run-down and dirty. The room was cluttered with unusable furniture and was dirty. The mirror was too low and not secured properly to the wall. The partially closed curtains would not open or close. The entrance area is overcrowded with junk. The walls are so thin I could hear people talking in other rooms.
Self
4/10
Poor
25 Oct 2024
Mandhir
A tiny room in a guest house with makeshift arrangements. Bed mattresses are not proper, and noise from the neighbouring rooms / street can be disturbing.
Tea/Coffee bags were available
Location has some dining options and bus stop just a road across
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
29 Sep 2024
Verified traveler
1. Door lock keep catching, struggling to turn the keys
2. Broken lamps
3. Unsafe socket, loose covers
4. Very old tv/dvd, looks like its going to fall off the bracket
5. Dirty windows sills & dated decors/curtains
2/10
Poor
23 Sep 2024
Kulbir

Hell Hole

Everything about this place was terrible. Wouldn't stay here again even if you paid me.
Business
4/10
Poor
10 Jul 2024
Richard

Poor but acceptable cheapie

This place is an acceptable cheapie. It's run down, nothing matches and thins are a bit crooked but it's ok. However, I got 5 insect bites there and one got infected and I was in a and e 2 days later
Business
8/10
Excellent
28 Jun 2024
Gregory

Decent, very affordable stay in Cowley

As advertised, inexpensive and functional. The host was accommodating and the location is good, on Cowley Road, with a bus stop right across the street. The house is not new or recently refurbished and the furnishings are haphasard, but wvebrything was clean and functional. A good place to stay on a budget.
2/10
Poor
25 Jun 2024
Jorge

Stay away from this place

Judging for the outside of the property we could have guessed that the inside was terrible. All the plants are dried, there was even an abandoned cooler. The hotel sign is half falling from the post where it is attached.
The front key doesn’t work well. The room key wasn’t working and neither was the door knob. We complaint to management. they removed the door knob and didn’t fix the keys. It was difficult to open and to lock the door with the key, and they didn’t fix that.
Towels were clean but very used, some of them had holes and stains on them. Pillows were flat and uncomfortable. The fridge was very dirty. No towels racks, etc. The only positive thing was the service crew, who brought us towels and were really helpful.
Partner
2/10
Poor
21 Jun 2024
Jorge

Stay away from this place

Judging for the outside of the property we could have guessed that the inside was terrible. All the plants are dried, there was even an abandoned cooler. The hotel sign is half falling from the post where it is attached.
The front key doesn’t work well. The room key wasn’t working and neither was the door knob. We complaint to Jack, the owner and he removed the door knob and didn’t fix the keys. It was difficult to open and to lock the door.
Towels were clean but very used, some of them had holes and stains on them. Pillows were flat as a magazine. Fridge was very dirty. No towels racks, etc. The only positive thing was the lovely Junita, who cleaned our room and was really helpful.
Partner
4/10
Poor
11 Jun 2024
Stephen
Shower didn't work, 2 TVs in room , neither would work
Self
6/10
Pleasant
31 May 2024
Jeffrey
The room was clean and the bathroom had been recently remodeled. Checking in was a bit difficult with the management not on premise. The owners are making efforts to upgrade the property and could spend some time tidying up the front parking area and entry which is not very inviting.
Leisure Family
2/10
Poor
17 May 2024
Sam

It wasn’t THAT bad, but 1 star is fair

Cheapest place to stay in Oxford, I only really needed a hotel to get ready in and sleep. The initial room they tried to give us was in a different building, and it was literally just a bedroom in someone’s grotty house - stank of smoke and not safe! Do not book the room with the shared bathroom.

The room we moved to was acceptable given the cost (albeit incredibly dated and dirty), but that is about it.
Partner
2/10
Poor
10 May 2024
Ellis
The propertys unsafe, run down, service or lack of is poor, only good thing was the price, everything else was terrible
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
19 Apr 2024
luke
Shower not working
People in and out till silly o clock in the morning
Very run down
Business
2/10
Poor
25 Mar 2024
Verified traveler

Only for the needy and despite.

