Macdonald Bear Hotel Review

Ah, this charming old inn brings history to life in the heart of Oxfordshire!

Our review of the Macdonald Bear Hotel reveals a 13th-century gem just a stone’s throw from Blenheim Palace. Picture yourself sipping tea in a cozy room where kings and queens may have once slept. The staff are friendly, the place is squeaky clean, and the food hits the spot.

Now, let’s be frank: Some rooms might feel a bit snug, and the Wi-Fi can be as unpredictable as British weather.

But for history buffs and romantics looking for a taste of old England, this place is a winner. It’s perfect for couples seeking a quiet getaway or anyone wanting to explore the stunning Cotswolds without breaking the bank.

Just remember to pack your sense of adventure – and maybe a good book for those rainy afternoons!

Good To Know

• The Macdonald Bear Hotel is a historic 13th-century inn located in Woodstock, 20 minutes from Oxford and situated near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Blenheim Palace.
• The hotel offers a unique guest experience by combining traditional British charm with modern amenities, including free WiFi, private parking, and an on-site restaurant serving traditional cuisine.
• Guest ratings suggest a generally positive experience, with high scores for staff, cleanliness, and comfort, although feedback on breakfast quality, room comfort, and value for money is mixed.
• The hotel’s accommodations range from standard double rooms to luxurious suites, catering to various preferences and budgets, with features like antique furniture and private bathrooms.
• The hotel’s location in the Oxfordshire countryside provides easy access to attractions such as the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon.

Hotel Overview

The Macdonald Bear Hotel is a historic 13th-century inn located in the charming town of Woodstock, just 20 minutes’ drive from the city of Oxford.

Surrounded by the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, the hotel is a mile from the impressive Blenheim Palace.

Known for hosting royals and celebrities over the centuries, the hotel has a 9.4/10 location rating from over 1,700 reviews.

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s traditional British cuisine, free WiFi, and a range of accommodation options, from standard rooms to deluxe suites.

With its charming atmosphere and excellent location, the Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a unique blend of history and modern amenities.

Guest Ratings and Feedback

Guests have provided an overall rating of 7.7/10 for the Macdonald Bear Hotel, citing the staff (8.2), facilities (7.8), cleanliness (8.4), and comfort (8.5) as its strongest attributes.

However, concerns were raised about the breakfast quality, room comfort, and value for money, which received lower ratings at 7.2.

Guests praised the hotel’s:

• Charming atmosphere
• Friendly staff
• Good food
• Excellent location

Despite the mixed feedback, the Macdonald Bear Hotel’s robust ratings across key categories suggest it offers a generally positive guest experience in its historic 13th-century setting.

Amenities and Services

Along With the overall guest experience, the Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a range of popular amenities and services catering to various traveler needs.

Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s private parking for a daily charge of £5. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.

For families, the hotel provides family rooms. Accessibility features are in place for guests with disabilities.

Dining options include the on-site restaurant serving traditional British cuisine, as well as room service.

The hotel also welcomes pets, though additional charges may apply.

To ensure a safe stay, the Macdonald Bear Hotel has implemented enhanced sanitation protocols in response to COVID-19.

Accommodation Types

8 room types are available at the Macdonald Bear Hotel, catering to a variety of traveler needs. The options include:

• Standard King Room
• Feature Double Room
• Deluxe Double Room
• Feature Suite

The rooms feature antique furniture, private bathrooms, satellite TVs, mini bars, and tea/coffee makers, providing a charming and comfortable stay.

Whether guests are looking for a standard double or a luxurious suite, the Macdonald Bear Hotel offers accommodations to suit their preferences and budgets.

Location and Proximity

Nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, the Macdonald Bear Hotel enjoys a prime location just 20 minutes’ drive from the historic city of Oxford. Surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages, the hotel’s proximity to major attractions is equally impressive. It sits just a mile from the magnificent Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hotel’s location is further enhanced by its proximity to the following landmarks:

This strategic positioning makes the Macdonald Bear Hotel an ideal base for exploring the best of Oxfordshire and beyond.

Historical Significance

The Macdonald Bear Hotel boasts a rich history that spans over 700 years.

Originally built as a 13th-century inn, the property has hosted an impressive array of distinguished guests over the centuries, including:

• Royals such as King Charles I and Queen Elizabeth I
• Celebrated actors like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton
• Renowned writers and artists

This storied past has cemented the Macdonald Bear Hotel’s reputation as a landmark destination in Oxfordshire.

Its charming period features, combined with its illustrious guest list, have contributed to the hotel’s enduring allure and status as a bastion of English heritage.

Check-in, Cancellation, and Policies

Guests can check into the Macdonald Bear Hotel from 3:00 PM onwards, with check-out required by 11:00 AM.

The hotel’s cancellation policies vary by accommodation type. Children of all ages are welcome, but those 13 and older are charged at the adult rate.

Guests must provide a credit or debit card; cash isn’t accepted. Limited parking is available for a daily charge of £5.

The hotel has implemented enhanced sanitation protocols in response to COVID-19 to ensure guest safety.

COVID-19 Safety Measures

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Macdonald Bear Hotel has implemented enhanced sanitation protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of its guests.

These measures include:

• Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas throughout the hotel.
• Providing hand sanitizer stations for guest use in common areas.
• Implementing contactless check-in and check-out procedures to minimize physical interactions.
• Enforcing social distancing guidelines and requiring all staff and guests to wear face coverings in public spaces.

These precautions demonstrate the hotel’s commitment to creating a safe and comfortable environment for all travelers during these unprecedented times.

Questions About Staying Here

What Time Is Breakfast Served at the Hotel?

The hotel offers a variety of breakfast options, including continental, vegetarian, gluten-free, and buffet-style. Breakfast is typically served from 7:00 am to 10:30 am, allowing guests to start their day with a hearty meal.

Are There Any Special Dining Options or Dietary Accommodations?

The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including traditional British cuisine, continental breakfast, and accommodations for vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements upon request.

Can Guests Book Activities or Excursions Through the Hotel?

The hotel can assist guests in booking local activities and excursions. Options may include trips to nearby Blenheim Palace, guided walking tours, and other experiences in the Oxfordshire countryside surrounding the hotel.

What Is the Nearest Train Station or Airport to the Hotel?

The nearest train station to the hotel is Charlbury, which is approximately 5 miles away. The closest major airport is Oxford Airport, around 15 miles from the hotel.

Does the Hotel Offer Any Seasonal or Holiday-Themed Packages?

The hotel offers seasonal packages around holiday periods like Christmas and Valentine’s Day, providing guests with special menus, decorations, and amenities to enhance their festive experience.

Worth The Stay

The Macdonald Bear Hotel in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, offers an unparalleled blend of history, comfort, and convenience. With its centuries-old charm, exceptional amenities, and prime location, this hotel caters to a range of travelers seeking a tranquil retreat or an immersive exploration of the surrounding countryside. Whether visiting for a night or an extended stay, guests can expect an authentic and memorable experience at this iconic British inn.