Business Details
Your Trusted Historic Hotel in Wantage
The Bear Hotel has been a cornerstone of Wantage, Oxfordshire since the 16th century, offering hospitality to generations of travellers. As the town's largest hotel, we combine historic charm with modern amenities, providing accommodation, dining, and event spaces. Our award-winning restaurant, led by Head Chef Dylan Bettson, showcases local produce in a menu designed for quick lunches or special occasions. The team, including Sous Chef Ellie and Front of House Manager Georgia, brings decades of hospitality experience to ensure every guest's needs are met. We specialise in flexible event hosting, from weddings to business meetings, with dedicated spaces and tailored service.Our 34 en-suite rooms offer comfort and convenience, serving as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds. The bar provides a welcoming atmosphere with real ales, fresh coffee, and complimentary cake between 10am-5pm. With air-conditioned dining areas, free Wi-Fi, and a commitment to quality, we maintain our reputation as a trusted local hub. Our operating hours cater to early risers and evening patrons, with seasonal variations for Sunday service. As a family-run establishment, we prioritise direct bookings to maintain competitive pricing while ensuring personalised service for all guests.
Services
Hotel accommodation
Award-winning restaurant
Bar services
Event hosting
Conference facilities
Highlights and features
- We offer 500 years of hospitality heritage in a prime Oxfordshire location
- Our award-winning restaurant features menus crafted by Head Chef Dylan Bettson
- Family team with 30 years combined hospitality experience ensures personal service
- Flexible event spaces accommodate weddings, conferences and private parties
- Complimentary cake with hot drinks between 10am-5pm in our welcoming bar
What people say
Award-winning restaurant
Complimentary cake
Historic location
Flexible events
Air-conditioned spaces
Services
Hotel accommodation
Our 34 en-suite rooms combine historic charm with modern comforts, featuring free Wi-Fi and breakfast included in all rates. Located in Wantage's market square, we serve as an ideal base for exploring Oxfordshire and surrounding counties. Guests enjoy proximity to local attractions and easy access to major transport routes.
Award-winning restaurant
Led by Head Chef Dylan Bettson, our restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner using locally sourced ingredients. The Twenty Six restaurant offers air-conditioned dining with seasonal menus, while the bar provides lighter options throughout the day. We've maintained 'Best Restaurant' awards since 2013.
Bar services
Our traditional bar serves real ales, wines and spirits alongside fresh coffee and soft drinks. Complimentary cake is available with hot drinks between 10am-5pm daily. The space features Sky Sports broadcasts and free Wi-Fi, catering to both casual visitors and business guests.
Event hosting
We offer flexible event spaces for weddings, christenings and special celebrations. Our facilities include waitress service, dance floor provision and overnight accommodation for guests. Menus and timings can be customised to suit specific requirements rather than fixed packages.
Conference facilities
The restaurant space can be divided into two private rooms for business meetings and conferences. Equipped with Wi-Fi and projector screens, our facilities accommodate both day delegates and events requiring overnight stays. Catering options are available throughout the day.
People
Dylan Bettson
Head Chef
Award-winning chef with expertise in creating menus using local Oxfordshire produce. Leads kitchen operations across breakfast, lunch and dinner services while maintaining high culinary standards.
Ellie
Sous Chef
Experienced sous chef who joined the team with three months' tenure at the property. Assists in menu preparation and kitchen management while contributing to the hotel's culinary reputation.
Georgia
Front of House Manager
Business and Event Management graduate overseeing guest services and event coordination. Ensures smooth operations in dining areas and event spaces while maintaining customer satisfaction.
Keith
Hospitality Manager
Seasoned hospitality professional with 30 years' industry experience supporting daily operations. Provides strategic oversight while ensuring consistent service quality across all hotel departments.
Jo
Hospitality Manager
Experienced manager with three decades in the hospitality sector. Works alongside Keith to maintain operational excellence and deliver the high service standards expected by our guests.
Questions
How can I book a room at The Bear Hotel?
Book directly via our website or call 01235 766366. We recommend direct bookings to avoid agent fees and ensure best rates.
What dining options are available?
We offer breakfast, lunch and dinner in our award-winning restaurant, plus bar snacks and drinks served daily until 10pm.
Can I hire the restaurant for private events?
Yes, our restaurant space divides into two rooms for private hire. Contact us for details on weddings, conferences or special celebrations.
Are there parking facilities nearby?
The Beacon Public car park behind the hotel offers free parking periods. Ask us for current details when planning your visit.
What amenities are included in hotel rooms?
All 34 en-suite rooms include free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Rooms accommodate single, double or triple occupancy with competitive rates.
Does the bar offer special promotions?
Enjoy complimentary cake with any hot drink purchased between 10am-5pm daily in our welcoming bar area.