The hotel is a mess, very cheap for a reason. Went to hear a concert at the O2. Should have known better and read previous reviews. Shame as the property is in a prime location to make a killing. Needs a good scrub
Friends_and_family Family
2/10
Poor
31 Jan 2024
Brian
I would not reccomend this facility to anyone

Apart from the dog barking all night in the adacent room the boiler came on and off all night and the bathrom extract did not time switch off

This is over and above slamming and squeaky doors and floor boards it was awful
Business Self
2/10
Poor
28 Jan 2024
Verified traveler

Do not stay here!

We arrived at the agreed time, no-one there to meet us.
Eventually we got the keys to our room but were met by the resident drunk on the stairs. The whole place stinks of cigarettes. The room was filthy! Toilet was broken.
The resident came back to the room next door, shouting, screaming and swearing. Not pleasant.
We only booked this guest house due to being walking distance to the O2 Academy, but we got back from the gig to shouting, loud music, doors slamming, people running up and down the stairs. This did not stop until gone 5am.
Outside there is a poor dog tied up in the yard, that barks all night, and rattles his tin food bowls.
The owners/staff are not interested in listening to any complaints or concerns.
Please do not give this place your money, I would not return even if they paid me.
Partner
4/10
Poor
14 Nov 2023
Sarah

It was ok for a solo business trip

Hotel room was as described but very dated and the light did not work. Ok for a basic trip not spending much time in the room
Business
4/10
Poor
13 Nov 2023
Verified traveler

Only stay here if you're desperate

The place was so disappointing, we ended up leaving in the early hours of the morning, because we weren't able to sleep there anyway. The place is incredibly noisy, with people constantly coming and going throughout the night. The room, advertised as a double, actually contained three beds in a way that clearly violated all fire safety codes. All beds had thin and incredibly creaky mattresses, with every move you make causing yet more noise.

Check-in was also terrible and took nearly an hour. The lady checking people in couldn't do anything without a live video call with her boss, and spent almost the entire time we were checking unsuccessfully trying to get a card machine to work.
Partner
4/10
Poor
27 Oct 2023
Joanne

Wouldn’t stay again

Good location, but not very clean.
Friends_and_family Family
2/10
Poor
19 Oct 2023
Jack
I took a chance on this property due to the cheap rates, and assumed that the property couldn’t actually be as negative as the reviews made out. However, I was proved wrong.

The ‘hotel’ was actually a HMO located near the advertised property, the front door or which seemed to be left permanently unlocked. I was taken to a room at the top of a staircase, making my way past racks of clothes in the corridor (presumably from short/long term lets) to a room with 3 single beds in it and a broken fridge. The whole room was exceptionally dirty, with a curtain that didn’t cover the window and multiple roach traps dotted around the room. The room stank of smoke, and the shared toilets and bathrooms had broken fixtures and fittings. I can easily imagine many people would’ve felt unsafe.

Upon complaining I was ‘moved’ to a different property altogether a 10 minute walk away - for which the address was written on a piece of paper for me and then I was provided directions.

