We’re thrilled to announce that The Old Bell Hotel has been shortlisted for the Boutique Hotelier Award for Best Interior Renovation 2024, and we would love your support to help us win! 

Nestled in the heart of the South Cotswolds, The Old Bell Hotel is recognised as England’s oldest hotel, with over 800 years of history. Partnering with London-based designer Charlotte Smiley the hotel’s interiors are a showcase of rich heritage and contemporary vibrant design. The hotel features 34 individually styled bedrooms and suites, Abbey Row restaurant with an iconic 8000 hand painted stars on the ceiling to dine beneath, our all-weather outdoor exotic Tyger Bar with open kitchen, cosy lounges where you can indulge in our signature afternoon teas, and of course the recently renovated Garden Room and our Townhouse Suites. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the latest chapter of our renovation journey—and why we believe we are worthy of this prestigious award. 

The Renovations 

When Kim and Whit Hanks became stewards of The Old Bell Hotel in 2021, which is Grade I listed, their goal was to enhance guest experience while honouring the hotel’s historic charm. The most recent project—the creation of the Garden Room—has beautifully captured that balance. Completed in December 2023, the Garden Room is a contemporary, multi-functional space within a beautiful historic setting. 

Alongside the Garden Room, the recent renovation of our Townhouse Suites has transformed four traditional Cotswolds properties into beautiful self-contained, self-catering suites, luxurious havens of style and comfort just minutes away from the hotel itself. The suites feature locally printed Lewis & Wood wallpaper and are equipped with sleek Smeg appliances, offering the perfect blend of heritage and high-end functionality that The Old Bell Hotel is renowned for. 

The Garden Room: A Modern Space Steeped in History 

The Garden Room is designed to bring the beauty of the South Cotswolds into the heart of the hotel. With floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, the room opens completely to the surrounding gardens, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience for weddings, conferences, and intimate gatherings. Even when the British weather doesn’t cooperate, guests can still enjoy the tranquil views, thanks to the glass-enclosed, light-filled space. 

A key element of the Garden Room renovation is the use of locally sourced Cotswold stone, which creates a natural connection between the space and the hotel’s historic architecture. This thoughtful approach not only maintains the architectural harmony but also shows our commitment to preserving the local character. 

We’ve added vibrant touches throughout the Garden Room, including stunning bespoke wallpaper created by UK artist Melissa White. Melissa’s intricate patterns draw on traditional techniques and historical motifs, creating a vivid backdrop that reflects the past while adding a contemporary flair. Her wallpaper brings the room to life with rich colours and textures, perfectly complementing the historic ambience of The Old Bell Hotel. 

The Townhouse Suites: Self-Contained Luxury 

In addition to the Garden Room, our four Townhouse Suites have been beautifully renovated to offer guests a luxurious, self-contained experience. Located just a short stroll from the main hotel, each suite combines historic charm with modern convenience. Designed to feel like a home away from home, these self-catering suites are perfect for longer stays or those seeking extra privacy. 

Each suite features locally printed Lewis & Wood wallpaper, adding a bespoke touch that reflects the Cotswold region’s artistry. The suites are also fitted with stylish Smeg appliances, ensuring that guests have access to the finest modern amenities. The interiors are complemented by whimsical antiques that our co-owner Whit, an antiques aficionado, has collected on his travels throughout the years. With spacious living areas, king-size beds, and luxurious bathrooms, these suites provide a home from home retreat where guests can relax and unwind in comfort. 

Honouring Local Craftsmanship 

Both the Garden Room and the Townhouse Suites highlight the importance of local craftsmanship and materials, something Kim and Whit are passionate about. The use of Cotswold stone in the Garden Room connects the space to its surroundings, while the Lewis & Wood wallpaper in the Townhouse Suites adds a local, artisanal touch. These thoughtful design choices reflect our dedication to celebrating the region’s heritage and its vibrant creative community. 

By combining locally sourced materials with innovative design, we’ve created spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply rooted in the history and culture of the South Cotswolds. 

An Unexpected Glimpse into the Past 

During the renovation of the Garden Room, we uncovered something remarkable—24 human remains from the Middle Saxon period (7th to 9th century). This exciting archaeological find, overseen by Cotswold Archaeology, provided invaluable insight into the early medieval history of the area, revealing the presence of an Anglo-Saxon community before the construction of Malmesbury Abbey. This discovery has added an extraordinary layer of historical significance to the project and deepened our connection to England’s ancient past. 

How to Cast Your Vote 

We would be delighted to have your support! Here’s how you can vote for The Old Bell Hotel: 

1. Click below to cast your vote. 
2. Share this post with friends, family, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of historical renovation. 

Thank you for helping us honour the past while embracing the future!