The Old Bell Hotel - Malmesbury

Damien T.

The hotel is full of character and ideally located in a charming village. We enjoyed a lovely dinner together as a family — the food and atmosphere were excellent. A special mention to Robbie, who was on duty at night: he went out of his way to assist us, bringing extra towels and tea around midnight on our first night, and personally offering to look after our cars. His kindness and professionalism stood out and were genuinely reassuring.

The rest of the experience fell short, especially considering the expectations set in advance. Despite reserving two car park spaces months earlier, none were available when we arrived. Our three rooms, booked together for a family weekend, were scattered across the hotel — a frustrating surprise.

Worse, the master bedroom was clearly set up for a single guest — just one towel, one pair of slippers, and so on — even though booked for two. When we raised this, the staff were largely indifferent, with an unhelpful “it is what it is” attitude.

This was especially disappointing given that the hotel had proactively called me multiple times before our stay to confirm all details — dinner, rooms, parking. We truly believed everything had been carefully prepared. Instead, it felt like the hotel’s priorities were more about its own logistics than creating a thoughtful experience for guests.

Junipers

Room on top floor was not ideal as we are not young. It was a nice room and should be at £300+ per night. At that price you would expect a few more extras that you get even in some budget hotels. No shower cap. One small biscuit per person. Breakfast was good but staff while friendly did not keep their eye on the buffet section not being topped up. Also not efficient in removing dirty plates from table. This was the case on both mornings. Did have Sunday lunch which was really nice and the staff were excellent. You are ultimately paying over the odds though for the privilege of staying in this historic building and no its not really worth it.

Navigator50268673373

Invited to an evening birthday party celebration on a very warm day. The venue setting was very appealing. However, the small bottle of beer I ordered on arrival, was warm. Not a good start. The served canapes were stale. The bar which did serve chilled beer was under staffed, leading to long waiting times for service. The grass was embeded into a plastic lattice framework. Three children suffered skin injuries from metalwork securing it. There were disputes about served food for children which was inedible for them. The personal service I received on one occasion was “snootily” abysmal. |The hostess was charming and carried the evening through despite, not helped by, the staff. |Personally, I will not return under any circumstance.

Missjetlagged

Service is wonderful. Breakfast and dinner was great. The only complaint must be the tiny room we had. A so called «cosy room» was so small. However we did not lack anything and it was only for one night. For one of the oldest hotels in England, it was a pleasant surprise how well kept everything was. |Staff was superb!

Steven P.

This hotel is full of charm and the public areas have a relaxing atmosphere with many different areas. The food and staff are excellent as is the location of the hotel.
We stayed in one of the bedrooms in the extension. Air conditioning would have been good but the fan helped during a very hot period.
As and when we return to Westonbirt for another concert, we will be looking to stay again.

Morris S.

Great room, comfortable bed, roomy bathroom, wonderful breakfasts, friendly staff and services, good food in the dining room, parking was easy but tightly packed. Although, the bar drinks seemed a bit costly. Wonderful lounge areas to enjoy playing games or to read in. Try their cream tea offering. Really enjoyed the stay.

lindalsf8

Lovely hotel, staff very welcoming & accommodating . Well looked after hotel, tastefully modernised, welcome drinks after check in, only stayed one night but will definitely go back and stay longer. Well situated next to the Abbey. Wished we’d gone a couple of days earlier to also appreciate the private tour of the Manor House gardens, maybe next time

Tom O.

Had a coffee with friends. It's a lovely place to relax and chat. We ordered cafetieres of coffee and they were originally too weak so they made them stronger! Then it was too strong so we had to ask for additional water!
They were very chilled about it.