How this property has a 3-star is completely beyond me, and I would strongly recommend you avoid staying here.
Leisure Self
2/10
Poor
18 Oct 2023
Janet
Filthy dump. Asked for photographic proof of identity despite having paid in advance!
Business Self
2/10
Poor
08 Sep 2023
Rachel
Upon arrival we thought we had come to a hostels, realising we had no choice but to stop here as other places in the area was fully booked. The pictures on the web site must of been taken sometime ago as it now resembles a horror movie. Me and my husband thought there was a possibility of us getting mugged or raped through the night. The kettel kept switching itself on and off and the shower got legionnaires writen all over it. We did survive the ordeal but never again will we make this mistake. If you do book after reading this GOOD LUCK XX.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
24 Aug 2023
clive
The dirtiest hotel I have ever been in. It was that dirty we booked into an hotel. Avoid this place like the plague.
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
11 Aug 2023
Titus
The security and door locks are very poor, with no deadlocks or door-chains.
Business Self
4/10
Poor
28 Jul 2023
Fernando
Property is well located in Cowley, surrounded by restaurants and walking distance to the center.
The hotel is ill maintained, the room is not comfortable, the TV did not work, it was not very clean, in summary, we expected more for the price we paid. Would not return
Business Partner
4/10
Poor
23 Jun 2023
Valentina
It s really close to the city center
2/10
Poor
18 Jun 2023
Valentina
Central to some good dining options. Water did not drain from shower. Very tired hotel.
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
15 Jun 2023
Rachel

Disappointing stay at location

Started by being met owner at the Guesthouse that we have paid for a room in. We went into the main area of this property which was very cluttered and looks extremely dirty. We was asked to fill in a couple of forms which we did and after doing this we were informed that we was staying at a different property that was a 5 minute walk away.
We left this property and our car there and walked to this new location. Once arrived we ended up in to what I can only call a student property and we went to our room. Once in our room, we was treated with a small room that had an en suit which was as described however most of the furniture was dated/broken with many fittings needing updating. The bedding was clean and clean but old towels had been provided for us even though all towels was different. There was a tv provided in room however there was no remote to control this.
The bathroom was small and had lots of clear repairs attempted however could do with more and completing correctly. The shower and sink had little water pressure and showing in the morning was frankly hard work.
The location of this property was good for what we needed as it was 30 minutes from the city centre which is where we was spending the evening and had parking which was important to us.
Overall whole experience was little bit disappointing and was glad only stayed for one night - clear to say we left quiet early in the morning.
Positives - parking and locations
Negatives - there are many…
Partner
4/10
Poor
24 May 2023
Darren

Awful place

The location wasnt to bad . The rooms security was dreadful as i had to put the bed against the door so i could sleep . Ensuite was falling apart and filthy even food waste in the sink. £66 was dreadful its more like a £25 per night guesthouse . Avoid if possible. Surely there are standards and authorities that govern this .
Business
2/10
Poor
21 May 2023
Pamela
The toilet was so dirty, i couldnt even stay there i had to move out..
Business Friends
2/10
Poor
20 May 2023
Nicola
Dirty, noisy, unfriendly and uncomfortable. Room and bathroom were flithy. Broken radiator was on all night. Not safe or secure.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
19 May 2023
Rebecca
I did not read enough of the previous guest reviews before booking. There were multiple issues that caused me to give it the low rating.

Broken and missing pieces of the shower door, toilet flush button, curtains coming off the gods, burn holes in fabric dresser cloths, dirty dead plant displays on interior reception and outside at entrance, threadbare rugs through t property, dirty mini fridge, inoperable tv covered in dust, pillows that could not be fluffed, a dog barking during the night in the room next to mine. and. Someone kept putting the dog outside and bringing its back inside from the enclosed area outside which was just outside my bedroom windows.

I had arrived early after a very tough travel day and night. I was allowed to check in. The attendant asked for my payment and when I reminded and gave me a receipt because the room was already paid for. I suspected I was nearly double charged for a room that was well below all standards. I should not have stayed after seeing the conditions but had no other options.

