The Bell Inn

We were lucky enough to stay here in one of the lodges on a Secret Escapes deal.
The lodges are part of a recent refurbishment to the pub and are nestled quietly at the back, surrounding a massive fire pit.
Each lodge is unique in its design, and has its own private outdoor area complete with fireplace and chairs to snuggle up. We stayed in the Pretty Vacant lodge, the focal point being a massive Vacant/​Occupied sign above the bed, which you could move from vacant to occupied.
Attention to detail is key, and the room provides the guest with a host of thoughtful extras. From the local toiletries in the bathroom which you could purchase in the village, to the delicious cream tea that welcomes you in the room.
We had dinner that evening in the pub. The food was really delicious, and well portioned. A similar themed followed at breakfast the following morning.
The entire pub and accommodation is really quirky, and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Whilst there is not much to do in the surrounding village, this does not matter as The Bell is so charming you don’t want to leave the room, or venture any further for food.

I have heard great things about the food untried so I can not comment! What they have achieved is undoubtedly a 1^st class transformation, full of great well thought-​out features and the lighting makes it a very welcoming sight on a dark winter evening. Aspects are absolutely spot on, bordering on the quirky, but I was disappointed. I have to say it was a case of trying a little too hard and, rather than being the go-​to-​happening-​place, it was a little soulless! This may be because there is not really enough seating in the bar area and we ended up with a choice of either the small room between the bar or the room with the long table not the best options to create a welcoming atmosphere. I will give it a 2^nd chance as it is very handy (walking distance) but it will have to go some to regularly lure me away from the Salehurst Halt (5 miles away!) Sorry guys so very nearly but not quite!

Recently reopened, refurbished and fabulous!
It has been furnished and decorated to a very high standard. Traditional country décor is highlighted in the long wooden tables, benches and open fireplaces but the quirkiness is in the detail. I especially love the top hats turned into lamp shades but remain dubious about the use of tubas as urinals, picture to follow when I have persuaded one of my male friends to take a photo. Although impressive and very inventive, I fear that alcohol and a gentlemen’s aim may be asking for a big mess.
It really is a delightful and welcome addition to a sleepy country village and fingers crossed I will have more lovely things to say after I have tried the food. Keep your ears peeled.