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Macdonald Bear Hotel

★★★★·8.5/ 10Recommended
·Hotels
Check-in 03:00 PM / out 11:00 AM
Family roomsLuggage storageExpress check-in/check-outSafety deposit boxFax/photocopyingFacilities for disabled guestsAll 53 facilities +
Review
Official

One of England's original 13th Century Coaching Inns located in the historic, picturesque town of Woodstock. The town is home to Blenheim Palace as well as many fine boutiques, art galleries, furniture and antique shops. Woodstock is also at the gateway to the Cotswolds, close to Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon. With its ivy clad façade, oak beams, stonewalls and open fires, the Bear exudes warmth and cosiness, perfect for a retreat. The award winning 2 AA rosette restaurant offers modern British cuisine and each of the 54 bedrooms are well appointed, many of which are feature rooms, four posters and suites with period furnishings, original stone walls, and exposed oak beamsPlease note that the hotel doesn't accept any cash payments

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Guest scores & sentiment

From 257 guest reviews · multi-source · as of 2026-07-11

Guests praise the historic charm, location, and friendly staff. Common complaints include aging infrastructure (no lift, uneven stairs), slow breakfast service with extra charges, mediocre restaurant value, and occasional maintenance issues.

Dimension scores · cross-source

Location9.6
Cleanliness9.0
Service8.4
Surroundings8.2
Facilities8.1
Value7.6
PraisedPrime location/Historic charm · Friendly staff · Comfortable beds/Spacious rooms · Varied breakfast selection
ComplaintsBland dinner/High prices · Slow/Chaotic breakfast service · Poor soundproofing/Noise · Unstable Wi-Fi

KEYIdeal for those valuing history over modern convenience. Not suitable for mobility issues. Book dining early; expect potential breakfast service delays and extra charges.

FAQ · grounded in hotel data & reviews

locationHow is the location and what are nearby attractions?
Located in Oxfordshire countryside, just a mile from Blenheim Palace. It scores 9.6/10 for location, praised for its scenic surroundings.
diningWhat is the breakfast experience like? Are there extra charges?
Breakfast food quality is good, but service is often slow. Some guests report extra charges and chaotic service. Restaurant value is considered mediocre.
businessIs it suitable for business trips? How is the Wi-Fi and service?
Service scores 8.4 with friendly staff. However, some business guests note unstable Wi-Fi and aging facilities, which may affect work efficiency.
coupleWhat makes it special for couples?
The hotel offers historic charm and celebrity glamour with antique furniture. Couples praise the romantic atmosphere and comfortable beds for a quiet getaway.
familyIs it convenient for families with children? What kid facilities are available?
Pets allowed, family rooms available, and kids' meals offered. However, lack of elevators and noisy rooms may be challenging for some families.
roomWhat are the room facilities like? Is the soundproofing good?
Rooms feature satellite TV, mini-bars, and free WiFi with elegant decor. Poor soundproofing is a common complaint, so noise-sensitive guests should be cautious.
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