I messaged Expedia shortly about my concerns and listed the concerns at the beginning of my stay but did not get a response. It was just the worst place I have ever stayed and I have concerns about the accuracy of the rating etc .
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
13 May 2023
Ashoka

Basic stay which fit my purpose

Responsive and helpful host/owner, average condition property. You get what you paid for.
Partner
4/10
Poor
06 May 2023
Robert
For .. It was warm, had an ensuite bathroom plus plenty of Tea and Coffee. There was a great pub oppossite with cocktails for £3.50
Angainst ..The whole place was scruffy, the room smelt strongly of smoke, the matress was cheap and uncomfy the pillows were barely an inch thick. The door key was a bad cut and took a lot of fiddling to lock the door. And a lot of money for what it was.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
22 Apr 2023
PAMELA
The dog barking outside our window and throwing himself at our window was upsetting. The listing said 15 minute walk to center, it’s more like 35-45. Although it’s says room service and housekeeping there isn’t any. Rooms were extremely small and closet was unusable. Fan in the bathroom never shut off even though I requested it be fixed on our first day.
Business_and_leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
27 Oct 2022
tracy
I was contacted in a friendly and welcoming manner. I was given a seat in the office to check in. The shower was clean. The other guests lovely. What great customer service. Oh I need more room to write. The bed and linen was hygienic. This man has his priorities in order. In fact I told a lie to myself. The outside is excellent too. We are spoilt for choice, you can use the kitchen for breakfast and you can have a cup of tea/ hot chocolate/ coffee in your room at your desk. Telly in your room. Pvc window opens out onto a view of trees and small back gardens/green area. Your key is given to you and other people checking in at the same time. Your brought upstairs and shown around. You can come in any time
As you have your own key. It is 100
Per cent from me. Amigos...
Tracy






Leisure Self
2/10
Poor
24 Oct 2022
Tim
Don't stay! Spend more and feel safe
Leisure Self
2/10
Poor
13 Oct 2022
Alberto

Never again

Terrible place dirty room to small the worse place I've ever been.
Business
2/10
Poor
30 Sep 2022
John

Avoid at all costs!

What a hovel. Obviously the health and safety inspectors have never visited this place.
We have had to apologise profusely to our sub-contractor who we put up there for a couple of nights. Moved him out as soon as we could find another hotel.
Business
4/10
Poor
09 Sep 2022
Verified traveler

Very Dusty

The apartment was very poorly maintained and in a very old condition with rust and dust everywhere !
The whole place needs a lot maintenance and cleaning!
The bathroom was not very clean either, the base of the shower was rusting!
I wouldn’t recommend it if you have more than a night to stay and are desperate !
Business Self
2/10
Poor
30 Aug 2022
Denise

What a hovel

I was travelling with an 82 year old. THis guest house should not be on anyones books let alone yours i’m shocked,upset and embarrassed to have taken my friend to this house. It was a health and fire risk . You were supposed to sort it out on Saturday but failed to ring me. Someone from your company needs to check this accommodation . I’m waiting now for an E. mail from you since talking to Joy on chat. THe pictures are nothing like the place we stayed in but I think he had three properties and they must have been from one of the others. We never showered or unpacked . We left the premises in the morning as soon as we got up 8 ish and didn’t get back till 8 and went straight to bed . He bed was he only thing clean thank god .It was a total nightmare . The kettle was filthy also all the wooden furniture ,ripped curtains it was an absolute hovel. I’ve been using you for many many years and have never stayed n a place as disgusting as this . Wat a waste of our train fare and visit to Oxford totally ruined.
Friends_and_family Friends
4/10
Poor
29 Aug 2022
Lavinia
It was dirty
Too expensive for what they offer
Leisure Family
4/10
Poor
18 Aug 2022
Festus

Hardly any customer service

The service was not as I anticipated would be from the details provided on the website. I was made to vacate my booked room twice due to the fact that I was informed another party required it due to the facilities within the room.
Business
2/10
Poor
10 Jul 2022
Verified traveler

Filthy over priced!

This property should not be on hotels.com

It’s dirty wholly overpriced.

Our room was not as advertised. A 3m x 4m room with three beds that took up any form of floor space.

Beds were extremely uncomfortable. Cheapest of the cheap!

We had cigarette butts in our room on the floor. When we spoke to ‘management’ they said “but the walls are freshly painted yesterday”. They kindly cleaned up the cigarette burns with a dirty mop.

