The Old Bell Hotel: Discover England’s Oldest Hotel in Malmesbury

Located in Malmesbury, a picturesque market town often described as the “southern gateway” to the Cotswolds, The Old Bell Hotel offers a truly unique stay steeped in centuries of history.

Widely acclaimed as England’s oldest purpose-built hotel, The Old Bell has been welcoming guests for over 800 years. Established in 1220 by Abbot Loring to accommodate visitors to nearby Malmesbury Abbey, it remains one of the most historically significant places to stay in Wiltshire and beyond.

 

A Stay Surrounded by History

Few hotels can rival the heritage of The Old Bell Hotel. Positioned alongside the abbey, it has stood at the centre of Malmesbury life for centuries, offering rest to travellers since medieval times.

Inside, history is etched into every detail. The lounge is home to an extraordinary stone fireplace believed to date back to the 13th century, thought to be one of the earliest surviving flue fireplaces outside of a castle in England.

 

Malmesbury itself is steeped in royal significance and was once a favourite of King Athelstan, widely recognised as the first King of all England. During his reign, the town was considered the nation’s first capital, adding further depth to its already remarkable story.

 

Perched around 302 feet above sea level, Malmesbury has earned the nickname “Queen of Hilltop Towns”. With its honey-coloured stone cottages, independent shops, and historic high street, it’s easy to see why it continues to capture the imagination, and why it has recently been named one of the best places to live in the UK.

 

Timeless Character Meets Modern Comfort

While The Old Bell Hotel is rich in history, it also delivers a refined boutique experience. It seamlessly blends period features with modern comfort, offering guests a stay that feels both authentic and indulgent.

 

The hotel’s dining experience is centred around Abbey Row, an intimate restaurant that perfectly complements the building’s historic charm. With a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere, it offers a space to truly relax and indulge. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu, paired with locally sourced drinks and signature cocktails.

 

Afternoon tea is also a highlight here, providing a quintessentially British experience in a setting that feels both timeless and special.

 

A Remarkable Connection: The Owners’ Story

The story of The Old Bell Hotel continues into the present day with its current owners, Kim Hanks and Whit Hanks, founders of Whim Hospitality.

 

Having been regular visitors to Malmesbury long before acquiring the hotel in March 2021, their connection to the town runs deep. The Hanks family has ancestral ties to the area dating back to before 1500, with records showing that Walter Hanks, a pioneering local industrialist, operated a mill on the nearby River Avon as far back as the late 1100s.

 

Following the purchase, a remarkable discovery revealed that members of the Hanks family had owned part of the hotel more than 150 years earlier. Historical records also show that Mark Pleydell Hanks, a relative, was living nearby in the 19th century.

 

For Kim and Whit, the acquisition of The Old Bell Hotel represents more than just a business venture: it is, in many ways, a homecoming.

 

 

A Place to Gather, Celebrate and Unwind

Beyond its historic significance, The Old Bell Hotel has become a destination for dining, celebrations, and memorable experiences. Its unique setting makes it particularly popular for weddings, private events, and special occasions.

 

With Malmesbury’s vibrant high street just moments away, guests can explore independent shops, cafés, and cultural landmarks, all within easy walking distance.

 

Experience One of England’s Most Historic Stays

For those seeking a hotel experience that goes beyond the ordinary, The Old Bell Hotel offers something truly special.

 

Combining over eight centuries of history with boutique luxury, exceptional dining, and a deeply rooted story of heritage and return, it stands as one of the most unique and compelling places to stay in Wiltshire, beautifully positioned on the edge of the Cotswolds.

 

www.oldbellhotel.co.uk