5 Magical Reasons to visit The Old Bell Hotel this December
It’s never too early to talk about Christmas when it’s this magical! Nestled beside the historic Abbey, The Old Bell Hotel is more than just a place to stay in December — it’s the heart of Malmesbury’s Christmas sparkle.
Step into Christmas at The Old Bell
Each December, The Old Bell Hotel is transformed with spectacular Christmas décor. Our elegant decorations include twinkling trees, fresh garlands adorned with scented orange slices, flickering candles, and festive touches in every corner.

1. Join us for the Ultimate 3-Night Christmas Break
Arrive on Wednesday 24 December and let the festivities begin. Our luxurious 3-night break offers the ideal way to relax and indulge this Christmas
Enjoy:
- A warm Cotswold welcome with homemade mince pies and a glass of fizz or mulled wine
- A beautifully prepared Christmas Eve Dinner, festive canapés, and a sparkling toast
- The option to attend Midnight Mass and Carols at Malmesbury Abbey
- A Christmas morning breakfast hamper delivered to your room
- A grand Christmas Day Lunch with champagne, canapés, and a traditional multi-course feast
- An evening buffet with sweet and savoury delights, plus board games in our lounges
- On Boxing Day, enjoy a buffet-style Afternoon Tea in the lounge followed by a refined 3-course dinner in Abbey Row Restaurant
- Two award-winning Malmesbury breakfasts and a leisurely late check-out on 27 December
From £1,830 per couple – relax, unwind, and let us make Christmas effortless and extraordinary.

2. Our Festive Afternoon Tea
A seasonal favourite, our Festive Afternoon Tea is the perfect treat to enjoy with loved ones throughout December. Settle in by the fire or in one of our cosy lounges and enjoy:
- A selection of seasonal finger sandwiches — including turkey and cranberry, and smoked salmon with dill cream
- Freshly baked scones
- Delicate patisserie full of winter flavours
- Served with your choice of artisan tea or coffee — or add a glass of fizz for extra sparkle

3. Late-Night Shopping in Malmesbury – Friday 5th December
Step out into the twinkling streets of Malmesbury on Friday 5th December for the town’s annual late-night shopping event. A highlight of the local calendar, it features:
- Independent boutiques and artisan makers open into the evening
- Seasonal treats, mulled wine stalls, and festive window displays
- Handcrafted gifts, decorations, and gourmet goodies
With everything just a few steps from The Old Bell Hotel, it’s the perfect way to support local and tick off your Christmas list in one magical evening.
4. The Abbey’s Christmas Programme
Malmesbury Abbey, right next door, offers a beautiful programme of Christmas events throughout December. The ancient building, aglow with candlelight and echoing with music, hosts:
- Candlelit carol services
- Live concerts, from choirs to chamber music
- Family-friendly nativity scenes and community events, welcoming all ages
Whether you attend a service or simply visit during your stay, the Abbey adds a timeless spiritual depth to your festive escape.
5. Festive Days Out Nearby
Explore during your visit with a trip to two to the region’s most beloved Christmas experiences:
- Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum – Just 20 minutes away, this magical illuminated trail through the trees features light displays, interactive installations, and festive food stalls. A must-see for families or couples seeking something extra special.
- Bath Christmas Markets – Stroll through the Georgian streets of Bath where over 150 wooden chalets showcase artisan gifts, local crafts, and gourmet produce. Warm up with mulled wine, enjoy live music, and soak in the festive atmosphere of this iconic event.
Both make for perfect day or evening excursions during your stay at The Old Bell Hotel.
Whether you're planning a celebration with friends, colleagues, or loved ones, our Christmas parties, festive cocktail masterclasses, and private dining experiences offer a perfect way to reconnect, indulge, and make lasting memories. Or, if you’re looking for the ultimate escape, our full 3-night festive break, is a magical blend of tradition, elegance, and warmth. However you want to celebrate this year we’ve got Christmas all wrapped up!
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