We are nestled in the lovely historic village of Horndon on the Hill, run by the same family for over 88 years.
The Bell Inn is a 15th Century Coaching Inn. The two busy bars have the warm, friendly atmosphere of a ‘proper’ pub. There’s an open fire, numerous ales on hand pump and a carefully curated wine by the glass list. In the Bell restaurant, the menu changes daily, using seasonal and local produce where possible.
The Bell is featured in all the ‘serious’ guides and has won numerous industry awards including being recommended in The Sunday Times Food List and Good Pub Guide as one of the 10 best gastropubs in the UK, The Times Cool Hotel Guide and The Telegraph Best hotels in Essex.
The Ostlers is our versatile event space — complete with a modern bar and glass conservatory that opens onto stunning grounds. From corporate gatherings and business meetings to private parties and celebrations, it’s the perfect setting for memorable occasions. To enquire, please contact us.
By day, The Ostlers is also our beautiful breakfast room, welcoming both hotel guests and walk-ins (see opening times), with the addition of relaxed Bank Holiday brunches.
The Bell Inn Hotel has rooms upstairs in the Bell, and in the beautiful Georgian properties next door but one, are 26 individually styled bedrooms featuring modern and period twists.
We can also offer space for private events such as intimate weddings, celebrations & social gatherings and space for training & meetings.
This is a proper inn, warmly welcoming, with thick beams, country rugs, panelled walls and open fires. Stop for a pint of cask ale in the lively bar, then potter into the restaurant for sensational food.














