Uncover the Secrets of the Bell Inn: Frampton-on-Severn's Hidden Gem!
Uncover the Secrets of the Bell Inn: Frampton-on-Severn's Hidden Gem! … Or Is It? (A Brutally Honest Review)
Okay, so "Hidden Gem" is a phrase that makes me automatically suspicious. It's like, everyone claims that, right? But the Bell Inn in Frampton-on-Severn…well, it definitely has secrets. Whether they're all sparkly gems, or a slightly tarnished collection of interesting pebbles, remains to be seen. Let's dive in, shall we? Buckle up, because this review's gonna be a bit…unfiltered.
First, the Basics (And the Panic of Being Lost):
Frampton-on-Severn. Population: Probably less than my shoe size. Finding the Bell Inn was an adventure in itself. My GPS, bless its digital heart, seemed determined to send me on a scenic tour of Gloucestershire's finest cow pastures before finally pointing me towards a charming, if slightly unassuming, building. Accessibility: Now, I didn't need any specific accessibility features myself, but I did spot an elevator (phew!), and the listing mentions "Facilities for disabled guests." Always a good sign. Car park [free of charge]? Yep! And a lovely, grassy one – perfect for feeling like you’re actually in the countryside. Car park [on-site] is a definite win! Also, "Exterior corridor" – that's a plus in my book! More fresh air, less stuffy hallway.
The Welcome & Check-In Chaos (or, "I Forgot My Passport")
The check-in was relatively smooth, although I, in my infinite wisdom, had left my passport in another dimension (aka, my car). The staff, thankfully, remained unfazed, and after a quick "Will this do?", I was in. Contactless check-in/out? In the age of the 'rona, that’s golden. Front desk [24-hour] - always a good safety net. And a doorman? Okay, maybe not that fancy, but a friendly face to welcome you is always a plus. They offer airport transfer which is convenient!
The Rooms: Promise and Potential (with a Side of "Slightly Quirky" Charm)
My room…wasn't bad. It definitely wasn't the Ritz. But hey, it was clean, and honestly, that's the most important thing. Cleanliness and safety gets a solid tick. The rooms sanitized between stays – reassuring. Room sanitization opt-out available – okay, that's a little weird, but good to have options, I guess? My room offered Non-smoking rooms, Air conditioning, Mini-bar, Coffee/tea maker, and even a desk for all your important emails (or, you know, procrastination). Free bottled water? Yes, please! The Wi-Fi [free] was a godsend as I, of course, forgot to preload my kindle with books. Alarm clock saved my life. Wake-up service? Never used it, but good to know it's there. The bathtub looked inviting, but I just couldn't find the perfect moment to have a relaxing bath. The separate shower/bathtub, bathrobes, and slippers were definitely a nice touch.
Here's a quirky observation: I’m convinced the blackout curtains tried to kill me at 4 AM. I swear, they were so effective at blocking out the light, I thought it was still midnight. I'm not sure what other room decorations the room had, It was a little bare, but I was there for the experience, not the wallpaper.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Heart of the Matter (and My Stomachs)
Okay, THIS is where things get interesting. The Bell Inn has Restaurants! And multiple ones, it seems! A la carte in restaurant? Yes! Breakfast [buffet]? Also yes! I'm a sucker for a good buffet (fight me). There was also Breakfast service. The Western breakfast, was your typical English breakfast. The Asian breakfast? Well, I'll be honest, I wasn't quite brave enough to venture there. Bottle of water? Always appreciated. Coffee/tea in restaurant? Essential. Poolside bar?! Yes, please, but I couldn't find a pool! Turns out I was wrong. There is a indoor Swimming pool.
I'm going to focus on the buffet, because that's where the magic/madness happened. Okay, so it's not the most glamorous buffet in the world, but the food was…pretty good. Some of the sausages were a little…dry. But the bacon? Crispy perfection. The scrambled eggs? Fluffy clouds of eggy goodness. And the fruit? Delicious. (Okay, I might have gone back for a second plate. Maybe a third.) "The Vegetarian restaurant did sound interesting. I didn't tried because I wanted something familiar."
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Big Letdown (And the Silver Lining)
I didn't get a chance to relax in the bar, but the menu did sound decent. I was so excited, I almost overlooked the Coffee shop. I had a quick espresso and the barista was very friendly!
Things to do…or Not Do (That Requires a Lot of Effort)
Okay, here's where the reviews start to get messed up. The Bell Inn boasts a Spa/sauna…and a Steamroom….and a Gym/fitness… and a Pool with view….and it also offers spa treatments such as a Body scrub and a Body wrap. Now, this is where things get…complicated. I didn't get to experience a single one of these supposedly luxurious amenities. Why? Because I'm lazy, frankly. The thought of actually doing something beyond eating and collapsing back into my comfy, blackout-curtained room just didn't appeal. My emotional reaction was the desire to sleep, and sleep alone.
