Words by Henry T Radford

Review | Mollie’s Motel & Diner | Faringdon, Oxfordshire

Enjoy an elevated roadside stop-off immersed in Americana foodies fantasy.

Combining Soho House touches with an American roadside pitstop, Mollie’s Motel reimagines on-the-go luxury with a nostalgic experience.

Perfectly situated for those on route to Cotswold hotspots such as Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold, Mollie’s is everything you’d dream up and more from a 1950s diner.  With its now iconic neon sign decked across the building, Instagram aficionados will be in their element.

The Stay

On arrival, Mollie’s Lounge is the undoubted centrepiece of the property, boasting a living room of laid back interiors, a contemporary workspace and stylish bar. Whether it’s with a drink on the rocks or Mollie’s own blend artisan coffee, you’re encouraged to enjoy the quintessential countryside garden courtyard, paying homage to its Cotswold surroundings complete with lavender, lambs-ear and thyme. Looking out to tranquil and untouched fields, who says short stays shouldn’t be sensory?

Bringing technology into the motel mix, The Mollie’s app opens a raft of digital-led benefits for guests. Effortless check in, room key on device, and personalisation of your bedroom TV allows for a seamless at-home experience.

Room

You can instantly recognise Soho House’s distinctive design finesse in its rooms, blending characteristic and eclectic style with carefully considered luxury touches. Mollie’s has partnered with a number of renowned British brands to elevate guest experience. Bedrooms feature Conran furniture and lighting, oak lined walls, terrazzo tiles and chrome finishes. Indulgent cotton sheets and handcrafted Hypnos mattresses lead to an ultimate night’s sleep. Bathrooms are fitted with powerful rain showers, luxurious Cowshed products matched to the flora outside, fluffy towels and the latest Dyson and GHD hair appliances.

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On The Menu

A stones throw from the motel is Mollie’s Diner, a modern all-day hang-out serving up retro food with the finer touch. The setting hints at a classic diner style, but is reinvented as expected with elegant vintage inspired lighting, sleek tiling, warm wood and chrome fittings. Relaxing into leather banquettes reminiscent of the interior of a Cadillac, vintage cocktails are served up alongside American inspired plates. From downright decadent burgers to rotisserie chicken and gourmet mac ’n’ cheese, ‘feel good’ is officially on the menu.

To Do

With the Cotswolds at your disposal, every country road leads to somewhere remarkable. Bicester Village has become a cult shopping spot; a designer outlet home to over 160 boutiques and luxury brands. What’s more, Mollie’s guests are offered an exclusive 10% VIP discount on selected retailers there. There’s of course the historic city of Oxford nearby, and Blenheim Palace with all its royal wonder.

In a Nutshell

Cool, contemporary and comfortable interiors exclusively designed by Soho House, combined with a fun atmosphere, destination dining, personable service and innovative tech, all at an unexpectedly affordable price point, makes Mollie’s a road trip must-visit.

Factbox

Address: Shrivenham Rd, A420, Buckland Road, Faringdon, SN7 8PY
Phone: 01367 707777
Email: oxfordshire@mollies.com
Website:
www.mollies.com

All imagery credit: Mollies Motel & Diner

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