Old Bell Hotel Malmesbury, Malmesbury
About the Hotel
The Old Bell Hotel, located in Malmesbury, United Kingdom, is reputed to be the oldest purpose-built hotel in England, established in 1220. Adjacent to the historic Malmesbury Abbey, this hotel encapsulates a rich tapestry of history and culture. It serves as a gateway to explore the picturesque Cotswolds region and nearby attractions.
Location
Situated just 5 miles from Junction 17 of the M4 motorway, the hotel is easily accessible for exploring the region. Malmesbury itself is a charming market town with independent shops and historic sites, including the famed Abbey and Athelstan Museum. Guests can enjoy nearby natural attractions such as Westonbirt Arboretum and Cotswold Water Park.
Rooms
The hotel features 34 distinctive rooms, combining historic features with contemporary design. Each accommodation offers a unique character, with elegant decor and modern amenities ensuring a comfortable stay. Many rooms are dog-friendly, providing pet owners a welcoming retreat.
Eat & Drink
The on-site restaurant, Abbey Row, presents a menu crafted by Executive Chef Leigh Evans, focusing on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The intimate setting allows guests to relax while indulging in a range of delicious offerings, including traditional afternoon tea. The Tyger Bar further enhances the experience with a tropical vibe, perfect for enjoying drinks and light meals.
Leisure & Business
The Old Bell Hotel provides a cozy venue for leisure and business events, featuring private dining spaces that accommodate small groups up to 80 guests. The hotel's staff is noted for their exceptional service, ensuring guests receive personal attention for any event or leisure request. Various local activities can be arranged, from guided tours to culinary classes.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Internet access
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
- Security
- Coffee shop
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
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
- Cribs
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
Room features
- Wi-Fi in rooms
- Heating
- Mini-bar
- Terrace
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel had a beautiful look and our room, though a bit noisy due to music from the bar at night, was clean and had everything we needed for our overnight stay. The service was a bit mixed with some frosty encounters but also some nice gestures like a birthday cake and bubbly. Its inviting location next to the Abbey made it great for exploring the town, especially with appreciated hotel parking available. The dining experience was top-notch with fresh, high-quality dishes, though there were some inconsistencies. Overall, the facilities were good, but there were minor issues like the room layout.
The hotel offers clean and basic rooms, though spacious, with an additional dressing/lounging area. The service, while friendly and courteous, may lack experience at times. The location, adjacent to the Abbey and with convenient parking, is ideal for exploring local attractions. Dining options are satisfactory, with fresh dishes alongside the buffet, but some items may not be available as advertised.
The hotel offers good-sized rooms with a comfy bed and nice bathroom, though it can feel a bit detached from luxury. The service is a mix of surly and unfriendly, but there are exceptional moments of hospitality. The location is excellent, especially for exploring the Cotswolds. The dining experience is a highlight, with locally produced ingredients, but it could be improved for a 4-star hotel.