Provincial Elegance
- A period property with original oak beams and stone fireplaces
- Exuding warm character and country-house style, the property is adorned with fine antiques and artwork
- The owner has 35 years' experience in dealing international antiques and runs an antique shop onsite
- A water feature and valley views can be enjoyed in the lush garden setting
Historical Setting
Luxury Cotswolds Farmhouse B&B
Originally a farmhouse standing on the ancient Welsh Way, the property reputedly dates back as far as the 16th century. Having posed as a coaching inn for over 300 years, it then became a public house that closed its doors in 2002. In the hands of its new owners it has been completely refurbished over the last five years, and has now re-opened to offer period charm combined with modern amenities.
Enjoy a comfy blend of old and new in the heart of the Cotswolds - from its location in the Churn Valley, the property offers easy access to the countryside and the historic market town of Cirencester. Steeped in history, dressed in style and equipped with superior facilities, The Old Bear offers a warm welcome that will enchant guests.
Inside
- Style: History and antiques combine with a lick of modern style
- Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Two spacious suites - one super-king double and a queen-size double - both decked out with antique seating and an en suite bathroom housing a bath and shower.
- For relaxation: Luxuriate and relax in the privacy of your own suite - with your own seating area there is no need for an extra lounge area.
- For recreation: There are no on-site facilities, but nearby you will find spas, golf courses and a range of activities (see below).
- Practicalities: There are TVs, bathrobes, hair dryers, wireless internet and magazines in the bedrooms.
Food and Wine
- In-house cuisine: Tuck into a wide choice of breakfast ingredients - from a full English platter to seasonal fruit, home made cereal and freshly baked bread. Dinner is not normally offered.
- Eating out: Your hosts will recommend a number of fine restaurants in the area, including Barnsley House and The Village Pub (both ten minutes' away in Barnsley), The Bathurst Arms (near Cheltenham) and a range of eateries in Cirencester - from Jesse Smith's and Harry Hares to Sushi, Chinese, French and Indian options.
Outside
Nearly an acre of open gardens are scattered with colourful beds, a water feature and fruit trees. A large patio decking with garden furniture overlooks the pond, while the canopy of a large yew tree dominates the heart of the garden.
Getting there:
- On the map: The property is located on the junction of the A435 and the Welsh Way
- By car: Approx. 90 miles from London - via M4 exit 15, A417/419 and the first exit after Cirencester sign-posted Perrotts Brook (this road is Welshway and leads directly to the property). Coming from the west, the M5 junction 11A connects to A417/419 - leave at the junction before Cirencester, sign-posted Perrotts Brook.
- By train: The nearest station is Kemble (about 6 miles away). Trains from London Paddington connect at Swindon for Kemble. Buses and taxis are available from Kemble station to the property.
- By air: London Heathrow is about an hour away from the property, whilst Bristol is a shorter distance but often involves a slightly longer road trip. Birmingham airport also offers good road links to the property.
About Your Hosts
Your hosts are passionate travellers with a keen, long-standing interest in antiques. Allan has been an international antiques dealer for 35 years, specialising in Georgian period furniture. His Danish wife, Anne-Marie, previously worked as an accountant. A sociable and welcoming couple, Allan and Anne-Marie are happy to advise on local places of interest and antique matters, whilst always making sure there is a glass of wine to hand and a warm ambience in the B&B.
Out and About
- Explore historic Cirencester, just 3 miles away
- Enjoy shopping and pavement dining in Regency Cheltenham Spa
- Nature and wildlife lovers can visit Burford Wildlife Park (15 miles), Westonbirt Arboretum (17 miles) and the Slimbridge Wildfowl Trust (20 miles)
- Don your walking boots and explore The Cotswolds - the nearby Coln Valley is a popular destination for hikers
- Visit Bath (35 miles), Bibury (8 miles) and Berkley Castle (25 miles)
- Enjoy cycling and horse-riding in the countryside
- Attend various local events including the Cheltenham races, Badminton and Gatcombe Horse Trials, Fairford Air Tattoo and the Cheltenham Literary Festival
Pricing
- £65/85 per night per room
- Xmas: Not Available
- New Year: Yes Available
Rental inclusive of
- Cooked breakfast
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Bathrobes
- Toiletries
- Hair dryers
- Magazines
- Internet
Accommodation Details
- Sleeps: 4
- Double: 1 super-king double and 1 queen-size double
- Highchairs: One Highchair available
- Children: Yes Welcome
- Pets: Yes Welcome (up to 2 dogs welcome)
- Disabled Access: Limited
- Mod Cons: Flat-screen TVs with Freeview channels in the bedrooms
- Internet & Communications: Wireless Internet Available
Address:
Anne Marie Eaton
The Old Bear
Cotswolds
Gloucestershire
United Kingdom
GL7 7BP
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