But the fact that these options are available is good. It's a promise of relaxation, a beckoning call to a more active, pampered version of myself. And hey, maybe you, dear reader, are more proactive than I am. If you use the Fitness center, let me know what it's like!
The Good Stuff: The Little Details That Made Me Smile (And Feel Safe)
The Bell Inn, in its slightly quirky glory, clearly takes safety seriously. CCTV in common areas? Check. Smoke alarms? Double check. Fire extinguisher? Triple check. First aid kit? Okay, maybe I didn't see it, but the listing says it's there. Hygiene certification? That's good. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter? Mostly observed. Staff trained in safety protocol? Definitely seemed like it. Cashless payment service? Hallelujah! (I hate carrying cash). These little details, they mattered. They made me feel safe, especially in these uncertain times. Laundry service offered.
The (Potentially) Useful Stuff: I didn't have a lot of interaction with other Services and conveniences, but here's what I did see:
- Dry cleaning.
- Luggage storage.
The Verdict: Gem or Pebble?
Okay, so "Hidden Gem"? It depends on your definition. The Bell Inn isn't perfect. It's not the most luxurious hotel in the world. But it is charming, clean, comfortable, and importantly, safe. The staff are friendly, the food is (mostly) good, and there are enough amenities to keep you occupied. And it's in Frampton-on-Severn. Which, to be honest, is a unique experience unto itself. Would I go back?. Yes, I would. Especially if I managed to actually, you know, use the spa this time.
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Headline: Escape the Ordinary: Uncover the Secrets of the Bell Inn in Frampton-on-Severn! (Safe, Charming, and Ready to Welcome You!)
Body:
Tired of the same old boring hotel experience? Yearning for a getaway that blends comfort, charm, and a touch of the unexpected? Then look no further than the Bell Inn in Frampton-on-Severn, Gloucestershire!
Indulge in a relaxing stay with accessible facilities offering convenience for everyone, and rooms equipped with all the modern comforts, including Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and air conditioning. Savor delicious meals at our various dining options, from our hearty breakfast buffet (featuring crispy bacon!) to our diverse à la carte menu, with Asian breakfast and delicious options to cater all dietary needs.
Prioritizing your well-being, we offer a range of amenities designed to de-stress. Relax at our indoor swimming pool, rejuvenate with a body scrub and body wrap in our newly renovated spa, or tone up at our fitness center. Enjoy the convenience of **free
Antalya's Hidden Gem: Irenic Hotel - Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're heading to Frampton on Severn! Specifically, The Bell Inn. This isn't just some meticulously planned itinerary, oh no. This is a… well, let's just call it a "mostly" planned adventure with a healthy dose of spontaneous chaos. Prepare for a rollercoaster of pub lunches, questionable navigational decisions, and me fighting my own anxieties.
Day 1: Arrival, Anxiety, and Awesome Crisps
1:00 PM: Arrival (or, the Great Car Park Panic). So, the drive. Let's just say my GPS and I have a… complicated relationship. Got us lost. Several times. My inner monologue was a delightful symphony of expletives and self-doubt ("Are you sure this is the right road, brain?"). But we made it! Frampton on Severn. Charming, isn't it? Finding The Bell Inn was a bit of a drama – the car park seems to be made of gravel and my parking skills are… evolving. I swear I saw a sheep glance at me with disdain. But we are here.
1:30 PM: Check-in & Initial Assessment of the Situation. The room! It's… quaint. Smells faintly of old books and damp. Which, honestly, is pretty good. Gives it character. (Trying to stay positive, must stay positive…) The view from the window? Blissfully green. I think I can see a cow. Victory!
2:00 PM: Pub Lunch & The Crisis of the Menu. Okay, lunch. This is where things get real. We’re in a pub! But the menu… too many choices. I’m a terrible decision-maker. Panic intensifies. Eventually, I went for the Ploughman’s. Classic. And the crisps? Oh, the crisps! Utterly divine. Perfectly salted, crunchy, and the best thing I've eaten all year. The cheese was, well, British cheese, I'm here for all of it.
3:00 PM: Post-Lunch Stroll (or, the "Almost Lost My Way" Walk). Feeling brave after the crisps, I decided to explore. Told myself I'd just wander around, soak up the atmosphere. Got turned around immediately. Twice. The paths here… twist and turn like a particularly vengeful snake. But I saw a canal! And ducks! And a very opinionated goose. That was fun. At one point I considered just staying with the flock and never returning to civilisation.
