Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa, Retford
About the Hotel
Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa, built as a coaching inn in the 1680s, combines historical charm with modern comforts. The property, surrounded by the Nottinghamshire countryside, has played a role in local charity events and fundraising activities. Unique features include a multi-million pound spa offering avant-garde treatments and luxurious lodges, all while maintaining a strong community focus. The hotel’s diverse dining options and extensive facilities cater to both leisure and business guests.
Location
Located approximately 20 km from Doncaster Sheffield Airport, the hotel benefits from excellent transport links. It sits amidst the picturesque Nottinghamshire countryside, providing a serene backdrop for guests. Nearby attractions include the Idle Valley Nature Reserve and Bassetlaw Museum, enhancing the appeal for leisure travelers. The hotel is easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for both locals and visitors.
Rooms
The hotel offers a selection of individually-decorated rooms, including luxurious suites with antique furnishings and roll-top baths. Each room features contemporary comforts, such as flat-screen TVs and free WiFi, along with rich textiles that preserve the building's heritage. The exclusive lodges provide cozy retreats, complete with lounges, mini kitchens, and balconies overlooking serene gardens. All accommodations ensure a unique experience, respecting both style and comfort.
Eat & Drink
Dining at Ye Olde Bell encompasses a range of exceptional dishes, from canapés to seven-course meals, designed for both casual and fine dining experiences. Seasonal menus in the Herb Garden Brasserie highlight fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, complemented by an extensive drinks menu. Guests can also enjoy alfresco dining at the terrace bar, which opens to beautiful gardens. The venue regularly hosts fundraising events, enhancing its community spirit.
Leisure & Business
The hotel's multi-million pound spa features eleven unique experiences, including the UK's first Snowstorm treatment and an array of bespoke beauty therapies. Several meeting rooms equipped with audio-visual technology and complimentary WiFi cater to business needs. Guests can unwind in relaxation spaces or engage in spa breaks that allow for a combination of treatments and overnight stays. The tranquil gardens provide stunning settings for events and relaxation.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- 24-hour reception
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Security
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cots
- Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
- Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness centre
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- AM/FM alarm clock
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The room had 2 x 3 ft beds pushed together with separate wooden headboards that were 12” out of place, which looked a bit of a botch job. Despite this, the walk-in shower was of the quality you would expect for a luxury room charged at £300 per night, but the overall look was a bit tired. The service was a mix of lovely and attentive staff but included some unacceptable incidents like being rushed to the hospital and issues with sink drainage in the bathroom. The location, although near the reception and restaurant, was hailed as perfect for an annual visit to family members north of York, with beautiful surroundings. The dining experience offered a good range of products with a standard English breakfast, but the addition of a bar detracted from the ambience. As for the facilities, they were average but had some notable issues like the sink drainage problems.
The hotel provided a nice stay with spacious rooms, a luxurious bathroom, and a welcoming atmosphere. The only downside was missing out on the breakfast due to leaving early, but overall, it was a good experience.
The hotel offers luxurious and amazing rooms, but with an over officious restaurant manageress that can be abrupt and rude.
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