"The Old Bell Hotel claims to be 'England's Oldest Hotel', which may well be true."
Roger H from United Kingdom
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"Breakfast was fantastic, the Hotel is beautifully restored with a wonderful history."
Alison from United Kingdom
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"Beautiful building with a lot of character."
Natasha from United Kingdom
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"Should have a Michelin star."
Margaret Muller from Portugal
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"The hotel decor is a feast for the eyes, staff were friendly and helpful and they had a great breakfast selection."
Annette from Norway
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4-star historic hotel in Malmesbury
Rooms
The Old Bell Hotel offers 34 distinctively decorated rooms, combining historic charm with contemporary design. All accommodations have unique features, such as exposed original beams and designer wallpapers. Guests can choose from options like Character rooms, Master Cosy rooms, or luxury Townhouse Suites, allowing for a tailored stay experience.
Dining
Abbey Row restaurant serves an extensive menu focusing on locally sourced ingredients and signature cocktails. The intimate atmosphere invites guests to enjoy a meal paired with delicious flavors, making dining both a relaxing and delightful experience. Private dining options are available for gatherings of 10 to 60 guests, creating a bespoke culinary experience.
Amenities
The hotel welcomes canine companions, offering dog-friendly rooms and amenities including luxury fur beds and treats. Guests can bring their pets along for a nightly fee of £25, ensuring that dogs are comfortable during their stay. Scenic walks are just outside the hotel, making it easy for guests to explore the area with their furry friends.
Special Events
The Old Bell Hotel provides a selection of private dining options and bespoke wedding spaces designed to accommodate various gatherings. The charming library setting and the airy Cotswold stone Garden Room provide versatile backdrops for events. Customized catering menus enhance the experience, featuring seasonal ingredients and gourmet options.
Location
Situated next to the historic Malmesbury Abbey, the hotel provides guests easy access to explore local attractions. The surrounding area features beautiful countryside and several National Trust sites within close proximity. Malmesbury itself boasts a charming market town atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and discovery.
Highlights
Rooms: 34 distinctively decorated rooms
Dining: Abbey Row restaurant with locally sourced ingredients
Pet-Friendly: dog-friendly rooms with luxury fur beds
Special Events: private dining options and bespoke wedding spaces
Location: historic Malmesbury Abbey next to the hotel
“The commitment to culinary excellence appears to have returned with significant force, showcasing a kitchen that can truly impress. Beyond the dining room, the building itself is a characterful canvas, filled with eclectic charm and providing a welcoming atmosphere, though one might encounter the occasional historic quirk like a restless radiator. It's clear this is a property that understands how to blend its considerable age with a contemporary, comfortable hospitality.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Ukwiltshire
Select your room type
The Old Bell Hotel features double rooms, family rooms, and suites, each offering breakfast options, flexible cancellation terms, and special rates
Single Room
2 persons
16 m²
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Character Double Room
2 persons
18 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Junior Master Suite
2 persons
21 m²
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Room Rates & Availability Calendar
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Facilities
The Old Bell Hotel provides a range of amenities to help make your stay comfortable and your visit memorable
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Internet access
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Security
Coffee shop
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Pet amenities available
Room service
Laundry
Welcome drink
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Room features
Heating
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Washing machine
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite
Experience a delightful blend of traditional British fare at The Old Bell Hotel's dining options. The culinary artistry of Executive Chef Leigh Evans shines through a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a curated selection of drinks and signature cocktails. With cozy, romantic settings and special accommodation for guests seeking private dining experiences, each meal promises a memorable occasion.
Abbey Row
British, Local
Ambiance
Traditional and romantic, Abbey Row offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate meals or special gatherings.
Key Offerings
Savor a thoughtfully crafted menu that caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Complement your meal with locally sourced drinks and signature cocktails, as well as the opportunity to enjoy a delicious picnic in stylish Fortnum and Mason hampers.
