Nestled in the heart of the countryside, The Bel & Dragon has undergone a major refurbishment, blending its historic character with modern comforts just in time for the New Year. This charming country inn now offers more than just a place to stay – it’s a destination for dining, relaxing, and celebrating, all in a warm and welcoming environment.

The inn features 18 bedrooms, each uniquely designed with a mix of characterful furnishings, comfortable beds, and en-suite bathrooms with underfloor heating. For larger gatherings or longer stays, The Cottage annex provides five additional bedrooms, available individually or for exclusive hire. Guests can enjoy a freshly prepared country breakfast to start their day right.

For dog owners, selected rooms are pet-friendly, so four-legged companions can join the adventure.

The Bel & Dragon is well-equipped for events, offering a range of spaces to suit any occasion. From the cosy Private Dining Room, which seats up to 14, to a full restaurant takeover for 100 guests, the venue adapts to meet your needs. Outdoor marquee space is available for larger celebrations, and the team is on hand to ensure a seamless experience, leaving you free to enjoy the day.

It’s not just the space that makes The Bel & Dragon special, but also the people behind it. One couple have come a long way since they started working at The Bel. Grzegorz ‘Buli’ began his journey in 2014 washing dishes as a kitchen porter. But after years of hard work, he secured the top job in 2022 and is now head chef for the whole restaurant.

Magdalena, his partner, joined The Bel in 2016 as a housekeeper while visiting from Poland. Over the years, she has worked from front-of-house to management. After managing another site, she returned to The Bel & Dragon in 2023, bringing her experience and enthusiasm back to the place where her professional journey began.

As a regular visitor, I can vouch for the quality of the food and service. I’ve enjoyed many meals here, even attending an after-wedding event in the garden marquee. Despite the buckets of rain, we stayed dry with lots of really great food.

Sandra Mould, who visited in December, said: “The Inn was very welcoming when we walked in with lovely decorations and roaring fire. It had some lovely little touches like a complimentary bottle of gin to take a little tot from before bed, speciality coffee and tea, milk in miniature milk bottles. I highly recommend this hotel, you won’t be disappointed.”

Stuart Graeme, the general manager, added: “We're a pub for our locals and a home away from home for those staying in the hotel with the perfect team to deliver this experience. I'm so pleased with the transformation that we've made from our beautiful bedrooms, classic dishes with a modern twist and an extensive wine list, we now have the perfect setting for all occasions.”

Beyond accommodation and events, The Bel & Dragon has also become a hub for seasonal activities and workshops.