The Bell Inn - Moreton-in-Marsh

A 200-year-old Cotswold coaching inn with a direct link to J.R.R. Tolkien

Location & Transport

The Bell Inn Moreton-in-Marsh sits on the High Street, a 5-minute walk from Moreton-in-Marsh Train Station. The station offers a direct service to London Paddington, taking approximately 1 hour 42 minutes. Every Tuesday, a weekly open-air street market sets up directly outside the inn, providing local produce and crafts.

Historical Significance

A plaque at the front door marks The Bell Inn as a place visited by J.R.R. Tolkien, who used the inn as inspiration for the Prancing Pony in his writings. Inside, a large map of Middle Earth hangs on the wall, and a corner snug with curved seating is preserved as the spot where Tolkien and his brother often sat. This 200-year-old coaching inn is located 24 km (24 km) from Stratford-upon-Avon.

Dining & Breakfast

The Bell Inn offers home-cooked meals with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, including stone-baked pizzas cooked in the garden. A full English breakfast is served each morning from 8:30 to 9:30, with homemade jams and breads, yogurt, fresh fruit, and hot options like scrambled eggs with salmon. The bar stocks a large selection of local beers and ales, with a menu that changes daily based on specials.

Rooms & Amenities

The five en-suite rooms at The Bell have been refurbished with modern bathrooms, comfortable beds, and amenities such as a Nespresso machine and biscuits. Rooms are located either above the pub or in a separate annexe (the Hayloft) overlooking the courtyard and walled garden. The inn is dog-friendly, allowing pets to stay with their owners, and the resident golden doodle named Finley often greets guests in the bar.

Entertainment & Events

Regular live music events are held in the bar and beer garden, often featuring local bands and singers. The Bell Inn also hosts occasional celebrations such as its 10th anniversary with afternoon and evening live performances. Guests can relax in the bar or beer garden, which offers heaters for cooler evenings and a friendly social atmosphere.

• Location: 5 min walk from Moreton-in-Marsh Station with direct London trains
• History: J.R.R. Tolkien inspiration for the Prancing Pony
• Dining: Stone-baked pizzas and full English breakfast with homemade jams
• Rooms: 5 refurbished en-suite rooms with Nespresso machines
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs welcome, resident golden doodle Finley
• Market: Tuesday open-air market outside the inn
• Entertainment: Regular live music and beer garden