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Open for breakfast and dinner
Where to Find The Old Bell Hotel
Abbey Row, Malmesbury, Malmesbury, SN16 0BW,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Charlton Park House
2.75 km
Landmark
RAF Long Newnton
4.66 km
Nearby
Church
Malmesbury Abbey
60 m
Garden
The Abbey House Gardens
240 m
Event hall
Malmesbury Market Cross
310 m
Museum
Athelstan Museum
380 m
The Guildhall Guildhall Square
Salisbury Guildhall
250 m
Restaurants
The Refectory
10 m
Abbey Row
La Campagna Bar & Restaurant
250 m
9 Oxford Street
Michael's Butchers
230 m
51 The Triangle Opposite the Three Cups Public House
The Whole Hog
320 m
8 Market Cross
The Kings Arms Restaurant
300 m
29 High Street
Coffee#1 Malmesbury
290 m
23 High Street
The Smoking Dog
440 m
62 High Street
Explore Malmesbury
Explore Malmesbury
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Malmesbury Abbey
1 minute walking
Historic gem with stunning architecture and a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Guided tours available.
The Abbey House Gardens
3 minutes walking
Beautiful gardens featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary designs, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Malmesbury Market Cross
4 minutes walking
Iconic market feature with a rich history, surrounded by charming shops and cafes, ideal for photography.
Athelstan Museum
5 minutes walking
Local history museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Malmesbury's past. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Cycling the River Avon
10 minutes driving
Scenic cycling route with bike rentals available. Ideal for both leisurely and adventurous riders. Family-friendly.
Yoga in the Park
5 minutes walking
Relaxing outdoor yoga classes offered seasonally in the nearby gardens, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
The Refectory
1 minute walking
Cozy dining spot offering local favorites and seasonal dishes, with vegetarian options. Reservations recommended.
La Campagna Bar & Restaurant
3 minutes walking
Charming atmosphere serving Italian cuisine with house-made pasta and a selection of fine wines. Ideal for romantic dinners.
The Kings Arms Restaurant
4 minutes walking
Traditional pub with a welcoming vibe, known for hearty British meals and local ales. Family-friendly dining experience.
The Old Bell Lounge Bar
0 minutes walking
On-site bar featuring live music events and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Malmesbury Town Hall
5 minutes walking
Host to various community events and performances. Check for comedy nights and family-friendly shows year-round.
Travel & transport
City Centre
Malmesbury 2 min · 100 m
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO) 80 min · 53.3 km
Bristol (BRS) 91 min · 60.1 km
Bus
Bus stop 22 min · 14.4 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
High-speed internet access is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 20.0 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, Spanish, Romanian
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
40
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Guest feedback for The Old Bell Hotel, shared by travelers who have stayed there.
Cleanliness
9.1/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.1/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Quirky hotel
Comfortable rooms
Friendly bar staff
Lovely garden
Attentive staff
Cons
Slow restaurant service
Heating issues
Guest reviews
based on 836 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About The Old Bell Hotel
Are there options for twin-bedded rooms at The Old Bell Hotel?
10 October 2024
Yes, twin-bedded arrangements are available in several room types. It's recommended to contact the hotel directly to ensure proper allocation of a twin-bedded room.
Is it possible to bring my dog along to stay at The Old Bell Hotel?
20 November 2024
Absolutely! The hotel is pet-friendly and welcomes dogs in many rooms. There is an additional fee for canine guests.
Do you cater to special occasions, like a wedding anniversary, with room arrangements?
15 January 2025
Yes, romantic arrangements can be made to make your special occasion memorable. Consider reserving a room in the main part of the hotel for a unique experience.
Are there any rooms with walk-in showers available?
5 February 2025
Some rooms in the main house feature walk-in showers, including specific Character and Junior Master rooms. Contact the hotel for availability.
Does the dining menu include gluten-free options?
18 March 2025
Yes, there are gluten-free selections available for both breakfast and dinner. The hotel accommodates various dietary needs.
What are the typical check-in and check-out times for guests?
28 April 2025
Check-in is available from 15:00, and check-out is until 11:00. Early or late check-in and check-out requests can be made during the booking process but cannot be guaranteed.
Is there a restaurant on-site for meals?
12 May 2025
Yes, the hotel features an on-site restaurant providing a range of delicious food options.
What transportation options are available for reaching The Old Bell Hotel from London?
22 June 2025
The best approach is to take a train from London Paddington to Chippenham, followed by a pre-booked taxi to the hotel.
Can guests request a travel cot for their infants?
30 July 2025
Yes, travel cots can be arranged for infants, allowing families to stay comfortably.
Is parking available at The Old Bell Hotel?
8 August 2025
Yes, there is limited parking available for guests, along with nearby long-stay parking options.