Malmesbury is an ancient Market town in the county of Wiltshire.
It is famously known as the southern entrance to the Cotswolds and is said to be the ‘oldest continually inhabited town in England’. With its cobbled streets and crooked cottages, Malmesbury is filled with history as its located in the oldest borough and in one of the best hilltop towns in the Cotswolds. Unlike other places in the Cotswolds, Malmesbury isn’t overly touristic and is uniquely beautiful.
Related: My Three Day Guide to the Cotswolds
Malmesbury was the perfect town to spend a quiet birthday particularly as England’s oldest hotel, the Old Bell were my hosts.
The Old Bell Hotel has been around since 1220.
As part of a grade I listed building, the hotel is next to a 12th Century abbey. A member of staff explained to us that the hotel’s initial purpose was to provide a place for monks to stay, during their pilgrimages to the abbey. Every part of the venue is full of charm, character, and warmth.
The Old Bell Hotel takes a modern approach to historical British charm. Our hotel room felt a bit like a fairytale. With three lounges in total, you will be able to find many places to relax with a book, a pastry, cuppa tea or a board game.
Related: Review of the Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury
They provide their guests with comfortable duvets, linens, Noble Isle toiletries, soft robes and cookies on arrival (double points for cookies!).
The experience doesn’t end there as the following day we were greeted with a great spread and presentation in the dining room for breakfast.
Things to do In Malmesbury
Malmesbury Abbey
Market Cross
Explore Around the High Street
Whatley Manor
Not Pictured Sights:
Abbey House and Gardens
Walk Along the Avon River
Athelstan Museum
Smoking Dog Pub
Potting Shed Pub
This was quite the country escape! Perfect for my birthday 🙂
For More UK Travel Check Out These Posts
- A 3 Day Guide to the Cotswolds
- 15 Things You Must Do on a Day Out in Cambridge
- How to Spend 24 Hours in Rye
- All of my London Posts