The Old Bell Hotel, located in the quaint town of Malmesbury in Wiltshire, England, is a luxury hotel with a rich history dating back to the 13th century, welcoming guests since 1220 and rumouring to be England's oldest hotel.
The Old Bell Hotel has won numerous awards for its exceptional service, stunning interior design, and luxurious amenities. In 2019, it was named the "Best Boutique Hotel" at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence and a 'Muddy Stiletto' national award in 2022. We couldn't agree more; the hotel's commitment to providing its guests with a unique and unforgettable experience is evident in its attention to detail, personalised service and high customer service - from the moment we arrived to the moment we departed, we were honestly looked after by all members of staff.
The hotel's interior was welcoming and inviting; every tiny detail was considered to ensure pure comfort. Our stay was a space where we felt at ease, an area where we could unwind. We were looking for luxury for our weekend getaway, and The Old Bell Hotel was just that. In addition, the hotel had a sense of history, featuring an oak staircase, stone fireplaces and intriguing artwork - this just added to the charm and character of this beautiful hotel.
"This hotel is a must-stay, as it is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience."
When we arrived, we were welcomed by a friendly front-of-house team member, and shown to their 'Master Suite'. The suite was gorgeous; the atmosphere was light and airy, and the attention to detail was second to none, featuring a wonderfully comfortable bed with unique finishings and a stunning view over the quaint town of Malmesbury - this was our weekend escape.
Regarding wining and dining at the hotel, they have an inimitable attitude towards food and beverage, the exquisite dining experience offered at the on-site restaurant, Abbey Row. The menu features a range of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients prepared by award-winning chefs. Abbey Row offers a seasonal menu, which changes regularly to incorporate the freshest ingredients available from the local area. The restaurant's signature dish is the 'Wiltshire beef fillet' with smoked bone marrow and wild garlic, which has earned rave reviews from guests and critics alike - and we must agree the chefs deserve the credit, as they do have a natural talent for cooking mouth-watering food.
We have to mention the hotel's bar, The Hare and Hounds, the perfect setting for an evening cocktail; offering an impressive selection of wines and cocktails; all the bar mixologists were highly skilled and created bespoke cocktails tailored to each guest's preferences - we thought it would be rude not to try signature 'Old Bell Collins,' a signature beverage made with gin, elderflower, lemon and sparkling wine.
We loved our experience at The Old Bell Hotel, from the location - the town of Malmesbury and river walks being right on the doorstep, to the hotel's commitment to providing exceptional service and exquisite dining. This hotel is a must-stay, as it is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
The Bill: £290 per night