The bathrooms are shared and utterly filthy.

Due to me complaining, we were offered another room in addition the the horror we already had. In this case it’s was a tiny room with two bed crammed in and a strong smell

When we checked out one of the rooms had What appeared to be 10 people in there.

I would never recommend this hotel and I may report it to the council.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
06 Jul 2022
Robin
Seemed a bit run down could do with a clean and polish

Up grade on bedroom furniture at the same time
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
29 May 2022
Angelina

Disappointed

The bed was ok but the room is smell of cigarettes cause of the others room was smoking in their room plus toilets i can see the cigarette ashes on the floor.i have to buy air fresher for room and keep open the windows despite cold and the heater is off.the room is cold and smells of cigarettes
Partner
2/10
Poor
18 Apr 2022
Jeremy

Don't. Just don't.

This is a classic case of read the reviews before booking.

The greeting was at best luke warm, although more realistically it wasn't an actual greeting, more like I'd interrupted my host's favourite TV show. A few vague instructions to fill in some bits of paper and I was shown to my suite in the annex.

The condition of the annex (that makes it sound quite chic, eh?) was very much in the late 70's East Berlin style. Function over character. Lots of cheap laminate. Every expense spared. After the chap had fiddled with the room lock for ages (I had the same problem later) the door swung open and my cell, sorry, my bedroom was revealed.

The bed linen was very fresh and clean.

That's the good bit.

If I was able to turn down the heat from the radiator I reckon I'd reverse global warming overnight. But I couldn't. The TV was a screen propped up against the wall. The bed frames straight from a film set after making a series on National Service.

The shared bathroom (I didn't book en suite) was grim. There was clearly long-term residents at the place and were probably getting their stay paid for by the authorities and so had the room full of their toiletries; the shower alone had around a dozen bottles in it. The toilet - no, I can't write about it. Suffice to say someone probably had a bad curry.

The point of me booking was to go to a gig, have a few beers and not worry about the drive home. I stayed dry and was gone before midnight. Basically I spent £63 for parking.
Self
8/10
Excellent
05 Nov 2021
Verified traveler

It’s great for short-stays :)

The stay was nice, we had an en-suite room which good handy. Unfortunately one of the towels that were left for us was dirty. But I brought my own which came in useful. On the bright side the comfort was really nice, I had a pleasing night, the bed was comfortable so both me and my partner had a good night. The location was really good too!
Partner
4/10
Poor
19 Oct 2021
Nicholas
Friendly staff, but the place wasn't great - Not v clean, old dishes left around, dirty, just generally not well kept.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
04 Oct 2021
Tom
Nice enough room in a shared property with a shared bathroom and locks on the doors.

Arranged to meet the property to manager by phone, but that was simple enough.

A nice location on Cowley road, next to a bus stop, and near various pubs, cafes and restaurants. .
Leisure Self
2/10
Poor
21 Sep 2021
Verified traveler

You get what you pay for.

Awful. Not a guest house but very very cheap student accommodation. My fault for booking so cheap. Man was rude and the wiring inside his office area made a third world slum wiring look professional and safe.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
04 Sep 2021
Verified traveler

wont be stayin again!

Not a good start, as we got there to check in at 4pm as stated, to find a note, 'if no answer, i have gone out, try again shortly, or ring this number'. So had to wait on the doorstep, with luggage only to find that if we wanted a private bathroom as opposed to a shared one, we would have to walk 5-10mins down the road to another building.
Shower didnt work, properly, and wasnt very clean... the bed was clean and comfortable, which was a good thing, that and your own key. Location was within half hour walking distance of places to visit, with bus stop right outside.
Checkout was at 10... a lil before this time, i was jus finishing my morning coffee when the cleaner knocked on door and said its time for you to leave now!
a messege i sent to the hotel before checking in, never got a reply!
The place lacks love and attention!
2/10
Poor
03 Sep 2021
Carl

