The Cotswold town of Malmesbury is celebrating a standout moment in hospitality, with Helen Bath, General Manager of The Old Bell Hotel being honoured as one of the recipients of this year’s prestigious The Caterer’s Acorn Awards 2026.
The Caterer’s 30 under 30 awards are recognised as one of the hospitality industry’s leading accolades, championing the UK’s emerging talent across hotels, restaurants, bars, pubs, and hospitality businesses. From chefs and restaurateurs to mixologists, hotel managers, and housekeepers the Acorn Awards celebrates employees under 30 years old who demonstrate exceptional ambition, leadership, innovation, and influence within the industry.
Helen Bath joined The Old Bell Hotel in 2021 as Front Office Manager and within a year Helen was promoted to General Manager overseeing operations, revenue, and strategic direction. Her progression reflects a combination of leadership, commercial awareness, and a deeply hands-on approach to hospitality. Helen’s journey into the world of hospitality began at the age of 13 when she started working across front and back-of-house roles in her local pub, where a natural flair for service and a strong work ethic quickly emerged.
Under her leadership, The Old Bell Hotel has continued to evolve its reputation, restoring its five-star Environmental Health Office rating while strengthening commercial performance and elevating its position within the UK hospitality landscape. The hotel also holds AA 4-Star status, AA 2 Rosettes, and consistent Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice recognition – reinforcing its status as one of the South West’s most distinctive hotels.
“Helen represents everything these awards stand for – talent, amb
ition, and a genuine commitment to excellence in hospitality. We are incredibly proud of her, and fortunate to have her representing our hotel. Helen has led on key refurbishment projects, including the addition of six townhouse rooms, she has an eye for detail and brings a creative approach.Helen has created a warm, family-oriented team culture, inspiring colleagues through quiet confidence and consistent leadership.
Kim and Whit Hanks, hoteliers The Old Bell Hotel
Recognised as England’s oldest hotel, The Old Bell Hotel has 34 rooms and suites and 6 townhouse suites, which are individually designed, blending historic charm with contemporary design. The hotel lends itself effortlessly to solo travellers, couples and families seeking weekend breaks or midweek escapes in the Cotswolds countryside.
“Hospitality has been a huge part of my life since I started at just 13 years old. It has truly shaped who I am today, building my confidence, ambition, and work ethic over the years. Winning this award makes me incredibly proud. My current role at The Old Bell Hotel is something I never imagined for myself, and that’s thanks to Kim and Whit, who supported and encouraged me from the beginning. Kim is one of the most inspiring women in the business that I have had the pleasure of working with and she has helped me grow not only as a leader, but also as a person. The Acorn Award means a lot to me, and I am very grateful for the recognition.
Helen Bath, General Manager, The Old Bell Hotel
Helen will attend the Acorn Winners’ Weekend at one of the UK’s leading hotels, a curated celebration featuring networking, experiences, and an awards ceremony that brings together some of the industry’s most promising names.
The Old Bell Hotel and Malmesbury community celebrate Helen’s achievement and are proud of the national recognition for both a historic hotel and one of hospitality’s most exciting rising stars.
 | Visit The Old Bell Hotel website to book your next stay |
