As the evenings draw in and the first whispers of festive indulgence fill the air, The Old Bell Hotel offers a warm and welcoming luxury escape and a place to feel at home.
In the hilltop town of Malmesbury, a tranquil corner of the South Cotswolds, stands The Old Bell Hotel, sitting proudly beside Malmesbury Abbey, one of Wiltshire’s most remarkable historic landmarks. The 34-suite hotel invites guests to embrace this enchanting time of year, with cosy overnight stays, delicious hearty dishes, roaring fires and crisp country walks.
Whimsical
As guests step through the doors, the chill of the outdoors falls away and there is an immediate unmistakable sense of welcome. Characterful and quirky giraffe heads adorn the reception with eccentric and whimsical charm. The hotel lounge feels a little like discovering a beautifully collected home, where every corner has a story, an eclectic mix of antique furniture creates an interior that feels lived-in and full of personality. The effortless mix of history, playful design, and welcoming atmosphere has earned it fifth place among the UK’s best hotels in the Condé Nast Traveller reader awards.
Après-ski
The Old Bell Hotel’s indoor-outdoor space, Tyger Bar, takes on a new look for the cosy seasons, inspired by an après-ski hideaway. An unexpected find, where the Alps meet a centuries-old hotel. The bar captures the essence of a mountaintop retreat; chairs are draped in faux fur, and cosy blankets are at hand. Après-ski cocktails, ‘Off Piste’ and ‘Whit’s Way Winter Margarita’ alongside bratwurst, hot dogs, and baked Camembert sharing plates, make it the perfect setting to gather with friends, unwind and escape the everyday.
Winter dining
Serving modern British à la carte classics, Abbey Row, the hotel’s laid-back restaurant, offers the perfect balance between sophisticated and unfussy food. Expect market fish, homemade pies, and bavette steak, alongside hearty seasonal dishes that feel particularly fitting during the colder months. Dining feels decadent in the historic surroundings, where candlelight flickers across centuries-old interiors as the evenings draw in. Sunday lunches offer the best of traditional British roasts, from West Country beef, pork, and tender corn-fed chicken, and vegetarian options with locally sourced seasonal accompaniments. Afternoon tea brings a touch of indulgence to a winter’s afternoon, with freshly baked buttermilk scones, classic finger sandwiches, and tempting sweet treats, from orange macaroons to pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting.
Rooms with character
The rooms at The Old Bell Hotel feel made for the magic of the season and are every bit as individual as the hotel itself. Blending historic charm with thoughtful touches and a playful sense of style. The spacious Master Suites are particularly inviting, with luxurious four-poster or super-king beds, beautiful views across the gardens and the ancient town of Malmesbury. The Character Rooms bring the hotel’s signature personality to life through unique décor and original features, including exposed timber beams, while the Classic Rooms promise a restful night’s sleep on king-size Hypnos mattresses. For those seeking a little more independence, the Townhouse Suites are just a short walk from the hotel. Each room features beautifully scented Bramley toiletries, made with natural ingredients and essential oils inspired by the British countryside.
A town to explore
Steeped in history, yet full of contemporary charm, there is a feel of storybook magic to the town at this time of year. The streets are lined with independent lifestyle shops, bookstores, artisan makers, and inviting cafes to explore. Whether you’re picking up an antique treasure, finding a locally crafted gift for someone special or simply wandering its historic streets, Malmesbury is a Cotswolds town that feels like you have stepped into a real-life Christmas film. The surrounding countryside is perfect for exploring, whether a leisurely stroll or a more challenging ramble; rolling fields and winding paths, the landscape offers a beautiful backdrop for getting outdoors.
“As the seasons shift, The Old Bell Hotel offers guests the perfect balance of cosy charm and understated luxury, combined with our unique quirky character, great food, friendly service, and beautiful countryside surroundings. The team are incredibly proud to have been recognised this year by Condé Nast Traveller for winning 5th Best Hotel in the UK in the reader awards and to have won Hotel Design of the Year at the Independent Hotel Show Awards 2026. These awards celebrate what makes the hotel so special, and we look forward to welcoming guests for a relaxing escape during this magical time.”
Helen Bath – General Manager at The Old Bell Hotel
A long staycation or a weekend away, visitors to The Old Bell Hotel can leave the bustle of everyday life behind and simply slow down. Guests are welcome throughout autumn and winter whether visiting as a couple, with family, or with friends. A true Cotswolds gem – The Old Bell Hotel is waiting to be discovered this season.
 | To find out more about The Old Bell Hotel, visit https://www.oldbellhotel.co.uk/ |
