The Old Bell Hotel

About

The Old Bell Hotel is an award winning 4 AA star hotel and two AA rosette restaurant (Abbey Row), located in the South Cotswolds market town of Malmesbury. Located in the heart of Malmesbury and sitting adjacent to the impressive 12th-century remains of Malmesbury Abbey, The Old Bell Hotel is renowned as England's oldest purpose-built hotel. Established in 1220 the hotel is a Grade I listed building due to its architectural and historic significance. Substantial parts of the hotel's fabric even date back to the 13th century when it served as the Abbey's guest house!
In April 2021, Kim and Whit Hanks purchased The Old Bell Hotel, followed by Malmesbury’s Abbey House Manor later that autumn. Though based in Texas, the Hanks have deep ancestral ties to Malmesbury and now consider it their second home.

Shortly after acquiring the hotel, they discovered that Whit’s ancestors had leased part of the building in the 1860s and 1870s. Passionate about history and heritage, Kim and Whit see themselves as stewards of this landmark, honouring its role in the town’s story while helping to preserve Malmesbury’s rich past.

The Old Bell Hotel  seamlessly blends centuries of heritage with modern touches, preserving the hotel's unique historical features whilst incorporating vibrant interiors including artisan wallpapers from British designers such as Melissa White and Lewis & Wood. The property is also peppered with whimsical antiques from Whit Hanks' own extensive collection, acquired on his world travels. The Old Bell Hotel boasts:

• 34 exquisite bedrooms.
• 6 new self-catering Townhouse Suites each individually designed and furnished
• Two stunning bar concepts – The 1220 bar and the fabulously stylish Tyger Bar.
• AA award winning restaurant Abbey Row.
• The Library and  Garden Room are perfect for all types of events

There are plenty of dog friendly rooms fitted with wood flooring available on request. Ask about the ‘Pampered Pooch’ luxury stays for your pet.

Master
The two Master Suites are spacious, luxurious, and inviting. Both are located on the first floor in the main house. They are furnished with soft seating living spaces along with a desk area.  These are rooms with stunning views over the gardens and the ancient town of Malmesbury. Enjoy Loring's four poster or Athelstan's superking bed.

Junior Master
All five Junior Masters are in the main house on either the first or second floor. Junior Master suites are uniquely decorated, and each brim with personality, perfect spaces to unwind after a busy a day. The Junior Masters have a mix of shower and bathtubs, and all have superking sized beds.

Classic
Situated in the main house, on the first and second floors, Classic rooms are each personally crafted with beautifully designed wallpaper and soft furnishings to ensure you experience a wonderfully relaxing stay. The Classic rooms each have a king size bed and each room has a combination of showers and bathtubs.

Character
All five Character rooms are in the main house, split over the first and second floor, full of character (of course) and full of the signature style, some with exposed original beams. These rooms are slightly smaller than the Classic sized rooms. Each bathroom has a shower.

Master Cosy
Gloriously stylish, both Master Cosy rooms are in the coach house. One is located on the ground floor and the other is on the first floor. The rooms benefit from a lounge space with a sofa bed. They both have showers, and one of the Master Cosy rooms comes with a ground floor patio. These rooms are excellent for families.

Cosy
Cosy by name but packed full of style, these rooms are in the coach house, which adjoins the main house. The rooms are fitted with a double bed and the bathrooms have a with shower. Some of the Cosy rooms can be made into twin rooms and Interconnecting cosy rooms are also available on the ground floor or first floor.

Single 
The four single bedrooms are perfect for the solo traveler. These rooms don’t skimp on style and personality. All have their own shower.
The Old Bell Hotel is perfectly located just a few miles from the M4, with easy access to Bath, Bristol, and London. The surrounding area is well worth visiting including Westonbirt Arboretum which runs a year-round calendar of events with something to suit everyone. Highgrove, home of HRH Prince Charles, is also within 3 miles near the picturesque town of Tetbury .