There are no pets to look after
A mature, reliable individual or couple, prepared to look after one large, friendly and, frankly, low maintenance cat from 20th - 28th July or part of this time.
In return, you have a recently refurbished, comfortable and clean base in Oxford within easy reach of its dreaming spires, and other attractions. The Cotswolds is a short drive or train ride.
Very few: Pybus, the cat, needs a small plate of wet and a scoop of dried food twice a day as well as fresh water and the occasional saucer of milk. His thick coat benefits from a brush, which he loves. The compact garden requires a bit of basic maintenance: grass cutting, weeding and, above all, watering.
Our comfortable two bedroom house is situated within the Oxford ring road on a bus route into town and a pleasant walk from Iffley village and the river Thames. The property, which has been recently refurbished throughout, is clean and well maintained. It has a large, well appointed kitchen/dining room overlooking the garden, a comfortable sitting room, two bedrooms (one en-suite), a dressing room and a bathroom with walk-in shower. There is one external security camera at the front of the property.
Oxford is an architectural and historical delight, with its colleges, churches, museums and bookshops. Diversity, liveliness and interesting independent restaurants are provided by nearby Cowley Rd. Iffley Village is 10 minutes walk away and its Norman Church and country houses form an ideal route to the river. There are two excellent gastropubs and and other interesting restaurants around half a mile away.
Sightseeing attractions outside the city include Blenheim Palace in the nearby village of Woodstock, 10 km north of Oxford, pretty Cotswold villages and Stratford. London is 80km away. The coach service to London is cheap and frequent ( every 20 minutes), journey time around 90 mins. There are also regular trains to both London Paddington and Marylebone stations.
We would prefer either a mature single person or a couple, with references, either from previous house sits or from an employer. We'd like to meet you beforehand: ideally you would arrive on Sunday 19th July, a day before we depart, so we can explain various aspects of the house.
No, sorry.
Testimonials
A Highly Recommended Housesit
I had the pleasure of staying at Tim and Melissa’s home and caring for their very sweet but independent cat, Pybus, for two weeks—and I enjoyed it immensely. Tim and Melissa are the most wonderful hosts you could imagine. During the first days, they kindly showed me around to help me find the best shopping facilities and the many beautiful cycle paths nearby. They made sure I had everything I could possibly need for my stay—even lending me Tim’s bicycle, which was a real joy for exploring Oxford and its surroundings. With so many cycle paths, it’s truly the perfect city to get around on two wheels. Their house is spotless, super comfortable, and comes with a lovely garden that required only minimal attention. As for Pybus, he is absolutely adorable. He enjoys the occasional treat and a good brush, but otherwise he is very independent. At his age, he spends much of his time peacefully napping or relaxing on his favorite chair. If you ever have the opportunity to sit for Pybus, don’t hesitate—it’s a wonderful experience. Many thanks again to Tim and Melissa!
Katrin,, Spain, August 2025
Oxford stay
It's going to be difficult to top this one. Tim and Melissa and Pybus were dream hosts. Detailed printed instructions about the house, a tour of the city, and schedules for routine care had me so comfortable right away. You would be hard pressed to find a more knowledgeable and enjoyable couple! XX
Elyse, United States, March 2025
Oxford House and cat sit
I looked after Tim's house and cat, Pybus for a week. I enjoyed the stay, it is a nice area and near to Oxford. The house is near a lovely village, Iffley and Iffley lock with a 25m walk along the River Isis to Folly Bridge, Oxford. It is close by to many useful shops. I especially enjoyed looking after Pybus who is a low maintenance, independent, chilled and lovely cat. He enjoys sunshine, sleeping and company. It was unfortunate to have the gas situation but Tim kept in good communication and the neighbours were helpful. Tim picked me up from the station and cooked a very nice meal. The room I stayed in was comfortable with a extremely comfortable bed!
Verity, August 2021
Oxford delight.
Our assignment for Tim & Melissa was a fortunate surprise. We found the venue & pet to be relaxed and friendly. Gardening was a pleasure to do in the summer heat, pottering & watering as needed. The house was full of books to browse & read at leisure. Oxford and historic visits available nearby, to walk, drive or public transport. Tim dealt with any requests with humour and we felt that we were lucky to have such a kind host. We would love to return should we get the chance again Lesley & Gary August 2020
Lesley & Gary, France, August 2020
Wonderful Location in Oxford
Tim and Melissa were wonderful from the moment we met. They showed us around Oxford and prepared a wonderful meal for us on the day we arrived. Pybus, the cat, was an absolute sweetheart and would spend the evening cuddling. Tims home is comfortable with a lovely garden and in a great location to visit the sights of Oxford or strike out for the day to visit London, the Cotswolds or Bath. We had a wonderful time and would highly recommend sitting for Tim.
Julie, October 2019