4:30 PM: The Bell Inn First Impressions and Getting Lost. So, I went back to the Bell Inn, and spent some time in the bar, which, by the way, is gorgeous. Cosy, beams everywhere, a proper pub! The fire wasn't on, which was a shame, but the friendly staff more than made up for it. They genuinely seemed happy to be there. I thought about ordering a pint, but I wasn't sure what I wanted so my mind was made up and I ordered a half-pint of Guinness. Then I got lost finding my room again! What a clown.
6:00 PM: The Art of Doing Nothing (and Maybe, Just Maybe, a Little More Crisps). Back in the room to decompress. Seriously, all that walking almost sent me into a full-blown anxiety attack. The thing I'm most looking forward to is maybe a cup of tea, a book, and possibly another bag of those heavenly crisps. Maybe just the crisps. No, focus.
7:30 PM: Dinner - The Great Meal Choice of 2024. Dinner! I'm attempting to be adventurous - it's the sausages and mash. I'm putting myself out there. Wish me luck. I'm still thinking about the crisps, though.
Day 2: The Canal, The Beer, and a Near Disaster
9:00 AM: Breakfast (or, the Rise and Shine of Semi-Decent Caffeine). Breakfast! It was… okay. Continental is a good concept. I'd almost forgotten the coffee. The coffee! I survived, even though I spilled some on the tablecloth, which is now a permanent fixture in my life.
10:00 AM: Exploring Frampton on Severn (and the "Canal Conspiracy Theory"). Today, the focus is the Frampton Canal. Beautiful, serene, etc. I can't shake the feeling that something significant happened here in the past. Probably involving a boat, some treasure, and either a shady character or a rogue swan. I mean the whole place is idyllic. I have a strong opinion that someone is hiding something.
12:00 PM: The Pub, Round Two (The Beer Decision). Back to The Bell! This time, I must conquer the beer list. I decided to ask the barman for a recommendation based on my taste. I ended up with a local ale. Delicious! I mean, I can't tell the difference but it felt authentic. I’m feeling extremely pleased with myself.
1:00 PM: Lunch and A Chat With A Local Lunch, again. This time, it was the scampi, you know, because I'm "adventurous". I got talking to a local at the bar (he definitely looked like he could tell me the canal secret). He told me about the village history, the local wildlife (apparently, the geese are "particularly vicious" this time of year), and his opinion of the weather. It's all very lovely.
3:00 PM: A Near Disaster and the Power of a Good Book. So, disaster almost struck. While admiring the garden, I nearly tripped and fell into a very unflattering position. Thankfully (and miraculously), I recovered. I needed a lie-down. I found myself reaching for a book in my room, the one I'd barely touched. I started reading. The world melted away. Pure. Bliss.
6:00 PM: The Bell Inn, Again - And The End Of Our Time. One last Guinness. One last fire. The place had properly grown on me. I'd finally learned how to navigate the maze of corridors. And I'd almost forgiven the geese.
7:30 PM: Dinner One last dinner at The Bell Inn. Sausage and mash again. Don't judge me.
Day 3: Departure and Existential Reflections
9:00 AM: Breakfast and the Farewell to the Crisps. This time, no spills on the tablecloth! But I bid a fond farewell to the crisps, knowing I'd never taste anything quite as perfect again.
10:00 AM: A Quick Last Walk One last (successful!) walk around the canal.
11:00 AM: Departure - or, the Great Escape (and the Parking Redemption). Goodbye, Frampton on Severn. Goodbye, Bell Inn. The drive went… well, I mostly avoided getting horribly lost. And the parking? I think I managed a respectable exit. Baby steps.
12:00 PM: Thoughts on the trip. I discovered that I can survive on a diet of crisps and canal views. I learned that the British countryside is both beautiful and secretly terrifying. I realised that a little bit of chaos is good, and that a comfortable bed and a good pint can cure almost anything. Oh, and I'm still thinking about that canal conspiracy…
Disclaimer: This itinerary is subject to change based on mood, weather, and the availability of crisps. Expect the unexpected. And pack snacks.
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Uncover the Secrets of the Bell Inn: Frampton-on-Severn's Hidden Gem! (Or Is It?) - My Utterly Messy FAQ
So, what *is* the Bell Inn anyway? Is it a pub, a restaurant, a… haunted house? (Please tell me it's haunted!)
Alright, settle down, ghost hunters. It's *mostly* a pub. A proper, old-school, beamed ceiling, fireplace-blazing kind of pub. They do food, which is… look, we'll get to the food. And no, I didn't see any spectral figures floating about, much to my eternal disappointment. Although, the creaky floorboards *did* give me the chills, especially after a couple of pints. Maybe the ghosts are just shy?