Poor

Really poor security, basically a hostel that was situated 200 yards down the street from B&B, beds and furniture in a real poor state. someone banging on the communal door at 2am, messages from owner at 1130pm the day before arrival asking what time we were checking in and what rooms did we book?? Wife left her £200 straighteners in the room (her own fault) however not even a callback from the B&B
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
19 Aug 2021
Verified traveler
I was very apprehensive upon arrival as the property looks rather unwelcoming. We have struggled to contact the owner, but once they called us back, they made the check in process easy (however lots of paperwork to fill in). The room itself was a nice surprise, as we did not expect much! It was basic, but clean, kettle, tea/coffee and even biscuits were provided. TV working, hair dryer and an iron was also there. Room was dated, but we could not complain. And such a great distance to the shops and the City Centre- the bus stop almost at the doorstep. We were lucky to park at the property, so this was additional bonus. Overall, after the first impression, we were satisfied.
Leisure Family
2/10
Poor
10 Aug 2021
Hollie

What a joke!

Our stay can be described as nothing more than awful, absolute disgrace! We arrived late evening, was let in and taken into a small office to sign some papers, there was no friendly greeting what so ever, in fact he looked absolutely miserable. We went to our room when was next to where his office/kitchen/ living space was. When we were trying to sleep the owner was constantly walking up and down the hallways and stairs, sounded like a bloody elephant, also switching lights on and off constantly, banging doors closed, opening the backdoor when then lit up our room and then slamming the door again, then again, pacing corridors and stairs whilst playing a loud video on his phone. This was at around 1:30am, we opened our door and asked him to be quiet, all he did was turn off the video but proceeded to stomp up and down the stairs and hallways while flicking light switches on and off! Nome of us had any sleep and the owner was very aware that we had to be up very early in the morning. What a joke!
As for the room, there was mould on the bottoms of the net curtains, the single bed was creeking and cracking everytime I moved, in the morning I noticed there was cello tape around the bed frame! The flusher on the toilet was broken and we found hair in the bed, and the furniture just looked as though it would fall apart.
Do not stay here can't even say its good value for money because I have stayed in places of a similar price and had much better service, sleep and a much nicer room
Friends_and_family Family
2/10
Poor
10 Jul 2021
K
I didnot use the kitchen as it was so dirty the was old food sitting on top of the oven from the thursday morning i turning up to i went on Saturday there was out if date food in the fridge moulds on food in the cupboard and there was a lady on the top floor of where i was staying that was selling her self as she was taking blokes up and down all night the place was not cleaning the two days i was there it was so dirty
Partner
4/10
Poor
25 Jun 2021
Verified traveler
The bedroom was clean bt everything is just too old . The office was horrible it looked like a ghost room . These guys need to be a bit serious . It's only that I didn't have any other option otherwise I didn't like the place
Business Friends
2/10
Poor
09 May 2021
kevin

Extremely poor standard

No covid sagety measures no hand sanitizer, staff and guest not wearing face masks
Business
2/10
Poor
16 Aug 2020
Verified traveler

Do not book.

Very poor condition.
Floors are filthy, bathroom filthy.
Water leaking through the ceiling when the guests above take a shower.
TV has no picture only sound.
Room was not cleaned in time for check in.
Only cold tap is working.
Shower is either cold or burning hot.
Not hygienic at all.

Self
8/10
Excellent
15 Aug 2020
James

a

Nice
Business
4/10
Poor
13 Jul 2020
Dombashaba
The state of the front door alone was enough for me to question my choice and when the door opened I could see the carpet in the hall and stairs was dirty. The room we booked was en suite and it was a good size but furnished from a yard sale with nothing matching, filing cabinets for bedside tables so you caught your legs getting in and out of the (hard) bed. The bathroom wasn't bad, clean, as was the bed but the towels had evidence of the last user's hair. Arguably the worst aspect of the room was the curtains, which were hanging off the rails. Good touches were a fridge in room and we found two fans in the cupboard, large TV and plenty of channels although the TV screen wasn't the best, lines and colours wandering up and down.
Leisure Partner
4/10
Poor
26 Jun 2020
Mark

glad to leave

Turned up at around 5:15 to check in, I was on the phone to Hotels.com at 7:20 as there was no one in, finally at 7:35 someone appeared and then said they had no record of my booking but funny they found it after I showed them confirmation of my booking

