Step into the cozy world of the Bull Inn, a 16th-century gem we stumbled upon in Sonning-on-Thames. This historic coaching inn oozes charm, with its medieval vibe and friendly staff.
It’s a quick hop from Reading and close to the famous Henley Regatta.
We found the rooms comfy, if a bit on the small side. Some might find the creaky floors and uneven walls a tad bothersome, but for us, it added to the authentic feel.
Keep in mind, the inn’s age means modern amenities like air conditioning are missing.
The Bull Inn is perfect for history buffs, couples seeking a romantic escape, or anyone wanting a taste of old England.
Families with kids and pet owners will feel right at home too. If you’re after a unique stay with character by the bucket load, this could be your spot.
Just don’t expect a sleek, modern hotel experience – it’s all about embracing the quirks of the past here.
Good To Know
The Bull Inn is a 16th-century coaching inn located in Sonning on Thames, offering free parking, free WiFi, and a restaurant serving British cuisine.
Guests praise the hotel’s historical charm, cozy medieval atmosphere, exceptional staff, and quality food, with high ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and value for money.
The inn offers a range of room types, including Standard Double, Superior Double, Deluxe Double, and Superior King, with flexible check-in/check-out times and various cancellation policies.
Pets are allowed on request, and the inn welcomes children, with cribs and extra beds available for an additional fee, as well as specialized group services for larger parties.
The hotel has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation protocols due to COVID-19, including frequent disinfection, social distancing, and contactless check-in/checkout, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Bull Inn is an original 16th-century coaching inn situated in the charming village of Sonning on Thames, just a 5-minute drive from Reading and 6 miles from the Henley Royal Regatta Headquarters.
With a rating of 8.7/10 based on 549 reviews, the hotel has a location rating of 9.3/10, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a historic and picturesque setting.
The hotel’s amenities include free parking, free WiFi, a restaurant serving British cuisine, a bar, and an exceptional breakfast selection catering to various dietary requirements.
Guest Reviews and Experiences
Guests have consistently praised the historical charm, cleanliness, and friendly staff of the Bull Inn.
Common themes in the reviews highlight the hotel’s cozy medieval atmosphere, with one guest describing it as a "beautiful medieval site converted into a cozy hotel."
Visitors also commended the exceptional staff and great food offerings. Couples, in particular, rated the location highly for romantic getaways, awarding it a 9.4/10 score.
Amenities and Services
Patrons enjoy a range of popular amenities at the Bull Inn, including free parking and complimentary WiFi. The on-site restaurant serves British cuisine, and an excellent breakfast is offered, with options for Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-free diners. The hotel’s facilities score highly, with staff (9.2), cleanliness (9.1), and comfort (9.0) receiving exceptional ratings. The value for money (8.4) and WiFi (8.4) scores are also impressive.
| Amenity | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.2 |
| Cleanliness | 9.1 |
| Comfort | 9.0 |
| Value for Money | 8.4 |
| WiFi | 8.4 |
Room Types and Booking
With a range of room types available, guests can choose from Standard Double, Superior Double, Deluxe Double, and Superior King accommodations at the Bull Inn.
Booking is straightforward, with check-in from 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM and check-out before 11:00 AM.
The cancellation policies vary by room type, and eligible guests may benefit from Genius discounts.
Guests can expect a variety of room options to suit their needs and preferences.
The check-in and check-out times provide ample flexibility for arrivals and departures.
Cancellation policies and Genius discounts are additional considerations for booking at the Bull Inn.
Pet Policy and Children
Are pets allowed at the Bull Inn? The hotel does permit pets on request, though charges may apply. Guests bringing a dog can expect to pay £10 per night per dog.
Children of all ages are welcome at the Bull Inn as well. Cribs and extra beds are available for an additional fee.
For group bookings of more than 5 rooms, different policies and fees may apply.
The hotel has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation protocols due to COVID-19. Guests are advised to review the hotel’s policies when making a reservation to ensure the accommodations meet their needs.
Group Bookings
For group bookings of more than 5 rooms, the Bull Inn applies different policies and fees.
Different cancellation policies may apply, with earlier deadlines and potential non-refundable deposits.
Additional group booking fees may be charged, depending on the size and nature of the reservation.
Specialized group menus and catering options are available, requiring coordination with the hotel’s event staff.
These tailored policies ensure the Bull Inn can accommodate larger parties while maintaining a high level of service and guest satisfaction.
Group organizers should review the specific requirements when making reservations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
COVID-19 Measures
The Bull Inn has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Strict cleaning procedures have been put in place, with frequent disinfection of high-touch areas and common spaces. Hand sanitizer is readily available throughout the property, and guests are encouraged to maintain social distancing.
Staff members undergo daily health checks and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Contactless check-in and checkout are offered to minimize physical interactions.
Breakfast is served in a modified format to ensure proper distancing.
These measures aim to prioritize the well-being of guests and employees while providing a safe and comfortable stay.
Contact and Additional Information
Visitors can find the Bull Inn’s contact information and additional details on their official website. The site provides:
The hotel’s phone number, email address, and physical address on High Street in Sonning on Thames.
Information on nearby attractions, such as the Sonning Lock, the River Thames, and Henley Royal Regatta Headquarters, to help guests plan their stay.
Links to book directly through the hotel’s website or third-party booking platforms, along with details on cancellation policies, payment options, and any applicable fees or discounts.
The website also highlights the inn’s rich history, dating back to the 16th century, and its exceptional guest reviews, making it easy for travelers to decide if the Bull Inn is the right choice for their visit.
Questions About Staying Here
What Time Is Check-In and Check-Out?
The check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM, while the check-out time is until 11:00 AM. These standard hotel hours allow guests ample time to arrive, check in, and depart the following day.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The Bull Inn offers Genius discounts for eligible guests. These discounts provide special rates and benefits for members of the hotel’s loyalty program. Guests can check availability and eligibility for these discounts when booking their stay.
Can I Cancel My Reservation, and What Are the Fees?
Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type. Guests can typically cancel their reservation, though fees may apply. It’s best to review the specific cancellation terms when booking to understand any potential charges.
Is There a Dress Code for the Restaurant?
There is no formal dress code for the restaurant at this hotel. Guests are welcome to dine in casual, comfortable attire. The focus is on providing a welcoming and relaxed dining experience.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Guests?
The Bull Inn does not have a minimum age requirement for guests. Children of all ages are welcome, and extra beds and cribs are available for a fee to accommodate families.
Worth The Stay
The Bull Inn offers a unique and memorable stay in the picturesque village of Sonning on Thames. With its charming 16th-century architecture, exceptional cleanliness, and delectable British cuisine, the inn has earned rave reviews from guests. Whether travellers seek a romantic getaway or a convenient base to explore the local area, the Bull Inn promises to deliver an unforgettable experience in the heart of the English countryside.