It's Frampton-on-Severn's "hidden gem" they say. Well, it's not *that* hidden. It's right on the village green, it's hard to miss. But it *does* have a certain… charm. A slightly dusty, slightly forgotten charm. And I'm here for it, even if the ghosts are taking a holiday.
The Food! Spill the beans! What's the grub like? Don't sugarcoat it. I want the *truth*!
Okay, okay. Food. That's the tricky part. Look, the Bell Inn isn't Michelin star material. Let's be clear. But, and this is important, it's proper pub grub. Hearty, no-nonsense, and… sometimes a bit… *rustic*. I ordered the fish and chips. The fish? Generous. The chips? Well, let's just say one or two might have still been fighting against the potato-ness. But hey, it's part of the experience, right?
My friend, bless her cotton socks, had the pie. She's a pie connoisseur. She said it was… comforting. Which is code for "a bit beige," if you ask me. But she ate the whole thing, which is saying something. Honestly? The gravy saved the day. Thick, rich, and probably clinging to the walls of my arteries right now. Worth it.
Is it dog-friendly? Because my furry companion is basically my shadow.
Oh, absolutely! Dogs galore! I saw more wagging tails than customers, I swear. They had water bowls and everything. My dog, bless his soul (who was, sadly, *not* with me, I was on a solo mission for research purposes, obviously), would have been in heaven. So, pack the dog biscuits, folks. The Bell Inn is basically a canine paradise.
What about the beer selection? Is it all bland, mass-produced stuff, or do they have a decent pint of something local?
Okay, THIS is where the Bell Inn actually shines. They had a decent range of real ales on tap. And by decent, I mean actually *good*. They had a local brew that blew my socks off! I think it was called "Frampton Fuddle" or something equally ridiculous. It was dark, it was malty, and it went down like a dream. Seriously, I might have had three… maybe four. Don't judge me. It was research! And the barman? He knew his stuff. Really friendly, happy to chat about the beers. He even offered me a sneaky sample of something new they were trying. Top marks for the beer selection, no question.
What about the atmosphere? Is it cozy and welcoming, or crammed with loud tourists?
Alright, atmosphere. This is where it gets… interesting. It's *definitely* cozy. Think roaring fire, low lighting, lots of wooden beams. But… and this is a big but… it's not exactly buzzing with lively chatter. It's more… relaxed. Peaceful, even. On the day I went, there were a few locals, a couple of couples, and a scattering of walkers. No screaming kids, no rowdy stag dos. It's… a place to *contemplate your existence* while sipping a pint. Which, in my book, is a good thing.
There's a certain quality of 'lived in' I quite like. Like it hasn't changed much in a century, which is part of its charm. Some people may moan about a lack of modern updates, but that simply makes the place feel like a time capsule.
Tell me more about the seating! I hate being squished! Is there outdoor seating?
Seating. Ah, yes. Inside, it's all classic pub-style – sturdy tables, wooden chairs, a few booths if you're lucky (and arrive early). Space isn't exactly abundant. But, and this is a HUGE plus: they have outdoor seating! A lovely little garden area, perfect for a sunny afternoon. I didn't get to sit there because the English weather decided to throw a tantrum. But I could see myself spending hours there, nursing a pint and watching the world go by. It looks beautiful in the pictures, so definitely check it out on a nice day. (Fingers crossed for you.)
Anything else I should know? Any insider tips? Spoilers? Secrets?
Okay, listen up. Insider tips:
- Go on a weekday: Avoid the weekend crowds, unless you like crowds. I don’t.
- Embrace the 'rustic': Don't expect fancy, just expect… honest.
- Pace yourself with the beer: Seriously. Those local ales are sneaky.
- Check the specials board: Sometimes the "specials" are… uh… interesting. Order with caution. Or, even better, ask the local.
Secrets? Hmm… I didn't find any secret passages or hidden treasure chests. But I did discover that the landlord has a very dry wit. Prepare yourself for some brilliantly understated banter. Spoilers? Expect creaky floorboards.
And finally? Just go. See for yourself. It might not be perfect. It might not be the most glamorous pub in the world. But it's got *soul*. And sometimes, that's all you need.
Honestly, I'm already planning my return. And next time, I'm ordering two pints of that "Frampton Fuddle." Wish me luck.
I heard there was a weird incident with a cat? Spill the tea! What's up with the Bell Inn Cat?
Oh, the cat. Right. *THAT* cat. Look, I love cats. I really do. But the Bell Inn cat… let’s just say it has a very strong personality. I saw it. It was lounging in the doorway, judging everyone who walked past. Judging *me*. I tried to befriend it. I offered it a stroke.Smart Traveller Inns