My room looked like it had not been cleaned also I woke up the next 3 days with the smell of nicotine and tar down my throat as the person before me used the en-suite as a smoking room
In all fairness I used the room to only sleep in, as sitting in my car was more enjoyable than sitting in room that was dirty and smelt of smoke.
Business
2/10
Poor
06 Dec 2019
Verified traveler
Didn’t like the fact they never got back in touch the next day AS PROMISED !!! to confirm booking this resulting in me having to find alternative accommodation last minute. Very poor service ...
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
02 Dec 2019
Verified traveler
We walked in to this guys house and it seemed quite shaddy. He had us all sign some paperwork whilst he sat at a desk in what could only be his dining room surrounded by reciepts. He didnt really want to chat and wasnt overly friendly, just said what he needed to say but he did show us to our rooms. As for the rooms, they are not as nice as the photos. I would suggest they are like student accomodation at university.
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
28 Nov 2019
Nicholas

Clean bedroom but everything else is shabby.

We turned up and the outside looks like it hasn't been touched for years, paint off the door and generally looks like a dos house, the pictures are defiantly over ten years old. Turning up on a wet night it really did look like the Bates Motel.

It looked so rough I didnt want to pay till I saw the room and having been shown the room we were satisfied that it was clean and decided to stay.

As mentioned the room was nice and clean, the bed was comfy and although there was no TV remote as we were only staying the one night it was bearable.

Yes it does need modernizing and it is shabby in the halls, but we got a good nights sleep and survived the shower.

Its not a place to take someone who you want to impress.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
16 Nov 2019
Verified traveler
It’s basically what you’d expect for the price. Kind of run down. Dingy en suite bathroom with a shower that has no water pressure. It’s OK if you just want a convenient place to sleep. It is very convenient for getting into Oxford city centre, with a bus stop pretty much right across the street.
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
15 Nov 2019
Verified traveler
To location is lovely...
Business
4/10
Poor
11 Nov 2019
Verónica

Wasted potential

The place has so much potential, it’s a pity they don’t re-invest what they make. It’s falling to pieces, dirty, disorganized, cramped with stuff... the only advantage is that it’s close to the O2 academy.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
07 Nov 2019
Rebecca
Overall really nice hotel, bed not as soft for me so I didn’t sleep well but this I don’t feel is the hotels fault.
Friends_and_family Friends
4/10
Poor
04 Nov 2019
Verified traveler
Our main door was not as secure as we wud of liked , all the units in the room were sticky.
But worst of all the bes was shocking , wobbly and rickety , worst nights sleep .
Also there was sick outside the property.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
18 Oct 2019
Verified traveler
Property was a bit run down but our room was clean. The fridge in our room was noisy and kept us awake most of the night - there was also food left in it! The WiFi didn’t work and parking was an issue. However it suited for one night and location was pretty close to the centre.
Leisure Family
2/10
Poor
26 Sep 2019
Lola D.

Dirty accommodation

They couldn’t find our reservation. The listing did not prepare us for what we found. Office looked like the home of a hoarder. Mis hung curtains, run down furniture. Old TVs that didn’t work. Noisy street, opposite a pub. No parking.... get the picture??
2/10
Poor
25 Aug 2019
Verified traveler
Staff not around, service seemed disorganised. And i don’t see why i need to add more characters to this review
Friends_and_family Family

Location & surroundings

Athena Guest House
Cowley Road, 255, Oxford, United Kingdom

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Athena Guest House

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