I’ll never forget the drive down to Oxfordshire last month – we piled into the car with the kids buzzing like they’d mainlined Ribena, only for me to take a wrong turn just outside the M40 and end up in some cheeky little village detour. Satnav was having a right paddy, and by the time we sorted it, the other half was shooting me looks that could curdle milk. Still, it gave us a laugh and a chance to belt out some dodgy car karaoke to calm the troops.

Pulling up to the place, my heart did a little flip – I’d been picturing this perfect family bolt-hole all week, and it didn’t disappoint. Tucked right in the heart of Oxford city centre, it’s this gorgeous pair of buildings that blend old-school charm with proper luxury, complete with a serene courtyard garden where a fountain burbles away like it’s whispering sweet nothings. There’s outdoor seating in both spots, ideal for larger groups like ours who want to muck about together but nip off for a bit of peace when the kids turn feral. We had the run of the lot, sleeping a good dozen of us comfy as you like (with space for the little ones in cots if needed).

First impressions? Blimey, it felt like stepping into a hug from an old mate. We dumped the bags and straight away the kids legged it to the garden, splashing about while we cracked open a bottle of fizz on the patio. No faffing with check-ins or cramped hotel rooms – just us, settling into this relaxed rhythm that screamed proper family holiday.

The next few days were pure bliss, all about those simple pleasures amid the gentle chaos of cottage life. Mornings kicked off with a stagger to the bustling Covered Market for fresh pastries and a mooch around the stalls – the kids hoovered up cheesy smiles from the cheese-mongers while we haggled over posh chutneys. Afternoons were for pottering along the river, punting under the bridges with the odd wobble that had everyone in stitches (me especially, as I nearly ended up in the drink trying to look masterful). We’d wander the colleges too – Christ Church’s grand quad had the littlies pretending to be Harry Potter, wide-eyed and whispering, while us grown-ups snuck a pint in a cosy pub nearby.

Evenings brought the best bit: firing up the barbie in the courtyard (weather gods smiled on us), rustling up a massive feast of local sausages and salads, then sprawling out under the stars with board games that descended into glorious anarchy. One night, the youngest smeared BBQ sauce everywhere, turning into a human Jackson Pollock – cue much towel-wrestling and giggles till bedtime.

Looking back, it was one of those stays that makes you reflect on how daft we can be, rushing about life back home. Here, amid the fountain’s trickle and the city’s hum just beyond, we slowed right down. No grand plans, just family, food, and a few fumbles – the stuff memories are made of. If you’re after a laid-back Oxfordshire escape with your lot, this is the ticket. We’re already plotting a return.